Taking a trip by plane and having to bring your breast pump? It's easier than you might think. This guide will help you understand how to fly with your pump without any stress. We'll cover what the TSA rules are, how to prepare with your airline, and how to pack so that you can fly with a breast pump comfortably. We've also got tips on how to smoothly get through security and ways to pump privately while you're up in the air.
Can I Fly With a Breast Pump?
Of course, you can. You are allowed to travel with a breast pump in both your carry-on and checked luggage.
Passengers are allowed to bring expressed milk, along with ice packs, gel packs (whether frozen or not), pumps, pump kits, and any other essentials for transporting expressed milk through airport security and onto flights.
Before you head to the airport, double-check with your airline about their policy on bringing breast pumps on a plane. Some are not that strict and won't count it against your carry-on allowance because they consider it a medical device.
Preparations for Flying with a Breast Pump
Before catching that flight, there's a little homework to do if you're bringing along your breast pump. This isn't just about packing; it's about making the trip as smooth as possible for both you and your baby. Here are some expanded tips to help you prepare:
- Talk to Your Airline: Let them know you’ll have a breast pump in tow. Each airline can have its own set of rules, especially for electric pumps— they might need a heads-up. Plus, this is your chance to ask if they'll treat your pump like a medical device, which could save you from counting it as one of your carry-on items.
- Get the Scoop on Security: Check in with TSA's most current information on flying with breast pumps and milk. A pleasant notice to security personnel that one is carrying milk might garner some extra consideration, such as access to a private room for pumping if you need it.
- Gather Supplies: Be certain your pump—manual or electric—is packed, as well as sufficient storage bags for your milk, and toss in freezing packs if you plan to keep that liquid gold chilled.
- Talk to Your Hotel: If you're staying at a hotel, request a room with a refrigerator when you make your reservation. That's the safest place for your breast pump on flight. Have the breast milk storage rules ready to avoid any doubts about how long it can be stored.
- Pack Pumping Essentials: Keep the pumped milk at the right temperature in an insulated cooler bag. Extra pump parts are on hand in case some might be broken or misplaced. And, cleanups can be quite easy with pre-moistened wipes or sanitizing sprays on hand.
- Choose the Right Bag: Choose a bag that's easy to tote, can hold all your pumping stuff, and can still fit into the tight airplane storage space. You want everything in one place, easy for you to access.
- Consider Babywearing: A sling or wrap isn't just snuggly for the baby; it also gives you the freedom to move and nurse without juggling a million things. It also keeps your hands free for anything else you need to manage.
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Combat Ear Trouble: The pressure changes during take-off and landing can be tough on tiny ears. Nursing at these times can be a natural way to help your baby adjust to the altitude change and stay comfortable.
Checking in and Security Check Tips for Flying with a Breast Pump
Getting through the airport with your breast pump doesn't have to be a hassle. With a bit of know-how, you can breeze through check-in and security like a pro. Here's how to navigate the process:
- Speak Up at Security: When you hit the security line, tell the officer right away that you're flying with expressed breast milk. They'll need to take a look at it, but don't stress—it's routine.
- Know Your Liquid Limits: Good news! Because breast milk while flying is seen as a medical necessity, you're not stuck with the 3-ounce liquid rule. And yes, this goes for your ice packs too. You can keep things chill without any hassle from TSA.
- No Taste Tests Required: The security team might ask to inspect your breast milk bottles, but they'll never ask you to taste it. They may ask you to open the containers, but that's as far as it goes.
- Carry-On Your Pump: You can bring your breast pump in checked luggage on the plane with you. It counts as a personal item, so just tuck it under the seat, and you're good to go.
- Look for Lactation Pods: Check if your airport has Mamava pods—they're private spots just for pumping. Grab the Mamava app to find and unlock these spaces. Pumping or nursing before you board and once you land can be a game-changer, especially during long travel days. These pods mean you can do your thing in peace, without resorting to less-than-ideal spots like restrooms.
How to Pump Breast Milk on an Airplane
Pumping breast milk on an airplane isn't quite the same as pumping at home, but with a little preparation and the right tools, it can be just as efficient. Whether you're seated comfortably or maneuvering in the compact lavatory, understanding how to pump on a plane is key. It's all about privacy, convenience, and making sure your milk stays safe.
Must-haves for Pumping Breast Milk on a Plane:
- Comfortable Nursing Cover: A soft, lightweight cover that gives you privacy can make all the difference when you're pumping in close quarters.
- Extra Breast Milk Storage Bags: Have plenty on hand for storing pumped milk. You never know if you'll pump more than expected!
- Portable Cooler Bag with Ice Packs: Keep your pumped milk fresh during the flight with a compact cooler bag designed to fit under the seat or in the overhead bin.
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Hands-Free Pumping Bra: This is a game-changer for multitasking and maintaining your comfort during the pump session.
