Gearing up for a trip looks a little different when you’re a new mom. While you’ll still need to account for typical travel essentials, you’ll also need to ensure you accommodate your pumping needs. Though this may seem like an overwhelming task, traveling while breast pumping can be a whole lot easier than it looks! All you need is the right mindset and proper pumping gear, mama!
At Pumps for Mom, we aim to make your breastfeeding journey as smooth as possible. If you have a trip coming up and need help preparing for on-the-go pumping, let us help you plan ahead so you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest! In this blog, we’ll cover all of the bases when it comes to traveling while breast pumping, including:
- What products to pack
- How to travel with your baby while pumping
- How to store your milk while traveling
What Products to Pack
If you make a packing list for your toiletries, clothing, and other personal belongings, you might as well add another section for your pumping gear. As a new mama, you’ll want to ensure you have everything you need to sustain your pumping schedule while on vacay. Packing all the right gear takes a bit of preparation. But luckily, we’ve already done the work for you! Read below for our ultimate pumping packing list for new moms:
- Breast pump (Check out some of our top breast pumps for traveling moms)
- Nursing cover or top
- Milk collection bottles
- Milk collection bags
- Batteries and backup batteries
- Breast milk cooler
- Breast pump sanitizing wipes
- Any necessary pumping accessories, including flanges, tubing, membranes, power cord, etc.
- Dual-voltage power adaptor (for international travel)
How to Travel with Your Baby While Pumping
We get it, mama. Traveling with a newborn can be extremely overwhelming. From finding friendly pumping spaces in the airport to keeping your baby calm on the plane, there are several hurdles to jump through when traveling while breastfeeding. Luckily, we know a few ways to make things a little bit easier while you’re traveling with your baby. Read some of our top tips below.
Don’t Rush
The best mentality to have as a traveling mom is don’t rush. Plan so that you have ample time to make your flight while still meeting your baby’s pumping needs.
Find Spaces to Breastfeed
Whether traveling by plane or car, it helps to plan where you will pump. If you’re flying, call the airport ahead of time to see if they have any designated lactation rooms. These rooms can be helpful if you’re seeking privacy while you feed. As for road trips, you might find gas stations, grocery stores, or other stops where you can comfortably nurse. Search your route beforehand to scope out these spots. Or, if you prefer to pump in the car, just make sure to pull over before you do so. Babies must always be strapped in a car seat while the vehicle is in motion.
Grab a Window Seat
If you can choose seating on your plane, try to grab a window seat. While flying beside a companion, sitting by the window offers more privacy and comfort for pumping.
Drink Enough Water
Staying hydrated is super important for a traveling mama. Doing so will keep you healthy and energized so that you can properly tend to your baby. So, even if that means stopping a few times for a bathroom break on the road, it’s worth it in the end.
Use Expressed Milk
If you’re traveling by car with a companion, consider using expressed milk to feed your little one. While your partner drives, you can sit in the back seat to pump andbottle-feed your baby while strapped in their car seat. This will save you from having to pull over and halt your headway on the road.
How to Store Your Milk While Traveling
Last but not least, let’s talk about breast milk storage. For feeding mamas, it’s imperative to store breast milk correctly while on the go. After all, you don’t want perfectly good milk to go to waste! Below, we’ve compiled a few tips on storing breast milk while traveling to ensure it stays good and safe for your baby.
- Milk can be stored at room temperature for up to four hours before it needs to be refrigerated. However, you cannot keep it in direct sunlight or a room warmer than 77 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Milk can be stored in an insulated cooler with frozen ice packs for up to 24 hours.
- If using breast milk storage bags, only fill the bag up to three-quarters full to leave room for expansion. The same goes for bottles.
- Remember to label your breast milk by date and time so you use the older milk first.
- Thaw frozen breast milk by soaking it in warm water or transferring it from the freezer to the fridge and letting it sit for 24 hours.
Ready to Jet Set?
Pumps for Mom has you covered with all the top motherhood traveling essentials. Our team can help you obtain the best breast pumps through insurance that fits your travel goals. And to help set you up for success, moms can shop for breast pump accessories and compression products on our site. Head to our easy-to-fill form to get started, or contact us today!