Scheduling some travel while pregnant can be a thrilling and rejuvenating experience before the arrival of your child. However, selecting a country that meets your needs while being safe and comfortable can be difficult.
I’ve compiled a list of the 15 best places to travel while pregnant, ranging from relaxing beach holidays to cultural and historical sites, family-friendly vacations, and nature and outdoor areas. While there are many more destinations safe for travelling while pregnant such as Japan, Australia, New Zealand, etc., they are quite far away from Canada.
The places to travel while pregnant mentioned in this article can easily be booked with Aeroplan points.
Furthermore, if you do not have the necessary points to make your babymoon come true, you can quickly earn the required amount to any of the destinations by simply signing-up for one or two credit cards:
Some of these credit cards are free the first year, others have a high fee that’s not exempt, but you should always think of it as the amount you have to pay to buy those precious points. Paying $599 to get enough points for your trip is a lot cheaper than $1,500!
The Platinum Card® from American Express is also an excellent card for this purpose, as it allows you to earn a significant amount of Membership Rewards points in a short space of time, and in some cases, one card can be enough for both of you. Then you can transfer these points to your preferred programs for booking, whetherAeroplan, Avios, Flying Blue or others.
Paying a high fee for The Platinum Card® by American Express can also be justified with the many travel perks the card provides, such as excellent travel insurance, access to over a thousand VIP lounges worldwide and much more.
While the Zika outbreak has dialled down, physicians seem to have diverging opinions on whether to avoid some destinations or not while pregnant. Therefore, it is best to check with your doctor and assess your risk tolerance before considering them.
The following places are Zika-free so they are ideal for traveling while pregnant.
Hawaii is a dream destination for many people, especially when traveling while pregnant for a relaxing beach vacation. The warm weather, calm ocean waters and magnificent beaches create a dreamy atmosphere ideal for relaxing and rejuvenation.
Pregnant travellers can enjoy various activities, including hiking, snorkelling, and surfing, in addition to chilling out on the beach.
Hawaii is very accessible with points, whether with Aeroplan or with travel rewards. Indeed, deals can be found both with Aeroplan and with cash prices, so make sure to check your valuation as cheap flights pop up frequently on Google Flights.
Activities to put on your agenda include a visit to the island of Oahu and a tour of the Wet ‘n’ Wild Hawaii water park, also on the island of Oahu.
The Greek Islands are another excellent choice for pregnant travellers looking for a peaceful and scenic beach getaway. These islands provide a serene and rejuvenating atmosphere that is great to travel while pregnant, with crystal clear waters, lovely blue and white-themed villages, and delicious cuisine.
You can visit historic sites, stroll through picturesque streets, or relax on the sand and soak up the rays. The Greek Islands are a top pick for pregnant travellers searching for a beach vacation, with a variety of islands to opt for, each with its own distinct charm.
This advice applies to all those looking for flights to Europe; when availability is scarce with points, try to find the cheapest entry points on the continent. Then, purchase a ticket on a low-cost carrier to reach your final destination.
Activities include a sunset dinner cruise on Santorini or a catamaran trip around the Santorini Caldera with lunch.
Portugal ‘s breathtaking coastline, world-class beaches and beautiful cities make it an ideal destination for pregnant women looking for a mix of relaxation and culture. Indeed, the Algarve is exceptionally beautiful, and you can enjoy as many pasteis de nata as you like; Portuguese cuisine just might satisfy your pregnancy cravings!
You can visit historical sites such as the castles in Sintra, sample the succulent local cuisine, or just lay on the beach and take in the breathtaking scenery.
A guided tour of the Quinta da Regaleira and the Biester Palace is a must, as is a visit to the Douro region.
Some people, like myself, like to explore different cultures, so here are some suggestions for travel while pregnant destinations you can easily squeeze in before becoming a mother.
Morocco is an excellent choice for pregnant women looking for a cultural and historical trip. Morocco offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience with its bustling markets, rich history and stunning architecture. One activity I suggest is a camel ride through the palm groves.
You can spend your time exploring the bustling markets, marvelling at the millions of tiles on their buildings, or just soaking in the lively atmosphere of this fascinating country. Chefchaouen, or the Blue Medina, is an excellent place for a photo shoot in case you are looking for a unique way to immortalize your pregnancy.
