Camping While Pregnant: Essential Tips for a Safe Adventure

If you’re an expectant mother, you may wonder if going on a camping adventure is a good idea. The answer all depends on your pregnancy and how you prepare.

But generally speaking, camping while pregnant is definitely possible!

And not only is it possible, but it can also be great for you to get in some fresh air, exercise, and quality family bonding time before the baby arrives.

Life doesn’t have to stop when you’re pregnant. There are just a few other aspects to consider before getting out there.

Prioritizing comfort, safety, and self-care will ensure a positive camping experience. This can be difficult, especially if you’ve got other small children. But with a bit of extra planning, it’s doable.

Listen to Your Body

The most important thing about camping while pregnant (or just being pregnant in general) is listening to your body.

If you’re like me, it can be challenging to pull back on what you used to be able to do. When pregnant, I struggle with having limited capabilities and have had to learn to listen to what my body tells me.

This includes limiting strenuous activities, having the right foods, access to clean drinking water, proper clothing, and supportive sleeping gear.

You don’t want to overdo it (or underdo it in the case of food and water) and find yourself unable to enjoy your camping trip. I highly recommend a travel hammock if you’ve got trees on your campsite. It was a lifesaver on our last camping trip!

It’s also important to seek professional medical advice if necessary.

If you take these precautions and stay comfortable and safe, you can have an enjoyable camping experience.

Choosing the Right Campsite

Terrain Safety

Choosing a campsite with a safe and stable terrain is essential when camping while pregnant. Ideally, you’ll be familiar with the campground and know which spots are better.

Avoid areas with steep slopes, rocky surfaces, or unstable ground if possible. I know I’m clumsy when not pregnant. With my shifting center of gravity during pregnancy, uneven ground can be a big issue!

Looking for a flat area with a soft surface, such as grass or soft dirt, for your tent is a good idea on a regular camping trip. But it’s especially important in pregnancy. Being uncomfortable when trying to sleep isn’t going to make for a good time.

Accessibility

Accessibility is also something you should consider when selecting a campsite during pregnancy. Navigating rough terrain on the way to your site can be difficult.

Look for a campsite that has easy access to parking lots and trails. Setting up camp will be much easier, and it can be helpful in the case of unexpected emergencies.

Proximity to Amenities

Along those same lines, ensuring you’re close to the basic amenities is a good idea. Washrooms and water sources will be essential to have nearby.

I often need the washroom more than usual while pregnant, so being close to those facilities is a priority!

If you’re camping on a lake, trying to get a site close to the water is a good idea. If you have to walk long distances to and from the water, it may not make camping as fun.

On this last camping trip, we had a site with water access, which was perfect. It was easy for me to get to and provided endless entertainment for my toddler.

Camping Gear Adjustments

Sleeping Arrangements

A terrible night’s sleep is rough, even when not pregnant. But while camping, it can make or break your trip.

A thicker sleeping pad or inflatable mattress can help alleviate some discomfort. Some aches and pains from sleeping on a different surface are expected, but pairing that with a lack of sleep can make moving around difficult.

On a recent camping trip, I discovered that having a backup plan for a potentially deflated air mattress is really important!

We have a quality air mattress, but even those can break down and get holes in them. This happened when we went camping this past weekend. And let me tell you, I was awfully sore the next day when it deflated through the night! Luckily it was our last night, so we didn’t have to worry about what to do for the rest of the trip.

And don’t give up your pregnancy pillow or any other items you use at home for a comfortable sleep. If I don’t have a pillow between my knees at night, I can hardly move the next day, let alone chase after my 2-year-old at a campsite!

Clothing and Footwear

I prioritize comfort when camping anyway, but this is especially true when pregnant. You’re likely uncomfortable enough on a good day. Wearing uncomfortable clothing and footwear while pregnant is not an option.

Try opting for lightweight, breathable fabrics. They can help regulate body temperature and wick away moisture. Being pregnant during summer can be hard enough. Having the right clothes makes a real difference.

You’ll also want to have a couple of different pairs of shoes available. Closed-toe footwear with non-slip soles will ensure safety and stability on uneven terrain. And sandals to keep you cooler when you’re on a more stable surface.

Or, if you’re unlucky like me and get a blister from the same sandals you always wear, it’s good to have something else to put on.

Other Items

Don’t forget to pack a few other essentials, like prenatal vitamins or any medications you need. If you have medications that require refrigeration, it’s a good idea to plan for that.

Hydration will be essential, so having a water bottle or hydration pack you can carry with you at all times is a good idea.

You’ll also want to ensure you have a camping chair and a way to put up your feet. You’ll likely be on them more (especially if you have other small children!), and it’s good to have a plan to keep the foot swelling down.

Health Considerations

Nutrition and Hydration

These two things may take more planning but are essential to camping while pregnant. If you’re not getting enough food or water, it’ll make you miserable.

Try to plan nutrient-dense meals and snacks. That’s not to say you can’t have any foods typically found on a camping trip. Things like chips and s’mores are generally fine to have. They just won’t keep you full.

For water—depending on where you’re going, you may want to bring your water or have a water filter or purifying tablets with you. We have a large water jug we like to fill and bring. It typically lasts a couple of days.

I don’t feel well when I’m dehydrated, pregnant, or not, so having a plan for this is a priority for me.

Rest and Activity Levels

It will be essential to balance rest and activity during a camping trip. As mentioned earlier, always listen to your body. Take breaks when needed and do your best to avoid overexertion.

This may not be easy when you’re also chasing young children around, but having things for them to do so you can take breaks and rest is important.

Things like a bucket and shovel for digging or playing in the lake can help you get the rest you need.

Emergency Preparedness

First Aid Kit Essentials

When camping while pregnant, it is crucial to have a well-stocked first aid kit on hand. Essential items to include are:

• Bandages and dressings in various sizes
• Antiseptic wipes or solution
• Sterile gloves
• Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (safe for pregnant women)
• Scissors and tweezers
• A digital thermometer

Communication and Emergency Contacts

Before leaving for your trip, it’s a good idea to let family and friends know when you’re going and when you’ll be back. Giving them the location of your campsite is also a good idea.

You should have a way to keep your phone charged. A portable charger is a good idea, even if you’re camping locally.

Investing in a satellite phone or GPS device may be a good option if you’re traveling to remote areas with limited coverage.

Camping Activities Adaptation

While camping during pregnancy, staying active and choosing safe and comfortable activities are your best bet.

Walking and swimming are great ways to stay active and enjoy your camping trip.

Walking can help reduce swelling in your legs and make you feel better overall. And swimming can help take the pressure off of your body.

And at the risk of sounding like a broken record, always listen to your body and take breaks when needed.

Alternative Fun Activities

If you’re looking for some things to do that are a little less physical to do when camping while pregnant, things like bird watching or photography can be great activities.

If you’re looking for something to do while sitting and resting, reading or journaling is a good option.

Camping While Pregnant is Possible

It may seem daunting initially, but camping while pregnant is absolutely possible. There’s no need to put family vacation plans and memories on hold while pregnant.

All it takes is some extra planning and preparation, and you’re on your way!

For tips on camping with a toddler, check out my 7 Must-Haves for Camping with Toddlers.