Paolo Barresi
Traveling with breast milk can be stressful, especially if you're a new parent. But it's possible to do so safely, whether you're traveling by plane, train, or car. Here's a guide to help you navigate the process and ensure your baby's nourishment during your trip.
First, it's essential to plan ahead. This includes knowing the rules and regulations around traveling with breast milk, which may vary depending on your destination and mode of transportation. Familiarize yourself with the guidelines provided by relevant authorities, such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) if you're traveling by air. Keep a printed copy or an electronic version of these guidelines readily accessible during your travels.
Invest in the right gear to make your journey smoother. This includes a portable pump, especially if you plan to travel frequently. A dual-voltage power adapter is also crucial if you're traveling internationally. To store your breast milk, consider using freezable storage bags or bottles and a portable cooler with totally frozen ice packs.
When packing, organize your breast milk and related items together in a separate bag or designate an easily accessible spot in your main carry-on. This will make it easier to remove them for screening during security checks. If traveling with your baby, you may want to bring a nursing cover or top for privacy. Don't forget to pack extra clothes for yourself and your baby, as spit-ups can happen!
Allow for extra time at the airport or during security checks, as traveling with breast milk may slow you down. Inform the TSA agents about your breast milk and related items as soon as you reach security. Stay organized and be prepared to advocate for yourself if needed.
If you're traveling without your baby, it's crucial to plan your pumping schedule to maintain your milk supply. Know where you can safely and privately pump, especially in airports and during layovers.
Remember, breastfeeding your baby or expressing milk while traveling is a brave and admirable choice. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can successfully navigate any travel scenario while continuing to nourish your child.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Containers | Sealed containers, pre-sterilized, sealable bags, hard plastic or glass containers |
| Container size | 2-4 oz portions for single feedings; leave an inch of room at the top of each container for expansion |
| Cooler bag | Small, insulated cooler bag with frozen ice packs |
| Ice packs | Ice, ice packs, freezer packs, or frozen gel packs |
| Storage life | 4 hours at room temperature, 4 days in the refrigerator, 6-12 months frozen |
| Labeling | Label with the date to know its freshness |
| TSA regulations | Breast milk is considered a medically necessary liquid and is allowed in carry-on baggage in reasonable quantities above the 3.4-ounce rule for other liquids |
| X-ray screening | Allowed, but you can request alternate screening if preferred |
| Traveling without a baby | Allowed to fly with breast milk and related cooling items whether or not your baby is traveling with you |
| Frozen breast milk | Allowed by TSA; if ice packs start to melt, they may be subject to further screening |
| Checking breast milk | Allowed; a good option to avoid carrying through security and onto the plane |
| Double bagging | Recommended to protect against leaks |
| Cooler packing | Pack tightly to limit trapped air; add plenty of cooler packs or double-bagged ice bags |
| Pumping in the airport/on the plane | Bring a portable pump, power cord or extra batteries, manual breast pump, quick-clean wipes, nursing cover, hands-free pumping bra, small towel |
What You'll Learn
TSA regulations and screening
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) considers breast milk to be a medically necessary liquid. This means that it is exempt from the standard 3.4-ounce (100ml) limit on liquids and gels for carry-on baggage. There is no defined limit to how much breast milk you can carry on, but the TSA website does refer to a "reasonable amount". This applies even if you are not travelling with your baby.
Breast milk can be transported in clear, translucent bottles, or in bags or pouches. However, the TSA recommends using bottles as these can be scanned more easily by their Bottle Liquid Scanners. If you are using bags or pouches, they will be allowed on the flight but may be subject to alternate screening methods, such as X-ray. According to the TSA and the CDC, X-raying breast milk will not damage it, and it will still be safe to feed to your child. However, if you are uncomfortable with this procedure, you can inform the TSA agent and request alternate screening. This may involve you undergoing additional screening procedures, such as Advanced Imaging Technology screening.
Ice packs, freezer packs, and frozen gel packs are allowed through security, even if they have started to melt. However, slushy ice packs may be subject to additional screening. To save time, it is recommended to travel with solid ice packs.
At the beginning of the screening process, inform the TSA officer that you are carrying expressed milk and related accessories. Separate these from other liquids, gels, and aerosols that are limited to 3.4 ounces (100ml) each, as per the TSA's Liquids Rule.
It is a good idea to budget extra time for security screenings when travelling with breast milk, as you may be subject to additional screening procedures. It is also recommended to print out a copy of the TSA regulations for expressed milk, or keep them on your phone, in case you encounter an uninformed TSA agent.
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Keeping milk fresh
Containers and Bags
Use containers or bags specifically designed for storing breast milk. These are usually made of BPA-free plastic and have leak-proof seals. Bags can be pre-sterilised and sealable, while containers can be made of hard plastic or glass. If using containers, only fill them with 2-4-ounce portions so that you have a single serving ready to feed your baby. If you plan to freeze the milk, leave about an inch of space at the top of each container to allow for expansion. Always label your milk with the date and time it was pumped, as well as your baby's name.
Coolers and Ice Packs
If you're going to be on the go for more than a few hours, invest in a small, insulated cooler bag with ice or ice packs to keep your milk cool. Most breast milk coolers come with an ice pack included. Make sure the ice pack is frozen solid before you leave and that the cooler is packed tightly to retain the cold. If you need to transport a large amount of milk, consider using a larger cooler with ice or dry ice, and monitor the temperature with a thermometer.
