Everything you need to know about breastfeeding while traveling
Traveling can be tiring, especially for postpartum moms. Breastfeeding on the move can also feel like a big adjustment—you’re outside of your routine, in unfamiliar environments, and there’s often less structure and predictability. But the good news is with a little bit of planning, you can make breastfeeding while traveling easier and less daunting.
Remember to rest when needed and show yourself grace. Stress from travel could impact milk supply, so staying calm, hydrated, and involving your support system to ease the load is essential. When you are well-rested, nourished, and calm, odds are your baby will be, too. To help ease your mind, we’ve outlined everything you need to prepare for fun family adventures while breastfeeding. Safe travels!
Traveling with your baby
Breastfeeding can be a source of comfort for babies, especially when veering away from their normal routines. Although breastfeeding on the go can be challenging, there are strategic ways to plan ahead and make it simpler. For example, pumping in advance so you have bottles ready to go, or researching nursing-friendly areas and breastfeeding norms on your journey and at your destination before you get there.
To make it easier for you, we put together a breastfeeding packing list to support you in any setting.
What to pack for breastfeeding on the go
Portable breast pump
Nursing covers, scarves, and easy access tops for discreet feeding
Milk storage bags
Baby bottles
Sanitizing wipes and cleaning towels
Backup formula
Extra tops for messy moments
Nourishing snacks to replenish milk supply
Flying with breast milk
In the United States, breast milk and baby feeding accessories are considered medically necessary liquids, and are exempt from Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations. This means that you’re allowed to bring breast milk and anything else you might need to store it through airport security and onboard flights.
You don’t have to be traveling with your baby to carry milk and supplies through. When you get to security, make sure to let a TSA officer know that you’re flying with breast milk. To streamline the process, keep your breastfeeding supplies together in a small bag within your carryon, as you may be asked to separate it from the rest of your things. The TSA officer will scan the items through the x-ray, and then you’re good to go!
Another sure-proof way to bring breast milk through airport security is to freeze it in advance. Depending on the length of your flight, this will allow you to feed your baby in-flight or when you land. Before traveling, always make sure to do your own research and check with the airline what you’re allowed to bring through security and on the flight.
Storing breast milk
Store breast milk in food-safe bags or bottles, label each batch with the date, and keep it cool. When traveling, you can carry breast milk in a cooler with frozen ice packs for up to 24 hours. Once you arrive at your destination, use the milk right away, store it in the refrigerator, or freeze it. Previously frozen milk should be kept cold and used within 24 hours from when it defrosts completely.
If you plan to stay at a hotel, make sure to request a refrigerator for your room in advance. Store the milk in the back of the fridge or freezer where the temperature stays constant. For more information on how to properly store breast milk, visit Breast Milk Storage and Preparation.
Traveling without your baby
Even if your baby is not with you, if you’re breastfeeding while traveling, you’ll need to bring supplies with you to pump and maintain your milk supply. It’s always a good idea to stay in touch with your pediatrician or a lactation consultant while you travel for extra support.
In the United States, the Friendly Airports for Mothers (FAM) Act and the Friendly Airports for Mothers (FAM) Improvement Act require hub airports to have a private, non-bathroom space for breastfeeding mothers in every terminal. Check the airport's website in advance so you know where to find a comfortable space if you need to pump in an airport.
Nourishing your body
While breastfeeding, it’s important to replenish your mineral supply with nutrient-dense foods. This will not only help your milk supply and keep your baby happy, it will also help you feel better, too. Because your food options may be limited when traveling, be sure to pack easy to grab nutrient-rich snacks like nuts, fruit, or yogurt, and try to eat a little something every two hours. Electrolyte packets are also great for breastfeeding mamas on the go, as they can help you easily absorb minerals through your water.
For more tips on flying with your little one, check out our travel blogs:
At Doona, we’re committed to making parenting simple for every family. That's why we’ve created our innovative and revolutionary Doona Car Seat and Stroller, transforming from car seat to a stroller in seconds; and Liki Trike — the most compact folding toddler trike on the market that grows alongside your toddler from 10-36 months.
