How much breast milk can I bring on a plane?

Traveling with Breast Milk: What You Need to Know
When it comes to flying with breast milk, parents can breathe a sigh of relief. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific guidelines that allow for the transport of breast milk in quantities that exceed the usual liquid limits imposed on travelers. This is particularly important for nursing mothers who may need to bring expressed milk for their infants during air travel.
Quantity Regulations
According to TSA regulations, you are permitted to bring a “reasonable” amount of breast milk in your carry-on luggage, even if it exceeds the standard limit of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) that typically applies to liquids. This exemption also extends to formula and juice intended for toddlers. The TSA does not define what constitutes a “reasonable” amount, which means it is generally left to the discretion of the traveler and the TSA agents at the security checkpoint.
Screening Process
When you arrive at the airport, it’s essential to inform the TSA agents that you are carrying breast milk. You will need to remove the milk from your carry-on bag for separate screening. This process is similar to how other liquids are handled, but since breast milk is exempt from the quart-sized bag requirement, you can carry it in larger containers.
Storage and Transportation Tips
For those traveling with significant quantities of breast milk, such as during a longer trip, consider using insulated coolers or ice packs to keep the milk at a safe temperature. While the TSA allows for larger amounts, it’s wise to ensure that the milk remains fresh and safe for consumption. Additionally, if you are flying internationally, check the regulations of your destination country regarding the importation of breast milk, as these can vary.
Conclusion
In summary, traveling with breast milk is manageable and supported by TSA regulations that prioritize the needs of nursing mothers. By understanding the rules and preparing accordingly, parents can ensure that their infants have access to the nutrition they need while on the go. Whether you’re taking a short flight or a longer journey, knowing that you can bring a reasonable amount of breast milk without the usual restrictions can make your travel experience much smoother.

How do you pack breast milk for a flight?

Easiest thing is to freeze the breast milk, put it in a small little lunch box cooler with bottles of frozen water. You can bring water through TSA as long as it is frozen, I don’t think breast milk has to be (if you’re planning to feed it to baby on the flight, looks like you’re not bringing baby though). It was easy!

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.

How many ounces of breastmilk can I travel with?

3.4 ounces
Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters are allowed in carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag.

Does a breast milk cooler count as carry-on?

Bring your regular carry-on luggage but be prepared to explain that your pump is a medical device. Your breast milk cooler does count as a carry-on item.

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).

How much baby milk can you take on a plane?

– you are allowed to take breast and cow’s milk and baby formula in your hand luggage, even if it’s over 100ml (just be aware that sterilised water for your tot must be kept in a baby bottle).

Can you bring breast milk on plane without baby?

Parents who are Rying (with or without their child) can bring breast milk in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters onto the plane in their carry-on, as long as they declare it for inspection at the security checkpoint. The TSA Security OScers will examine your containers.

Does TSA check breast milk?

For ease of screening, inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process that you are carrying breast milk in excess of 3.4 ounces in your carry-on bag. Also, be sure to remove it from your bag to be screened separately from the rest of your belongings. Typically, these liquids are screened by X-ray.

How many ounces of breastmilk can you travel with?

3.4 ounces
Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters are allowed in carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag.

What is the TSA liquid limit?

3.4 ounces
3.4 ounces or less per container. 1 quart size, clear, plastic, zip top bag (all liquids must fit in bag) 1 bag per passenger.