Breastfeeding On The Go!
One of the most convenient things about breastfeeding is that your breasts are always with you. When you travel, your food source is literally attached to you. But nursing on the go can be difficult, here are some things I’ve learned along the way!
On the plane/train/bus:
I’ve now flown internationally 3 times with a nursing infant, and once with a nursing infant and toddler. I do pump for donation and it has been important to me to keep that up while traveling. On the plane I always nurse the same I would in any public place. I chose not to use a cover but if you do, I would bring it with. I do bring a cover for pumping. It can be done right at your seat with a cover (or without!) and a bit of confidence. I use a manual pump in public places just because I personally think it’s easier to manage but a battery operated pump would work well also. I am now so glad I have my Rumina pump and nurse tanks so I can be hands free while pumping in a public space, especially a confined one like an airplane. Most people will be none the wiser.
In a hotel:
Most hotels will be able to provide a fridge if you request one in advance. Sometimes you have to pay for this, I never have when I explain what it’s needed for. Nursing in a hotel room is just about the same as nursing at home. Most of the time my little have been distracted by their new environment and nurse a little less during the first day or 2 but they adapt easily and are back to our normal schedule in no time!
When on vacation I choose to nurse wherever we are for the most part. I’ve nursed at pools, the beach, on tours, on boats, and just about everywhere else! Swimwear is typically very easy to nurse in. I also Babywearing often and will use a ring sling so I can use the tail to cover anything I don’t feel comfortable exposing. The sling also gives baby some comfort in an unfamiliar environment. I also always make sure I have clothing on that is easily accessible. We tend to pick hot vacation destinations which lends itself towards breastfeeding friendly clothing. But be mindful during business trips and whatnot of how easy it will be to adjust your clothing to nurse or pump.
I have found traveling with a nursing Infant very easy. We have traveled internationally and find that other countries can be more accepting of public nursing. I am always mindful of my surroundings but have never had any issues. We have also traveled domestically many times and find it very enjoyable with an infant. A little planning goes a long way so making sure clothing is accessible, a place to store milk is available, and you have any supplies you may need will make the trip much less stressful.
Here is my “nursing travel list”
*manual pump
*battery operated/plug in pump
*milk storage bags
*cover for pumping
*soft sided cooler
*blue ice packs
*Rumina pump n nurse tanks and bras
*easily accessible clothing
*extra membrane for pump
*extra tubing for pump
I tend to bring more extra supplies if I’m traveling to an area where these things aren’t readily available. I bring all of my nursing supplies in my carry on just in case my checked luggage takes a detour.
Traveling is stressful, but with a little planning and flexibility it can be fun and easy! Even with a nursing (or pumping) little! Enjoy!
Enjoying our stress free trip to Cozumel, Mexico!