- Sanitizing Wipes or Spray: For quick cleaning of your pump parts when you don't have immediate access to soap and water.
- Backup Battery Pack or Power Bank: In case you need a charge and there's no power outlet available (though for many pumps like the Momcozy M9, this might be just an extra precaution).
- Use a Quiet Breast Pump: Momcozy Mobile Flow™ Hands-Free Breast Pump | M9 can be another item in your baby gear arsenal. With its long-lasting battery and quiet operation (under 48dB), the Momcozy M9 makes pumping on a plane hassle-free and discreet.
- Soft Shawl or Scarf: In addition to using it for warmth, this can double as an additional privacy shield while pumping.
Packing efficiently doesn't mean bringing everything but the kitchen sink. Choose multi-functional items and focus on what's essential to maintain your pumping schedule comfortably and confidently while flying.
Breast Pumping in Your Seat:
- Get Ready to Pump: Start by getting your breast pumping equipment ready. Put together all the parts of your pump, grab the storage bags for holding breast milk while flying, the tops for your bottles, and your hands-free bra. It's best to use a wireless pump like the Momcozy M9 because you won't need to plug it in anywhere. If you put these pieces together before you need to use them, it will make things go quicker when you're on the plane.
- Make a Private Spot for Yourself: When you get on the plane, make a private spot for yourself by covering up with a nursing cover or a blanket. When you can, try finding an aisle seat because it gives a little more room with which to work your pump and other stuff without feeling cramped. This little hidden spot makes everything less stressful and allows you to pump without drawing attention.
- Talk with the Flight Attendants and Pump Quietly: A word in advance with the attendants will do you some good in case they can help ease things for you by letting you know when there are fewer people up and about so you can pump a bit more quietly. They'll understand and help make it easier for you. When you're ready and the attendant says it's OK, on goes your cover, the pump parts get connected to your pump, and you're good to go. Usually, planes are loud enough that no one will even notice any pump noise. Just playing it cool and acting like you've got everything under control.
Breast Pumping in the Plane Restroom:
- Plan Ahead: If you will have to use the airplane bathroom for pumping, try to choose a time when the plane is not particularly full. Restrooms are very small, and knowing what you will be doing once you get in there will save you a lot of time. Have all that you will need in a little bag that you can take and go when the restroom is free.
- Use a Portable Pump: A portable pump is also useful because the Momcozy M9 isn't only hands-free but also portable. No problems with tangles of wires in tiny rooms.
- Cleanliness: Bring sanitary wipes along to clean the surfaces before and after you pump. And of course, shared restrooms with many passengers, so please, feel free to pump in your seat if this is more comfortable and hygienic for you. Curious about whether it's officially allowed? Check the airline's policy regarding breastfeeding ahead of time.
Flying with a breast pump might sound tricky, but you've got this! Wrap yourself in a cozy shawl for privacy, stash those milk bags and wipes where you can grab them easily, and remember, the Momcozy M9 can be a great choice for quiet, on-the-go pumping.
FAQs about Pumping Milk on an Airplane
Q1: How much breastmilk can you fly with?
You can bring as much breast milk as you need for your trip. There's no limit to the amount of breast milk you can take on a plane, even if it's more than the standard liquid allowance. Just make sure to tell security at the checkpoint that you're flying with a breast pump and milk.
Q2: How to pack breastmilk for a flight?
To pack breast milk for a flight, you'll want to use leak-proof breast milk storage bags or containers. Pop these into a portable breast milk cooler with some ice packs to keep the milk cold during your journey. Seal the cooler well and consider packing it inside your carry-on to avoid any bumps or knocks from other luggage.
Q3: Does flying affect breast milk supply?
There isn't a direct correlation between flying and a low breast milk supply, but there are a number of factors related to travel that may create an illusion of a low supply. When you're on a plane, you may become dehydrated, which is particularly true on long flights, so be sure to drink a great deal of water. Missing breastfeeding sessions or not pumping when your baby would normally feed may lower your supply as well. To keep things steady:
- Nurse your baby whenever he appears hungry.
- Drink a lot of water and other fluids that are alcohol-free.
- Avoid taking caffeine.
- Avoid smoke and places where there is heavy smoke.
- Get plenty of rest.
- During long journeys, stop frequently to feed your baby and to rest.
- Should you become ill - from traveler's diarrhea, for example - drink even more fluids to compensate.
Take Flight with Your Breast Pump
Flying with a breast pump is a lot easier than it sounds. No fuss about how much breast milk one is able to carry on—there are no limits here. Just a few smart strategies for packing and a little clear communication with your flight crew, and you will be all set. Pack the pump, select a discreet shawl to maintain privacy, and you are ready for a comfortable pumping session in the sky. Every flight is a chance to perfect your travel routine so you and your baby will have a comfortable journey.
