Vacationing with little ones can be super fun. It also can be stressful if you’re worried about traveling with breast milk when you’re breastfeeding. When will you feed? Where will you pump? What are the TSA guidelines when it comes to taking breast milk through security? All those details can be overwhelming to think about.
We’ve compiled some tips for traveling with breast milk and a nursing baby so you can focus more on making memories — and worry less.
TSA Guidelines on Traveling With Breast Milk
The Transportation Security Administration considers traveling with breast milk, baby formula, toddler drinks and baby food purees to be "medically necessary," which means these items are not subject to the 3.4-ounce limit on carry-on liquids. They don’t need to be packed or fit into a quart-sized bag.
When traveling by air with breast milk, formula or baby food, you must separate these from your other travel liquids and alert a TSA agent. If possible, the TSA requests that breast milk and formula be transported in clear bottles rather than bags. That way, if they need to be tested, they can be done in the TSA's Bottle Liquid Scanners, which aren't always successful at testing bags.
According to TSA guidelines, you can also bring ice or cooling packs to keep breast milk and formula cold. Gel or liquid-filled teethers are OK, too. And if you’re traveling with a breast pump, it may be carried on and stowed under your seat as a personal carry-on item.
International visitors coming to Colorado do not need to declare breast milk or formula at U.S. Customs.
Are you concerned about breastfeeding on the plane? "You could always pack a nursing cover or blanket if you want privacy," says Lauren Kauvar, MD, a OB/GYN with AdventHealth Medical Group OB/GYN at Littleton. Nursing your little one during take-off and landing is a great way to help equalize their ear pressure and ease discomfort."
Traveling With Breast Milk: Proper Storage
If you’re concerned about your breastmilk spoiling during travel, consider these timelines:
- Freshly expressed milk can be stored at room temperature for six to eight hours.
- Fresh breast milk can be stored in an insulated cooler bag with ice packs for up to 24 hours.
- Breast milk can be stored in a refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Are you traveling with a pump? Clean your pump parts after each use with soap and water. If you anticipate that being a challenge, pack extra parts or pick up some breast pump–specific wipes and sanitizer sprays to use on the road.
Where to Pump When Traveling With Breast Milk
Federal legislation requires that all airports provide private spaces for lactation in each terminal. (Here’s where you can find them at Denver International Airport.) If you cannot locate the space in your terminal, or if it's in use, consider asking airport staff for help finding another private space you can be comfortable in.
If you're headed to a Colorado ski resort for winter skiing or summer mountain biking (or anything else), check the resort's website for pumping locations. Most, like Steamboat Ski Resort, offer some type of pumping accommodations.
If you’re looking for a place to breastfeed or pump while you’re out sightseeing, consider seeking out a Mamava nursing pod. You can use their app to find one near you.
Disney Makes Traveling With Breast Milk Easy
Heading to a Walt Disney Resort? Mother’s Rooms are in the Baby Care Centers within each theme park. 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
- Onsite shop offering formula, baby food, juice, diapers, wipes, sunscreen, over-the-counter medications and clothing for purchase
Pro tip: These spaces are also great for taking overstimulated little ones to calm down.
Maintaining a Supply of Breast Milk When Traveling
Although schedules can become erratic during travel, the CDC recommends continuing to breastfeed and/or pump on vacation to prevent engorgement 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,” Dr. Kauvar says. “When planning out your days in theme parks, consider using options like fast passes and meal reservations to work around when you typically feed your little one.”
Breast Milk Is the Best Milk
Are you seeking more advice on breastfeeding, pumping or traveling with breast milk? Schedule an appointment with one of our Littleton OB/GYNs by calling our office at 720-922-6240. We often have same-day OB/GYN appointments available.
