Can you take breast milk through airport security?

Navigating Airport Security with Breast Milk: What You Need to Know
Traveling with breast milk can be a daunting experience for nursing parents, especially when it comes to airport security. However, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has established guidelines that allow parents to carry breast milk through security checkpoints, easing some of the stress associated with air travel.
TSA Regulations on Breast Milk
According to the TSA, parents are permitted to bring breast milk in quantities greater than the standard liquid limit of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). This exemption also applies to formula, toddler drinks, and baby food, which means that these items do not need to fit within the typical quart-sized bag that is required for other liquids. This policy is designed to accommodate the needs of traveling families, ensuring that infants have access to necessary nutrition during flights.
When preparing to go through security, it is important to remove the breast milk from your carry-on bag and present it separately for screening. This allows TSA agents to inspect the liquid without compromising the integrity of the milk .
Quantity Considerations
While the TSA allows for a “reasonable” amount of breast milk, the definition of what constitutes a reasonable quantity can vary. Parents are encouraged to carry what they need for their journey, but if traveling with a particularly large amount, it may be wise to consider alternative options, such as shipping the milk to your destination. This can help avoid potential complications at security checkpoints.
Challenges and Advocacy
Despite the clear guidelines, some parents have reported inconsistent experiences at airport security. Instances of breast milk being spoiled or even destroyed by TSA agents have raised concerns, prompting advocacy from lawmakers. Recently, a group of senators urged the TSA to clarify its policies and ensure that they are uniformly applied to prevent harassment of nursing parents.
Tips for Smooth Travel
To ensure a smoother experience when traveling with breast milk, consider the following tips:
– Pack Wisely: Use insulated bags or coolers to keep the milk at the right temperature, especially if you are traveling for an extended period.
– Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to navigate security, as additional screening may be required.
– Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with TSA regulations and be prepared to advocate for your rights if necessary.
In conclusion, while traveling with breast milk through airport security is permissible under TSA guidelines, being informed and prepared can help alleviate potential stressors. By understanding the rules and advocating for your needs, you can ensure a more comfortable journey for both you and your little one.

How soon after giving birth can you fly?

Experts caution against flying in the first seven days after a baby is born. Some healthcare professionals suggest not traveling for the first few months.

How do you carry breast milk while traveling?

Transporting your breast milk. Take expressed milk home or to a childcare setting in bottles or bags, inside a cooler bag with a freezer pack. If your ice packs are defrosting then ask for a bag of crushed ice from a fast food outlet or cafe.

How to take expressed breast milk on a plane?

One of the questions I am asked a lot is about traveling with breast milk, flying with breast milk and whether you can take expressed breast milk through airport security. The answer is yes, you can bring expressed breast milk through airport security in individual containers no more that 2000ml each in size.

How much baby milk can you take through airport security?

Here’s all you need to know. First off it’s important to know that the 100ml limit for liquids doesn’t apply to formula, or the water you need for making it, so technically you can take as much as you’d need to last the flight.

What is the 3-3-3 rule for breast milk?

The ‘Rule of Three’ guideline suggests allowing the baby to nurse for at least three minutes on each breast to ensure they receive a balance of foremilk (initial, thirst-quenching milk) and hindmilk (higher-fat, calorie-rich milk).

What is the 5 5 5 rule for breast milk?

Something I recommend to moms is the 5-5-5 rule. Try and use milk within five hours at room temperature, five days in the fridge, and by five months in the freezer.

What is the 120 pumping rule?

The first 12 weeks of your breastfeeding journey requires frequent breastmilk removal, stimulating healthy milk production. Studies show moms who exclusively pump for a minimum of 120 minutes per day can make enough to feed their babies primarily breastmilk.

How do you carry breast milk for a baby while traveling?

Many moms like to use pre-sterilized, sealable bags that are specially designed for storing breast milk. You can also use hard plastic or glass containers – just make sure whatever you use is clean (wash with hot, soapy water, rinse well, and air dry) and tightly sealed.

How do you get breast milk through airport security?

Breast milk is exempt from the normal TSA rules regarding liquids — it is not limited to the 3.4 ounces that other liquids are limited to. You can carry it in bottles and/or milk bags. Since I primarily pumped with the Willow wearable breast pump on my trips, I always had my milk in milk bags.

Do I need my baby’s birth certificate to fly?

You may have to present proof of age like a birth certificate for any children under the age of 18. Families with children under 2 years old can ask to board early at the gate. Only 1 carry-on diaper bag per child is allowed.