A babymoon is a pre-baby vacation taken by parents-to-be. These pre-baby getaways allow soon-to-be moms and dads to relax and enjoy time together as a couple before baby arrives.
No, babymoons are definitely not just for first-time parents. Veteran parents also benefit from time away to relax, rejuvenate and reconnect as a couple before welcoming their new arrival. In fact, babymoons may be especially enticing to experienced parents who know firsthand that couple-time is harder to come by once baby arrives.
Where did the term “babymoon” originate?
The term “babymoon” was coined by British author and childbirth educator Sheila Kitzinger. Originally, it was defined as the period of time after a baby’s birth that the family spends alone together to facilitate bonding between parents and baby.
In recent years, the meaning of the word “babymoon” has grown to include the pre-baby jaunts taken by expecting parents. Celebrity babymoons (think Angelina & Brad and Britney & Kevin) have fueled the popularity of pre-baby vacations. The travel industry has jumped on the bandwagon by creating wonderful, upscale vacation packages that cater to parents-to-be.
How popular are babymoons?
According to a recent survey conducted by Liberty Travel and Babycenter.com, 59% of new parents have taken a babymoon vacation that included an overnight stay away from home. Survey results also show that more than 2 million babymoons are taken by U.S. parents-to-be each year.
How long is a typical babymoon vacation?
Babymoons are typically two to four nights long, but there are no hard and fast rules. If you prefer a week-long getaway, then go for it. Likewise, even an overnight babymoon at a wonderful inn or spa can be rejuvenating so don’t let time constraints keep you from taking a pre-baby getaway.
If you just can't get away overnight, consider a one-day babymoon. Moms and dads who are crunched for time can spend a relaxing day together at a luxurious spa, close to home.
Check out our
one-day babymoons
to find a spa near you that offer pregnancy spa treatments.
We’re building our family through adoption. The babymoon packages I’ve seen are geared toward pregnancy and don’t seem to fit our situation. Are there babymoon vacations for adoptive parents-to-be?
We’re glad you asked! Yes, babymoons are definitely for adoptive parents too.
What are some of the amenities that make babymoon packages unique?
While babymoon packages vary greatly, they are generally geared toward providing a luxurious, relaxing experience for parents-to-be. Here is a sampling of the amenities you may find in typical babymoon packages.
Couples massages or other spa treatments
Pregnancy body pillows in the room
Late checkouts
Room upgrades
Treats such as cookies and milk or chocolate covered strawberries at bedtime
Breakfast in bed
Keepsake gifts at check-in such as a journal for moms to write in