How to prep for plane travel planned at 29 weeks?

jesspomales · October 2015

I've never flown while pregnant before. My DH and I are planning a trip to Puerto Rico in early January when I'll be 29 weeks. So far, I know to get up to walk every hour and half. I figure packing snacks would be good too. Any other pieces of advice to those who've traveled by plane, especially around this stage in pregnancy? I'm excited but a little nervous.

Thanks mommas!

FlipFlop1025 · October 2015

Also never flown while pregnant, but I also have a trip planned overseas when I'll be 27-28 weeks. So far my Dr said walk around often and drink tons of water (sit in an aisle seat to make it easier for everyone). I'll be interested to see others advice too!

ecwk · October 2015

I've a trip planned transatlantic at 28/29 weeks.
Try get an aisle seat near a bathroom.
Bring snacks and water!
Decide whether you will go through the X-ray scanner or get a pat down.
Bring a hoody or something to keep warm.
Bring a good supportive travel pillow.
Maybe purchase some flight socks.
That's all I can think of right now...

jesspomales · October 2015

Amazing that we all have big trips planned around the same time, pregnancy-wise! Good ideas ecwk! I can't wait to rock my big belly in a bikini...sort of. If no one's around, ha ha.

SparkE82 · October 2015

I can't imagine flying at 28-29 weeks. I had a business trip last week that required me to travel from the Midwest to the east coast, and my ankles were sooooooo swollen (its the only time I have ever had swelling). I think I would be miserable traveling long distances that late in my pregnancy.

I agree with PP about snacks, lots of water, and comfy pillows! Good luck and have fun on your trips ladies! Even though I don't envy the travel time while pregnant, I do envy the vacations themselves!

blueeyedrose86 · October 2015

I flew from Italy back to the state's at 34 weeks with DD. It wasn't terrible. When you're not walking around, pump your feet up and down like you're doing calf raises. Ask if your flight is full. If it's not, save the seats next to you and you can put your feet up

Also, what everyone else said.

llybeck · October 2015

ecwk said:

I've a trip planned transatlantic at 28/29 weeks. Try get an aisle seat near a bathroom. Bring snacks and water! Decide whether you will go through the X-ray scanner or get a pat down. Bring a hoody or something to keep warm. Bring a good supportive travel pillow. Maybe purchase some flight socks. That's all I can think of right now...

All of this! I am not traveling at this time this pregnancy (I was going to last time but end up not being able to) but I have flown already. My doctor said to start upping my water intake about a week before hand and stay well hydrated during the trip. I was going to a higher elevation so that was part of it but staying well hydrated will help just with the plane ride in general. Have fun!

SarahFoley725 · October 2015

wth my doctor told me not to go anywhere after 28 weeks and I'm not at all high risk. I feel lied to.

blueeyedrose86 · October 2015

SarahFoley725 said:
wth my doctor told me not to go anywhere after 28 weeks and I'm not at all high risk. I feel lied to.

I wouldn't have taken a flight that long, to be honest, but it was a military move, so I really had no choice. It turned out fine and I did have swelling, but it wasn't a very comfortable trip.

MrsLeanMeanClean · October 2015

I have a cross Atlantic flight at 30 and 31 weeks and the docs are OK with it at the moment. I will be looking well dressed and hoping for yhe sympathy upgrade.is possible!

Just hope it's a smooth flight so I can get up and love around

ceds07 · October 2015

I'm flying at 28 weeks and will likely go cross country at 30-32 weeks. Not ideal but it is what it is. LOTS of water, possibly compression socks, aisle seat and lots of standing breaks. Also possibly a small pillow or something to cushion the lower back, that's usually what bothers me the most.

katesaleh · October 2015

I have a 12 hr flight from the Middle East to NYC. Leaving when I am 27 weeks, returning at 30/31. Not really looking forward to it, but for sure will buy compression stockings and ask for an aisle seat in a row with an empty seat as well. Also tons of water and a walk up and down the aisle every hour or so!

bntfroggie · October 2015

We are flying at 31wks and I asked Doctors and they said I should be fine. I agree with everyone, maybe compression stockings as well I hear they are a life saver for fluid build up.

RosyK · October 2015

I would say to wear 'forgiving' shoes... My hands and feet always swell on flights, I'd imagine it would be worse pregnant.

JCfirsttimemama · October 2015

I'm also going to Puerto Rico! We're going for New Year's for our babymoon. I'll be 27 weeks. I have a pair of compression maternity leggings, so I will wear those for the flight.

CecilB93 · October 2015

I'll be flying from Missouri to Texas next weekend, around 21 weeks. Can't imagine flying as long as you ladies are!! But everything I've read has been what PPs have said, sit in the aisle to have space to stretch out, get up and walk around if you can, drink lots of water. Good luck!!

FlipFlop1025 · October 2015

Oh also, my Dr said I needed to make an appointment with her a few days before we leave so she can give the final OK. She says everything should be normal and fine, but she always double checks right before the trip anyways.

