Can You Use a Breast Pump on an Airplane? Insights for Traveling Moms

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Traveling itself is hard enough as a nursing mom, but on top of that, you may have concerns about how airlines handle using a breast pump on an airplane. Some common concerns you may have include concerns with airline handling, privacy, and planning for a pumping schedule on a flight. The following discussion reviews these concerns and gives some helpful tips on how to maintain a good milk supply when flying. We are going to share tips from preparing for your flight all the way to in-flight pumping strategies to get you navigating around air travel with more confidence.

Challenges of Pumping When Flying

Using a breast pump on an airplane might bring a lot of challenges. Here’s what you might face:

1. Limited Space and Privacy

Airplanes are always full and rarely offer personal space. Finding a comfortable spot to pump can be tough, and you might feel uneasy about pumping near other passengers.

2. Noise Concerns

Breast pumps, especially electric ones, are loud. When you are on a plane in a quiet cabin, you will be aware of the humming sound, and it may make you self-conscious.

3. Power Source Availability

The electric pumps require power. Not every plane offers outlets, and on those that do, not all seats share equal access to them. Thus, it might leave your options for using an electric pump few and between.

4. Hygiene Considerations

Cleaning everything during and after pumping is essential but tends to be a hassle on an airplane. Clean water and places to handle the pump parts and store milk are also at a premium.

5. Time Constraints and Scheduling

Your usual pumping schedule may not align with the flight schedule. You are also at the mercy of possible delays, turbulence, or in-flight services that may interfere with your scheduled pump times.

Pre-Flight Prep: Essential Steps for Pumping Moms

Checking Travel Regulations

TSA Rules

Breast pumps and milk are allowed in carry-on bags. Informs the TSA officers that you are carrying breast milk in excess of 3.4 ounces before screening begins.

Airline Policies

All airlines have a different policy regarding the use of breast pumps on aircraft. Check their website or call their customer service to obtain the policy.

International Travel

If traveling to another country, check their policies regarding importing breast milk and pumps. Some countries have strict policies.

Choosing an Electric Breast Pump

For flying, battery-operated pumps are ideal. They are compact, powerful, and do not need outlets to operate. Most of these types of pumps are far quieter than plug-in types and, therefore, better to use inflight. Models such as the Momcozy M9 are space-efficient, operate quietly and cover multiple pumping sessions on one charge, thereby giving comfort to pump through your journey.

Packing Essentials for Breast Pumping

• Breast pump and all its parts
• Extra pump parts
• Cleaning wipes and travel-sized soap
• Milk storage bags or containers
• Labels and a marker
• Small, reusable ice packs

Talking to Your Airline

Let your airline know that you will be needing to express during the flight. They may be able to accommodate you with a more suitable seat or otherwise.

How to Use Your Breast Milk Pump in the Sky

Pumping during a flight requires some planning and adaptability. These strategies will help you maintain your milk supply comfortably and safely while in the air.

Schedule Your Pumping Sessions

Try to pump right before boarding your flight. During the flight, aim to pump at your usual times, but be flexible. If possible, pump during longer periods of smooth flying to avoid interruptions from turbulence or in-flight service.

Keep Milk Safe and Cool

After pumping, store milk in sealed containers or bags. Use travel-sized coolers or insulated bags with ice packs to keep milk cold. Most airlines will provide ice upon request. Breast milk can safely stay at room temperature for up to 4 hours.

Stay Clean While Pumping

Bring sanitizing wipes for quick cleaning of pump parts between uses. If possible, use pump parts that are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning later. Consider bringing extra sets of pump parts to avoid the need for mid-flight cleaning.

Manage Air Pressure Effects

Changes in cabin pressure can affect your comfort while pumping. To ease discomfort, try pumping during takeoff or landing. The sucking motion can help balance pressure in your ears, similar to how nursing helps babies during flights.

Breast Pump-Friendly Spaces in Airports

Many airports now offer facilities to support nursing mothers. Knowing where to find these spaces can make your travel experience much more comfortable.

Nursing Rooms and Lactation Pods

More airports are installing dedicated nursing rooms or lactation pods. These private spaces often have comfortable seating, electrical outlets, and sometimes even sinks. Check your airport’s website or ask at the information desk for locations.

Family Restrooms

Family restrooms serve a great alternative when dedicated nursing rooms are not available. They are larger, more private than regular restrooms, and do have electrical outlets.

Quiet Corners in Lounges

If you have lounge access at an airport, seek quiet corners or private areas. Many lounges have areas that can be secluded for pumping. Some even have specific areas set aside for nursing mothers.

Clothing Tips for Pumping on Planes

Clothing and seating choice can make all the difference to comfort while flying.

Selecting Easy-Access Clothing

Wear tops that give easy access to the breast, like button-down shirts, wrap dresses or a nursing top. Layers are a help – you can do much with an added cardigan or light jacket on. In cramped airplane rooms, one-piece outfits or dresses with no opening at the front will be tough to manage.

Using Privacy Covers

A large scarf or lightweight blanket can function as a cover to drape over yourself while pumping. Ideally, it would be lightweight, breathable, and easy to store in your pump bag or backpack for transport. Some moms prefer store-bought nursing covers that have a stiffened neckline so you can see down at your pump setup while working. Whatever you decide on, practice at home first so you feel comfortable with it.

Finding a Private Seat

When you book your flight, you might want to try and reserve a window seat, for added privacy. When possible, select a seat toward the back of the plane, where there tends to be more space in which to move around. You can remind flight attendants that you will need to pump and ask for accommodations: they might reseat you into a less crowded area or provide you with a blanket to increase your privacy.

Alternative Pumping Strategies for Air Travel

There may be times when using your breast pump on the plane is not practical or comfortable. The following are some alternative strategies to help you manage your milk supply during your trip.

Pumping at the Airport

Consider pumping right before flight and immediately after landing. Many airports have a dedicated nursing room or family restroom where you can pump in privacy to avoid having to pump on the plane, especially for shorter flights.

Mastering Hand Expression

Learning hand expression can be a useful skill to travel with. It is quiet, it does not require equipment and you can do it discreetly under a cover. Practice at home before your trip so you become comfortable with the technique. Hand expression is handy during takeoff and landing when you may be unable to use electronic devices.

Adjusting Your Schedule

If at all possible, adjust your pumping schedule temporarily around flight times. You may want to pump more often before and after the travel day to keep your supply up. One or two missed regular pumping sessions on a travel day is not going to affect your overall milk production greatly.

Keep Pumping While Flying!

If you plan accordingly, you can continue your pumping routine on flights. Invest in a good travel pump, pack smart, and know your rights and options. Be flexible: use the airport nursing room, pump on the plane, or modify your schedule to work best for you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from flight attendants if you need it. Many mothers do this all the time and have mastered traveling with pumping. Now you are too, prepared with these tips to meet the challenges on your flight. Safe travels, and happy pumping!

*This article is based on personal suggestions and/or experiences and is for informational purposes only. This should not be used as professional advice. Please consult a professional where applicable.