Hey mama! Whether you're traveling for work, a family vacation, or just trying to get through the airport with your little one, pumping on the go can feel overwhelming. I've been there—juggling pump parts, trying to find a clean space, and wondering how on earth I'm going to keep my milk cold until I get home. Let me share what I've learned to make airport pumping way less stressful.

Finding Lactation Rooms at the Airport

Here's some good news: most major airports now have dedicated lactation rooms! They're usually clean, private spaces with comfortable seating, electrical outlets, and sometimes even a sink. Some are absolutely amazing with multiple stations, while others are more basic—but hey, it beats pumping in a bathroom stall.

How to Find Them:

• Check the airport's website before you go: Most airports list their lactation room locations on their site or app. I always look this up while I'm packing so I know exactly where to go
• Look for the Mamava app: Many airports have Mamava pods (those cute little lactation suites), and the app shows you exactly where they are
• Ask at information desks: Airport staff are usually super helpful and can point you in the right direction
• Check near family restrooms: Lactation rooms are often located near family facilities

A Little Local Pride:

I'm so proud to share that Milk & Baby actually helped create a nursing room at Louisville's SDF airport! It's one of those full-circle moments—knowing that moms traveling through our hometown airport have a comfortable, private space to pump or nurse. If you're flying through Louisville, definitely check it out!

What If There's No Lactation Room?

Not every airport has caught up yet, and sometimes you're stuck in a smaller terminal. Here are your backup options:

• Family restrooms: More spacious and private than regular stalls, with an outlet and somewhere to set your stuff down
• Nursing cover at your gate: If you're comfortable with it, you can pump right at your gate with a nursing cover. I've done this more times than I can count
• Empty gate areas: Sometimes you can find a quiet corner at an unused gate
• Airport lounges: If you have access, many lounges have private areas or at least more comfortable seating

The TSA and Your Breast Milk

Let's clear this up because it can be confusing: breast milk is exempt from the 3.4-ounce liquid rule. You can bring as much as you need through security, whether you're traveling with your baby or not.

What to Know:

• Tell the TSA officer you have breast milk before screening begins
• It will likely need to be screened separately (they might test it or use an X-ray)
• You do NOT have to taste it or open the containers
• Ice packs and gel packs to keep milk cold are also allowed
• Bring your pump in your carry-on—you don't want that getting lost in checked luggage!

Keeping Your Milk Cold

This was always my biggest worry—will my milk stay fresh until I get home? Here's what actually works:

The Best Setup:

• A good cooler bag: Invest in an insulated cooler bag designed for breast milk. I love the ones that come with some pump bags
• Ice packs: Freeze them solid the night before. I usually pack 4-6 ice packs for a full day of travel
• Storage bags: Pump directly into storage bags when possible to save space and reduce what you need to clean
• Ask for ice: Once you're through security, you can ask restaurants or coffee shops for a cup of ice to add to your cooler

How Long Will It Stay Cold?

With a good cooler and enough ice packs, your milk should stay cold for 24 hours. If you're traveling longer than that, you might need to:

• Ship milk home (yes, this is a thing! FedEx and UPS offer this)
• Ask your hotel to freeze your milk
• Use dry ice (check airline regulations first)

Cleaning Pump Parts on the Go

Okay, this is where things get real. You can't exactly deep-clean your pump parts in an airport bathroom sink. Here's what I do:

The Quick Clean Method:

• Medela Quick Clean wipes: These are a lifesaver for wiping down parts between pumping sessions
• The fridge hack: Put your pump parts in a ziplock bag and store them in your cooler between sessions. You can use them 2-3 times before they need a real wash
• Bring extras: If you have room, pack an extra set of parts so you're not scrambling to clean between flights
• Rinse when you can: If there's a sink in the lactation room, give them a quick rinse with water

Save the Deep Clean for Later:

Don't stress about sterilizing at the airport. A quick rinse or wipe-down is fine for a day of travel. You can do a proper wash and sterilize when you get to your destination.

My Airport Pumping Packing List

Here's what I always pack in my carry-on:

• Breast pump with all parts and charger
• Extra set of pump parts (just in case)
• Breast milk storage bags
• Insulated cooler bag with 4-6 ice packs
• Cleaning wipes for pump parts
• Nursing cover or light blanket
• Hands-free pumping bra (game changer!)
• Ziplock bags for storing used parts
• Snacks and water for me (pumping makes you hungry!)
• Phone charger (for pumping entertainment)

Traveling With Baby vs. Without

With Baby:

If your little one is with you, you might be able to nurse instead of pump, which makes things easier. But if you're building a stash or baby is sleeping, you'll still need to pump. The good news? You can usually find family-friendly spaces more easily.

Without Baby:

This is when pumping becomes non-negotiable to maintain your supply. Build in extra time between flights for pumping sessions—I usually plan for 20-30 minutes every 3-4 hours. And don't feel weird about it! You're doing what you need to do for your baby back home.

Real Talk: It's Okay to Feel Stressed

Pumping while traveling is a lot. You're managing your pump schedule, worrying about your milk supply, dealing with TSA, and trying to catch your flight. Give yourself grace. If you miss a pumping session, it's okay. If you have to pump in a less-than-ideal spot, you're still doing great. Every ounce you pump while traveling is a win.

Final Tips From One Traveling Mama to Another

• Build in extra time—everything takes longer when you're pumping
• Wear easy-access clothing (button-up shirts or nursing-friendly tops)
• Download a podcast or show to watch while pumping
• Don't be afraid to advocate for yourself—you have the right to pump
• Remember that this season is temporary, even when it feels endless

You've got this, mama! Safe travels, and may all your flights be on time and your milk stay cold. ✈️💕