Safe Travel During Pregnancy: Tips for Flying, Car Rides, and Long Road Trips

Author: Oke Ikpekpe, HND, MSC(PH)

Medical Reviewer:Dr Azuka Chinweokwu Ezeike, MBBS, FWACS, FMCOG, MSc (PH)

Highlights

• The safest time to travel during pregnancy is the second trimester (14–28 weeks).
• Air travel is generally safe, but after 28 weeks, airlines may require a doctor’s note.
• For long car trips, wear your seatbelt correctly (lap belt under the bump) and take breaks every 1–2 hours to improve circulation.
• Pregnant women with complications such as high blood pressure, bleeding, risk of early labour, or low blood count should avoid travel.
• Carry essentials like medical report, water, healthy snacks, TED stockings, comfortable clothes, prenatal vitamins and any prescribed medications.
• Seek medical help immediately if you experience severe stomach pain, regular contractions, bleeding, or changes in the baby’s movements.

Introduction

Okay, so you're pregnant and wondering if you can still travel? It's a big question, whether you're thinking about a quick flight or a long drive. You're probably asking yourself, 'Is it okay to fly?' What if something goes wrong far from home? Lots of moms worry about trips affecting their health or the baby's. That's normal.

 Lots of women travel while pregnant, but it feels easier if you know what to do.The good news is, women can usually travel safely between 12 and 36 weeks of pregnancy if they plan smart and play it safe. In this article, we'll share what you need to know about safe travel during this special time, from flying to road trips.

Is It Safe to Travel During Pregnancy?

Yes, for most women without pregnancy complications, travel is typically safe for up to about 36 weeks [1,2,3]. The optimal and most convenient time to travel, however, is during the second trimester (14–28 weeks). This has been termed the "sweet spot" for travel, because: 

• There is an increase in energy level
• Morning sickness has likely reduced
• There are also fewer serious complications compared to other trimesters.

On the other hand, the first trimester (12 weeks and below) is a different deal. You can still travel, but: 

• There is an increased risk of miscarriage 
• Risk of an ectopic pregnancy.
• Severe vomiting or nausea (hyperemesis gravidarum)

If you must travel, your doctor might want to do an early scan to make sure both you and the baby are okay.The third trimester (after 28 weeks) also brings new issues. It gets tougher to travel because

• You might feel more swollen
• Experience heartburn 
• Not sleeping well. 
• There is also an increased risk of complications like high blood pressure (pre-eclampsia) or early labour. 

It's wise to consider how good and how close medical care is where you are travelling to.

General Pregnancy Travel Safety Tips

• Before your trip, see your doctor or midwife. They’ll check you and advise you to help you travel safely.
• Get a medical report from your doctor in case you need to see a doctor at your destination.
•  If you are travelling to a distant location, make sure to find out where the nearest hospital or clinic is at your destination before you travel. It’s always better to be prepared.
• Make sure you get travel insurance before you travel, and it should cover medical care for both you and your baby.
• For international travel, also check the vaccination rules for your destination country and ensure you get all the necessary vaccines ahead of your trip.

Flying While Pregnant

Airline policies and restrictions

Airline rules for pregnant passengers are not the same everywhere. In general:

• If you are carrying one baby, most airlines allow travel until around 36 weeks.
• If you are carrying twins or more, many airlines limit travel to about 32 weeks.
• After 28 weeks, many airlines require a medical certificate confirming you are fit to fly.

For example, Ethiopian Airlines allows:

• Travel up to 36 weeks for domestic and short flights.
• Travel up to 34 weeks for international flights.
• Before 28 weeks, no doctor’s note is needed, only a simple Pregnancy Declaration Form.
• From 28 weeks onward, a medical certificate is required, and in case of complications, a special medical clearance (MEDIF) is needed.

Since rules vary, it’s always best to check your airline’s website or call ahead before booking. This saves you stress at the airport and ensures a smoother trip.

Is air travel safe in the second and third trimesters?