Transportation
When travelling, always make your milk the last thing you pack and the first thing you unpack. If flying, you can carry breast milk in your carry-on luggage in reasonable quantities above the typical liquid allowance. Let TSA officers know that you are carrying breast milk and ice packs before screening, and be aware that they may request a small sample for screening. You can also ship your milk ahead of time using a company like Milk Stork, or check it in as luggage. If travelling by car, you can keep the milk out at room temperature if you plan to use it within four hours, or store it in a cooler.
Storage
Freshly pumped breast milk can be stored at room temperature for up to four hours, in a cooler with ice packs for 24 hours, in the refrigerator for four days, and in the freezer for six months to a year. Previously frozen milk that has thawed during travel should be used within 24 hours and should not be refrozen.
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Pumping and breastfeeding on planes
Supplies for Breastfeeding and Pumping
When travelling with a baby, you can nurse your baby on demand. However, if you are planning to pump and/or breastfeed, it is recommended that you pack the following:
- A nursing cover or small blanket
- A portable pump or hand pump
- A nursing tank top or bra
- Breast milk storage bags and bottles
- Extra clothes for you and the baby in case of spillages
- Refillable water bottles
- Pump cleaning supplies, like disposable pump cleaning wipes or microwave steam bags
- A travel breastfeeding pillow
TSA Regulations
Breast milk is considered a medically necessary liquid by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and is allowed in carry-on baggage. While most liquids are restricted to 3.4 ounces, this rule does not apply to breast milk. Ice packs, freezer packs, and frozen gel packs are also allowed through security, regardless of whether they contain breast milk.
It is important to note that TSA officers may request a small sample of your breast milk for screening. Although your milk will still be safe if it is X-rayed, you can request that the officers do not open your milk, in which case you may be subjected to additional screening procedures.
Tips for Breastfeeding and Pumping While Flying
If you are flying with your baby and need to breastfeed during the flight, you can do so without any restrictions. You may prefer to use a nursing cover or scarf for privacy. If a fellow passenger complains, let a flight attendant know and they will assist in accommodating you.
Consider booking a window seat, as this will give you more privacy when breastfeeding or pumping. Additionally, having an extra airplane seat for your baby's car seat will provide more room for feeding or changing your baby.
If you plan to pump or breastfeed during the flight, it is recommended to do so during takeoff or landing to help relieve pressure in your baby's ears.
Tips for Breastfeeding and Pumping at the Airport
Per the Friendly Airports for Mothers Improvement Act, all hub airports must provide a private, non-bathroom lactation space in every terminal for mothers to breastfeed or pump. These may be dedicated nursing lounges, family rooms, or "nursing pods".
Shipping Breast Milk
If you are travelling without your baby for an extended period, you may want to consider shipping your breast milk home. This can be done through a dedicated breast milk shipping company, such as Milk Stork.
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Breastfeeding and pumping at the airport
Before your trip, it's a good idea to research the specific airport you'll be travelling through to locate these lactation spaces. The Mamava app can be helpful for finding lactation spaces in airports and other pump-and-nursing-friendly places. Additionally, check the airport's website for detailed wayfinding information. Give yourself extra time at the airport to navigate security screenings, as you may encounter TSA agents who are unfamiliar with the relevant regulations.
When going through security, inform the TSA officer that you are carrying expressed milk and related accessories, such as ice packs and breast pumps, which are exempt from the typical liquid restrictions. You may be asked to separate these items from other liquids and undergo additional screening procedures, such as X-ray or Advanced Imaging Technology screening. If you are uncomfortable with any part of the process, you can request to speak to a supervisor.
To make the most of the lactation spaces at the airport, bring any necessary equipment, such as extra pump parts, adapters, or a manual or battery-powered breast pump for backup. Don't forget to pack cleaning supplies as well, such as soap and sanitiser, so you can wash your hands and pump parts before and after pumping.
By knowing your rights, planning ahead, and being prepared for security screenings and pumping, you can make breastfeeding and pumping at the airport a more comfortable and stress-free experience.
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Shipping breast milk
Shipping Options
The easiest option is to use a dedicated breast milk shipping company, like Milk Stork. If you're travelling for work, some employers even provide this service as a covered perk.
If you can freeze your breast milk, you can ship it home in a cooler with ice packs using overnight shipping. The United States Postal Service can do this, as can private shipping companies like FedEx, which offer cold-shipping package options.
Preparing the Milk for Shipping
If the milk arrives frozen, it can go straight in the freezer for future use. If it thaws, it shouldn't be refrozen and should be used within 24 hours.
Milk that has been frozen and then thawed during travel should be used within 24 hours.
TSA Guidelines
Breast milk is considered a medically necessary liquid by the TSA and is allowed in carry-on baggage.
TSA recommends transporting breast milk in clear, translucent bottles, as these are easier to scan. If you prefer to use bags or pouches, these are still allowed, but you may be asked to open them for alternate screening.
Ice packs, freezer packs, and gel packs are allowed through security, whether or not you have breast milk with you. If they are partially melted, they may be subject to additional screening.
International Travel
International travel with breast milk can be complicated, as each country has its own set of guidelines. It is important to research the rules of your destination country before travelling.
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Frequently asked questions
The best way to store breast milk when travelling is in sealed containers kept in a small, insulated cooler bag with totally frozen ice packs.
TSA regulations state that you can bring a "reasonable quantity" of breast milk and formula on a plane, which is usually considered to be more than 3.4 ounces. You can also bring ice packs, freezer packs, and frozen gel packs.
Yes, your breast pump is considered a personal item and can be carried on like a laptop or purse on most airlines.
If you're travelling without your baby, you will need to take certain steps to maintain your milk supply. You should express milk in advance and store it, send it back, or "pump and dump".
