Vacation time has arrived! You’d be psyched if you weren’t stressing about what unexpected hiccups traveling with a baby may bring. One common concern is how to manage breast milk and breast pumps through airport security. The good news is, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific, clear rules designed to support parents. Understanding these TSA breast milk rules can help ease your travel worries and ensure your breastfeeding journey continues smoothly, even on the go.
TSA Breast Milk Rules: The Essentials
To give you some immediate relief, know that a mama’s breastmilk rules are different from the everyday passenger. When you’re flying with breast milk, it’s important to know the key regulations.
Exempt from the 3-1-1 Rule: Unlike other liquids, breast milk (and formula, and juice for infants) is exempt from the 3-1-1 rule for carry-on luggage. This means there is no quantity limit for how much milk you can bring. You heard that right: you can bring as much as you need.
The 3-1-1 Rule states a carry on bag is limited to 3.4oz (100mL) of liquid (3) in one (1) transparent quart size bag per passenger (1). But, reiterate, this does NOT apply to you, breastfeeding mama! You can carry breast milk in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces in your carry-on bag and it does not need to fit into a quart-sized bag.
Form of Milk: The rules–or lack of the 3-1-1 rule–applies whether your breast milk is fresh, frozen, or partially thawed. Just be prepared for them to be screened separately.
Note that it is possible that TSA will also require partially thawed breast milk for testing. It’s not common and just depends on the airport. They could require enough liquid to use a sanitary test strip to test it.
Cooling Aids Allowed: Ice packs, freezer packs, and frozen gel packs are permitted in carry-on bags to keep your breast milk cool, even if they are partially melted. These are also exempt from the 3-1-1 rule as well.
Declaration is Key: Always declare that you are carrying breast milk (and associated cooling aids) to a TSA officer at the start of the screening process. This helps them guide you through the correct procedure where these things can be screened separately.
Screening Process: Your breast milk will be screened, but you can request that your milk not be x-rayed. If you opt out of x-ray screening, the TSA officer will likely perform additional screening, which may include opening the containers or a separate search. You have the right to refuse the opening of sealed containers if you are concerned about contamination. In such cases, alternative screening procedures will be offered. Don’t stress it too much; TSA officers are trained to accommodate breastfeeding parents.
Why These Rules Matter for Breastfeeding Moms
These relaxed TSA breast milk rules are vital for mothers. They allow you to maintain your milk supply by keeping to your pumping schedule while traveling. This flexibility ensures your baby receives their essential nutrition without interruption, whether you’re traveling with them or pumping while away. It reduces stress, making air travel a less daunting experience for breastfeeding moms.
Traveling with Your Breast Pump
Good news! Your breast pump is considered a medical device by the TSA. Here is what this means:
Carry-On or Checked: You can bring your breast pump as a carry-on item in addition to your personal bag, or you can check it. Many moms prefer to carry it on to avoid potential damage or loss.
No Special Screening: Your breast pump will go through standard x-ray screening like other electronics.
Simplify Your Travel with the Right Pump
A high-quality breast pump designed for portability can make all the difference when flying. Choosing a pump that is efficient and easy to clean aligns perfectly with the demands of airport security and busy travel days.
At Hygeia Health, we understand the unique needs of breastfeeding moms on the go. Our high-quality breast pump, the Hygeia Express, is built for reliability and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for travel.
Did you know that many insurance plans cover the cost of a breast pump? Hygeia Health specializes in helping moms navigate this process to get a 100% insurance-covered breast pump. Ready to travel with confidence, knowing your milk supply is supported? Apply today to see if you qualify for the Hygeia Express and make your next flight a breeze.