After you tied the knot, you celebrated your love and marriage with a blissful honeymoon. It was a fun and romantic way to distress after months of planning your perfect wedding. These days, new parents are celebrating their love and their new baby with a babymoon. However, unlike newlyweds, new parents are taking their little getaway before the baby arrives.

Reality check: Once the baby comes, it will be extremely hard to plan or even think about going on a vacation. Before the baby makes its precious debut, go ahead and indulge in a little rest and relaxation with your hubby. The two of you deserve it. Like your wedding, you’re going to spend months getting ready for the big event. Take advantage of this well-deserved opportunity. Here are some useful tips to keep in mind when planning your babymoon:

Babymoon Destination
This little vacation is important to both of you. When planning your babymoon, try to pick a destination you both will enjoy. Make a list of potential getaway spots, and discuss what you both find appealing about each destination. You’re bound to agree on at least one.

Travel Time
The second trimester is the best time to travel. During the first trimester, you’ll probably be nauseous, which doesn’t exactly make for a fun vacation. In the third trimester, you’ll probably feel like you’re ready to pop, which means you’ll feel too uncomfortable to travel.  The best time to travel is your second trimester, anywhere from 18 to 24 weeks.

To Travel or To Not Travel
The truth is, pregnancy is uncomfortable. When planning your babymoon, try to choose a destination that doesn’t require a long flight or car ride.  Remember, the trip is supposed to be stress free.

What’s Up Doc?
Whenever you plan on traveling, it is a good idea that you consult your doctor before making any definitive plans.  The doctor knows best, so heed their traveling instructions. With your doctor’s approval, it may also be a good idea to know your babymoon destination’s nearest hospital location.

Know Babymoon Safety Regulations and Restrictions
There are a lot of restrictions and regulations when it comes to traveling pregnant.

Flying: While many doctors allow you to fly up to 36 weeks, some airlines do have restrictions.  Even taking a cruise can have limitations, with some cruise lines not allowing pregnant passengers to travel during their early part of their third trimester.

Cruise: Also, it is important to know whether there cruise line has a doctor. Know the restrictions and regulations before, and not before it’s “too late.”

Car trip: If you’re driving to your destination, make sure to wear your seatbelt with the shoulder strap over your collarbone and lap belt under your abdomen. Keep the belt as low as possible on your hips, and keep your seat as back as far as possible. If you’re in an accident, this will prevent you or your belly from hitting the car’s dashboard.

Tip: Whatever travel option you select, try to stretch your legs (avoid crossing). This will aid in circulation and decrease your risk of blood clots. If possible, keep your feet elevated to prevent swelling and leg cramps. For added pleasure, request a foot massage from the hubby.

Remember, romantic getaways will be a luxury you won’t be able to afford in the near future. Even if you do manage a getaway, you’ll have a lot of new luggage to take with you – diaper bag, bottles, blankies, binkies, and a whole lot of other baby stuff. Besides, it is the perfect excuse for a great vacation.