Yes, it's safe.  Most women without pregnancy complications are perfectly comfortable flying in the second or third trimester. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, taking flights while pregnant is not associated with any increased risk for mother or baby. However, the pregnant woman should adopt a few precautions for their own safety and comfort when flying. 

Tips for Comfort and Safety on Flights

• Select seats in the aisles so that you can easily get up when you need to stretch or use the restroom without bothering other passengers. 
• Always keep your seatbelt on; it should be low and tight across your hips, under your bump. It's not just the airline acting pushy; it's also safer for you. 
• Pregnancy raises the danger of blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis, DVT), so wear a special type of stocking known as TED stockings,  stretch your feet, and stand up every one to two hours.
• Because airplane air is so dry, it’s easy to get dehydrated, especially when pregnant, so make sure you drink plenty of water. And kindly note that sodas and ginger ale can’t replace water.
• Carry all the items that will help make you comfortable. Such as comfy clothes, snacks and a pillow for relaxation.
• Once you land, try to relax and plan for some rest to prevent jet lag. 

Road Trips and Long Car Rides

According to the National Health Service (NHS), most pregnant women can travel without issue by car or even drive, but the main issue is fatigue and discomfort when travelling a long distance [4]. If you must spend several hours travelling, the following suggestions are given to help.

Seat belt safety during pregnancy

It's very important to wear your seat belt the right way. Studies show it greatly cuts down the risk of bad injuries for both the mom and the baby if there's a crash. [1,5,6]

• Put that lap belt below your bump, on your hips. Not around your belly, to prevent unnecessary risk. The shoulder belt goes between the breasts, not brushing the belly. And don’t disable airbags, they give more protection.

How often to take breaks

Try not to go more than 1–2 hours without pulling over. Get out, stretch, hit the restroom, walk around to keep down the swelling, stop your joints from being stiff and reduce your risk of blood clots.

Coping with nausea, swelling, and back pain

• Bring snacks, water, and maybe ginger candy to help prevent vomiting or nausea [7]. 
• Shove a little pillow behind your back for extra support and to prevent back pain.
• And when you take a break, prop your feet up for a minute to help ease the swollen ankles. 

Travel Restrictions: When Not to Travel

Although travel is safe for many pregnant women, it is not suitable for everyone. Some health issues can make travel more of a risk, and your doctor might advise against it [4,8]. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the NHS recommend avoiding travel if you have:

• Placenta previa (placenta covering the cervix)
• Preeclampsia (high blood pressure with swelling or organ risks)
• A history or high risk of preterm labour
• Cervical insufficiency (a weak cervix)
• A history of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy
• Multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets, or more)
• A personal or family history of blood clots
• Being close to your due date (most airlines restrict travel after 36 weeks)

If you are in any of these categories, or your doctor says you need close watch, it's best to wait on trips that aren't needed.

Importance of a doctor’s clearance.  

Before you go on a long trip, especially if it's far or you're late in your pregnancy,  always check with your doctor or midwife if it’s safe. It’s more than just a formality. It makes sure you and your baby are safe to go. Your health care person will check your health, see how your baby is growing (often using an ultrasound to check the baby's position and when you are due ), and think about risks like blood clots, which are more likely when you are pregnant [9,10].

If you're going to another country, your doctor will tell you which vaccines you can have that are safe during pregnancy and will help make sure you can get adequate care where you're going. Also, after 28 weeks, some airlines might ask for a "fit to fly" letter, so be ready for that. Getting this letter might cost some money or take some time.Getting clearance from a doctor is not just needed; it also gives peace. It lets you travel with less worry, knowing you've minimised risks for you and your baby.

Travel Essentials for Pregnant Women

Packing vital essentials ensures a safe and comfortable trip

What to pack.

• Doctor’s report, test results, insurance details, and emergency contacts.
• Antenatal medications or any other medication recommended by your doctor, antacids for reflux, or acetaminophen for pain.
• Natural snacks (fruit, nuts, granola bars) and a reusable water bottle.
• Loose clothes and supportive shoes.
• Travel insurance covering pregnancy-related care, premature birth, and return trip changes.

