Traveling while pumping can feel like a logistical puzzle, but it doesn’t have to be daunting. Whether you’re a frequent business traveler, a new mom on a family trip, or someone navigating a vacation with an infant, pumping on the go requires the right tools and preparation to make the process seamless and stress-free.
This guide provides practical tips and details on seven essentials that can make pumping while traveling significantly easier. With these tools and strategies, you’ll confidently manage your pumping routine no matter where the road (or skies) take you.
The Essentials You Need for Traveling with Pumping
1. A Hands-Free Breast Pump
Carrying a hands-free breast pump is a game-changer when traveling. Traditional breast pumps often require finding a private space, setting up bulky equipment, and dedicating 20-30 minutes to each session. Alternatively, wearable, hands-free options like the Willow or Elvie pumps allow you to pump discreetly, even on a plane, during a meeting, or while sightseeing.
These modern breast pumps are compact, battery-powered, and wireless, enabling you to maintain your milk supply without disrupting your travel plans. Look for a pump that offers quiet operation and allows for an uninterrupted, worry-free experience.
Pro Tip: Fully charge your pump before leaving your accommodation for the day. You may also want to carry a power bank or portable charger for emergencies.
2. A Leak-Resistant Bra
Pumping during travel means you might find yourself in awkward or less-than-ideal settings. A leak-resistant bra ensures that leaks don’t add unnecessary stress to your trip. Designed to hold the pump securely in place, these bras offer the support you need while providing discretion throughout the day.
Brands like Kindred Bravely or Simple Wishes produce bras specifically designed for pumping and breastfeeding moms. These provide easy access and eliminate the fear of spills or leaks, so you can focus on your travels instead of worrying about mishaps.
Why It’s Essential:
- Comfort for extended periods of wear.
- Extra protection when you need it most.
3. A Nursing Poncho
Privacy can be a major concern, especially when pumping in public spaces like airports, train stations, or hotel lobbies. A nursing poncho or cover is a simple yet effective way to create a private space wherever you are.
Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics so you can stay cool and comfortable, even if you’re in a warm climate. Many ponchos double as scarves or fashionable wraps, adding functionality to your travel wardrobe.
Pro Tip: Opt for a poncho that is easy to pack and doesn’t wrinkle easily so it’s ready to go at a moment’s notice.
4. A Travel Pump Cleaning Kit
One of the trickiest aspects of pumping during travel is keeping all your pump parts clean. A travel pump cleaning kit is essential to avoid bacterial buildup and ensure your equipment is hygienic. These kits usually include collapsible cleaning brushes, a compact drying rack, and a bottle of travel-sized, baby-safe soap.
You won’t always have access to a sink, especially during flights or long road trips. Thankfully, portable cleaning options allow you to manage hygiene conveniently, even on the move.
Pro Tip: Store your pump parts in a zippered wet/dry bag until you’re able to clean them properly.
5. Quick Clean Pump Wipes
When access to water isn’t an option, quick-clean pump wipes are a lifesaver. These alcohol-free, baby-safe wipes are designed to sanitize pump parts, bottles, and nipple shields effectively.
They are especially useful during transit—whether you’re on a plane, in a car, or waiting between flights at the airport. Carrying a small pack in your diaper bag or carry-on simplifies the process of cleaning your equipment on the go.
Why It’s Essential:
- Saves time when you can’t access a sink with soap and water.
- Keeps everything sterile for your baby’s safety.
6. A Cooler Bag
Keeping breast milk fresh during travel requires reliable storage. A sturdy cooler bag ensures that your expressed milk stays safely chilled until you can transfer it to a refrigerator or freezer.
When selecting a cooler bag, look for one that’s compact, insulated, and airline-approved. Many options, like the PackIt Freezable Bag, don’t even require separate ice packs, as the walls of the bag serve as the cooling mechanism.
Make sure to plan ahead by packing sufficient ice packs and labeling the bags (especially if you’re going through airport security).
Pro Tip: Check TSA guidelines and your airline’s rules for carrying breast milk, as policies vary.
7. A Way to Ship Milk Home
If you’re away from home for an extended period, consider shipping your milk rather than carrying it. Services like Milk Stork make it easy to package and express ship your pumped breast milk to your destination or home.
These services provide pre-cooled shipping containers and clear instructions to ensure your milk arrives as fresh as when you pumped it. This can be an especially helpful option for working moms on business trips who need to keep pumping but don’t want the added stress of transporting milk themselves.
Why It’s Essential:
- Allows you to focus on other travel priorities.
- Ensures milk arrives safely and securely without compromising quality.
Additional Tips for Pumping While Traveling
- Plan Ahead: Research pumping and nursing-friendly spots in advance. Many airports and public areas now offer lactation rooms or family lounges equipped with comfortable seating and power outlets.
- Hydrate: Traveling can sometimes throw off your hydration habits. Remember to drink plenty of water to maintain your milk supply.
- Stick to Your Schedule: If possible, adhere to your usual pumping times to avoid engorgement and maintain your supply.
- Bring Extra Supplies: Unexpected delays are possible when traveling—carry more milk storage bags, batteries, and spare pump parts than you think you’ll need.
Manage Pumping on the Go with Confidence
Traveling while pumping may seem challenging, but with the right tools and preparation, it’s entirely manageable. From hands-free breast pumps to cooler bags and innovative services like Milk Stork, these essentials are designed to simplify your experience and give you peace of mind.
Preparing ahead of time means you can enjoy your travels without letting pumping disrupt your plans. Equip yourself with these must-haves, and you’ll feel confident tackling whatever pumping challenges come your way.
If you’re looking for personalized advice or product recommendations to make your next trip even easier, reach out to our team of experts. We’re here to help you balance travel and breastfeeding seamlessly.
Michelle Yeoh