A babymoon is one of those lovely modern traditions that’s all about slowing down before everything speeds up. It’s a chance to pause, connect with your partner and soak up a little calm before the next chapter begins. Whether it’s a spa weekend in the Cotswolds or a sun-soaked escape abroad, taking a babymoon while pregnant can offer both emotional and physical benefits.
With the right planning, travel during pregnancy doesn’t have to be stressful – it can be surprisingly relaxing. Below, we’ve gathered our favourite babymoon ideas, from the best UK destinations to helpful pregnancy travel tips and what to pack, so you can plan your escape with confidence and ease.
What is a babymoon?
Think of a babymoon as a honeymoon before the baby arrives – a pre-baby getaway that gives you space to relax, reset and reconnect. It’s less about ticking off tourist spots and more about rest, indulgence and quiet time together.
Most mums-to-be find that the second trimester is the sweet spot for travel. You’ve (hopefully) moved past the nausea of early pregnancy, and you’re not yet feeling the heavy fatigue or physical discomfort that often arrives later on. That makes it the perfect window for a gentle adventure.
Best babymoon destinations both in the UK and abroad
Where you go depends on how you want to feel. Rested? Pampered? Inspired by beautiful views? Here are some of the best babymoon ideas – including UK stays that don’t require a passport.
Chilled out UK stays
Best for: Afternoon naps, slow walks, and breakfast in bed
Try: Cotswolds, Lake District, or Cornwall
Perfect for couples who want comfort without the faff of flying. Book a spa hotel or a self-catering cottage with a big bath and countryside views.
Our hotel pick: The Scarlet Hotel, Cornwall is an adults-only eco spa hotel with clifftop hot tubs and dreamy sea views.
City breaks
Best for: Culture, cobbled streets, and a touch of indulgence
Try: Edinburgh, Bath, York
City breaks can still feel relaxing when you pick somewhere scenic and walkable. Enjoy cultural spots, pregnancy-safe treatments at a day spa, and delicious food without the hassle of long travel times.
Our hotel pick: The Fat Badger in York is a charming boutique hotel right in the heart of the city, which means less walking and more relaxing. You’re just steps from cosy cafés, shops, and York’s best sights.
Warm weather escapes
Best for: Sunshine, sea air and proper relaxation
Try: The Canary Islands, Greece, Southern Spain
If you’re OK flying when pregnant and craving sunshine, choose destinations with short, direct flights and reputable healthcare. Just double-check your airline’s pregnancy policy, especially if you’re flying towards the end of your pregnancy. A sun lounger, a mocktail and a gentle sea breeze? Bliss.
Our hotel pick: Hotel Jardin Tropical in Tenerife is a stylish beachfront stay with lush gardens, relaxing pools and a reputation for excellent service.
How to choose the right babymoon for you
Every pregnancy is different, so the best babymoon ideas for one person might not suit another. Ask yourself:
- How far along will you be?
- How do you feel about flying or longer car journeys?
- Are you craving heat or worried about swelling?
- Do you want total relaxation or a bit of gentle exploring?
Tip: When choosing a destination, aim for comfort. Fewer connections, direct flights, and minimal airport stress will all help your trip feel more manageable.
It’s also a good idea to check in with your midwife or GP before booking. They’ll let you know if there’s anything to avoid or if you need a fit-to-fly note.
Babymoon essentials: What to pack
A babymoon isn’t the time to overpack – but a few carefully chosen items can make all the difference.
Here’s our go-to list of babymoon essentials:
Comfortable clothes and flat shoes: Think stretchy waistbands, light layers and breathable fabrics.
Travel-friendly skincare: A gentle cleanser, bump oil and balm can help keep your skin calm and hydrated, especially in warm weather.
Snacks and a refillable water bottle: These will help to keep blood sugar steady and nausea at bay.
Sun cream: Pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so don’t skip it, even if it’s cloudy.
Doctor’s notes or medication: Bring any prescriptions, your maternity notes, and check your travel insurance covers pregnancy.
An all rounder balm: A multi-tasking pregnancy-safe balm, like our award-winning Wonder Balm is great for lips, dry hands or even a bump massage at the end of the day.
With your babymoon essentials ready to go, all that’s left to do is relax and enjoy the moment.
Tip: Keep your essentials in your carry-on or handbag if you’re not flying, so you can access them easily during travel. You never know when you’ll want a snack or a spritz of facial mist.
Babymoon safety and self-care tips
Even the calmest trips can take a toll if you’re not careful, so it’s worth building in a few gentle habits to help you feel your best.
On flights, try to stretch your legs or walk around every hour or so to keep your circulation flowing – compression socks can help reduce swelling, too. Staying hydrated is especially important, whether you’re in the air or soaking up the sun.
Don’t feel the need to fill every moment with activity; it’s perfectly okay to skip the sightseeing in favour of a nap. Most importantly, listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, slow down. Babymoons are made for afternoon naps and just chilling!
Final thought: Make your babymoon a gentle ritual
Your babymoon is more than a getaway – it’s a pause button. A space to tune into your body, connect with your partner, and soak up some peace before the whirlwind begins
Create little rituals that anchor your time away: a warm bath each evening, a candlelit stretch before bed, a daily foot massage with your favourite balm. These small acts can help turn your trip into something truly restorative.
Cradle & Tonic’s travel-friendly products – like our Wonder Balm and Bump Candle – are perfect for packing light while still honouring your self-care rituals. Because your babymoon should feel like the calm before the beautiful storm.
