What are the rules on flying with breast milk?

Understanding the Rules for Flying with Breast Milk
Traveling with breast milk can be a complex endeavor, especially for nursing mothers who want to ensure their infants have access to their milk while on the go. Fortunately, regulations have been established to facilitate this process, primarily governed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States, though international rules can vary significantly.
TSA Guidelines
According to the TSA, passengers are allowed to bring a “reasonable” amount of breast milk aboard an airplane, even if it exceeds the standard liquid limit of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) typically imposed on carry-on liquids. This exemption applies to breast milk, formula, and juice for toddlers, which are classified as medically necessary liquids. However, what constitutes a “reasonable” amount is somewhat subjective and may depend on the discretion of the security personnel at the airport.
When traveling, mothers do not need to have their child present to carry breast milk, which is a significant relief for those flying without their infants. This flexibility allows mothers to transport milk for later use, whether for a caregiver or for when they reunite with their child.
International Variations
While the TSA provides a clear framework for domestic flights, international travel introduces additional complexities. Different countries have their own regulations regarding the transport of breast milk. For instance, in the UK, travelers can carry up to 2000 ml (67 ounces) of breast milk in their carry-on luggage, provided it is not frozen. Conversely, if the milk is frozen, it must be placed in checked luggage. This inconsistency highlights the importance of checking the specific rules of the destination country before traveling.
Storage and Transportation Tips
For those concerned about the safety and integrity of breast milk during travel, it is advisable to use insulated containers or coolers to maintain the milk’s temperature. The storage compartments on airplanes are generally cool enough to keep breast milk safe for the duration of a domestic flight. Additionally, mothers can carry breast pumps as personal items, similar to laptops or purses, ensuring they have the necessary equipment to express milk while traveling.
Conclusion
Navigating the rules for flying with breast milk requires a bit of preparation and awareness of both TSA guidelines and international regulations. By understanding these rules and planning accordingly, nursing mothers can travel with confidence, ensuring their infants have access to their essential nutrition, no matter where their journeys take them.

How long can breast milk be in a cool bag?

24 hours
Breast milk that’s been cooled in the fridge can be carried in a cool bag with ice packs for up to 24 hours. Storing breast milk in small quantities will help avoid waste. If you’re freezing it, make sure you label and date it first.

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.

Does breast pump count as carry-on?

Breast pumps and baby formula are allowed to be carried onto an aircraft and don’t count against your carry-on allowance. Be sure to notify a TSA officer when going through the security check-in.

How much breastmilk can I bring on a plane?

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.

What are the rules for breast milk?

Never store breast milk in disposable bottle liners or plastic bags that are not intended for storing breast milk. Freshly expressed or pumped milk can be stored: At room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours. In the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

How do you keep breast milk frozen while flying?

Tips for Transporting Breast Milk on a Flight

• When freezing your milk, lie it down flat in the freezer.
• Purchase a cooler that has a leakproof zipper and closed-cell rubber foam lining to ensure milk will stay cold.
• Pack the cooler with one reusable ice block on the bottom and one on the top.

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).

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.

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 long can breast milk and formula sit out?

Type of Breast Milk or Formula	Place and Temperature
Freshly expressed or pumped breast milk	Up to 4 hours	Up to 4 days
Thawed breast milk from freezer	Up to 2 hours	Up to 24 hours
Prepared infant formula	Up to 2 hours after preparing (1 hour if your baby has already started feeding)	Up to 24 hours