1. How far into pregnancy can I travel?

• You can travel by plane up to your 36th week--but check individual airline policies, which may vary.

• For cruises, the last acceptable time frame is 23-27 weeks, depending on the cruise line.

• If you are going by bus, train or car, you can travel right up to the end of your delivery date, but stay within an hour's driving distance from your doctor or delivery hospital.

2. How can I stay healthy while pregnant and traveling? 

• When flying, get up and walk around frequently, stretch your legs and feet while in your seat, and wear Ted support hose to keep the blood circulation in your legs robust.

• If you are doing a lot of physical activity--such as touring a new workplace facility or walking around a new city--watch for signs of getting short of breath. Try to stop before you feel tired.

• If you'll be out in the hot sun, drink extra water, stay out of the direct sun during peak hours and wear protective clothing. 

• If you're sightseeing take advantage of couches and seats. This will keep your back from aching later on.

3. What should I pack?

• Pack practical shoes and comfortable clothes--comfort is key. 

• If you are driving and have room for an extra suitcase, bring one filled with your favorite pillows--such as a body pillow designed for pregnancy back relief--so you'll be comfortable no matter where you rest your head.

4. What should I eat and drink while traveling?

• Keep a stash of healthy snacks with you so you can avoid getting famished (also eliminating the risk of binge eating junk food). Great healthy snacks to travel with include yogurt, small containers of unsweetened rice pudding, almonds, walnuts, apples, carrots, almond butter on whole grain bread, hummus and veggie dippers, cherries, berries and red grapes.

• When ordering from restaurants, don't be shy about "special ordering." Pregnancy is one of the few times when waiters will give you a break. Keep your food choices healthy--grilled fish or poultry, whole grains such as rice, steamed vegetables and salad are great options.

5. Anything else I should make sure to do before I start traveling? 

Purchase travel insurance. It's a small investment that can save you big time. Your unborn baby doesn't care that you're the keynote speaker at a conference or that your sister is getting married. She is on her own time schedule, and might decide to attend uninvited.
Dr. Michele Hakakha is an obstetrician/gynecologist practicing in Beverly Hills, CA. Dr. Ari Brown, MD, FAAP, is a pediatrician in Austin, TX, and an official spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics.