Tips For Traveling With Breast Milk

Traveling with breast milk. Something that most of us moms hate to do, or don't even know how to do. Especially those of you that are traveling by plane and don't know the policies for taking milk on the plane. That is why I am here to help by giving you tips for traveling with breast milk.

Traveling With Breast Milk By Plane

We all know the Transportation Security Administration has strict liquid policies. For us moms, this may be one of our biggest worries. Having our precious liquid gold that we worked so hard for, being dumped or confiscated. They say don't cry over spilled milk, but I might just cry over this.

That was until I looked up the TSA's policies of traveling with formula, breast milk, and juice.

I highly suggest looking through it and possibly even printing it off as well. You never know if you will run into an officer that lacks knowledge on this topic! Better safe than sorry!

Screening Of Breast Milk

Rest assured knowing that you are able to take reasonable quantities of breast milk, formula, and juice through the security check point. These items will need to be removed from your carry on and screened separately.

At the beginning of the screening process be sure to notify the TSA officer that you carry breast milk, formula, or juice in excess of 3.4 ounces. These items will then be screened by x-ray, for explosives. prohibited items, etc.

You may be asked to open the container, transfer a small portion to an additional empty container, or dispose of a small quantity. If you are not comfortable with these steps or do not want your breast milk/juice being screened, don't be afraid to inform the officer of this.

Although, additional steps will be taken to clear the liquid and you will undergo additional screening procedures. Including a pat down and screening of your other carry on items.

What About Keeping It Cold While Flying?

Ice packs, frozen gel packs, or additional items to keep breast milk from spoiling are allowed on your carry on. If the items are partially frozen or slushy, the same screening as talked about above will be conducted. Good news mama, you can also bring gel or liquid filled teethers, and jarred or processed baby food on your carry on. Although, screening may be conducted. And no, you do not have to be traveling with an infant to carry on breast milk!

If you are keeping your breast milk/juice cold with ice. I would recommend waiting until you go through security and get ice at a restaurant within the airport terminal.

What About My Breast Pump?

Good news mama, your breast pump DOES NOT count as a carry on item! It is considered a medical device. Although, all other pump parts such as bottles, flanges, etc. will be counted as a carry on. So pack wisely, and I highly recommend investing in a breast pump bag to carry and store all your parts efficiently.

A breast milk storage system is also a must in my opinion. It allows you to pump directly into the storage bags, which can then be used to feed baby. Which means no need to pack extra bottles, along with no need to wash all the extra pump parts.

If you will be pumping in the airport or on the plane, it is a good idea to get a portable breast pump. They are small and no need to worry about finding a suitable spot to plug in your pump. And they allow you to maintain your freedom! They are not only the bees knees for pumping while traveling, I also love them for at work and home! Especially when you are trying to get things done and don't want to be attached to an electric pump. Better yet, get the freemies collection cups, that you stick directly into you bra, and no one will even have to know you are pumping!

Traveling With Breast Milk By Vehicle

Pumping in a vehicle and traveling with breast milk for long periods of time can be difficult. Although, that is why I am here to give you a few tips in order to make things easier!

Tips/Must Have Pumping Supplies For Vehicle Rides

Pack a hands free pumping bra. If you don't already have one for at home/work pumping, I highly recommend getting one! It makes pumping a thousand times easier!
A converter is a must have when pumping in the car, as it allows you to still use your electric pump! Amazon Prime one and you will have it within a couple days! Amazon for the win!
Use a breast milk storage system, as it allows you to pump directly into the breast milk storage bags. No having to pack and wash extra bottles and pump parts all the time! I asked for this system on my baby registry and am so glad I did! I absolutely love it!
Better yet, if you don't want to use a converter, invest in a portable cordless pump.
In order to clean your pump parts, I suggest getting these microwave sterilizer bags. They are much smaller than the large plastic sterilizers and it also eliminates you having to hand wash all the pump parts. Most gas stations have a microwave that you can use to sterilize. These Medela breast pump and accessory wipes are also great for cleaning your pump on the go.
When it comes to the heating of the milk, I recommend carrying a yeti. Fill the yeti with warm/hot water, sit the milk inside, and it will be ready to drink in no time.

Storing Breast Milk In The Vehicle

In order to travel with breast milk for long distances, you need to make sure you have a good cooler and lots of ice or freezer packs! I love this cooler as freezable gel is permanently built into the bag!

If you are traveling for extreme periods of time, dry ice is also a great option.

Be sure to check the temperature often, so you know if more ice or gel packs are needed.

There you have it mamas! I hope this post made you feel more comfortable/prepared for your trip ahead! And thank you for stopping by, I appreciate it!

You can find all of my favorite motherhood/baby/toddler products here!

You May Also Enjoy: