The Best Tips for Breastfeeding and Stress-Free Traveling
Is it possible for a breastfeeding mom to travel stress-free?
Here are the best tips to at least make things go a little more smoothly.
5 Things to Know About TSA & Breastmilk
Fortunately, breastfeeding mamas traveling with breastmilk are an exception to the standard TSA rules we typically follow when traveling.
Unlike having to dump your venti latte before going thru security, breastmilk in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces is allowed
Work travel or girls trip? You don’t need your baby in tow to take breastmilk with you
Ice packs, freezer packs, or frozen gel packs required to keep breastmilk are allowed in a carry-on
If you don’t want your breast milk to be opened or put through the X-ray machine, you can ask for an alternative screening methods
Locate Nursing Rooms BEFORE Heading to The Airport
As you're planning for your trip, it's a good idea to check out where the nursing rooms are located. You can breastfeed your baby wherever you're comfortable, but nursing rooms are a great place to pump.
You'll find that most airports post nursing room locations on their website. If you're flying out of the DMV, here you go!
Terminal 1:
One room located pre-security near the TSA Security CheckpointTerminal 2:Four rooms located post-security on the Concourse/Gates Level accessible by Gates B10-E59
Two are located between Gates B10-B22 and Gates C23-C34The other two rooms are located between Gates E46-E59Dulles Airport (IAD)
PRE-SECURITY IN BAGGAGE CLAIMS:
Next to the restrooms across from Baggage Claims 2, 6, 11 and 14
POST SECURITY:
A-Gates: Near Gate A20
B-Gates: Near Gate B70 (w/ private restroom)
C-Gates: Near Gate C11 (w/ sink)
D-Gates: Near Gate D1
Dulles gets an A++ for so many nursing rooms for breastfeeding and pumping mamas.
How To Protect Your Milk Supply When Traveling Without Your Baby
How does a breastfeeding mom maintain a healthy supply? The answer is simple.
You have to move milk to make milk. So if you're traveling solo, it's important to pump at the frequency your baby eats when you're nursing. Depending on your baby's age, the stretches between pumping will vary.
It's important to have a quality pump when you're on the go. I've found that many moms have more success with a manual pump than a wireless pump like the WIllow or the Elvie.
Whichever pump you use, keep that milk moving!
In-Home Breastfeeding Support
If the baby's here and you need help now, text me @ 703.952.5405 for the quickest reply.
Amy Tanzillo, IBCLC | Thrive Breastfeeding, LLC
Supporting families for a more confident breastfeeding journey