chelsea barbine (00:00.376)
Hi, mama. Welcome back to the Postpartum Better podcast. Today's episode is part of the Pregnancy Diary series, where we're diving into an update on my own pregnancy journey at 25 weeks pregnant with baby number two. If you've been following along, you probably heard about that whole Labor Day travel fiasco. And I am relieved to share that we managed to rebook our trip.

and sneak in one more visit with my family in Michigan before our littlest one arrives. But let me tell you, packing for that trip as a pregnant mama brought flashbacks to packing with a newborn. You know, all of those just-in-case items that somehow fill up half your bag. So I thought, why not share the three items I wish I packed to round out the ultimate packing list for traveling while pregnant?

because honestly, I know how easy it is to overpack or just forget those small things that actually make a big difference, especially now that you're not just packing for yourself, but a growing family while probably battling a little bit of pregnancy brain. So let's get into what's really essential to help keep you comfortable and prepared without feeling like you need a second suitcase.

chelsea barbine (01:24.638)
Welcome to Postpartum Better, the go-to podcast for expecting a new mom's navigating life after birth. Hi, I'm Chelsea Barbine, wife, mama, yogi, postpartum health coach, and your new mama friend. Together, we're covering topics like postpartum recovery, maintaining your mental and emotional health, finding your identity as a new mom, and rekindling your relationships. Get ready for expert tips

actionable advice and heartfelt conversations with other moms who just get it. The health and happiness of the world resides in us mamas. It's time to postpartum better.

chelsea barbine (02:09.688)
All right, I think it's safe to say we all know there are just gimmies when it comes to packing, right? Like certain things to have on hand to feel just as good as possible, whether we're on the road or in the air. And when I say this, I'm talking like our prenatal vitamins, prescription meds, a refillable water bottle, snacks on snacks on snacks on snacks.

And guys, that's honestly like pregnant or not in my world. Compression socks, loose clothing, and even just comfortable shoes. Bonus points if they slip on, especially going through security if you don't have pre-check. And I am proud to say, minus the compression socks, which haven't been a necessity for me, I remembered all of that.

But there are three items I wished I had remembered. Because let's be real. No matter how well-intended a trip is meant to support relaxation, travel, it isn't always all relaxing, right? Especially while pregnant. So here are my three must-have items to pack for travel while pregnant.

Number one, a support pillow. Whether you've got a toddler in your lap like I did or you're flying solo, I think it's safe to say that plane seating has gotten a little more conservative over the years and being pregnant doesn't do us any favors. So if you're trying to nap on the plane or maybe even on a stage in your pregnancy where you could use a little extra support between your legs while sleeping,

Packing a small pillow can make such a difference. If packing a small pillow isn't feasible because space is limited, consider packing a scarf or a light blanket to fold up for a little extra support. Anything that will make those seats more bearable and can provide extra comfort while trying to catch some Zs. Number two, essential oils. There are truly few things that an oil can't fix.

chelsea barbine (04:36.278)
And my top three for travel are lavender, peppermint, and thieves. Lavender is super calming and a go-to if I need extra sleep support, but also extremely supportive if I start feeling anxious with travel delays or just need a reset after being outside of my normal environment. Peppermint to sniff can help with nausea, reduce headaches, and even promote feelings of alertness.

and thieves, well, it's just a swift army knife for staying above the wellness line. And as we all know, travel germs are no joke. Third, and certainly not least, travel sized belly oil. I applied belly oil nightly while pregnant with Frankie and have continued this nightly routine throughout this pregnancy. And knock on wood, I have been stretch mark free.

It's honestly one of my favorite things to do after an evening shower. And I find it super comforting to practice while traveling. It's honestly like a micro moment of self care that just helps make me feel more grounded and settled, especially while away from home and out of my normal routine. So there you have it, my forgotten in the moment, but beloved wished I had items for traveling while pregnant.

I hope these tips help you feel a little more prepared and maybe even excited for your next trip. Travel doesn't have to be stressful or uncomfortable, even with a toddler in tow while pregnant. It's my hope that with these essentials, you'll have everything you need to feel ready and relaxed.

chelsea barbine (06:22.862)
Thank you for joining me for this episode of Postpartum Better. If you're inspired by this conversation to help yourself or another mom navigate life after birth, take a minute to leave me a review on Apple Podcast, and then share this episode with someone who could use the virtual hug. The health and happiness of the world resides in us mamas, and I'm so proud to be doing Postpartum Better with you. Until next week, with care, Chelsea.