Lois Larson
If you're a breastfeeding mother, you may be wondering how to travel with your breast pump and breast milk. The good news is that it is possible to fly with breast milk, and many mothers bring their pumps and coolers full of breast milk onto airplanes every day. While it is not required, it is recommended that breast milk be transported in clear, translucent bottles to expedite the screening process at the airport. Additionally, it is important to store breast milk in sealed containers kept in a small, insulated cooler bag with frozen ice packs when travelling.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Possibility of carrying breast milk on flights | Yes |
| Recommended container | Clear, translucent bottles |
| Containers to avoid | Plastic bags or pouches |
| Screening methods | X-ray, Bottle Liquid Scanners, Explosive Trace Detection, Vapor Analysis, Advanced Imaging Technology |
| Screening of other items | Carry-on baggage, strollers, car seats, backpacks, etc. |
| Screening opt-out | Inform TSA officer; additional screening procedures for you and your carry-on property |
| Storage | Sealed containers in a small, insulated cooler bag with ice packs |
| Storage alternatives | Pre-sterilized, sealable bags, hard plastic or glass containers |
| Cleaning equipment | Avoid tap water on planes; use bottled water |
| Breastfeeding at the airport | Allowed in public or private locations; lactation spaces available |
| Additional resources | TSA Cares (online, phone: 855-787-2227, federal relay: 711) |
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What You'll Learn
- Breast milk storage: sealed containers, small insulated cooler bags, and frozen ice packs
- Screening: X-ray machines, Bottle Liquid Scanners, and alternate screening methods
- TSA Cares: special accommodations, assistance, and prohibited items
- Breastfeeding at the airport: private lactation spaces, nursing lounges, and family rooms
- Cleaning equipment: avoid tap water, use bottled water, handwashing, and hand sanitizer
Breast milk storage: sealed containers, small insulated cooler bags, and frozen ice packs
When travelling with breast milk, it is recommended to store it in sealed containers kept in a small, insulated cooler bag with frozen ice packs. The CDC recommends using insulated cooler bags with ice packs, and the TSA advises against using plastic bags or pouches, as these may require additional screening.
Mila's Keeper offers a patented, modern breast milk cooler that keeps breast milk cold for 20 hours without ice. The MilKeeper can hold up to 12 ounces of milk and can also be used as a bottle warmer. It is designed to be eco-friendly and reusable even after the breastfeeding journey ends.
The GoGoSo Breast Pump Bag is another option that fits a small pump, pump parts, and bottles or breast milk bags in a convenient cooler. It has an easy-to-carry handle and can be transformed into a backpack or over-the-shoulder bag. The bag also features insulated pockets and USB ports for device charging.
The PackIt Freezable Bottle Cooler has a unique design with ice packs built into the insulated walls, eliminating the need for separate ice packs. This cooler bag can be stored in the freezer and easily carried on the go. It collapses when not in use, saving space in the fridge or freezer.
When using a cooler bag with separate ice packs, ensure the ice packs are fully frozen before use. To avoid the hassle of carrying a separate ice pack, some bags, like the PackIt, can be frozen as a whole, serving as both the bag and the ice pack.
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Screening: X-ray machines, Bottle Liquid Scanners, and alternate screening methods
Breast milk and formula are allowed on airplanes, and many pumping moms board with their breast pumps and coolers full of breast milk every day. However, it is recommended to budget extra time for security screenings at the airport when traveling with breast milk.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends that travelers inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process that they are carrying formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food in excess of 3.4 ounces. These items should be removed from carry-on bags to be screened separately from other belongings.
TSA officers may need to test the liquids for explosives or concealed prohibited items. To expedite the screening process, it is recommended that liquids be transported in clear, translucent bottles, not plastic bags or pouches. Liquids in plastic bags or pouches may not be able to be screened by Bottle Liquid Scanners, and travelers may be asked to open them for alternate screening methods such as Explosive Trace Detection and Vapor Analysis. Screening will never include placing anything into the medically necessary liquid.
TSA X-ray machines do not adversely affect food or medicines. However, if travelers do not want their medically necessary liquid to be X-rayed or opened, they should inform the TSA officer, and additional screening procedures will be followed, including Advanced Imaging Technology screening and additional/enhanced screening of other carry-on property.
Passengers requiring special accommodations or concerned about the security screening process at the airport may request assistance by contacting TSA Cares online or by phone.
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TSA Cares: special accommodations, assistance, and prohibited items
Breast milk is allowed at the airport, and many pumping mothers board aeroplanes with their breast pumps and coolers full of breast milk. If you are travelling with breast milk, it is recommended to transport it in clear, translucent bottles instead of 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. If you do not want your breast milk to be X-rayed or opened, inform the TSA officer, and additional steps will be taken to clear the liquid. This may include additional screening procedures for you and your carry-on property.
