“For me, the hardest part of traveling internationally was not always under- standing what you’re eating,” Sibley says. There are lists filled with foods and drinks that are not beneficial for preg- nant women to consume, whether it be sushi, deli meat, alcohol, or certain fish and cheeses. When you don’t speak the language, it is much harder to deter- mine what you can and cannot eat. Tips for Air Travel Aisle seat for the win. Make sure you stand and walk around the plane every few hours. “Air travel can raise the risk for blood clots in the legs,” the Mayo Clinic states. “Moving your legs may help prevent this problem.” You may benefit from just standing so your body can reregulate. If you can’t get up, flex and extend your ankles. “Exit rows are great because you have more leg room if you’re flying economy,” Sibley shares. Choose strategic clothing. Avoid tight-fitting clothing, since it tends to hinder blood flow. Compression socks are also wise, because they help with
blood circulation. Bring snacks. If there’s one tip Sibley would beg you to take, it would be to always pack snacks and water onto the plane and have them in easy reach. Come prepared for comfort. Bring your own neck pillow, pack earplugs and an eyemask, and have electrolytes on hand. Time shifter. This app helps you shift to a different time zone based on your circadian rhythm. Avoid gassy foods and drinks before you fly. Gases expand in-flight, and it’s never fun to have a gassy stomach. (Examples: broccoli, beans, and carbon- ated soda.) Don’t become dehydrated! Drink fluids before boarding and while flying (here’s where the electrolytes come in). Another helpful way to stay hydrated is by getting an IV the day before. “An IV is a game changer, especially if you have earlier flights,” Sibley says. Bonus ! When traveling postpartum, you can book the bulkhead seats with most airlines (based on baby’s age and weight) and request a bassinet. If you
financially can, Sibley suggests buying a seat for your baby and bringing the car seat. “If not, they might have an extra seat and it’s worth an ask,” Sibley says. Road Trip Tips Plan to make pit stops regularly. It is essential to get out of the car and stretch every few hours. If you can, make the breaks more fun by purposely planning where you’re going to stop. Bring anti-nausea medicine or pepper- mint oil to prevent getting queasy. Research your route. Check where nearby hospitals are located both on the way and once you arrive, just in case. Share what you need. Pregnancy is overwhelming, so set boundaries, and don’t be afraid to ask for help! Your family won’t know what you need unless you tell them. “Make sure you have a space you can escape to and have your own space if you’re sick,” Sibley en- courages. Woohoo, now you’re set to hit the road (or the skies) this holiday season!
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