How do you fly with frozen breast milk?

Navigating Air Travel with Frozen Breast Milk
Flying with frozen breast milk can seem daunting for new parents, but with the right preparation and knowledge, it can be a smooth experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to transport frozen breast milk safely while traveling by air.
Understanding TSA Regulations
The first step in your journey is to familiarize yourself with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations regarding breast milk. According to the TSA, frozen breast milk is allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage. You do not need to present your baby as proof of necessity for these liquids, which simplifies the process for traveling parents.
When you arrive at the security checkpoint, inform the TSA officer that you are carrying breast milk. Items like formula and breast milk, especially when exceeding 3.4 ounces, must be screened separately from your other belongings. This means you should be prepared to remove these items from your bag for inspection.
Packing Your Frozen Breast Milk
Choosing the Right Containers: The ideal containers for transporting frozen breast milk are specialized breast milk storage bags, which are designed to withstand freezing and prevent leaks. Avoid using regular Ziploc bags, as they may not provide the same level of protection.
Insulated Coolers: To keep your breast milk frozen during transit, pack it in an insulated cooler bag. Depending on the amount of milk you are transporting, you might opt for a small cooler or a larger one. Fill any air pockets in the cooler with homemade ice packs, which can be made by freezing water in Stasher bags or similar containers. This will help maintain a consistent temperature and keep the milk frozen for longer periods.
During the Flight
When flying, it’s essential to keep your breast milk as cold as possible. If you’re traveling on a long flight, consider the duration and the time it will take to get through security and to your gate. Using dry ice is another option for keeping breast milk frozen, but be sure to check with your airline about their policies regarding dry ice.
Arrival and Storage
Upon arrival at your destination, promptly transfer your frozen breast milk to a freezer if available. If you’re staying in a hotel, call ahead to ensure they can accommodate your needs. If a freezer isn’t accessible, you may need to consume the milk within a few days, as thawed breast milk can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Conclusion
Traveling with frozen breast milk requires careful planning and adherence to TSA guidelines, but it is entirely feasible. By using the right containers, keeping your milk insulated, and being aware of security procedures, you can ensure that your precious supply of breast milk arrives safely at your destination. With these tips in mind, parents can travel with confidence, knowing that their baby’s nutritional needs are met, no matter where their journey takes them.

Does TSA test frozen breastmilk?

Your breast milk does not need to be X-rayed or opened
Screening procedures are increasingly non-invasive, so if your breast milk is frozen, a visual inspection is usually fine. However, if it’s thawed, TSA agents may want to test it for explosives, but you have the right to say no.

How do you keep breast milk cold while traveling?

Use freezer packs or ice packs: If you’re traveling with refrigerated breast milk, use freezer packs or ice packs to keep it cool during transport. Make sure the ice packs are completely frozen before packing them.

How long will breastmilk stay frozen with ice packs?

If you deliver breast milk to a childcare provider, clearly label the container with the child’s name. Talk to your childcare provider about any other requirements for labeling and storing breast milk. Breast milk can be stored in an insulated cooler with frozen ice packs for up to 24 hours when traveling.

How to bring frozen breast milk on a plane?

Similar to liquids, frozen breastmilk and ice packs over 3.4oz are allowed to be carried on flights. The big difference– frozen items do NOT require any TSA testing and do not need to be removed from your luggage when going through security. Frozen items can go through the conveyer belt scanner like any normal item.

How do you pack baby milk on a plane?

If you’re flying, there’s some good news: the 100ml carry-on limit for liquids doesn’t apply to formula milk or sterilised water. This means you can bring a reasonable amount of each to meet your baby’s needs for the journey.

How long is thawed breast milk good for?

Using thawed breastmilk
Milk thawed in the refrigerator must be used within 24 hours. Milk thawed to room temperature or warmer should ideally be used in 1 to 2 hours. If your baby didn’t finish the bottle, the leftover breastmilk can still be used within 2 hours after the baby is done feeding.

How do you store frozen breast milk in a bag?

If using breastmilk storage bags, squeeze the air from the top before sealing tightly. In general, place storage bags upright in another container or the milk may leak. But if the double zipper seal on the breastmilk storage bag is reliable, laying the bag flat in the freezer will help the milk thaw faster later.

Can you bring frozen bottle through TSA?

Frozen liquid items are allowed through the checkpoint as long as they are frozen solid when presented for screening. If frozen liquid items are partially melted, slushy, or have any liquid at the bottom of the container, they must meet 3-1-1 liquids requirements.

How to keep frozen food frozen while travelling?

How Do You Keep Frozen Food Frozen While Traveling?

1. Pre-freeze Your Food Beforehand. Frozen foods stay that way as long as they are frozen before travelling.
2. High-Quality Cooler.
3. Cooler Bag.
4. Pre-chill Your Cooler.
5. Ice Packs.
6. Wrap it in Aluminium Foil.

How long can frozen breast milk sit out?

If the milk has been previously frozen, once thawed, it can sit out at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours. If thawed milk is put in the refrigerator, use within 24 hours. Do not re-freeze previously frozen breast milk. If the baby didn’t finish the bottle, discard the milk after 2 hours.