A wedding and a baby are both life-changers. And while some couples might feel like they can't possibly afford to take a lavish honeymoon after shelling out a fortune for their nuptials, a babymoon is the perfect way to celebrate their new life together before their little bundle of joy arrives.
If you're not familiar with the term, a babymoon is a vacation taken by parents-to-be before their baby is born. It's a chance to relax, reconnect, and enjoy each other's company before becoming parents.
And while a traditional honeymoon might be all about exploring a new destination, a babymoon is all about that last hurrah before your world is turned upside down (in a good way, of course).
Planning a babymoon isn't all that different from planning a honeymoon. But there are a few things expecting couples should keep in mind to make sure their trip is as smooth as possible—without forgetting about the romance, of course.
After all, you want to come back feeling refreshed and ready for the exhilarating (and exhausting) adventure of parenthood!
Here are our top six tips for planning the perfect babymoon:
1. Go As Early As Possible
Although you can technically be cleared for travel up to 36 months pregnant, the ideal time to take a babymoon is in the second trimester, before you start feeling too big and uncomfortable to travel.
If you can swing it, a bit earlier一around 12 weeks一is even better. Things like morning sickness would most likely be over by then, too, so you’ll be able to enjoy more activities.
2. Avoid Peak Season
Aside from the obvious benefit of saving money, avoiding peak travel season also means you'll have an easier time getting around—avoiding crowded airports, attractions, and restaurants.
When you're pregnant, the last thing you want is to be stuck in a packed elevator or waiting in line for an hour just to get a table.
If you're flexible with your travel dates, aim to travel during the shoulder season—the period between the high and low seasons. For most destinations, this is usually spring or fall.
3. Choose Your Destination Wisely
When it comes to planning a babymoon, the world is your oyster. But not all destinations are created equal, especially when you're expecting.
Consider factors like the time of year, the climate, the altitude, and the distance from home一or a hospital一when choosing your babymoon destination. You want to pick someplace safe, comfortable, and accessible in case of an emergency. Although you might be used to packing your days full of activities when you travel, a babymoon is all about taking it slow.
Some of our favorite babymoon destinations that hit all the right marks include the Caribbean, Hawaii, Mexico, and Costa Rica. All these places offer direct flights from many gateways in the US, beautiful weather year-round, and plenty of activities for expectant parents—think relaxing on the beach or by the pool, getting massages, and maybe even snorkeling!
4. Choose the Right Hotel
When you're pregnant, you want to be as comfortable as possible with your babymoon. That means choosing a hotel that goes above and beyond to accommodate expecting guests. AirBNBs are probably not your best option—you want a hotel with 24-hour concierge service and on-site restaurants in case you don't feel like venturing out.
5. Get Travel Insurance
This is one instance where it's definitely worth purchasing splurging on travel insurance. Pregnancy is a delicate time, and you want to be prepared for anything.
Look for a policy that covers pregnancy complications like premature labor and offers emergency evacuations. You may also want to consider getting trip cancellation insurance in case you have to cancel your babymoon due to a last-minute complication.
6. Pack Light
Packing light is always a good idea when you're traveling, but it's especially important when you're pregnant. You want to avoid lugging around a heavy suitcase when you're already dealing with extra weight.
That said, there are a few essentials you shouldn't forget to pack, like comfortable shoes, loose-fitting clothes, and your pregnancy pillow. And don't forget to keep your travel insurance policy information handy in case of an emergency.
7. Slow Down and Relax
Pregnancy is a joyous—but tiring—time, so it's important to take it easy on your babymoon.
Try to relax and take things slow. The whole point of a babymoon is to relax and recharge before the baby arrives. So don't try to pack too much into your trip.
Leave time for naps, take plenty of breaks, and savor every moment.
Click here to get the full guide.
For the best babymoon experience, why not leave the planning to the experts? Our team of travel specialists can help you choose the perfect destination and accommodations, and make sure you have everything you need for a relaxing and stress-free trip.
Or if you have a destination in mind but need help with the details, we can take care of that too. With our concierge service always at the ready, all you have to do is sit back, relax, and contact us—we'll get you the babymoon you (and your baby) deserve!
Click here to check out our partner's full guide below - Keeping your kids safe on a family holiday.
Σχόλια