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Traveling with Breastmilk: TSA Rules, Storage Tips, and Packing Essentials for Breastfeeding Moms

Writer's picture: Giovanni LeachGiovanni Leach

Updated: Dec 15, 2024


packing breastmilk

Traveling with young kids can feel like a Herculean task. Even a quick trip to the grocery store can require what feels like an endless checklist of supplies. But when you’re planning a road trip or catching a flight, that preparation ramps up to a whole new level. For breastfeeding or pumping moms, there’s an added layer: ensuring your little one has access to milk throughout your journey. Don’t worry; with a bit of planning, you can make this manageable. Here’s your guide to traveling with breastmilk, including TSA rules, packing tips, storage guidelines, and more.


Understanding TSA Rules for Formula and Breastmilk

One of the biggest concerns for breastfeeding moms when flying is getting through airport security with pumped milk or formula. Luckily, the TSA has special guidelines in place for parents traveling with these essential items.

Breastmilk and formula are exempt from the 3-1-1 liquid rule, which limits other liquids to 3.4 ounces. This means you can bring larger quantities of breastmilk, formula, and even juice for infants and toddlers.

You must declare your breastmilk or formula at the security checkpoint. The TSA may inspect your milk, but they’re required to use additional screening techniques that avoid contaminating the milk, like using x-ray technology instead of opening bottles or bags.

Coolers, ice packs, and gel packs used to store your milk are also permitted through security. However, these items may undergo additional screening as well.

While these rules are in place to make traveling with milk more manageable, be prepared for some inconsistencies in enforcement. It’s helpful to be patient, understand your rights, and maybe even bring a printed copy of the TSA guidelines for reference if you run into any confusion with security staff.


Packing for Long Road Trips

Traveling by car gives you a bit more flexibility when it comes to packing and storing breastmilk, but it still requires careful planning.

Invest in a good-quality cooler with ice packs to keep your breastmilk cold. Aim to pack the cooler as tightly as possible, as a fuller cooler will stay cold longer.

Plan your stops in advance. If your road trip spans several hours or even days, make note of any accommodations or pit stops where you can access a fridge or freezer.

Bring along enough clean pump parts and bottles to cover the duration of the trip. Consider bringing a portable breast pump, especially if you’ll need to pump in the car. Many portable pumps have car adapters or battery-powered options for convenience.

Monitor the cooler’s temperature. Breastmilk should ideally stay at or below 40°F (4°C). A small thermometer can help you keep an eye on the temperature and adjust ice packs as needed.


Storing Breastmilk on the Go

It’s important to understand how long breastmilk can be safely stored, especially when you’re on the move. Here are some general guidelines for breastmilk storage:

Freshly pumped breastmilk can stay at room temperature (around 77°F or 25°C) for up to 4 hours.

In a cooler with ice packs, breastmilk can be stored for up to 24 hours. Make sure to keep the cooler closed as much as possible to maintain a consistent temperature.

In a refrigerator, breastmilk can last up to 4 days. If you have access to a fridge during your trip, this is your best option for extending milk’s freshness.

In a freezer, breastmilk can be stored for up to 6 months, though it’s recommended to use it within 3 months for optimal quality.


Breastmilk Storage Guidelines

Can Breastmilk Be Refrozen?

This is a common question for moms who are traveling for an extended period. Unfortunately, breastmilk that has been thawed cannot be refrozen. Once frozen milk has thawed, it should be used within 24 hours if refrigerated or consumed within 4 hours if left at room temperature.

If your trip involves traveling with previously frozen breastmilk, plan accordingly. Keep it as cold as possible, ideally in a cooler with plenty of ice packs or dry ice, if you’re on a longer journey. Use thawed milk as a priority before turning to fresh or refrigerated milk to avoid any waste.


Tips for Stress-Free Travel with Milk

Here are a few additional tips to help make traveling with breastmilk easier:

Label your milk bags or bottles with the date they were expressed to help you keep track of storage times.

Bring extra supplies, like milk storage bags, bottles, or disposable liners, in case you need to pump more than expected or if something spills.

Practice using a portable breast pump or cooler before your trip to make sure you’re comfortable with it and it works as expected.

Be flexible. While planning is key, remember that travel comes with its fair share of surprises. Prepare as much as possible but be willing to adjust as needed.


Traveling with breastmilk can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you’ll find your stride. Each journey becomes easier as you build confidence and discover what works best for you and your little one. From road trips to navigating airport security, these tips are here to support you every step of the way.


For a firsthand look, watch as Paisley shares her experience—from packing and organizing her milk to the challenges and wins she faced going through TSA. Her journey might just inspire a few new tips for your own travels!




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