For a touch of enchantment, let yourself be tempted by a night in the Agafay desert.
London is an excellent destination to travel while pregnant if you seek a balance of culture and comfort. There are world-class museums (that are mostly free), galleries, and historical landmarks throughout the city, as well as cozy cafes and restaurants. Or relax in one of the city’s many parks and gardens.
You might think of London as a prime destination to use your Avios on British Airways. However, compare your different options, as Aeroplan might be better depending on the dates (off-peak or not).
Among the activities, you could book a visit to Harry Potter Studios by train from London or a sunset cruise on the Thames.
For pregnant travellers, New York City has an abundance of things to do and is also ideal for a short getaway if you do not want to take too much time off before embarking on maternity leave.
This bustling metropolis has something for everyone, from Broadway shows to department stores to iconic landmarks.
We suggest a visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, and a tour of New York’s rooftops.
Croatia is an ideal destination for pregnant travellers seeking a blend of culture and natural beauty. The country is known for its magnificent beaches, crystal-clear waters and picturesque villages. It also has a rich history to discover, with ancient ruins and historic towns to visit; the ramparts of Dubrovnik are among my favorite experiences of all my travels.
You could also book a tour of the Game of Thrones filming locations and an excursion to Mostar and the Kravice waterfalls.
Italy is a popular destination for pregnant travellers who want to combine gastronomy, relaxation and culture. Italy has much to offer, from the charming canals of Venice to the historic streets of Rome.
It is known for its world-class cuisine, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty, such as the picturesque Amalfi Coast and Tuscany’s rolling hills.
Pregnant travellers can also go shopping in Milan or explore the art-filled city of Florence. Italy offers an ideal combination of relaxation, history, culture and adventure for any expectant mother.
Departing from Florence, you could opt for an excursion to Pisa, San Gimignano and Siena or an excursion to San Gimignano, Siena, Chianti and Monteriggioni.
Spain is another popular destination for pregnant women, for those looking for warm weather, delectable cuisine, and cultural experiences. The country has a variety of activities available, ranging from exploring historical medieval sites to devouring an infinite number of tapas.
Barcelona has beautiful architecture, beaches, and world-class museums, whereas Madrid has a lively atmosphere with its bustling nightlife and art-filled streets.
Pregnant travellers seeking a more relaxed holiday can head to the southern coast, where they can enjoy relaxing beach vacations.
Don’t hesitate to combine activities, such as a visit to the Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell , or take the time to visit Madrid by tuk-tuk.
If you are active travellers, you will lust for the great outdoors even while expecting. Check with your physician, but there should be no problem with looking to travel while pregnant and hike if that is already something you are used to doing.
Alaska is an excellent choice for pregnant travellers looking for an outdoor adventure; you can either go independently or on a cruise from Vancouver.
Alaska, with its stunning natural beauty, glaciers, mountains, and wildlife, provides an unforgettable travel experience. Expectant mothers can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Denali National Park or go whale watching in Juneau. You can also go on a scenic train ride or a kayaking excursion to get up close and personal with the wildlife.
The state’s pristine wilderness and unspoiled landscapes provide a peaceful haven for pregnant travellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, especially if you book a cruise.
If you fly to Vancouver for a cruise instead of Anchorage, you will avoid the air transportation charges for US flights.
You should enjoy a boat trip on the Portage Glacier, as well as a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
The Swiss Alps have breathtaking views and are a tranquil haven to travel while pregnant. Hiking is one of the best outdoor activities available in the area. Expectant mothers can also take a scenic train ride through the mountains or explore the region’s charming towns and villages. In the summer, they can go on a relaxing boat ride on Lake Geneva or go hiking in the lush green hills.
Discover all Geneva’s places of interest on this panoramic tour of Geneva, including a boat trip on the waters of Lake Geneva.
Scotland is a breathtaking place for pregnant travellers seeking natural beauty and a peaceful retreat. Scotland has some of the most gorgeous landscapes in the world, from the rugged highlands to the stunning lochs.
The country is dotted with historic castles such as Eilean Donan Castle, charming towns, and picturesque villages, making it a great destination for those interested in learning about Scotland’s rich history and culture.
Furthermore, Scotland’s cuisine is famous for its fresh seafood, hearty stews, and traditional haggis, providing pregnant travellers with a unique culinary experience.