TSA Cares is a program that provides information on security procedures to help passengers with disabilities, medical conditions, and individuals needing additional assistance. Here are some key points about TSA Cares and the accommodations, assistance, and prohibited items:
Accommodations and Assistance
TSA Cares allows passengers requiring special accommodations or concerned about the security screening process to request assistance. This includes passengers with disabilities, medical conditions, or those needing additional assistance. Passengers can contact TSA Cares online or by phone. At the airport, a Passenger Support Specialist (PSS) can be requested to provide assistance through security screening. A PSS is a TSA officer with specialised training in assisting individuals with disabilities or medical conditions. Requests for PSS assistance should be made at least 72 hours before departure.
Prohibited Items
The TSA has specific guidelines for prohibited items, which can be found on their website. Liquids, gels, and aerosols are subject to screening, and if officers cannot clear these items with standard technology, they may ask you to open them for Vapor Analysis. Ice packs, freezer packs, and gel packs are allowed but must be screened, and they can be presented in any state (frozen, partially frozen, or melted). Removable items will generally undergo X-ray screening, and passengers may be screened by technology or pat-down procedures, depending on their eligibility.
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Breastfeeding at the airport: private lactation spaces, nursing lounges, and family rooms
Breastfeeding in public spaces, including airports, can be challenging for mothers and their babies. In the past, breastfeeding mothers travelling by air have had frustrating experiences with screening officials and have expressed anxiety around nursing or pumping while travelling.
However, in recent years, air travel has become more accommodating for breastfeeding mothers. Federal legislation like the Friendly Airports for Mothers Act and the Friendly Airports for Mothers Improvement Act mandates that all medium and large airports in the US have dedicated lactation areas beyond security screening areas and in each terminal. These areas must have locking doors and not be located inside restrooms.
Many airports have installed lactation pods, nursing rooms, mother's rooms, baby rooms, or lactation areas. Lactation pods are freestanding suites with benches for nursing or pumping, a collapsible table, power outlets, and limited space for a stroller, partner, and/or luggage. Airports like SFO, ORD, JFK, PHX, BOS, DTW, LGA, and MIA offer multiple lactation spaces. Additionally, some airlines like American Airlines provide dedicated private spaces for nursing mothers in their lounges.
When travelling with breast milk, it is recommended to use clear, translucent bottles for screening purposes. Breast milk can also be checked in a small insulated cooler with frozen ice packs, as plane storage compartments maintain cool temperatures. It is beneficial to be aware of the relevant TSA regulations and budget extra time for security screenings when travelling with breast milk.
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Cleaning equipment: avoid tap water, use bottled water, handwashing, and hand sanitizer
Breast milk is allowed at the airport, but there are some guidelines to follow to make the screening process smoother. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends transporting breast milk in clear, translucent bottles. This is because liquids in plastic bags or pouches may not be compatible with Bottle Liquid Scanners, and you may be asked to open them for alternate screening. If you do not want your breast milk X-rayed or opened, inform the TSA officer, and they will take additional steps to clear the liquid, which may include additional screening for you and your carry-on items.
Now, for cleaning equipment and maintaining hygiene when travelling, it is generally recommended to avoid using tap water, especially in places where the water quality may be questionable or unknown to you. Instead, opt for using bottled water, which is a safer and more reliable option. Here are some detailed instructions and recommendations for handwashing and sanitizing:
Handwashing with Bottled Water
If you find yourself in a situation where there is no access to running water, you can use bottled water as an alternative for handwashing. Here's a simple method to create a makeshift handwashing station:
- Use a 2L plastic bottle and a sharp object like a nail.
- Cut the bottom of the bottle with a knife or scissors.
- Make two opposite holes in the bottle with the nail.
- Tie a string or shoelace through the holes to create a handle.
- Fill the bottle with bottled water and ensure the cap is tight.
- Hang it upside down at a convenient height.
- Slightly open the cap to release the water flow, using it like a tap.
- Remember to use soap and thoroughly dry your hands after washing.
Using Hand Sanitizer
When access to water is limited, or as an extra precaution, using hand sanitizer is a convenient way to maintain hand hygiene. Hand sanitizer effectively kills germs and bacteria without the need for water. Look for sanitizers that contain at least 60% alcohol, as these are the most effective against a wide range of microorganisms. Apply a generous amount to your palms and rub your hands together, ensuring coverage on all surfaces, including your fingertips and between your fingers, until your hands are dry.
Remember, while hand sanitizer is a good on-the-go option, it does not replace proper handwashing with soap and water, especially if your hands are visibly dirty or greasy.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can bring breast milk onto a plane. It is recommended to use clear, translucent bottles, as these can be screened by Bottle Liquid Scanners. If you use plastic bags or pouches, you may be asked to open them for alternate screening.
When travelling, the best way to store breast milk is in sealed containers kept in a small, insulated cooler bag with frozen ice packs.
It is recommended that you budget extra time for security screenings when travelling with breast milk. You can declare it to the TSA officers, who will be able to advise you on the screening process.
Yes, every state in the U.S. has a law in place that allows women to breastfeed in any public or private location, including airports. All hub airports must provide a private, non-bathroom lactation space in every terminal for mothers to breastfeed or pump.
