Traveling while breastfeeding may look stressful. Aside from the usual traveling kits you bring, breastfeeding adds more considerations in travel, so you have to plan before you hit the road or get on the plane. But don’t worry, it is not as overwhelming as you think.
Here are some tips you can follow to successfully nurse milk, whether traveling with your baby or not.
Pump Milk in Advance
Before departure, pump milk in advance and store it in a refrigerator so your baby can still drink milk while you’re gone. It may be a concern for many traveling mothers as some experience difficulty pumping milk before traveling.
To have an abundant milk supply, you may try using an electric breast pump, or if you’re going to pump while traveling, bring a manual or battery-powered pump. Bring also a dual-voltage power adaptor to plug and recharge the battery. Don’t overdo yourself! Take regular breaks, as well.
Store Your Milk
For storing milk, you can place it at room temperature for four hours before it needs to be refrigerated. But if your trip is going to take longer, you might have to bring a portable insulated cooler to prevent spoilage. To avoid getting your breast milk packs mixed up, label the storage bags or bottle with the date it was expressed, then use the older milk first.
Dress the Part
If you are traveling with your baby, you must dress up comfortably. Use a nursing shirt or a simple tank top that can be slid down easily, then cover it with a cardigan or towel. To avoid the hassle of sliding the strap down, you can buy a nursing top for privacy but still stay cozy while breastfeeding.
Bring an extra shirt, also and enough extra clothes for your baby. There is also a possibility of getting a delayed flight or any unexpected changes, so it is better to prepare more clothes for both of you.
Plan by Searching for Stops
It pays to be prepared for when and where you’re going to breastfeed your baby. To avoid any inconvenience during the flight or while on the road, search for the nearest stops with safe nursing rooms. Some reliable spots you can look for are libraries, hotel lobbies, and restaurants with designated nursing areas inside.
Safety First
Stay safe! Don’t forget to wash your hands regularly or pack alcohol to disinfect areas you’re nursing in. Remember that we are still in the midst of a pandemic, so it is better to prioritize your and your baby’s safety during travel. If you’re traveling using your car, stay inside when you nurse your baby. It is also essential to keep breast pumps clean.
Learn About TSA Checkpoints
You have the right to bring ice packs but don’t forget to inform the TSA agents that you have breast milk packs with you before the screening. It is better to bring only small quantities of milk packs to avoid conflict with the officers.
Don’t Panic If You Experience Anything Unusual with Your Body
To address another concern of breastfeeding moms, having sticky vaginal discharge while breastfeeding is not something to be worried about. Many women undergo hormonal changes during breastfeeding, which affects their vaginal health. This type of discharge may also be due to ovulation, so pregnancy may still be possible during this course.
Being prepared beats the anxiety of traveling while breastfeeding. No matter the hassle it may cause, breastfeeding still provides the best benefits to the lactating mom and baby as it provides comfort for babies while traveling. Plan to continue reaping its benefits.
By Amey MyersAmey, an intrepid traveler and avid blogger, roams the world, absorbing diverse cultures, flavors, and experiences. Her writing captures the essence of her adventures, inspiring others to explore. Amey's infectious passion for travel and storytelling epitomizes a life filled with exploration and adventure.