And, I'm SO happy to see I'm not the only one crazy enough to fly so far during pregnancy! Happy travels to you all

FlipFlop1025 · October 2015

Cocoaf1988 · October 2015

Just got back from a trip to Mexico at 20 weeks. I would suggest drinking lots of water, get an aisle seat so you can use the restroom, wear layers as the temperature on the plane will vary from freezing to stuffy and bring lots of snacks/food. Also, I haven't had any problems with swelling but my legs were pretty swollen when I got back so I would recommend compression socks too

mshukh · October 2015

We are flying at 29 weeks (4-5 hour flight each way). I have flown at around 20 before with zero issues of any kind. I don't think anything around 30 weeks would be dangerous, but may be uncomfortable for some. I also have a friend who is delivering close to me flying around the same time to Hawaii. Thanks for the compression socks pointer to everyone!

amaniupendo · October 2015

I highly recommend an aisle seat and lots of water.

jenniferamcooper · October 2015

I've flown a couple times when pregnant from 22-27 weeks without issues (swelling, etc), but each time I was parched, like I've been in the dessert for a week dry. The doctor's advice to hydrate ahead of the flight is probably a really good one. And bring lip balm.
I did calf raises and such and went to the bathroom for the walk every hour.
The only advice that hasn't been listed is that if you *look* really pregnant it might be a good idea to get a note from your doctor stating what week of pregnancy you are. Some airlines won't let you fly after 36 weeks, and I've heard of airlines being really weird about it.

jesspomales · October 2015

All great advice! DH got an aisle seat for me and aside from the layovers, it should be a smooth, 4-5 hour flight. Good thoughts about compression socks and comfy shoes. I was advised, so far, to get a print-out of my prenatal records for the airline just in case. I just can't wait to get some good PR food and some warm, tropical sun!

MrsLeanMeanClean · October 2015

In the UK I have a green booklet with all my pregnancy notes that we carry around with us (forbit something should happen any hospital can treat you immediately... also made easier now by the national database of medical records)

I figure flying at 30 weeks having this do cent should be fine enough? Or should I ask for a note as well... at 21weeks today I am def showing so I imagine it's only going to get worse!

jenniferamcooper · October 2015

I'm sure the booklet is enough. It's not like you're carrying around a booklet of falsified medical records just in case

I would hope there'd be some common sense from the airline.

amaniupendo · October 2015

I think the booklet should be enough. It has your due date there.

eivaska · October 2015

Thanks for all the great advice ladies. I will also be flying around 28-29 weeks. However, we will also be taking a 16 hour road trip instead of flying home. Any suggestions on what to bring to make the drive comfy? Same things??

jesspomales · October 2015

I would say stopping for a walk every 1.5 hours is a great idea. On our return trip a couple weeks ago, I noticed that after 3 hours, my feet started to swell, which creates a blood clot risk. Bummer, though, because it makes the trip longer.

CecilB93 · October 2015

Just traveled to Texas and even though it was only a 1.5 hour flight and I went pee before we took off, I also drank a full bottle of water and thought I'd be okay to wait till we landed. Don't wait. Just pee on the plane.

alligreer88 · November 2015

Family just decided to visit my sister after Christmas - I'll be 29-30 weeks. Since I worked past my due date last time around and went midnight Black Friday shopping at 40w2d, I think it should be fine. I am waiting until later today to confirm my Placenta has moved up enough before buying tickets. Our flight will be a little over two hours, which sounds so much better than a 12 hour car ride. I would just say arrive early, board nearly last, and sit down as needed- don't push yourself.

FlipFlop1025 · November 2015

Anyone have good recommendations for compression socks, tights, or leggings? Any favorite brands or places to buy them? I'm starting to stock up on necessities for my trip!

arcanejinx · November 2015

I'm flying from Canada to the U.S. at 27 weeks, home at 28. My doctor gave me the ok and said the airlines won't even want a note yet. He's just worried that I have insurance coverage that covers pregnancy while in the states. We aren't-my mother lives/works in the US and has insurance that covers her family coming to visit.

DH will have the aisle seat because he doesn't fit into planes very well (6'2") and he's an extremely nervous flyer (won't open the window shade or look out no matter what). He's just going to have to deal with me getting up and down a lot.

jenniferamcooper · November 2015

@arcanejinx I'd get your Mom to double check her policy especially if you've had any pre-existing conditions. We had to cancel our Christmas trip because my awesome and free world wide health insurance (literally covered 2 million in hospital bills for a coworker who got ill in France) considered my UTI a pre existing condition and will not cover anything to do with pregnancy

Better to know ahead of time and not get caught.

arcanejinx · November 2015

jenniferamcooper said:
@arcanejinx I'd get your Mom to double check her policy especially if you've had any pre-existing conditions. We had to cancel our Christmas trip because my awesome and free world wide health insurance (literally covered 2 million in hospital bills for a coworker who got ill in France) considered my UTI a pre existing condition and will not cover anything to do with pregnancy

Better to know ahead of time and not get caught.

