Image by Bryn Pinzgauer via Flickr
For women, traveling alone or while pregnant can have risks, but you shouldn’t let it keep you from enjoying a vacation. There are many legitimate concerns you may have, and that’s okay. Check out these tips if you are planning to travel.
If You’re Pregnant
Generally, one of the biggest concerns for pregnant women is flying. Most airlines have a policy of allowing pregnant women on the plane, depending on how far along they are. You may find some of the best cheap tickets with a certain airline, but you should contact them to see if you will be allowed to ride on the plane. If not, try to find a different airline that will allow you to fly with them.
If you are pregnant, it is always a good idea to have an emergency plan. Keep contact numbers with you, including the number of your obstetrician. You should also carry a document stating your expected delivery date and blood type. Remember to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and to get up and walk around during a long flight to prevent phlebitis, or inflammation of the veins. This is a common condition in pregnant women and can affect anyone during a long flight.
Image via iowa_spirit_walker via Flickr
If You’re Traveling Alone
Traveling alone can bring on a lot of anxiety, whether you are worried about sexual assault or being scammed. Although these situations are unlikely, it is perfectly acceptable to be nervous when traveling alone. If it is your first time or you travel alone often, there are several safety practices you should keep in mind, including the following:
- Don’t let people know you are traveling alone. It is okay to let an employee at your hotel know when you check in, but be careful about people overhearing.
- Avoid traveling at night. Whether this means traveling to your destination or getting around the city you are visiting, you should avoid wandering around at night.
- Dress appropriately. You don’t want to draw attention to yourself or give people ideas. This is an especially important tip when you are traveling to other countries. Even if the locals dress one way, people may have a different idea about you since you are foreign.
- Talk to people back home. Even though a vacation is supposed to help you get away from every day life, talking to someone back home will ensure them that you are safe.
- Have an emergency backup plan. This is a good idea no matter if you are traveling alone or with others. Let people back home know of your plan and keep emergency contact numbers with you.
As you travel, keep these tips in mind. Simply using common sense when traveling, whether pregnant or alone, can help you avoid many problems.
