Traveling While Breastfeeding: Tips for Keeping Your Supply (and Sanity) Intact
Traveling while breastfeeding is an adventure—whether your baby is coming along for the ride or you’re flying solo. Between TSA regulations, packing the extras you might need, and the logistics of feeding or pumping on the go, it can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with tried and true, practical tips and resources for breastfeeding or pumping while traveling, plus our favorite product recommendations that will make your traveling experience easier.
Breastfeeding & Traveling by Air with Your Baby
1. Breastfeed on Takeoff and Landing
Airplane pressure changes can mess with your baby’s ears, making takeoff and landing a little chaotic. Nursing during these times helps regulate the pressure and keeps your baby comfortable. A pacifier or bottle can work, too, but the breast is often the easiest option. Nursing covers can be helpful if you’re nervous about nursing in public or invest in a baby carrier like a ring sling for more discreet nursing. We love Wild Bird - use code PEONIES10 for 10% off.
2. Dress for Easy Access
Wrestling with layers, buttons, and awkward necklines in a cramped airplane seat? No thanks. Stick with loose, breathable clothing and easy-access nursing tops or dresses. Check out the Kindred Bravely Nursing Tank for comfortable support and easy access. I’m 2 years postpartum and still wear these because I love them so much!
3. Plan for Public Nursing
Not every place will have a designated private nursing space, and let’s be honest—not all nursing spaces are clean or comfortable. Get comfortable with nursing in public by practicing before your trip. I personally found it easier and more comfortable to nurse without a cover, but you do you and find what works best!
4. Know Your Rights
In the U.S., you have the right to breastfeed in public wherever you’re allowed to be. If someone gives you a hard time, remind them of your rights (or just ignore them and keep doing your thing). If you’re being harassed by someone in the airport or on your flight, report them to an airport or airline employee if you feel comfortable. You can find more information on your rights to breastfeed in public here.
TSA has specific guidelines for traveling with breastmilk. Even if you are traveling with your baby, you may decide to pump or bring fresh or frozen breastmilk - review your rights and allowances when traveling with or without breastmilk here and traveling with children in general, here.
Breastfeeding & Traveling by Air Without Your Baby
1. Stick to a Pumping Schedule
Skipping pumping sessions = clogged ducts, engorgement, and potential supply dips. Set alarms if needed, and pump as close to your baby’s usual feeding schedule as possible. If finding a consistent power source for pumping stresses you out look into investing in a cordless pump like the Willow Go Pump - it is also hands-free, and great for travel.
2. Know How to Store and Transport Milk
If you’re pumping while away, you need a plan for storing and bringing your milk home. TSA allows breast milk in carry-ons even if it exceeds 3.4 ounces. Use ice packs and a good cooler to keep it fresh. I LOVE my Ceres Chill Breastmilk Chiller (which keeps milk cold for 20+ hours without bulky ice packs), but it is an investment. A simple soft cooler with ice packs works great, too!
3. Find Pumping-Friendly Spots
Airports and conference centers don’t always make it easy to pump. Find a Mamava pod or search for a lactation room or family restroom ahead of time. Most major U.S. airports have at least one designated space for breastfeeding or pumping—you just need to know where to find them.
4. Hand Express if Necessary
If your pump dies (because of course it does when you need it most) or you can’t find an outlet, knowing how to hand express can be a lifesaver. You can use a Haaka if needed, but sometimes your own hands are more efficient. Practice before you leave so you’re not figuring it out in a random airport bathroom.
Traveling by Car While Breastfeeding
If you’re hitting the road, breastfeeding or pumping comes with its own set of challenges—but also a little more flexibility than flying.
1. Plan Your Stops
Schedule breaks every 2-3 hours to nurse or pump safely. Look for rest stops, parks, or even quiet parking lots where you can pull over. If you’re worried about privacy, invest in a nursing cover or find a sunshade for your car. If you’re nearby a mall, check out the local Nordstroms to use their women’s lounge or nursing room. Some Target, Walmart, and Ikea locations also have nursing rooms. Research ahead of time so you can plan your stops accordingly.
2. Pump Hands-Free (Safely!)
If you’re a passenger (NOT the driver), you can use a hands-free pump to save time. Just make sure you have a portable charger or car adapter for your pump or look for a cordless pump.
3. Keep Milk Cold
If you’re pumping in the car, make sure you have a reliable cooler and ice packs. You don’t want to arrive at your destination with spoiled milk. My favorite is the Yeti Daytrip Lunch Box Cooler - it’s small but powerful for keeping milk and other roadtrip snacks cold.
5. Make It Comfortable
A travel nursing pillow can help keep you comfortable while nursing in the car. If you’re pumping, sit in a comfortable position and use a hands-free pumping bra to limit unnecessary stress on the body.
Other Travel Tips for Breastfeeding and Pumping Moms
Use TSA Cares – If you’re navigating security with a baby, pump, stroller, and/or cooler full of breast milk, you can call TSA Cares (855-787-2227) at least 72 hours before your flight for extra assistance. They’ll help you through security so you don’t have to manage alone. If you don’t want your breastmilk to go through the X-Ray, make sure you tell them and they can hand inspect it. It takes a little more time, but is overall a very easy process and the TSA agent should walk you through it step-by-step.
Find Nursing Pods and Family Restrooms – Many airports have Mamava pods, private nursing rooms, or family restrooms where you can pump or nurse comfortably. Check your airport’s website or use the Mamava app to find one near your gate.
Ask a Flight Attendant for Help – If you’re traveling alone with your baby, don’t be afraid to ask a flight attendant to hold your baby while you use the restroom. They’re usually more than happy to help, and let’s be real—everyone deserves a bathroom break.
Accept Help from Fellow Travelers – Sometimes, a kind stranger will offer to help you with your bag or let you cut in line while juggling a baby and a diaper bag. Say yes!
Pack Snacks and Water -Breastfeeding and pumping make you extra hungry and thirsty. Keep a stash of protein bars, nuts, and refillable water bottle so you’re never running on empty.
Invest in a Few Extras (especially if you travel a lot) - I bought a travel bottle washing set & drying rack, non-toxic travel bottle washing soap, and breast pump wipes. I used them regularly when traveling both with my baby and without!
Pack Extra Pump Parts – Because losing a tiny valve in a hotel sink is a disaster.
Have a Backup Plan – If your milk stash doesn’t survive the trip, look for local HM4HB (Human Milk For Human Babies) group on Facebook. This is a person-to-person breastmilk donation network.
Traveling while breastfeeding isn’t always easy, but with a little planning and the right gear, you can make it work. Whether you’re nursing on the go or pumping away from your baby, give yourself grace, stay flexible, and don’t stress over every little detail. You’ve got this!