Traveling as a breastfeeding or pumping mother can present unique challenges, whether you are traveling for work or pleasure, with or without your baby. This guide offers practical tips and essential information to help mothers organize their equipment, breastfeed or pump comfortably on the go, and keep their breast milk safe. Safe travels!

Packing Essentials

Packing the right gear ensures you have everything you need, whether you’re breastfeeding, pumping, or both.

Breastfeeding Mothers

  • Nursing pads and an extra nursing bra or two

  • Cover, scarf, or small blanket for privacy or warmth

  • Hand sanitizer and wipes for quick cleaning of hands on the go

  • Hydration and snacks are essential for both breastfeeding and pumping moms—keeping nourished and hydrated supports milk supply.

Pumping Mothers

  • Electric breast pump and any necessary accessories, including battery packs and extra pump kits or parts like duckbill valves

  • Extra breast milk storage bags depending on your milk supply and pumping schedule

  • High-quality insulated cooler, backpack, or ice chest with durable ice packs

  • Cleaning supplies like dish soap, bottle brush, small wash basin, and portable drying rack. Quick-clean wipes and microwave steam bags are useful when soap and water aren't available.

  • Manual pump or collection cups as a low-tech backup if space allows

Plan Your Accommodations

Where you stay can impact how smoothly your trip goes. It’s worth confirming details before you arrive. Choose a hotel with a refrigerator or freezer, or request one for your room. If you are traveling for work and in meetings, ask if a private space or lactation room is available for pumping, which can be more convenient than returning to your room each time.

Breast Milk Storage Guidelines

Understanding how long breast milk stays safe will help you plan your feeding or pumping strategy while traveling.

  • Room temperature: up to 4 hours

  • Portable cooler bag with frozen ice packs: up to 24 hours

  • Refrigerator: up to 4 days

  • Freezer: 6 to 12 months

Traveling By Car

Car travel, including short drives and longer road trips, offers flexibility, but planning is essential to ensure mothers can feed or express milk comfortably along the way.

Breastfeeding Mothers

Plan to feed your baby before departure to minimize fussiness during the ride. During road trips or even quick drives, take advantage of stops for gas or bathroom breaks to breastfeed; rest areas often have seating or quiet corners. Try to follow your baby's normal feeding schedule whenever possible to make travel smoother. On longer drives, aim to stop every 2–3 hours for a feeding or diaper break.

Pumping Mothers

  • Keep your electric pump accessible. A hand pump can be a lightweight backup for shorter travel times or when packing an electric pump is difficult.

  • Consider using car adapters, rechargeable batteries, or battery packs to pump without needing to plug in.

  • Bring extra breast pump kits if washing on the road will be difficult.

  • Many mothers find pumping in the car convenient and discreet, especially with a nursing cover or sunshade.

  • Some mothers pump while driving; this is most practical if using a wearable or hands-free pump.

  • Store expressed milk in an insulated cooler with ice packs until you can refrigerate or freeze it.

What About Air Travel?

Flying while breastfeeding or pumping requires extra time and patience, but is manageable. Every ounce you pump or feed on the go is a reminder of your dedication and flexibility.

Breastfeeding Mothers

Try to breastfeed your baby during takeoff and landing to help relieve ear discomfort caused by cabin pressure changes. Use a nursing cover if you prefer privacy on the plane.

Pumping Mothers

  • Many airports now have lactation pods or rooms—check apps or airport maps ahead of time for the best way to locate them.

  • Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations allow breast milk in quantities over 3.4 oz (100 mL) in carry-on baggage; ice packs and gel packs are also permitted.

  • Pumps and insulated coolers are considered medical devices and do not count against carry-on limits.

  • Inform the TSA officer at the airport security checkpoint that you are traveling with breast milk and allow enough time for additional screening procedures. You can request that agents do not open or X-ray your breast milk.

  • Pumping before boarding can make your flight more comfortable. For longer flights, a breastfeeding cover can provide privacy while you pump from your seat.

Overnight Stays

Overnight trips can disrupt your normal routine, so planning ahead helps maintain comfort and milk supply.

Breastfeeding Mothers

Continue feeding on demand. Bringing a small nightlight can help middle-of-the-night feeds feel easier.

Pumping Mothers

  • Continue pumping as needed, to maintain supply and keep your breasts comfortable, even at night.

  • Clean your pump parts with hot, soapy water or use quick clean wipes and microwave steam bags when soap and water aren't available.

  • Bring extra pump parts to reduce time spent washing.

  • Store expressed milk immediately in a refrigerator or on ice in your insulated cooler, replenishing ice as needed so your milk stays fresh.

Additional Considerations for Traveling While Breastfeeding

Checked Baggage

For longer trips or large volumes, consider checking your insulated cooler or ice chest. Freeze milk, if possible, and insulate with bubble wrap, newspaper, and ice packs to keep it fresh until you get home.

Shipping Options

Some employers partner with companies that can ship your milk home. Depending on how long you’ll be away and the amount you’ll have to bring back, you may want to consider this service if needed.

International Travel

For international trips, contact your airline and the relevant authorities at your destination to understand specific regulations regarding carry-on guidelines and allowable liquids, that may differ from those in the United States.

Final Tips for Stress-Free Travel

Traveling while breastfeeding or pumping can feel overwhelming at times, but with thoughtful planning, the right gear, and a little flexibility, you can make it a smooth and enjoyable experience. Remember to listen to your body, stay hydrated, and trust your instincts. Every feeding or pumping session is a moment of care and connection, whether you’re on the road, in the air, or away from home. With preparation and confidence, you can continue nourishing your baby while embracing all the adventures that travel brings.

Disclaimer: Our classes and accompanying materials are intended for general education purposes and should not replace medical advice. For personalized recommendations, please consult your healthcare provider and/or lactation consultant.