How to Travel with Breast Milk or Baby Formula

Having extra breast milk or baby formula on hand if a lifesaver when you're travelling. Knowing how to properly store, transport and handle these supplies is essential for smooth travel. Building a safe supply allows you to travel stress-free, while keeping baby's feeding routine on track. In these guide, we'll cover pumping and storing breast milk, safe thawing, pumping and preparing bottles, so you're prepared before your next adventure. 

Pumping for a week’s supply of breast milk can help you avoid last-minute stress and make sure you’re well-prepared for your trip. Give yourself a head start by adjusting your pumping schedule at least a few weeks before you travel. Pumping about an hour after your baby’s first morning feed often yields the highest volume. Since breast milk remains safe in the freezer for up to six months, gradually building up your supply leaves you less rushed and more confident as your departure date approaches. To minimise waste and simplify thawing, freeze breast milk in small volumes from your earliest pumping sessions, and be sure to label each container with the date and time it was transferred to the freezer.

For long-term storage, breast milk should be stored in a freezer at or below 0°C. If a freezer isn’t available, store it between 0–4°C for up to 24 hours before feeding. When traveling, an insulated cooler or diaper bag with ice packs helps maintain these safe temperatures, so your milk, formula, and even baby food stay chilled until you’re ready to use them.

In the Fridge

If you don’t have a bottle warmer, one of the safest methods is to thaw breast milk slowly in the fridge—ideally overnight or for about 12 hours—so it defrosts at a consistent temperature (NHS Guidelines). Once thawed, use it within 24 hours to minimise the risk of bacterial growth. Remember to label your containers and use older milk first. Any milk offered to your baby during the day should be discarded immediately after a feeding or within one to two hours, and never re-freeze breast milk that has already been thawed.

In Warm Water

If you don’t have a bottle warmer, one of the safest methods is to thaw breast milk slowly in the fridge—ideally overnight or for about 12 hours—so it defrosts at a consistent temperature. Once thawed, use it within 24 hours to minimise the risk of bacterial growth. Remember to label your containers and use older milk first. Any milk offered to your baby during the day should be discarded immediately after a feeding or within one to two hours, and never re-freeze breast milk that has already been thawed.

Note: Avoid using a microwave to thaw or heat breast milk or formula. Microwaving can create dangerous hot spots and damage nutrients in the milk.

The key to pumping away from your baby is consistency: try to stick to your usual schedule as closely as possible. Pumping at the same times each day signals your body to maintain milk production and simplifies the transition back to your regular routine once you return. If you’re still establishing a rhythm, aim for a session every three hours, which helps prevent engorgement and keeps supply steady.

It also helps to plan ahead for where and how you’ll pump. A portable, hands-free pump can make it easier to fit sessions into your day, especially if you’re in transit or away from your usual setup. 

Keeping breast milk frozen during travel often starts with using a high-quality, insulated cooler that has an airtight seal. To maintain a temperature below 0°C and prevent thawing, fill any empty spaces with frozen ice packs, and pre-freeze your bottles the night before packing them into your nappy bag. If the milk warms above 4°C, it can develop harmful contaminants, so it’s important to keep your cooler cold and sealed whenever possible.

When traveling with breast milk in checked luggage, it helps to pack frozen milk tightly into a well-insulated cooler bag and distribute ice packs throughout. make sure to label your bag clearly for security. Once you reach your destination, transfer the milk to a freezer or refrigerator right away to keep it safe for your baby.

Preparing formula bottles in advance can make travel much simpler, as it spares you from measuring and mixing on the spot. Once pre-mixed, keep them in an insulated cooler or bag and plan to use them within 24 hours if you’re not freezing them. At room temperature, formula remains safe for about two hours—after that, it should be chilled or discarded to prevent bacterial growth.

To ensure safety and freshness, pack the bottles in airtight containers alongside ice packs to maintain a consistent cold temperature. Avoid reopening or shaking them unnecessarily, and discard any leftover formula that’s been out too long.

Traveling with breast milk or baby formula may seem intimidating at first, but with the right preparation and tools, it can become a manageable and smooth experience. By following these guidelines, you’ll make sure your breast milk or baby formula stays safe and fresh while you focus on enjoying your trip. From choosing the right storage methods to using reliable warming techniques, you have everything you need to keep your little one well-fed on the go. Safe travels and happy feeding!