Tips for a Stress-Free Journey with Breastmilk

Written By Sade Living-Williams

The holiday season is a time for family, celebration, and—let’s be honest—a bit of stress, especially for breastfeeding moms. Whether you’re flying to visit family or taking a long road trip, traveling with your baby and your breastmilk presents unique challenges. But with a little planning, you can make your journey smoother and stress-free.

Here are some essential tips for traveling with breastmilk, getting through TSA, and storing your liquid gold while on the go.

1. Plan Ahead for TSA

If you’re flying, one of the first concerns is getting through airport security. Good news: breastmilk, even in quantities over the usual liquid limit, is allowed through TSA checkpoints. Here’s how to make it easier:

  • Inform the TSA agent: Let them know you're carrying breastmilk before your items are screened. You don’t need to be traveling with your baby for this rule to apply.

  • Pack your breastmilk separately: Use a clear, resealable bag and keep it accessible. TSA may ask to screen the milk, but you have the right to request they don’t open the containers. Instead, they can test the outside for contamination.

  • Ice packs and coolers are allowed: Keep your milk cold with ice packs or gel packs. Just like with breastmilk, they may be subject to additional screening.

2. Breastfeeding on the Go

Whether you’re breastfeeding during the journey or bringing pumped milk, staying flexible is key. If you're traveling with your baby, don’t hesitate to breastfeed when needed.

  • Nurse or pump before you board: If flying, breastfeeding or pumping before takeoff can help prevent discomfort from cabin pressure changes for your baby.

  • Wear accessible clothing: Choose a nursing-friendly top or a comfortable pumping bra for easy access.

3. Storing Breastmilk While Traveling

Keeping breastmilk fresh during your trip is crucial. Here’s how you can safely store your milk while you're on the move:

  • Use a travel cooler: A well-insulated cooler with ice packs can keep your breastmilk at a safe temperature for up to 24 hours. Be sure to check the cooler’s specifications to ensure it’s up to the task.

  • Hotel refrigerators: If staying overnight, call ahead to request a fridge in your room. Most hotels accommodate this request, especially if you explain you need it for storing breastmilk.

  • Freezing breastmilk: If you're on an extended trip, consider freezing your milk. Once frozen, breastmilk stays good for up to 6 months. Some moms even ship their milk home with dry ice if they’re away from their babies for longer periods.

4. Breastmilk on Long Car Rides

Traveling by car gives you a bit more flexibility, but keeping breastmilk fresh is still a priority.

  • Bring a portable cooler: Keep your breastmilk stored in a cooler with frozen gel packs to maintain the right temperature. For longer trips, stop and refresh your ice packs as needed.

  • Plan rest stops for pumping or feeding: If your journey is long, schedule stops for breastfeeding or pumping breaks. Use battery-powered or manual pumps if you don’t have access to a power source.

5. Take Care of Yourself

Don’t forget that you’re a priority too! Traveling can be exhausting, and it's important to stay hydrated, especially while breastfeeding.

  • Stay hydrated: Carry a refillable water bottle with you and drink plenty of fluids during your trip.

  • Snack smart: Bring along healthy, nutrient-rich snacks to keep your energy levels up. Breastfeeding burns calories, and you’ll need the extra fuel.

Final Thoughts

Traveling as a breastfeeding mom may take some extra planning, but with the right strategies, you can make it a seamless experience. Whether you’re flying or driving, keeping your breastmilk fresh, getting through TSA, and ensuring your baby stays happy and fed are all manageable with a little preparation. And don't worry, your holiday travels will be filled with more joy (and fewer worries) once you have a plan in place.

Subscribe to my YouTube channel to be notified when my video drops with a detailed review of mom gear recommendations to make traveling with breastmilk a breeze, whether you're on a plane or tackling a long car ride!

Safe travels, and happy holidays!

Purchase the TSA friendly cooler from Ceres Chill and use discount code: BREASTFEEDINGDOULA15

Freeze dry your milk before traveling and let them know THE BREASTFEEDING DOULA sent you!

Sade Living-Williams
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