Planes, Trains, and Travel- Oh My!

Planes, Trains, and Travel- Oh My!

By Ryan R Karim, RN, IBCLC

Travel usually brings a unique set of questions to the Breastfeeding family. In this article, you will gain the knowledge to calm your travel woes.

Traveling by car/bus/train:

Take time to nurse the baby or pump if traveling alone.
Be sure to bring enough empty bottles or milk storage bags to store pumped milk.
Bring a good water-tight cooler. Stop for ice along the way if needed.

Traveling by plane:

Take time to nurse the baby or pump if traveling alone.
A breast pump does NOT count as a carry-on because it is a “medical device”, so bring regular carry-on luggage.
Breastmilk coolers and/or baby bags DO count as a carry on.
There is no limit to the amount of breastmilk allowed on the flight and it does NOT need to be stored in 3oz containers.
If possible, fly with frozen breastmilk to prevent lengthy inspections and excessive handling of the breastmilk.

Helpful hints:

When booking hotel accommodations, request a room with a freezer.
Plenty of ice packs will be needed to keep breastmilk frozen for the duration of the trip.
Be sure to review official TSA Guidelines for flying with breastmilk.
International travel guidelines are determined by the destination country and may not be the same as TSA Guidelines.

Be well.