5 min read
Key Takeaways:
- Choose maternity-specific swimwear designed to support your bump and bust
- Pack 2–3 swimsuits to stay dry, comfortable, and irritation-free
- Look for features like adjustable straps, built-in support, and quick-dry fabric
- Bring stylish cover-ups for sun protection and on-the-go versatility
- Don’t forget the essentials like sunscreen, water, and supportive footwear
In This Article
What Type of Maternity Swimwear Do You Actually Need for a Holiday?
How Many Swimsuits Should You Pack?
What Swimwear Features Matter Most During Pregnancy?
Do You Need Maternity Cover-ups or Beachwear?
What Other Maternity Holiday Essentials Should go in Your Suitcase?
Find the Best Maternity Swimwear in Australia
Planning a babymoon? Escaping for a summer beach break? Wherever you're headed, packing for a maternity holiday is all about balance, comfort, confidence, and a little style. But when it comes to swimwear, it’s not as simple as grabbing your old bikini and heading out the door. Your body’s changing, your needs are shifting, and you want swimwear that works with you, not against you.
This maternity swimwear checklist is here to help you pack smart, feel supported, and make the most of that well-earned sunshine.
What Type of Maternity Swimwear Do You Actually Need for a Holiday?
Start with choosing swimwear that’s made for pregnancy. Maternity swimsuits are designed to support a growing bump, offer more bust coverage, and use stretch fabrics that move with you.
Here’s a quick breakdown of your options:
- One-piece swimsuits: Great for full belly coverage and support. Ideal if you're in your second or third trimester.
- Tankinis: Perfect for mixing and matching. Easy to pull up for bathroom breaks or nursing access later on.
- Bikinis: Many mums still love a bikini during pregnancy! Just look for high-waisted bottoms and supportive tops.
- Rash vests: Must-have for sun protection, especially if your skin is more sensitive during pregnancy.
- Swim dresses: Flowy, flattering and great if you want a little extra coverage poolside.
Queen Bee stocks a range of maternity swimwear to suit every stage and style, from sleek one-pieces to breastfeeding-friendly tankinis.
How Many Swimsuits Should You Pack?
You’ll want at least two to three swimsuits. Why? Because wet swimsuits don’t dry instantly (especially in humid locations), and changing into a damp one later in the day can be uncomfortable, especially if you're prone to skin sensitivity or chafing.
If you’re swimming daily or switching between pool, ocean, and lounging, having a few options ensures you stay dry and comfy. Bonus: multiple styles let you match your mood. One day it’s all about bump pride in a bikini, the next you might want a full-coverage one-piece. Rotate them and let them air-dry properly, your skin will thank you.
What Swimwear Features Matter Most During Pregnancy?
Maternity swimwear isn't just regular swimwear with a stretchy waistband. It’s designed to support, adapt, and move with your changing body. Look out for:
- Built-in bust support: Many pregnant women go up 1–2 cup sizes. Good support = less back strain.
- Adjustable straps: For a customisable fit as your shape evolves.
- Ruched sides or expandable panels: Allow the swimsuit to grow with your bump.
- Quick-dry, breathable materials: Avoid overheating and skin irritation.
- Nursing-friendly designs: If you're planning to breastfeed, consider tankinis or wrap tops you can use postpartum.
Feeling good in swimwear while pregnant is all about smart design. Comfort comes first, but style doesn’t have to take a back seat.
Do You Need Maternity Cover-ups or Beachwear?
Absolutely and not just for style. A lightweight cover-up can be a real lifesaver on holiday, offering practical benefits as well as comfort. It provides sun protection when you're not in the water, acts as an easy outfit for grabbing lunch or taking a walk along the beach, and gives you a bit of privacy if you're breastfeeding or just feeling a little body-conscious.
Pack one or two options like a breezy kaftan, oversized linen shirt, or relaxed maternity dress you can throw on without thinking. The idea is to keep things light, airy, and versatile, so you’re covered (literally) no matter where your holiday takes you. Queen Bee’s maternity dresses and loungewear collections include plenty of great pieces that double beautifully as stylish beach cover-ups.
What Other Maternity Holiday Essentials Should go in Your Suitcase?
Don’t stop at swimwear. Your maternity holiday packing list should also include items that make the trip more enjoyable and stress-free:
- Pregnancy-safe sunscreen: Your skin may be more sun-sensitive during pregnancy.
- Wide-brim hat: Sun protection for your face and scalp.
- Water bottle: Staying hydrated is non-negotiable, especially in warmer climates.
- Comfortable sandals: Your feet may swell, look for supportive and adjustable styles.
- Lightweight towel or sarong: Takes up less space and dries faster than thick beach towels.
- Prenatal-safe skincare: Include a gentle moisturiser and lip balm with SPF.
These small extras make a big difference when you’re managing both heat and hormones.
Find the Best Maternity Swimwear in Australia
There’s no need to spend hours searching for swimwear that fits, flatters, and supports you. At Queen Bee, you’ll find a handpicked selection of the best maternity swimwear brands in Australia, everything you need, all in one place. Whether you want sleek black one-pieces, colourful prints, or styles with built-in nursing access, you’ll find what you need for your holiday. Shop by size, trimester, or style, and enjoy fast delivery across Australia.
Read our guide on what to wear in each trimester or contact our team for personalised support we’re happy to help. Enjoy your well-deserved break and take lots of bump pics by the beach!
