Camping in the 'Wilds of Alaska' While Being 6 Months Pregnant

Updated on May 26, 2009
K.H. asks from Gig Harbor, WA
7 answers

Hi Moms,

My husband, my 20 month old son, and I will be visiting my Dad who lives out in Nome, AK, this July. My dad happens to own 30 acres of land out in the 'wilderness' 2 hours away from town, and we plan to camp out the entire time we're there. He has a very nice camp set up (a couple of canvas tents, a yurt (a type of 'teepee' that can be left up all year round, which is key for Alaskan weather), a couple of fire pits, and even a 'poop tent'. We fish, we camp, we boat up and down river, we hike, we search for wildlife to shoot (with pictures, mind you, I'm no hunter). It's a very refreshing and unique experience that I truly look forward to every chance I get.

My concern is not the camping part. I've been out three times the past seven years, and feel completely at ease and attuned to the rugged beauty of the raw nature that is out there. My concern is camping whilst being 6 months pregnant. I've never camped while pregnant, and although I have clearance from the doctor, with certain restrictions, of course, there are a few things I'm a bit concerned about (mainly the three legs of flights it will take to get out there), and am wondering if it's just typical pregnancy fears (I admit, I do tend to get paranoid at times) or if there's something more to it.

So, my plea to all you Moms, especially you camper Moms, is to please share any pearls of wisdom you could spare about your camping experiences while pregnant. My doctor says the main thing is to listen to my body and not overdo it, obviously. My two brothers and cousin will also be out there, to help corral my 20-month old, so I'm not worried about that, I guess I'm just nervous about being so far from 'medical' assistance, should it be required, and also the long time up in the air just to get there and back. I don't want to miss this opportunity to see my Dad, and to enjoy the summer in AK, especially since it's been three years since I've been able to go out and see him. I don't want to kick myself for being silly, but I also want to be dead serious about this, as I don't want to risk anything to my unborn child.

So, after all that rambling, thanks for listening and I appreciate your time. Have a wonderful Memorial Weekend everyone!

Thanks,
K.

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H.D.

answers from Chicago on

I was a nervous Nelly while pregnant and did not travel at all. I wanted to be in town jsut in case I needed my doctor. I thinking travel is fine if you're going to a place like San Fran or something but I would be way to nervous about being so far from anyone that could help me or my babies if the needed it. Plus you're really flying 6 times. I would think that's alot in a short time although I'm no doctor. Is there a safe and clean water supply and safe food there? Is there an emergency plan just in case? Is there any form of communication out there? Can your dad come to you instead? If the trip is worth it and you feel comfortable I guess why not. But if you're worried and won't be able to enjoy yourself then why?

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K.J.

answers from Chicago on

A) I am completly jealous! That is my type of vacation! I was nervous camping and being on the go while pregnant but listen to your body and take lots of breaks. On the flight, get up and stretch your legs. I think you'll find that your body will tell you what to do.

Good luck and have fun!

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L.M.

answers from Chicago on

I think you have lots of good advice, especially getting up and moving and stretching every hour or so on the flights, and getting an air mattress. Another thing you might want to bring is a birthing ball (exercise ball $11.99 at target!) to sit on to help relieve your back once in awhile of those camp chairs. just put a tarp or towel underneath it so it doesn't get punctured by rocks or twigs. Have a great time!!

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J.V.

answers from Chicago on

I'm sure the baby will be fine (just make sure you walk a lot on the plane). In terms of being away from medicine, your chance of needing it is slight, so I wouldn't worry about it. Furthermore, since you've already have had a healthy baby, chances are, this pregnancy will go even more smoothly.

What I'd be more concerned about is your back, your legs, and the start of the 3rd trimester and all the fun that brings.I remember going to a movie with my husband while 6 months pregnant..and I remember saying, "never again." It was so uncomfortable to sit in that car for 3 hours. So I know I couldn't do the flights to get there. I'm not sure I could do the sleeping on the ground either, even with a nice blow up bed.

Only you know what you can handle. Spend some time meditating on the flights, etc. and see how it makes you feel. It you feel like you can handle it, then I say go for it.

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J.

answers from Chicago on

I think it sounds like a wonderful time! I think I'd probably want to do some research on the emergency medical care situation and find out if your cell phones will work at the camp site. I would imagine that, since it's Alaska, it's not all that uncommon for people to live off the beaten path and need emergency care.

But unless you have some reason to think there will be a problem or there are any signs of issues as the trip gets closer, I don't know why you should restrict your activities completely. Definitely consider (and research the details on) travel insurance, just in case you don't feel up to it when July comes.

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D.D.

answers from Chicago on

I camped while 6 months pregnant. I'll ditto the other response about padding while sleeping. The biggest problem I found was the hard, uneven ground (see: achy hips). Also, bring some extra pillows for between your legs. Sleep closest to the "door" so you don't have to climb over anything/body to get out & use the bathroom in the middle of the night. (And, try not to drink too much before bed. :) )
Good luck & have fun! What an awesome experience!

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L.B.

answers from Chicago on

I did it while 7 months pregnant with a pretty big baby. My only advice is to make sure you have a good air mattress and camp chairs w/ good back support! As far as sitting in flight goes - I recommend getting up and stretching as much as you can. I camped on the road and we pulled over a rest stops frequently so I could do a little yoga or just walk around. You'll be fine.

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