Traveling by plane can be stressful enough, but air travel with breast milk can add another layer of worry and inconvenience for nursing moms. Whether you’re flying for business or pleasure, it’s important to know the rules and regulations surrounding breast milk transportation before leaving home.
Preparing to Travel
The first thing you need to do before air travel with breast milk is to pack it properly. Make sure to use sterilized containers or bags, and label each container with the date and time of pumping. You can also place the containers in a sealed plastic bag to prevent any leakage.
It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the transportation security administration TSA guidelines for traveling with breast milk. It’s acceptable to bring breast milk in your carry-on luggage or checked luggage, and it is not subject to the usual 3. 4-ounce liquid limit. However, you should inform the TSA agent in advance that you have breast milk with you.
Going Through Security
When you’re going through security, you will need to remove your breast milk containers from your carry-on bag and place them in a separate bin. You may also be asked to open the containers for inspection, so make sure you have easy access to them. Try to avoid packing your containers too tightly so that you can easily remove them for inspection.
Another option for air travel with breast milk is to use the TSA PreCheck program. This program allows you to keep your liquids, including breast milk, in your carry-on luggage. You’ll also be able to keep on your shoes, belts, and light jackets, and will be able to go through security without removing your laptop or liquids.
Storing Breast Milk During the Flight
During the flight, it’s important to keep your breast milk refrigerated or frozen. You can bring a small cooler with ice packs or dry ice to keep your breast milk at a safe temperature. Make sure to label the cooler with your name and flight information.
If you’re traveling with a breast pump, you may be able to use it on the plane. Just make sure to check in advance with the airline as their policies may vary. Some airlines may provide a power outlet for you to use, while others do not. You may also want to bring a battery-operated breast pump as a backup.
Dealing with Layovers
If you have a layover, finding a clean and private place to pump can be challenging. Check with the airport in advance to see if they have any designated lactation rooms or nursing pods. You can also pump in a public restroom if necessary, but make sure to clean the area before and after use.
If you need to store your breast milk during a layover, you may want to look into shipping it to your final destination instead of carrying it with you. You can use a reliable shipping company, such as FedEx or UPS, to send your breast milk to your hotel or home.
Conclusion
Air travel with breast milk can be stressful, but with proper planning and preparation, it can be manageable. Make sure to pack your breast milk containers properly, familiarize yourself with the TSA guidelines, and keep your breast milk refrigerated or frozen during the flight. If you have a layover, try to find a designated lactation room or nursing pod, or consider shipping your breast milk instead of carrying it with you. With these tips, you can travel by plane with peace of mind and continue to provide breast milk for your little one.