Planning a Babymoon: When to Go, Where and What to Check

For most uncomplicated pregnancies, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) describes mid-pregnancy, about 14 to 28 weeks, as the best time to travel: energy has usually returned, morning sickness has eased and moving around is still easy. After 28 weeks, travel may be riskier.

Every pregnancy is different, so talk to your doctor or midwife before you book, and plan a prenatal check-up four to six weeks before an international trip.

They vary by carrier. ACOG notes that most airlines allow flights within the U.S. until about 36 weeks of pregnancy; international flights often have earlier cutoffs, and some airlines ask for a note from your doctor confirming your due date. Check the rules for every airline on your itinerary, including the return date.

Cruise lines are stricter. ACOG notes that many ships only allow travel until about 23 weeks, and medical facilities on board are limited. Carry a copy of your prenatal records wherever you go.

Look for a short, direct flight, good hospitals nearby and no health risks your doctor would rule out. The CDC advises pregnant travelers not to visit areas with Zika risk and to avoid areas with malaria, so check its destination pages before choosing anywhere tropical.

From Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Napa Valley and Hawaii’s islands are easy, relaxing choices, and Europe can work well for travelers whose doctors approve the longer flight. See babymoon destinations for more ideas.

Pregnancy raises the risk of blood clots, so book an aisle seat, walk and stretch regularly, drink plenty of water and ask your doctor about compression stockings; see preventing DVT on long flights. Fasten the seat belt low, across your hips and below your belly.

Extra legroom makes a real difference. Premium economy or a lie-flat business class seat on a longer flight can turn an exhausting journey into a restful one.

Read the pregnancy terms closely. Many policies cover unexpected pregnancy complications but not normal childbirth, and normal pregnancy itself usually isn’t a covered reason to cancel. The CDC advises making sure your health coverage includes pregnancy and newborn complications while abroad, and suggests considering medical evacuation insurance.

If plans might change, consider cancel for any reason coverage. Our travel insurance guide explains the main policy types.

Choose a hotel near good medical care and note the nearest hospital before you arrive. Book prenatal spa treatments specifically, and skip hot tubs and saunas unless your doctor says otherwise. Follow food and water safety advice carefully, and ask your doctor before taking any medication; the CDC advises pregnant travelers to avoid bismuth subsalicylate, found in some stomach remedies.

Above all, keep the pace gentle: fewer hotel changes, late breakfasts and room to rest.