How to get through TSA with breast milk?

Navigating TSA with Breast Milk: A Comprehensive Guide
Traveling with breast milk can be a daunting task for nursing mothers, especially when it comes to navigating airport security. However, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has established guidelines to facilitate this process, ensuring that mothers can transport their milk safely and efficiently. Here’s what you need to know to get through TSA with breast milk.
Understanding TSA Regulations
The TSA recognizes breast milk as a medically necessary liquid, which means it is exempt from the standard 3-1-1 liquids rule that typically limits liquids to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) in carry-on baggage. Mothers can carry as much breast milk as they need, and it does not have to fit within a quart-sized bag. This exemption applies not only to breast milk but also to formula and juice in larger quantities .
Preparation is Key
Before heading to the airport, it’s essential to prepare adequately. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth experience:
1. Inform TSA Agents: Upon reaching the security checkpoint, inform the TSA agent that you are carrying breast milk. This proactive step allows them to prepare for an additional inspection, which may involve screening the milk separately.
2. Use Appropriate Containers: Store breast milk in leak-proof containers or bags. This not only prevents spills but also makes it easier for TSA agents toNavigating TSA with Breast Milk
Breast milk is considered a medically necessary liquid by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which means you can bring it through airport security without having to follow the standard 3-1-1 liquids rule.
Here are some tips for getting through TSA smoothly when traveling with breast milk:
Declare your breast milk upfront: When you approach the security checkpoint, inform the TSA agent that you have breast milk that needs to be screened separately. This will allow them to properly inspect it.
Keep breast milk separate: Pack your breast milk in a separate bag or cooler so it can be easily identified and screened. You do not need to travel with your child to bring breast milk through security.
Ice packs are allowed: You can bring ice packs, freezer packs, or frozen gel packs to keep your breast milk cool. These accessories are permitted even if they are partially frozen or slushy.
Avoid x-ray machines: If possible, request a manual inspection of your breast milk instead of sending it through the x-ray machine. The x-rays could potentially damage the milk.
Know your rights: The TSA is required to screen your breast milk respectfully and without issue. If you encounter any problems, you can contact the TSA directly at 866-289-9673 for assistance.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth security screening process when traveling with your precious breast milk.

Does a cooler for breastmilk count as a 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.

How to bring expressed breast milk on a plane?

At the beginning of the screening process, inform the TSA officer that you are carrying expressed milk or related accessories, and separate them from other liquids, gels, and aerosols that are limited to 3.4 oz. (100 mL) each, subject to TSA’s Liquids Rule.

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.

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.

Can babies drink cold breast milk?

Breast milk does not need to be warmed. It can be served room temperature or cold.

What can I do with breast milk instead of dumping?

6 Creative Ways to Use Breast Milk as a Home Remedy

1. Soothing Baby’s Diaper Rash.
2. Clearing Baby’s Stuffy Nose.
3. Easing Teething Pain.
4. Treating Baby’s Acne.
5. Helping Baby’s Cradle Cap.
6. Healing Cuts and Scrapes.

How many bottles of baby milk can I take on a plane?

If you’ve already got a muslin swaddle blanket for baby just tie it around your neck and you’re sorted, plus it’s cheaper too. If you’re formula feeding while travelling, you can take as many bottles as you need through the airport (within reason) as the restrictions on liquids doesn’t apply to baby food.

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 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.

How do you bring breast milk through TSA?

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.