Breast pump and TSA regulations
Breast pumps are considered medical devices by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). This means that they are allowed on planes in both carry-on and checked bags. There are no restrictions on the size or type of breast pump that can be brought on a plane.
- Breast pump and TSA regulations
- Bringing breast milk on a plane
- Flying with a breast pump
- TSA guidelines for breast pumps
- Breast pump carry-on and checked bag policies
- Breast milk storage and transportation
- Breast pump cooler and ice packs
- Breast pump batteries and power cords
- Breast pump parts and accessories
- Breast pump formula and medication
- Breast pump screening procedures
- Frequently asked questions about breast pumps and TSA
- Tips for traveling with a breast pump
- Breast pump travel considerations
- International travel with a breast pump
- Breast pumps and TSA PreCheck
- Additional resources for breastfeeding travelers
Bringing breast milk on a plane
Breast milk is also allowed on planes in both carry-on and checked bags. There are no limits on the amount of breast milk that can be brought on a plane. Breast milk is exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule, so it does not need to be placed in a small container or bag.
Flying with a breast pump
If you are flying with a breast pump, it is a good idea to inform the TSA officer at the security checkpoint that you are carrying a breast pump. This will help to ensure that your breast pump is screened properly. You may be asked to remove your breast pump from your bag for screening.
TSA guidelines for breast pumps
The TSA has the following guidelines for breast pumps:
- Breast pumps are allowed on planes in both carry-on and checked bags.
- There are no restrictions on the size or type of breast pump that can be brought on a plane.
- Breast milk is exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule and can be brought on a plane in any amount.
- If you are carrying breast milk, you may be asked to declare it to the TSA officer at the security checkpoint.
- You may be asked to remove your breast pump from your bag for screening.
Breast pump carry-on and checked bag policies
Most airlines allow breast pumps to be carried on board the plane. However, it is always a good idea to check with your airline to confirm their policy. Some airlines may have restrictions on the size or type of breast pump that can be carried on board.
If you are checking your breast pump, it is a good idea to pack it in a sturdy case to protect it from damage. You may also want to consider packing your breast pump in a separate bag so that it can be easily accessed if you need to pump during your flight.
Breast milk storage and transportation
If you are bringing breast milk on a plane, it is important to store it properly. Breast milk can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 hours. If you are traveling for a longer period of time, you will need to store your breast milk in a cooler with ice packs.
It is important to keep your breast milk cold during your flight. If your breast milk becomes warm, it can spoil. You can use a cooler bag or insulated lunch bag to keep your breast milk cold. You can also ask the flight attendant for ice.
Breast pump cooler and ice packs
Breast pump coolers and ice packs are allowed on planes. However, you may be asked to remove them from your bag for screening. If you are using ice packs, be sure to pack them in a leak-proof container.
Breast pump batteries and power cords
Breast pump batteries and power cords are allowed on planes. However, you may be asked to remove them from your bag for screening. If you are using rechargeable batteries, be sure to pack them in a way that prevents them from short-circuiting.
Breast pump parts and accessories
Breast pump parts and accessories are allowed on planes. However, you may be asked to remove them from your bag for screening. If you are packing breast pump parts in your carry-on bag, be sure to pack them in a clear bag so that they can be easily screened.
Breast pump formula and medication
Breast pump formula and medication are allowed on planes. However, you may be asked to declare them to the TSA officer at the security checkpoint. You may also be asked to provide documentation for your formula or medication.
Breast pump screening procedures
Breast pumps are typically screened using X-ray machines. However, TSA officers may also use other screening methods, such as hand-wanded metal detectors. If you are concerned about the screening of your breast pump, you can ask to speak to a supervisor.
Frequently asked questions about breast pumps and TSA
- Can I bring my breast pump on a plane?
Yes, breast pumps are allowed on planes in both carry-on and checked bags.
- Do I need to declare my breast pump to the TSA?
No, you are not required to declare your breast pump to the TSA. However, it is a good idea to inform the TSA officer at the security checkpoint that you are carrying a breast pump.
- Will my breast pump be screened?
Yes, your breast pump will be screened. However, TSA officers will take care to ensure that your breast pump is not damaged during the screening process.
- Can I bring breast milk on a plane?
Yes, you can bring breast milk on a plane in both carry-on and checked bags. There are no limits on the amount of breast milk that can be brought on a plane. Breast milk is exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule, so it does not need to be placed in a small container or bag.
If you are carrying breast milk, you may be asked to declare it to the TSA officer at the security checkpoint. You may also be asked to remove your breast milk from your bag for screening. TSA officers will typically use X-ray machines to screen breast milk. However, they may also use other screening methods, such as hand-wanded metal detectors.
If you are concerned about the screening of your breast milk, you can ask to speak to a supervisor. TSA officers are trained to handle breast milk with care. They will not open or taste your breast milk.
Here are some tips for bringing breast milk on a plane:
- Pack your breast milk in a cooler bag or insulated lunch bag to keep it cold.
- If you are using ice packs, be sure to pack them in a leak-proof container.
- If you are traveling for a long period of time, you may want to consider packing your breast milk in a dry ice container.
- If you are pumping during your flight, be sure to dispose of your breast milk properly. You can ask the flight attendant for a disposal bag.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your breast milk is safe and properly stored during your flight.
Tips for traveling with a breast pump
- Pack your breast pump in a sturdy case or bag to protect it from damage.
- Bring extra breast pump parts, such as flanges, membranes, and valves.
- If you are using a battery-operated breast pump, be sure to pack extra batteries.
- If you are traveling for a long period of time, you may want to consider bringing a manual breast pump as a backup.
- If you are planning to pump during your flight, be sure to wear comfortable clothing that will allow you to easily access your breasts.
- You may want to bring a nursing cover or blanket for privacy when pumping in public.
- If you are concerned about the noise of your breast pump, you may want to bring earplugs or headphones.
- Be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- If you are experiencing any problems with breastfeeding, be sure to talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant.
Breast pump travel considerations
- If you are flying, be sure to check with your airline to confirm their policy on breast pumps. Some airlines may have restrictions on the size or type of breast pump that can be carried on board.
- If you are traveling internationally, be sure to check with the customs and border protection agency of the country you are visiting to see if there are any restrictions on bringing breast pumps into the country.
- If you are traveling to a country where the electrical outlets are different from the outlets in your home country, be sure to pack a power converter.
- If you are traveling to a country where the water is not safe to drink, be sure to use bottled water to clean your breast pump parts.
International travel with a breast pump
- If you are traveling internationally with a breast pump, be sure to pack a letter from your doctor stating that you are a breastfeeding mother and that you need to bring your breast pump with you.
- You may also want to pack a copy of the manufacturer’s instructions for your breast pump in case you need to show them to a customs officer.
- If you are bringing breast milk with you on your international flight, be sure to pack it in a cooler bag or insulated lunch bag to keep it cold.
- You may also want to consider packing your breast milk in a dry ice container.
- Be sure to declare your breast milk to the customs officer when you arrive in the country you are visiting.
Breast pumps and TSA PreCheck
If you are a member of TSA PreCheck, you may be able to leave your breast pump in your carry-on bag when you go through the security checkpoint. However, you may still be asked to remove your breast pump from your bag for screening.
Additional resources for breastfeeding travelers
- La Leche League International: https://llli.org/
- Medela: https://www.medela.com/breastfeeding/products/breast-pumps
- Lansinoh: https://lansinoh.com/collections/breast-pumps
- Ameda: https://www.ameda.com/products/breast-pumps/
- Spectra Baby USA: https://www.spectrababyusa.com/