Do you love the Outlander series? Explore the filming locations of the Outlander series with this tour from Edinburgh.
The West Coast of Canada is ideal for pregnant travellers looking for a combination of natural beauty, culture, and outdoor adventure. The region’s coastal scenery is breathtaking, with rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests.
It also has charming towns, vibrant cities, and world-renowned museums, so pregnant travellers will have plenty of cultural experiences. Furthermore, Canada’s West Coast is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities ranging from hiking and biking to kayaking and whale watching.
This day trip to Grouse Mountain is sure to delight: you’ll visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, the Capilano Salmon Hatchery and Grouse Mountain.
While venturing into Europe can be a great babymoon destination, travelling far away can be strenuous if you are pregnant and have other children to manage. Indeed, pregnancy often comes with fatigue, and you may have to keep the other little ones entertained to avoid tantrums.
Orlando is another family destination with plenty of activities for pregnant women. It’s the perfect place for a fun and memorable trip, with fantastic theme parks such as Disney World.
Discover Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal’s Volcano Bay: the three Universal Orlando parks. Don’t hesitate to book a ticket for Universal Orlando Resort for an unforgettable experience.
In addition to its theme parks, Orlando offers excellent shopping and world-class restaurants.
San Diego is a family-friendly destination offering a wide variety of activities for pregnant women. It’s an ideal destination for those looking for a relaxing getaway, with miles of world-renowned beaches.
The city also boasts family attractions such as the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld, making it an ideal location for families.
In addition, San Diego’s thriving culinary scene offers a diverse range of dining options, from fresh seafood to Mexican cuisine, providing pregnant women with plenty of choices to satisfy their cravings.
Los Angeles is also close by, if you want to spend a few days at Disneyland or enjoy the sets and characters of your favorite films and TV series at Universal Studios Hollywood.
When travelling, the risk of contracting diseases transmitted by water, mosquitoes or food increases. Precautions to take when traveling while pregnant (insurance, vaccines, illnesses, destinations to watch out for, etc.) are listed in our guide Traveling while Pregnant: How to Plan Your Trip?
Also, on long flights, the risk of developing deep-vein thrombosis is higher, so it’s advisable to wear compression stockings.
Finally, travelling while pregnant can be an unforgettable and rejuvenating experience, and each of the 15 best places to travel while pregnant has something for everyone. These destinations cater to your needs, whether you want to relax on a beach, immerse yourself in a new culture, or explore the great outdoors.
However, before planning to travel while pregnant, put your health and safety first and consult your doctor. You can travel safely and enjoyably during your pregnancy if you take the necessary precautions.
Afterwards, you can start planning a credit card and points strategy for when the baby arrives!
Have you checked out our Ultimate Traveller’s Checklist? It’ll help you make sure you don’t forget anything before you leave, and learn how to save money when planning your travels (with a downloadable pdf at the end!).
We’ve also listed all our team’s favorite travel accessories, tried and tested.
Have a good trip!
Most airlines impose a flight restriction on women in late pregnancy, says the Canadian government. Airlines, which have their own rules, may require a written note regarding your medical condition from a health professional. Contact your airline to find out about their conditions of carriage.
Before leaving Canada, the Canadian government recommends that you consult a health care professional. You may also wish to make an appointment at a travel health clinic at least six weeks before your departure abroad.
Are you planning to fly? According to Institut national de santé publique du Québec, pregnant women can travel by plane, noting that there are no international regulations. However, airlines have their own conditions for travel.
The health professional monitoring your pregnancy will answer any questions you may have about your future travel plans. Your state of health will determine whether you are fit to travel.
Pregnant women should postpone travel abroad where there is transmission of the Zika virus, according to the Institut national de santé publique du Québec. The Zika virus, which is transmitted by, among other things, an infected mosquito bite, can cause malformations in babies such as microcephaly.
The Régie de l’assurance maladie recommends that you take out private insurance before you leave. If you have a health problem, the Régie does not reimburse the full cost of health services received outside Quebec. The bill can quickly mount up if you encounter unforeseen circumstances.
In this guide, we present fifteen destinations. You’re sure to find a getaway to suit your needs. If you’re looking for relaxing beaches, you could go to Hawaii, Greece or Portugal.
The lower part of the belt should be tightened over your pelvis, below your belly, says the Institut national de santé publique du Québec.
Savings are here: