Traveling can be a hassle, especially when you’re a new parent. The last thing that you want is to be caught up in a situation with the TSA because of ignorance of TSA rules for breast milk for example.
This might be the case if you’re a nursing mother or if you’re traveling with breast milk. There are certain guidelines you’ll need to follow to ensure a smooth airport experience.
In this blog post, we’ll be informing you of the rules and regulations for traveling with breast milk, and share a few tips to make your journey a lot easier.
TSA Rules for Breast Milk: Quantities Allowed
TSA regulations allow you to bring as much breast milk as needed for your baby’s journey. You are not limited by the 3.4 oz. limit applied to other liquids carried on board.
However, if you’re carrying more than 3.4 oz. containers, they must all be screened separately.
In this scenario, you will be required to remove the containers from your carry-on luggage and declare them during the screening process.
As long as you comply with these rules, your milk should be authorized to pass through TSA checkpoints without any problem.
TSA Rules for Breast Milk: Containers
Breast milk can be stored in any container, regardless of sizes and forms. When packing your breast milk, it’s best to separate it into smaller containers of 3.4 oz. or less to make it easier for screening.
You can also use sterlized breastfeeding bags, plastic bottles, or special storage bags. TSA agents may request that you open and close the bottles/lids to show that the contents are indeed liquid.
TSA Rules for Breast Milk: Screening Process
It’s common knowledge that all carry-on luggage must undergo the TSA screening process. Likewise, breast milk carries must pass through the same screening.
TSA agents have received special training in inspecting breast milk, so they understand the importance of this commodity to nursing mothers.
They are required to conduct tests on the milk to make sure it is authentic, but they will never ask you to open the bottles or waste your milk during testing.
You are also allowed to carry frozen breast milk through the screening process, but it must be defrosted prior to the screening.
Tips when traveling with Breast Milk
Travel can be stressful, and this can affect you, your baby, and your breast milk. Here are three tips to make your journey smoother:
- Use ice-packs in your cooler to keep your milk cool and fresh.
- Have extra bottles, lids, and breast milk bags on hand for emergencies.
- If you’re on a long haul flight, use a manual pump to express milk, which is a lot easier to pack than an electric one.
Traveling with breast milk doesn’t have to be a complicated process. The TSA has put measures in place to make sure that nursing mothers and their babies are not inconvenienced during airport proceedings.
As long as you follow the guidelines and tips provided in this blog post, you should be able to travel with breast milk without issue. So, pack smartly, breathe easy, and have a happy journey!
