Historically, breastfeeding and pumping could feel limiting. You may not have wanted to leave home as often, or maybe you’ve been worried that traveling will alter your schedule and milk supply. But the reality is, we’ve got everything you need to live life on your terms and maintain your milk supply, too. All it takes is a little prep.

Whether you’re hopping a plane or train, or going on a meandering road trip, you don’t have to press pause on your plans. Here’s the truth about travel + pumping, and top tips to make the most of your next adventure.

Does Traveling Impact My Milk Supply?

Yes and no. While the physical act of traveling does not alter your milk supply, the change in pattern can.

As you know, your milk supply heavily relies on supply and demand to regulate itself. During travel, it can be easy to fall off of your normal schedules and skip pumping sessions altogether, especially if you experience jetlag!

Outside of pumping schedules, it can be easy to forget to hydrate and eat, which directly affects your milk supply.

While traveling, pay attention to your eating and drinking habits. Keep bottled water nearby  at all times and either pack or purchase snacks that will help keep you energized and promote your milk supply!

Flying with Your Breast Pump

Did you know you can bring your breast pump on the plane with you? Wipe away your fear of your pump being taken at security. Your breast pump is a medical device, and therefore considered medically necessary. It’s allowed to accompany you in your carry-on.

You will want to be sure to pack your pump bag with all of the essentials:

• Pump parts

• Sanitizing wipes

• Pumping bras

• Your pump (of course)

• Pump charging cords

• Pump carrying case

If you are flying with breast milk, you will want to make sure you are following the recommended guidelines for milk storage.  While sanitizing wipes are the easiest way to clean en route, consider the Travel Cleaning Pack for giving pumps and bottles a convenient and thorough clean at your destination.

Taking a Road Trip with Your Breast Pump

First things first: You should never pump and drive, but if you need to pump while you’re still on the go, either switch to the passenger’s side or pull over for a quick pumping session. A few other important things to consider on the road are:

• Battery life: Your pump will need to be recharged along the way if you are taking a long trip. You’ll want to be sure you have a way to do so. This could be a car outlet or even a separate power source that allows you to plug in your charger and keep driving!

• Backup pump parts: While you could stop and wash your pump parts at a rest area, it’s simpler to bring extra parts and sanitizing wipes. This saves you the concern of washing pump parts in a public restroom.
  

Pumping on a Train Ride

Whether you’re on the subway, Metro, Tube, or an Amtrak, breast pumps are welcome along public transportation – and trains are no exception! Many train stations offer private lactation spaces for pumping and nursing. Check the website of your location to make sure this is available at your station.

While a road trip may allow access to a cooler, a train ride may not. But both modes of transport are a great time to use the Breast Milk Cooler, which offers two ways to cool, and cools faster and stays colder for up to 24 hours vs. leading milk coolers.*

*Compared to leading milk coolers in Eurofins 2026 controlled, third-party testing

Bringing Your Breast Pump on a Cruise

Why not?! Let’s start by saying that every cruise line has their own process for handling breast milk, so you’ll want to be sure to contact your specific cruise line prior to your departure.

Depending on your cruise line, you may have the option to:

• Bring a cooler aboard and request ice for your stateroom every day. This is a great option for moms who are pumping and feeding their baby freshly expressed milk every day.

• Ask if there is a medical fridge where you can store your milk. This is a great option for moms who are traveling without their baby or have an oversupply they would like to bring back home with them.

• Rent a medical fridge that will stay in your stateroom. This option is perfect for moms who are pumping and feeding their baby expressed milk but may be able to stretch it across a few days at a time.

Though there are many restrictions on what items can be brought aboard a cruise ship, a breast pump is not one of them!

Travel and Pump Seamlessly with Willow Pump

You dedicate your life to your kids – but that doesn’t mean you have to stop living it.

Willow wearable pumps were designed with real life in mind. They all fit fully in-bra and allow you to provide milk to your baby without being tethered to the wall.

Still unsure about it? Check out our blog full of resources and advice. We are here to support you along your entire motherhood journey!