Jazmin Li
Breastfeeding and pumping while travelling can be challenging, but there are ways to do it. While there is no overarching federal rule that declares breast pumps as necessary medical devices, many airlines do view them as such and allow passengers to bring them on board. Additionally, per the Friendly Airports for Mothers Improvement Act, all hub airports must provide a private, non-bathroom lactation space in every terminal for mothers to breastfeed or pump. However, only 8 out of 100 airports surveyed in the United States provide a private lactation room that meets the minimum requirements. It is recommended to budget extra time for security screenings at the airport when travelling with breast milk, as many breastfeeding mothers have had uncomfortable experiences with screening officials.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Breastfeeding in airports | Many airports offer freestanding Mamava lactation pods, which are small spaces with a door that locks, an outlet, and sometimes a sink. Lactation rooms are also available in some airports. |
| Breastfeeding on the plane | Breastfeeding during different phases of a flight is allowed by some airlines. |
| Breast milk storage | TSA regulations allow formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100ml in carry-on baggage. |
| Screening process | It is recommended to use clear, translucent bottles for formula and breast milk to expedite the screening process. |
| Breast pumps | Many airlines allow breast pumps on board without counting towards a flier's carry-on limit. |
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What You'll Learn
- Breastfeeding in airports is legal, but only 8% of US airports provide suitable facilities
- Breastfeeding spaces in airports may include freestanding Mamava lactation pods
- Some airlines allow breast milk and pumps in carry-on bags without counting towards the carry-on limit
- Breast milk can be transported in clear, translucent bottles to expedite the screening process
- Breastfeeding during different phases of a flight can help make your baby more comfortable
Breastfeeding in airports is legal, but only 8% of US airports provide suitable facilities
Breastfeeding in public spaces, including airports, is legal in the US. However, only eight out of 100 airports surveyed in the country provide a private lactation room that meets the minimum requirements, which include being a space other than a bathroom, with an electrical outlet, a table, and a chair. The eight airports that meet these requirements are:
- San Francisco International, California
- Minneapolis–St. Paul International, Minnesota
- Baltimore/Washington International, Maryland
- San Jose International, California
- Indianapolis International, Indianapolis
- Akron-Canton Regional, Ohio
- Dane County Regional, Wisconsin
- Pensacola Gulf Coast Regional, Florida
While breastfeeding in public is legal, some mothers may prefer more privacy. In addition to the eight airports that provide dedicated lactation rooms, many airports offer freestanding Mamava lactation pods, which are small spaces with a door that locks and an outlet, and sometimes a sink. These pods can usually be booked on the Mamava app or found using the airport's website. Minute Suites also offers lactating parents free 30-minute stays in its private napping rooms.
When it comes to travelling with breast milk, it's important to be aware of the relevant regulations. While there is no overarching federal rule declaring breast pumps as necessary medical devices, many airlines do view them as such and allow passengers to bring them on board without counting towards the carry-on limit. However, it is recommended to double-check the policies of the specific airline you are flying with. According to TSA regulations, formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food are considered medically necessary liquids and are allowed in carry-on baggage in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 millilitres. These items do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag and can be screened separately. To expedite the screening process, it is recommended to use clear, translucent bottles instead of plastic bags or pouches. Additionally, breast milk and formula cooling accessories, such as ice packs and gel packs, are exempt from the usual restrictions on liquids and gels, regardless of the presence of breast milk.
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Breastfeeding spaces in airports may include freestanding Mamava lactation pods
Breastfeeding in airports has become more accessible in recent years, thanks to federal legislation like the Friendly Airports for Mothers Act and the Friendly Airports for Mothers Improvement Act. These acts mandate that all small, medium, and large hub airports provide a private space in each terminal for nursing mothers. As a result, many airports have installed freestanding Mamava lactation pods, which offer a comfortable and private environment for breastfeeding and pumping.
Mamava lactation pods are designed to provide a convenient and accessible space for nursing parents. They are typically small rooms with a locking door, built-in seating, adjustable lighting, shelves, mirrors, coat hooks, fans, and electrical outlets. Some pods may also include a sink or smartphone booking capabilities. The Mamava app allows users to locate and unlock the pods, providing a quick and easy way to access these facilities.
The availability of Mamava pods varies across airports, with some offering multiple pods in different terminals. For example, JFK Airport has 12 lactation spaces, including 11 Mamava pods and one nursing room across six terminals. Chicago's O'Hare Airport also provides six Mother's Rooms and 10 Mamava pods, all of which are open 24/7.
In addition to airports, Mamava pods can be found in various locations, including universities, convention centers, shopping centers, and even military bases. They offer a convenient solution for breastfeeding and pumping parents, ensuring privacy and comfort while on the go.
Overall, the availability of freestanding Mamava lactation pods in airports has significantly improved the experience of breastfeeding parents, providing a dedicated and accessible space to nurse or pump in privacy.