Already done.

Worst comes to worst we are lucky enough to be able to afford care. We can also drive back across the border in less than 24 hours so if it wasn't urgent I can get care close to home.

MrsLeanMeanClean · November 2015

arcanejinx said:

@arcanejinx I'd get your Mom to double check her policy especially if you've had any pre-existing conditions. We had to cancel our Christmas trip because my awesome and free world wide health insurance (literally covered 2 million in hospital bills for a coworker who got ill in France) considered my UTI a pre existing condition and will not cover anything to do with pregnancy Better to know ahead of time and not get caught.
Already done. Worst comes to worst we are lucky enough to be able to afford care. We can also drive back across the border in less than 24 hours so if it wasn't urgent I can get care close to home.

THanks! just called and double checked mine as I am travelling trans-atlantic at 31weeks and its all good according to them as long as its not against airplane policy or AMA

bntfroggie · November 2015

FlipFlop1025 said:

Anyone have good recommendations for compression socks, tights, or leggings? Any favorite brands or places to buy them? I'm starting to stock up on necessities for my trip!

I second this, anyone know of good compression stuffs?

arcanejinx · November 2015

My DH only likes diabetic socks which are supposed to be good for flying. I can't remember the brands. I know I've seen compression socks at Wal-Mart before. Even though I hate wearing socks I'll probably pick up a pair for the flights.

dotharyk · December 2015

I travel frequently for work and have been flying throughout the pregnancy - most times cross-country so up to 5-7 hours. I haven't had any physical issues or challenges with the airlines (so far - fingers crossed!). A few times I wasn't able to get an aisle seat at booking, and called the airlines to request an aisle seat so I could get up and walk around more easily. Each time the request was accommodated. One airline asked the number of weeks and if the pregnancy was healthy but didn't ask for a note from the doctor. I will plan to get a note at my next OB appointment confirming number of weeks and that I'm cleared to fly (I'm 27 weeks currently). Here are a few things I try to do while flying all the time that have become more important to me since becoming pregnant:

1.) buy the biggest bottle of water you can find before boarding and drink it all on the flight. If you have a connecting flight, grab another water or refill between legs. Flying is always dehydrating but I have found it to be more so while pregnant. Skip the sodas and juices (and pretzels!) on board and just stick with water during the flight. Take water every time it is offered to you by the crew too. Honestly, I never feel like I have to pee too much when I am flying, no matter how much water I have!
2.) bring some healthy snacks from home if possible - especially if you have flight connections because sometimes timing gets tight and you may not have time to eat (or find even a relatively healthy food option - much less one that's on the "foods allowed during pregnancy" list!). Some of my favorite snacks to bring are hydrating fruits and veggies like grapes, watermelon, carrots, and celery. Bananas and apples are usually easy to find in airports and so are yogurt, hummus, and tomato / basil / mozzarella sandwiches.
3.) absolutely get an aisle seat so you can get up whenever you want. Call the airline if you weren't able to get one when you booked and say your doctor recommended it.
4.) get up and walk up and down the aisle as often as you like. I usually end up doing a few "laps" every hour or so. Also, stand in the back of the plane and do stretches or a few exercises like calf raises. The crew never gives me any issues about doing this, though I only try stand in the back to stretch when there isn't a line waiting on the rest room. I haven't tried compression socks but haven't had any swelling issues so far.
5.) most people like to sit at the front of the plane, but I prefer to sit in the back for long flights. That way you can see the whole plane easily and know when there is a line for the rest room, so you can quickly scoot in when no one else is waiting. Otherwise you may end up standing in a line for a while, and sometimes the crew asks people to sit down as opposed to hovering in the aisles. Also, if you're up the front, you can't get to the back of the plane while the crew is in the aisle with the cart. If you're in the back, this doesn't really happen. Just my personal preference but I find it much easier to be in the back for long flights!
6.) keep your favorite chapstick and a small container of your favorite lotion or moisturizer handy. Not only is the air on board dry, but the soap and water in the restrooms seem to be really drying too. I try to take extra care to
moisturize my face before and after long flights (and sometimes during!).
7.) consider bringing a small hand sanitizer. I feel like I've become more of a germaphobe since becoming pregnant. Airports - yuck!

Bon voyage!

jesspomales · December 2015

I haven't bought any compression socks, yet, but I found these online and they look so adorable!https://www.drsegals.com/products#sthash.O1JRw4gO.dpbs

HereComesTheSun10 · December 2015

If this helps -Amazon had several options. I ordered a few and returned some. I ordered a brand called Trueform that has been my favorite. They have open toes which I am finding more comfortable. I felt like my toes got squished in my closed toe pair.
They help me at work. I spend a lot of time standing.

FlipFlop1025 · December 2015

Has anyone gone on their trips yet? If so, how was your flight? Any advice? Looking forward to my trip next week! Better start packing!

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