To be totally honest, I thought I would love traveling more than I do as a pregnant woman. It’s not that it’s uncomfortable (yet) or miserable. I just am more impatient and maybe even a little more paranoid about it than normal. So far during this pregnancy, I’ve traveled to PA, OH twice and NC (and will be once more). None of those places are incredibly far, but I’ve learned a few tricks along the way to make things more comfortable for me!
1) Go to bed when you need to. It can be hard – especially visiting family and feeling like you need to push to spend time with them – but you still need REST. Everyone I’ve traveled to see and be with understands and doesn’t think I’m (too big) of a party pooper. Sleep when you need to and wake up when you’re ready. Also – a small pillow for the car will be SO helpful. If you’re like me, my eyes shut the minute the wheels start turning and a small pillow has made sure I don’t wake up in too much pain!
2) Pack snacks + food you know you’ll want. Although pregnancy can be unpredictable (hello fresh tacos making my stomach turn after weeks of nothing bothering me!), there’s almost always something you know you’ll eat. For me? It’s been granola bars, chex mix and water. Everywhere I’ve gone, I’ve taken a bag of snacks for the car and for when I arrive. It helps me make sure I always have a snack when I need it or something to eat if I’m not sure how food will be for me when I arrive.
3) Pack your pillow. This seems a little insane, I know, but trust me – once your back starts to hurt and you can’t sleep any way but on your side, you’re going to want relief for your aching hips and back. Having your own pillow guarantees you know how you’ll sleep and you can tuck the one provided to you in between your knees to rest – or under them. I’ve found I’m most comfortable actually propped up in bed – to read and even watch TV so extra pillows are never a bad thing!
4) Get out and walk every 1-2 hours. Almost forgot this one! Seems super obvious and once your little one is sitting on your bladder, you’ll need to stop anyway! BUt trust me, ge tout of the car. Even if you just walk to the toilet and back, it’ll be good to make sure you aren’t too restless and everything is able to readjust and flow properly. Be sure to stay hydrated too – I know it’s a tough battle of drinking enough and having to stop but just know that you and your spouse will work it out and you’ll feel much better if you stay hydrated + move every couple of hours!
5) ENJOY it. There is no reason to NOT travel when you’re pregnant (unless your doc tells you so! Obviously they know more than me!) so enjoy whatever trips you take. People everyone are going to love on you and your belly – just smile, laugh and let them. You’ll probably be more tired than usual and maybe ready to eat every piece of food you’ve packed, but just sit back and relax. Don’t let the fear of something keep you from doing it.
I hope this is helpful – even if it seems really obvious, I just hope at least one other momma will feel more comfortable with her long road trip or overnight stay somewhere!
xoxo
Kristina
Disclaimer!: I’ve spent some time now deciding what to share when it comes to being a boss owner + being pregnant – especially for the first time. I’m no expert and goodness knows I don’t want/need this blog to become all about my pregnancy so I’ve decided to share some brief blog posts here and there to share on my experiences and how I’ve coped with various parts of being a business owner + first time pregnant lady.
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