Traveling as a nursing mother comes with a unique set of challenges, especially when it involves carrying precious cargo like frozen breast milk. Whether you’re taking a flight or a long road trip with or without your kids, knowing how to travel with frozen breastmilk will take some weight off your shoulders.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of traveling with frozen breastmilk, answering common questions, and providing helpful tips to make your journey smooth and worry-free.
- How do I pack frozen breast milk when traveling?
- Can I fly with my breast pump?
- What problems may I encounter traveling with frozen breast milk?
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Hydroflask 12L Carry Out Soft Cooler
This portable cooler rivals the Yeti cooler at a fraction of the price. It keeps about between 18-20 bottles frozen for 24 hours. Just what you need on your long flights or road trips.
Pros:
Removable crossbody strap, BPA free, easy to wipe down after spills, water resistant, durable, and affordable.
Cons: Limited color options, does not come with ice packs (need to purchase separately)
How Do I Pack Frozen Breast milk?
Transporting frozen breastmilk requires careful planning to make sure it remains frozen and safe for your little one. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to pack frozen breast milk effectively:
1. Use an Insulated Cooler
Place your frozen breast milk in an insulated cooler bag or an insulated lunch box with ice packs. This will help maintain the low temperature needed to keep the milk frozen. You can test your cooler and ice pack before you travel to see how long it would take for the breast milk to melt.
2. Wrap the Milk Bags Securely
Place the frozen breastmilk in resealable plastic bags, and double-bag them to prevent any leakage or contamination.
Layer with Ice Packs
Layer the frozen breastmilk bags with ice packs to maintain consistent cold temperatures. You can add crumpled up newspaper to fill any extra space in the cooler which will help better insulate your milk.
Check the Temperature
You can place a thermometer in the cooler bag to ensure the temperature inside the cooler remains at or below 0°F (-18°C) to keep the milk frozen.
Can I Fly with Frozen Breastmilk?
Yes, you can absolutely fly with frozen breast milk! The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific guidelines for carrying breast milk through airport security but frozen breast milk can be packed in checked luggage or in a carry-on bag. According to the TSA, “Formula, breast milk, and juice are allowed in reasonable quantities in carry-on bags. Remove these items from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from the rest of your belongings. You do not need to travel with your child to bring breast milk.”
Do I Need to Tell TSA I Have Breast milk?
Yes, it’s advisable to inform the TSA officers that you’re carrying frozen breast milk. When you reach the security checkpoint, let them know, and they will conduct additional screening to ensure the safety of the milk.
Tips for How to Travel with Frozen Breastmilk on a Flight
- Know the Rules:Familiarize yourself with TSA rules regarding breastmilk to streamline the security process.
- Separate the Milk: Keeep the frozen breast milk separate from other items in your cary-on bag for easy inspection.
- Arrive Early: Arrive at the airport with enough time to go through security without feeling rushed.
- Stay Informed: stay updated on any changes or updates in TSA guidelines regarding traveling with breast milk prior to your trip.
Can I Travel with My Breast Pump?
Yes, of course! You can travel with your breast pump. It’s considered a medical device and is exempt from standard carry-on liquid restrictions.
Where Can I Pump Before or After a Flight?
Most airports have designated lactation rooms or breastfeeding pods where you can comfortably pump. Check the airport’s website or contact them in advance to find out the available facilities so you can plan your pumping sessions in advance. You can also download the Mamava app to find comfortable breastfeeding pods and lactation rooms near you, or look up ratings and information about your specific airports’ nursing areas! Read here for more information about exclusively pumping and creating a schedule that works for you!
Can I Ship Frozen Breastmilk?
Yes, you can ship frozen breast milk. Many courier services provide special packaging for shipping breastmilk, ensuring it remains frozen during transit.
How Do I Travel By Car with Frozen Breastmilk?
Traveling by car provides a bit more flexibility for transporting frozen breastmilk. Here are some tips for a road trip:
Use a Cooler
Pack the breast milk in a well-insulated cooler with ice packs to maintain the low temperature. Place the cooler in a spot in the car where it is out of direct sunlight to help your ice packs and breast milk stay colder longer. Consider packing an extra cooler to store your pump parts between pumping sessions by using the Fridge Pump Hack if you won’t have access to a sink to wash your pump parts.
Plan Stops
Plan stops along your route where you can refreeze the breast milk if needed. If you are taking a multi-day road trip and stop at a hotel overnight, make sure you put your breastmilk and ice packs in a freezer to fully refreeze and be ready for your next day of travel.
Monitor Temperature
Regularly check the cooler’s temperature to ensure the breast milk stays frozen. You can stop at a gas station or fast food place to get extra ice for your cooler if you notice your cooler is not cold enough!
What Problems May I Encounter Traveling with Frozen Breastmilk?
While traveling with frozen breastmilk is generally smooth, you may encounter a few challenges:
Thawing Issues
Inadequate insulation or unforeseen delays can cause the milk to thaw. Proper insulation and monitoring are crucial to prevent this. According to the CDC, “Frozen breast milk that has started to thaw but still contains ice crystals can be refrozen. If your breast milk has completely thawed but still feels cold, put it in the refrigerator and use it within the next day or throw it away.”
Security Concerns
Security checks, especially during air travel, may cause anxiety. Familiarize yourself with the rules and communicate with TSA officers to ease the process. Try not to get flustered in the security line and just ask questions if needed. It’s okay if you need to take an extra minute to repack your frozen breast milk in the cooler bag.
Lack of Facilities
Some transportation hubs may not have proper facilities for breastfeeding or pumping. Research in advance and plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re going near or far, breastfeeding can make trips a bit more tricky. There are so many details to think through and careful planning is absolutely necessary to ensure things go smoothly. Following these tips and guidelines will make traveling with frozen breast milk much more manageable.
Regardless of if you are traveling by air or by road, maintaining the right temperature and using appropriate packaging is key. Familiarize yourself with TSA regulations, research pumping facilities, and keep your liquid gold safe throughout your journey. Plan and prepare as much as you can but then be ready to go with the flow because there will definitely be factors outside your control. Feeling confident about your breastmilk will allow you to enjoy your trip that much more! Safe travels, mama!
Kayla is a mother of two young children. She is married to her high school sweetheart who is a firefighter, paramedic, and nurse. Her professional background is in social work, advocacy, and non-profits. She is passionate about empowering and encouraging mothers to make informed decisions about their pregnancy, birth, and motherhood journey.
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