How much breast milk can I carry-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 standard liquid limits imposed on other carry-on items. This is particularly important for nursing mothers who need to ensure their babies have access to their milk while traveling.
Quantity Limits and Regulations
According to the TSA, there is no strict limit on the amount of breast milk you can carry on a plane. Instead, travelers are permitted to bring a “reasonable” amount of breast milk, formula, and toddler drinks, even if these exceed the usual limit of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) that applies to other liquids . This means that whether you’re carrying a few ounces or several bottles, you can do so without worrying about fitting everything into a quart-sized bag, which is a requirement for most other liquids.
Screening Process
When you arrive at the airport, it’s essential to inform the TSA agents that you are traveling with breast milk. You will need to remove these items from your carry-on luggage for separate screening. This process is designed to ensure safety while accommodating the needs of nursing mothers.
Storage and Transportation Tips
For those planning to transport larger quantities of breast milk, such as during a longer trip, using an insulated cooler bag with ice packs is advisable. This method can keep the milk fresh for up to 24 hours, making it easier to manage during your travels. Additionally, if you’re concerned about the logistics of carrying a significant amount—like 150 ounces for a short trip—consider packing it in a cooler as your personal item, which can help you stay organized and compliant with airline regulations.
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, you can ensure a smooth journey while keeping your baby well-fed. Whether you’re flying for a short trip or a longer journey, the key is to plan ahead and communicate with airport security to make the process as seamless as possible.

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 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).

Is there a limit to breast milk on plane?

Checked Bags: Yes
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.

How to transport breast milk when traveling?

It is best to seal your breast milk bottles in ziploc bags and then pad them with crumpled up newspaper inside your cooler of dry ice. You can print out a FedEx shipping label online. I have heard of people shipping breast milk on regular ice via overnight US mail.

How much breastmilk can I take on a plane?

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 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 much breast milk can you fly 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 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.