Planning your Disney vacation with young children is so exciting. You’ve imagined everything you want to do and see, and if you have a baby, you’re probably also thinking about how to fit in all the feedings. We’ve compiled some tips for traveling with nursing babies so you can focus more on making memories — and less on worrying.
TSA Guidelines
According to the Transportation Security Administration, breast milk is fine to pack in both your checked bag and carry on. Formula, breast milk and juice in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters are allowed in carry-on baggage and don’t need to fit within a quart-sized bag. You will, however, need to separate them from your other travel liquids to be screened at security. If you’re an international visitor, you do not need to declare your milk or formula at U.S. Customs.
You may also bring gel or liquid-filled teethers, canned, jarred and processed baby food in carry-on baggage. If you’re traveling with a breast pump, it may be carried on and stowed under your seat as a personal carry-on item.
Concerned about feeding on the plane? Don’t be. Nursing your little one during take-off and landing is a great way to help equalize their ear pressure and ease discomfort.
Packing and Storing Breast Milk
Freshly expressed milk is safe for your baby even when stored at room temperature for 6 – 8 hours. Fresh milk may be safely stored in an insulated cooler bag with frozen ice packs for up to 24 hours. Refrigerated milk can be stored for 5 days.
Clean your pump parts after use with soap and water whenever possible, but if you anticipate that being a challenge, pick up some breast pump-specific wipes and sanitizer sprays for traveling.
Private Pumping Spaces
In 2018, legislation was passed that requires airports to provide private lactation rooms. However, airports across the country are still in various stages of compliance (they have a two-year window) so if you’re unable to find a breastfeeding space in your terminal, or if it’s in use, consider asking for help finding another private space you can be comfortable with.
Some airports have installed Mamava nursing pods. You can use their app to help find one near you.
When you’re enjoying your time at Walt Disney World, we want to help make it easy to take a break with your baby. Mother’s Rooms are located in the Baby Care Centers within each of the four theme parks. These full-service facilities are open during park hours and include:
- Private nursing room with rocking chairs
- Changing room with tables and a unisex bathroom
- Feeding area with highchairs
- Kitchen with microwave, oven and sink
- Main room with television, table, chairs and sofa
- On-site shop offering formula, baby food, juice, diapers, wipes, sunscreen, over-the-counter medications and clothing for purchase
Scheduling Strategies
The CDC recommends taking frequent breaks to breastfeed or pump to find relief and maintain your milk supply. Though your days on vacation are much different than your normal home life, try to maintain your feeding routine as much as possible. When planning out your days in the theme parks, consider scheduling things like FastPasses, character meet-and-greets and dinner reservations around when you typically feed your little one.
It’s a joy to see families of all ages experiencing the wonders of the theme parks, and we want to help make every day memorable. With a little extra planning and preparation, your Disney vacation will be just as magical as you hoped it would be!