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Some airlines allow breast milk and pumps in carry-on bags without counting towards the carry-on limit
While there is no overarching federal rule that mandates breast pumps as necessary medical devices, many airlines do view them as such. This means that some airlines allow passengers to bring breast milk and pumps on board without counting towards the carry-on limit. Airlines such as Delta have a policy that allows a breast pump in addition to a carry-on and personal item. Similarly, according to its special services policies, Air Canada allows formula, juice, and breast milk in carry-on bags. The crew may even provide extra ice to keep these items cool. Breeze's policy on infant formula and breastfeeding also supports this, stating that items needed for infant nourishment do not count toward the carry-on limit.
However, it is important to note that policies may vary across different airlines, and it is always a good idea to double-check with each airline before your flight. For example, despite Delta's policy, there has been an incident where a passenger was not allowed to bring her bag with a breast pump and milk aboard. In another instance, a woman filed a lawsuit against Delta Air Lines, claiming that she was forced to check her bag with a pump and milk or discard it, resulting in emotional trauma and physical pain. Therefore, it is recommended to contact the airline directly to learn about their specific policies regarding breast pumps and milk.
To facilitate a smooth screening process at the airport, it is recommended to transport breast milk in clear, translucent bottles instead of plastic bags or pouches. This helps the TSA officers with the screening process, and they may be able to clear the liquid without opening the bottles. Additionally, breast milk cooling accessories, such as ice packs, freezer packs, and gel packs, are also allowed in carry-on bags, regardless of the presence of breast milk. These accessories may be subject to additional screening if they are partially frozen or slushy.
Overall, while some airlines do allow breast milk and pumps without counting towards the carry-on limit, it is essential to verify the policies of your specific airline and be prepared for any possible screening processes at the airport.
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Breast milk can be transported in clear, translucent bottles to expedite the screening process
Breast milk can be transported in your carry-on luggage, and there is no limit on the quantity you can bring. It is recommended that, to expedite the screening process, you transport your breast milk in clear, translucent bottles, as opposed to plastic bags or pouches. This is because liquids in plastic bags or pouches may not be able to be screened by Bottle Liquid Scanners, and you may be asked to open them for alternate screening, such as Explosive Trace Detection and Vapor Analysis. If you do not want your breast milk to be X-rayed or opened, you can inform the TSA officer, and you will undergo additional screening procedures.
If your breast milk is frozen, it can go through the screening device, and only a visual inspection may occur. If it is thawed or in liquid form, the TSA agent may want to test it for explosives. You have the right to say no. If you are concerned about the screening process, you can request assistance by contacting TSA Cares online or by phone.
Breast milk does not need to be declared if it is in your checked luggage. It is recommended that you pack your breast milk in a separate carry-on bag and inform the TSA agent at the checkpoint that you are carrying it. You can also transport it in a small cooler without it counting toward your carry-on limit, although you should check with your airline. You can store breast milk in an insulated cooler with ice packs for up to 24 hours when traveling.
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Breastfeeding during different phases of a flight can help make your baby more comfortable
Breastfeeding can also provide a source of comfort for babies whose normal routine has been disrupted due to travel. It is ideal for providing nutrition to your baby, and you can maintain your milk supply by breastfeeding whenever your baby is hungry. If you are travelling without your child and plan on continuing breastfeeding, you can take steps to maintain your milk supply. This includes working with a lactation support provider or paediatrician to plan for your specific situation.
You can express breast milk in advance so your child can continue to have your milk while you are apart. If you are travelling with your baby, you may want to book a window seat, which will give you more room and privacy if you're breastfeeding or pumping. You can also breastfeed or pump in the airplane restrooms, although this may not be a very comfortable option. If you need to pump during your flight and want to stay in your seat, you may not have easy access to a plug for an electric breast pump, so having a battery-powered or manual breast pump is handy.
It is recommended that you print out your airline's policy before you fly and carry it with you, just in case you run into any crew members who are not fully informed. It is also a good idea to print out the TSA regulations and keep a copy with you when you're travelling, as many breastfeeding mothers have had uncomfortable and frustrating experiences with screening officials.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, nursing mothers are welcome to feed their babies on demand in airport terminals. However, if you prefer more privacy, some airports offer freestanding Mamava lactation pods, which are small spaces with a door that locks, an outlet, and sometimes a sink.
Yes, it is recommended that formula and breast milk be transported in clear, translucent bottles. Liquids in plastic bags or pouches may not be able to be screened by Bottle Liquid Scanners. You can also print the TSA regulations and keep a copy with you when travelling.
The best way to store breast milk is in sealed containers kept in a small, insulated cooler bag with frozen ice packs. Many mothers use pre-sterilized, sealable bags that are specially designed for storing breast milk.
Yes, according to the Friendly Airports for Mothers Improvement Act, all hub airports must provide a private, non-bathroom lactation space in every terminal for mothers to breastfeed or pump. However, only 37% of airports reported having designated lactation rooms, and 25% considered the bathroom an acceptable lactation room.
Air Canada allows formula, juice, and breast milk in carry-on bags. They also support breastfeeding on board their aircraft whenever safety permits. American Airlines has a similar policy, stating that they support breastfeeding and pumping in any of their customer facilities.
