Pumping and Travel: Everything Parents Need to Know
This blog was written in paid partnership with Dr. Brown's.
If you are flying with breast milk and/or planning to pump during travel, you likely have a lot of questions about how to make it all work. Traveling as a breastfeeding parent comes with its unique set of challenges, but with the right preparation, you can make it a smooth experience. As a breastfeeding mom of three and travel enthusiast, I am here to give you all the tips I wish I knew before my very first plane experience while pumping. This guide will walk you through choosing the equipment, planning ahead, packing essentials and navigating airport security. Whether your journey is domestic or international, these tips will help ensure that you and your breast milk are ready for takeoff.
Choosing the Right Pump
Choosing the right breast pump is your first step to a hassle-free travel experience. For on-the-go convenience, consider a battery-powered or manual pump. Battery-powered pumps offer efficiency and ease, but make sure to pack extra batteries in case of emergency. Manual pumps, on the other hand, are lightweight and don't require electricity, making them a reliable backup. Even if I bring an electric or battery-powered pump I ALWAYS recommend that you bring a manual pump, like the Dr. Brown's Manual Breast Pump with SoftShape 100% Silicone Shield, "just in case" as they are lightweight, affordable and can really save the day if something unexpected happens (you forget/lose a pump part, your pump stops working, etc.). If you opt for an electric pump, check if your airline provides in-seat power outlets. Even if they do, I always recommend a portable power bank because there are times when outlets are not available and/or they are not working.
Planning Ahead
Planning ahead can save you a lot of stress when traveling with breast milk. If you are traveling with a lot of breast milk and/or are worried about getting the milk through TSA security screening, a helpful program not many people know about is TSA Cares. You need to contact them at least three days before your trip, so this is something you need to plan in advance. This program offers support for travelers with disabilities or medical conditions, including those carrying medically necessary liquids like breast milk. A TSA agent can assist you through security screening, making the process smoother and less stressful.
Packing Essentials
Packing the right essentials is crucial for a smooth trip. Here's a checklist to ensure you've got everything you need:
- Pump and accessories: Include all parts, charging cords, and a manual pump as a backup.
- Milk storage bags: Pack enough for your entire trip, plus a few extras.
- Cooler bag: Choose one that can accommodate the amount of milk you plan to carry. Alternatively, you could use a milk chiller.
- Ice packs: Bring enough to keep your milk cold throughout the journey. Make sure you choose a type that will stay cold for many hours (I like this one).
- Cleaning supplies: Pack pump cleaning wipes, a small container of dish soap, and a travel cleaning bowl and drying rack.
- Extra bags: Quart-sized plastic bags for ice or additional storage. You can never have too many bags!
I personally like using this pumping packing list.
Pumping Gear
Wear a pumping bra and clothing that provides easy access for pumping. Set up your pump parts before boarding to expedite the process. Consider packing a light blanket or nursing cover for added privacy and keep cleaning wipes handy to clean your pumping area and equipment.
Storage Solutions
Proper storage of breast milk is essential during travel. Use a high-quality cooler bag and ice packs to keep your milk cold. Place ice packs on the bottom, top and sides of the cooler. If your ice packs partially melt, they may undergo extra security screening, so use ice packs that remain frozen longer. For longer trips, consider using dry ice, but check with your airline for specific regulations.
Navigating Airport Security
Navigating airport security with breast milk and pumping equipment can be daunting but understanding TSA guidelines can be extremely helpful so that you know what to expect, how to prepare and your rights.
TSA Guidelines
TSA allows formula, breast milk, toddler drinks and baby food in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces in carry-on bags. These items are considered medically necessary and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag. You are allowed to bring ice packs, freezer packs and gel packs to keep these items cold (however I recommend against gel packs since these do not keep cold for long). I also like to pack extra plastic bags (or reusable bags like these) for ice "just in case" something goes wrong with your cooling plans. Once your past security, you can always grab ice from a restaurant inside the airport, if needed.
Efficient Security Checks
To make the screening process easier, inform the TSA agent that you have breast milk. Ask if they want you to remove the milk containers from your cooler and place them in a screening bin, or if you can keep them in their bag. Clear, translucent bottles may be easier for TSA agents to screen at airports that use new screening technology, but they are not required. Sometimes, an agent will request to test the milk. If this occurs and an agent is touching the milk bottles or any pumping/feeding parts, I always ask that they change their gloves before doing so. They will ask you to open the milk containers and then hold a test strip above the milk (it does not touch the milk). It is important to note that you can decline this testing but be prepared for additional screening. Overall, when traveling with breast milk it is a good idea to give yourself extra time for TSA screening as the process for breast milk can vary greatly between airports and between agents. (If you fly with completely frozen breast milk, there is no additional screening that is done, which can help expedite the process).
One of the most important things I tell parents is to be familiar with the TSA guidelines and rules for traveling with breast milk so that you can advocate for yourself and your milk if needed. If you run into a problem during TSA screening that you are not comfortable with (e.g. they are telling you that they need to confiscate your milk or ice packs), know that you can ask to speak with a supervisor and/or call TSA Cares at 866-289-9673 (open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET and weekends/holidays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET).
Pumping on the Go
At the Airport
Most medium and large airports in the U.S. have lactation rooms or pods due to a law that requires this. You can find pumping spaces ahead by searching the airport's website, and/or using an app like Mamava to help you locate these spaces.
On the Plane
By law, you are allowed to pump in your airplane seat. To prepare, I always recommend planning a pumping session before boarding to reduce the need for mid-flight pumping. Wear comfortable, accessible clothing and set up your pump parts in advance. Bring a portable power bank for electric pumps and pack a manual pump as a backup. Some people prefer to sit in a window seat to allow for additional privacy during pumping.
International Travel Considerations
International travel with breast milk can be more complicated due to varying regulations.
- Research regulations: Check the specific guidelines of the countries you will be visiting. Some countries have restrictions on the type and amount of milk allowed. (e.g. some countries in Europe do not allow frozen milk in a carry-on bag).
- Language barriers: Learn the local term for breast milk to communicate with security personnel.
- Backup plans: Consider services like Milk Stork for shipping milk back home.
Traveling as a breastfeeding parent requires careful planning. Following these tips can help ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. Prepare ahead, pack wisely and know your rights to make traveling with breast milk a breeze. Safe travels!
*Dr. Brown's is not affiliated with the Travel Bound Mom Company
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health concern. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog.