It’s time to leave the nest and your baby is still at the breast! Whether you are traveling while breastfeeding or pumping while away, leaving home for a long trip for the first time can be difficult to navigate. Where will you nurse? How will you clean your pump parts and transport your milk? The best thing you can do is prepare and we are here to help!
Traveling with your breastfed baby
Get time on your side. If you are driving, plan plenty of stops around feeding times. Look ahead at your route to see what places may be comfortable to stretch your legs and feed your little. In a pinch, you can nurse in the car while stopped. The great thing about breastfeeding is that it only requires your breasts and your baby.
If you are flying, give yourself enough time to sit and nurse before boarding. Check to see if the airport has lactation rooms or nursing pods. Don’t rush. Have time to stop and tend to your baby during travel. If you want more privacy to nurse on the plane, grab the window seat and let your partner sit in the middle. Nursing while flying can help your baby with the discomfort of pressure changes.
No matter how you travel, care for yourself as well. Stay hydrated and pack plenty of healthy snacks. Get good rest. Pack supplies like nursing bras, breast pads, and nipple creams. Bring hand sanitizer and wash your hands frequently, public spaces are full of germs.
Know your rights! In the United States, you have a legal right to breastfeed your baby in public. If you prefer more privacy, use a nursing cover or visit Mamava and search for a private lactation pod near you.
This dual-purpose nursing poncho and stroller cover could come in handy while traveling. After breastfeeding four kids I love some great nursing tops like those from Latched Mama.
Traveling and pumping
Traveling without your baby or pumping and feeding your baby expressed milk may require additional planning. If your baby is not with you, leave enough milk at home for feedings. Pack your pump and all its accessories. Charge your hands-free pump ahead of time and don’t forget to pack your chargers. You’ll need items to clean your pump after each use. Microwave steam bags like these from Medela and their cleansing wipes are easy to pack and easy to use.
You may still want to scope out private places to pump, especially if you need to plug in. Transporting milk can be tricky. You will need storage bags, an insulated cooler, and ice packs. It is important to follow proper storage guidelines to keep your milk safe for your baby to eat. Label your milk with the date and time, and use the oldest milk first. Thaw frozen milk by placing it in the refrigerator for 24 hours. Quickly thaw milk by placing it in a glass of warm water.
TSA Guidelines
Certain Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules do not apply to traveling with breast milk. You may travel with more than the standard 3.4 ounces of breastmilk in your carry-on. Your infant does not need to be with you to carry these supplies. Alert the TSA officer that you have milk. It should be in clear bottles or containers to speed up the process. Your milk may be tested for explosives. TSA states the X-rays are not harmful to the milk, and nothing is placed into the milk for testing. You can read the full TSA policy on breast milk here.
Whether you are traveling by car, bus, train, or plane, good planning minimizes stress. Make a packing list of the minimum things you need. Look at your routes and know places you can nurse or plug in to pump. Try to stick to your normal feeding or pumping routine. Know your rights and nurse how you are comfortable. Take care of yourself so that you can take care of your baby.
