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Breastfeeding & Pumping

7 Things You NEED to Pack in Your Breastfeeding Pump Bag

7 Things You NEED to Pack in Your Breastfeeding Pump Bag

Preparing to pump while traveling or on-the-go? Here’s what you’ll want to pack in your pumping bag. 

Whether you’re prepping for a trip or just planning to start pumping on the go, having a well-packed pump bag is critical. 

The reality is that pumping requires a lot of gear! You’ll need your pump and parts, accessories, cleaning supplies, and a cooler for storing your milk. Not to mention your essential items: a water bottle and snacks, a shawl or sweater for staying warm (and extra discretion), a change of clothes (hello, leaky breasts), and more. 

Having everything you need in arm’s reach can provide you with more peace of mind and less stress — critical for maintaining a healthy supply and (equally as important!) enjoying yourself while you’re out and about. 

Read on to learn: 

  • How to pick the perfect pump bag
  • 7 must-have items to pack 
  • Tips for packing and organizing your bag 

    Selecting the Perfect Breast Pump Travel Bag

    When picking a pumping bag, look for something that’s sleek (so you’ll actually want to wear it), sturdy, and easy to clean with multiple compartments for storing everything you need. Make sure it’s roomy without being too large or heavy — you’ll already have your hands full! 

    Many bags, like our Pump Anywhere Bag, can be worn in multiple ways for convenience and comfort. (Ours can be styled as a backpack, cross-body bag, or shoulder bag.) Depending on what else you’re carrying, whether or not you’re also holding a baby, this can be game-changing! 

    Also, try to find a bag with built-in insulation for storing your milk at a safe temperature. This eliminates the need for a separate cooler bag or thermos. 

    Must-Have Items to Pack in Your Breastfeeding Pump Bag

    1. Wearable Breast Pump 

    There are so many reasons to choose a wearable breast pump if you’ll be pumping while traveling, commuting, or simply just out and about. 

    For starters, they make it possible to pump without being plugged into the wall, leaving you hands-free and untethered. Additionally, many are app-connected and controlled — allowing you to manage your pumps, adjust your suction levels, and see how much you’ve pumped without reaching into your bra. Some pumps, like the Willow 360, are even leak-proof — making it possible to pump in any position without spills.

    Wearable pumps vary in their size and design, so you’ll want to do your research. Ideally, you’ll choose one that’s fully in-bra without any dangling motors, cords, or clips. (The Willow 360 and Willow Go both fit this bill with a shape that mimics the breast for unparalleled discretion and comfort.)

    No matter what the design, make sure the pump is built with hospital-grade suction and compatible with multiple flanges and insert sizes for optimal milk output. 

    2. Pump Accessories 

    Make sure to pack all of your necessary pump parts and accessories, including milk containers, flanges, diaphragms, duckbills, and charger/cables. If you have room, it’s never a bad idea to carry an extra set of parts — this will come in handy if you misplace something, and make it so that you don’t have to spend time at the sink after every session.

    3. Milk Storage Bottles or Bags

    Before heading out, make a plan for how you’ll store your milk. If you plan on feeding your baby right away, consider pouring your milk into bottles; if it will be stored in the fridge or freezer, transfer it into milk storage bags. Look for bags that are durable, leak-free, made without BPA, and can be labeled with the date and amount pumped.

    4. Cooler Bag with Ice Packs

    Once you have your milk in a bottle or storage bag, you’ll need to keep it cold! An insulated cooler bag with ice packs or an insulated thermos, like our Portable Breast Milk Cooler, will allow you to store your milk at the right temperature until you can put it in the fridge or freezer. Remember that milk can remain at room temperature for no longer than four hours before it's unsafe to feed to your baby. If your breastmilk is still frozen, make sure you properly thaw it for safe consumption.

    5. Cleaning Supplies

    If you know you’ll have access to a sink, you’ll want to pack a small bottle brush, soap designed to remove milk residue, and a drying rack like our Travel Cleaning Pack. Otherwise, stash cleaning supplies like wipes and spray which you can use until you’re ready to give your parts a more thorough wash.

    6. Nursing Cover or Scarf

    Remember that you have the right to pump in public, whether you’re in the airport, on an airplane, or anywhere else! That said, many moms feel more comfortable having a nursing cover, shawl, or scarf for a little added discretion. Added bonus: public spaces can be cold!

    7. Personal Items

    Make sure to pack a water bottle and snacks! One of the best things you can do to support your breast milk supply is to stay hydrated. Breast milk is composed of about 88% water, so it’s critical that you replenish what your body is sharing with your baby by drinking more than you normally would! A good goal is to drink a glass of water during every pump session. 

    You’ll also need about 400 extra calories per day while you’re breastfeeding. Focus on snacks that are full of healthy protein and fats, like nuts, string cheese, jerky sticks, individual containers of Greek yogurt, and hard-boiled eggs. 

    Beyond food and water, don’t forget hand sanitizer and any necessary breast care essentials like nipple cream or breast pads.

    Additional Tips for Packing and Organizing Your Pump Bag

    Here are a few additional tips: 

    • If you’re new to pumping on the go, it can be helpful to create a checklist to ensure that you don’t forget anything. Write it in a notebook or in the Notes section of your phone! 
    • Use pouches or small bags like these silicone Stasher bags for keeping pump parts and other small items in place. (Silicone bags are also great for storing wet or soiled pump parts.)
    • Find a consistent time to “restock” your bag depending on how often you use it. (This is a great tip for keeping your baby’s diaper bag full of what you need as well!)

    Prepare Your Perfectly-Packed Pump Bag with Willow

    Now you’re ready to pack your pumping bag like a pro! 

    If you’re still looking for a pumping bag, check out our bestselling Pump Anywhere Bag. (Our Pump Anywhere Case is a great option if you’re planning on carrying your pump in your baby’s diaper bag or another bag.)

    If you’re searching for milk storage options, shop our Portable Breast Milk Cooler: it’s designed to store up to 16 oz of milk at a safe temperature for up to 24 hours, and it fits perfectly in the bottom section of our Pump Anywhere Bag. 

    And if you haven’t picked a pump yet, explore our Willow 360 and Willow Go pumps and join the hundreds of thousands of moms who trust their feeding journeys to Willow. 

    For more pumping tips, visit our blog and subscribe to our YouTube channel for expert-backed guidance.

    Breast Pump Travel Bag FAQs    

    What type of bag is best for carrying my breast pump and accessories?

    Look for a dedicated breast pump bag with multiple compartments, insulation, and enough space for your pump, accessories, and personal items.  

    How do I keep my breast milk cool while on the go?

    Use a cooler bag with ice packs to keep your expressed breast milk at a safe temperature. Make sure to have enough ice packs to maintain the cool temperature during your outing. You can also store your milk in a breast milk cooler. 

    What should I do if I forget to pack a crucial item in my pump bag?

    It’s helpful to keep a small checklist of essential items to avoid forgetting anything. In a pinch, you can often find cleaning supplies or purchase additional storage bottles or bags from stores or pharmacies.

    How often should I check and update my pump bag?

    Regularly check and update your pump bag to ensure you always have what you need. Refill any used items, check that all pump parts are clean and functioning, and update the contents to match your current needs.

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