Comfort aids

• Take a pregnancy pillow or neck pillow for plane rides or car rides while pregnant.
• Carry compression stockings with you to stop swelling and clots.
• Bring clothes in layers to deal with changes in how warm or cold it is.

Warning Signs to Seek Medical Help While Travelling

If you notice any of the following when you are travelling, seek medical help immediately [8]:

• Your baby’s movements slow down or stop.
• Vaginal bleeding or leaking fluid.
• Regular, painful contractions.
• Severe stomach or abdominal pain
• Persistent headaches, dizziness, or vision changes.
• Chest pain, trouble breathing, or fever.

Conclusion

Travelling during pregnancy can be safe and enjoyable with the right planning. Talk to your doctor before your trip, schedule travel around your prenatal checkups, and if going abroad, know where the nearest hospital or clinic is located.

No matter how you travel, whether by plane, car, or bus, remember to pack the essentials (water, healthy snacks, doctors' reports, and medicines). Also, drink plenty of water, stretch your legs often and watch out for any warning signs. With these simple steps, you can travel more safely and comfortably while protecting both yourself and your baby.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I fly at 32 weeks pregnant?

Yes, if your pregnancy is uncomplicated. But many airlines want a medical report from a doctor after 28 weeks and may limit trips after 36 weeks. Always confirm your airline’s rules.

2. What is the safest time to travel during pregnancy?

The second trimester (14–28 weeks) is often the best and safest time to go on a trip, because pregnant women have more energy, morning sickness gets better, and the risks are low when compared to the first and third trimesters.

3. Is it safe to drive long distances while pregnant?

Yes, if you are careful. Use your seatbelt right (strap under the belly), stop every 1–2 hours to move and drink, and have snacks and water close by.4. Do I need a doctor’s clearance before travelling?Yes, it is important, especially if you are late in your pregnancy, you have health risks, or you plan to go to another country. Some flight companies want you to have a note or certificate of being fit from your doctor showing when your baby will come, and if you are okay to travel. 

References

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2. American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. ACOG Committee Opinion No. 746: Air travel during pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol. 2018;132(2):e64-e66. doi:10.1097/AOG.0000000000002790. Available from: https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2018/08/air-travel-during-pregnancy
3. National Health Service (NHS). Travelling in pregnancy [Internet]. London: NHS; 2023 [cited 2025 Sep 10]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/travelling/
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5. Tanaka K, Motozawa Y, Takahashi K, Maki T, Nakamura M, Hitosugi M. Severity of placental abruption in restrained pregnant vehicle drivers: Correct seat belt use confirmed by finite element model analysis. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022;19(21):13905. doi:10.3390/ijerph192113905. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36360785/
6. Collins AC, Miller LE, Seeley A, Telehowski PM, Atkinson TS. Analysis of restraint use in pregnant versus non-pregnant populations involved in motor vehicle collisions. Am J Surg. 2020;220(5):1304-1307. doi:10.1016/j.amjsurg.2020.06.065. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32731956/
7. Lowe SA, Steinweg KE. Management of hyperemesis gravidarum and nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. Emerg Med Australas. 2022;34(1):9-15. doi:10.1111/1742-6723.13909. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34872159/
8. Galang RR, Roy SC. Pregnant travellers. In: CDC Yellow Book: Health information for international travel [Internet]. Atlanta (GA): Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; 2024 [cited 2025 Sep 10]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/yellow-book/hcp/family-travel/pregnant-travelers.html
9. Rybstein MD, DeSancho MT. Risk factors for and clinical management of venous thromboembolism during pregnancy. Clin Adv Hematol Oncol. 2019;17(7):396-404. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31449506/
10. Hanley S. Deep vein thrombosis in pregnancy [Internet]. Medically reviewed by Khatri M. New York: WebMD LLC; 2024 Nov 16 [cited 2025 Sep 12]. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/dvt/dvt-pregnancy

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this website is for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Published September 27, 2025