Traveling as a breastfeeding or pumping mother can pose unique challenges, especially when you’re away from your baby. Whether traveling for work or pleasure, this guide offers practical tips and essential information to help you organize your equipment and breast milk, ensuring a smooth travel experience.¹ Safe travels!

Before You Leave

• Invest in Quality Gear: A comfortable, efficient breast pump and an insulated cooler bag or backpack are must-haves.¹  
• Hotel Arrangements: Try to stay at a hotel that has a refrigerator/freezer or ask if one can be requested.¹ 
• Know About Milk Storage Guidelines: Breast milk can be safely stored at room temperature up to 4 hours, in a cooler bag with frozen ice packs for up to 24 hours, and in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Frozen breast milk remains safe for 6 to 12 months.^2,3

Packing Essentials

• Breast Pump & Supplies: Ensure you have your breast pump and any necessary accessories, such as battery packs or extra parts like duckbill valves.
• Extra Storage Bags: Pack at least 8 plastic zipper bags per day, depending on your milk supply and pumping schedule. 
• Insulated Cooler: A high-quality cooler bag, backpack or ice chest with durable ice packs will help maintain the safety and freshness of your breast milk.
• Cleaning Supplies: Bring dish soap, a bottle brush, a small wash basin, and a portable drying rack. Quick clean wipes and microwave steam bags are useful for when soap and water aren’t available.
• Bring Snacks: Pack extra snacks to stay nourished and hydrated with plenty of water during your travels. 

Traveling By Car

• Take Regular Pump Breaks: Make sure to stick to your pumping schedule by taking breaks as needed.
• Battery Pack: Consider using car lighter adapters, rechargeable batteries, or battery packs to pump without needing to plug in.
• Pump in Your Car: Many mothers find pumping in their car a convenient and discreet option, especially when they’re on the go. If you prefer additional privacy, using a breastfeeding cover can help you feel more comfortable while pumping.
• Pump While You Drive: Although there is risk for injury in the event of an accident, many mothers resort to pumping on their commute to and from work. This is most practical if you have a wearable or hands-free pump or use a hands-free pumping bra.
• Milk Storage: Keep your expressed milk in an insulated cooler with ice packs until you can refrigerate or freeze it. This will help maintain its freshness throughout your journey.²

Traveling By Air

• Familiarize Yourself with TSA Regulations: Breast milk in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces (100 mL) is allowed in carry-on baggage without needing to fit in a quart-sized bag, as it is considered a medically necessary liquid. This also applies to cooling accessories like ice packs and gel packs. Your baby does not need to be present for you to bring breast milk or related supplies.^4,5
• Carry On: Your breast pump and insulated cooler are considered medical devices and won’t count against your carry-on limit.⁵
• Inform TSA: When going through security, notify the TSA agent that you are traveling with breast milk and cold packs. Allow extra time for inspections, as they may need to check your items. You can request that agents do not open or X-ray your breast milk.⁵
• Pump Before You Board: Pumping before you board your flight may be more comfortable and relaxing. Use the Mamava App to find breastfeeding or pumping rooms at most major airports.
• Consider a Breastfeeding Cover: For long flights, a breastfeeding cover can provide privacy while you pump from your seat.

Overnight Stays

• Maintain Your Pump Schedule: Continue pumping as often as you typically do, and try not to sleep too long at night if you’re used to breastfeeding or pumping then.
• Clean Your Pump Parts: Keep pump parts clean with hot, soapy water and air dry them. Alternatively, use quick clean wipes and microwave steam bags when soap and water aren’t available.
• Bring Extra Pump Parts: Having extra parts on hand can reduce the time spent washing.
• Keep Your Milk Cold: Store expressed milk in the refrigerator, on ice in your insulated cooler bag, or in the freezer (if possible) as soon as you can after pumping.
• Using Ice and Ice Packs: If a refrigerator isn’t available in your room, use ice (in plastic zipper bags) to surround your pumped milk in your insulated cooler and keep it cold. Replenish the ice frequently, as it melts.

Additional Considerations

What If I Have Questions?

If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:

• Ultimate Breastfeeding Prep
• Lactation Q & A
• Moms Circle

Want More Info?

For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:

References