Quick answer: You can bring breast milk on American Airlines and all major North American carriers in reasonable quantities, even without your baby. It's recognized as a medically essential liquid, so you're allowed to carry it on board in an insulated breast milk cooler or portable mini fridge.
Studies suggest that breastfeeding one baby for one year takes roughly 1,800 hours, nearly the same amount of time as working a full-time job.
That's how much energy and care you're putting toward feeding your baby through pumping or breastfeeding!
So when it's time to travel, protecting that hard-earned milk matters. No breastfeeding mom wants to be told she has to throw it away or that it can't come on board.
Before you fly, it's important to understand the breast milk policies of the airline you're traveling with, so you can make sure your milk and your rights are protected.
In this article, we'll break down what the major North American airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, United, & more, say about flying with breast milk, so you can fly with confidence knowing your pumped milk will stay safe from check-in to landing.
Related article: How to Fly with Breast Milk: A Complete Guide for Traveling Parents!
Know Your Airline's Breast Milk Policy Before You Fly
Breast milk isn't "just another liquid." It's a medically essential food for your baby, and it's officially recognized as such by TSA. That means you're legally allowed to bring expressed breast milk on board in reasonable quantities, even if your baby isn't traveling with you.
Most U.S. airlines follow this federal guidance, so in nearly all cases, you can bring your breast milk, along with necessary accessories and cooling cases during your journey.
That said, it's always wise to double-check your airline's specific breast milk policy before you fly. Each carrier may have small variations in how they handle bringing breast milk on the plane.
If you're traveling internationally, this becomes even more important. Different countries and international airlines may follow their own regulations, which don't always match U.S. standards.
Knowing the exact policy for your airline helps you plan ahead and fly with peace of mind.
Related Article: Find Out How Much Breast Milk You Can Bring On a Plane!
Breast Milk Policies for Major North American Carriers
Here's what the major North American airlines say about bringing breast milk on board.
- American Airlines breast milk policy
American Airlines recognizes breast milk as a medically necessary liquid, which means there's not a strict limit to the amount you can bring on board, even if your baby isn't traveling with you.
You can bring ice packs or gel packs to keep it cool in an insulated bag or portable mini fridge for breast milk.
- Delta Airlines breast milk policy
Delta supports nursing parents by allowing breast milk, formula, and related accessories in carry-ons. They follow the same medically necessary exemption rules as TSA.
Like other major U.S. carriers, Delta doesn't count breast milk or pumping accessories and supplies toward your carry-on bag limit, so you can bring them freely without worry
- Traveling with breast milk on United Airlines
United Airlines' website says that pumped milk is allowed in your carry-on and can exceed the normal liquid limit.
Just keep in mind that flight attendants can't store your milk in the plane's refrigerator. Those are used only for medical supplies and in-flight catering.
- Air Canada's breast milk policy
Air Canada allows passengers to bring more than 100ml of breast milk in their carry-on, as long as it's in reasonable quantities. You're also allowed to bring cooling aids such as ice packs or gel packs to keep your milk cold during the flight.
Because Air Canada often operates long-haul international routes, they recommend bringing your own cooling solution, such as an insulated breast milk cooler or portable mini fridge for breast milk, to maintain the right temperature throughout your journey.
- Alaska Airlines breast milk policy
Parents flying with Alaska Airlines can bring expressed breast milk in their carry-on bags. It's recognized as a medically essential liquid, so you're fully allowed to have it with you on board.
Their crews are used to accommodating nursing parents and can usually provide ice or cold water if you need to keep your milk cool during the flight.
Related article: Pumping Breast Milk on a Plane: The 7 Most Common Questions Answered
- Southwest Airlines breast milk policy
Southwest is known for being one of the most family-friendly airlines, and its policy reflects that.
Breast milk and formula are exempt from carry-on liquid limits, so you can bring them on board without worry. They also allow an additional small cooler bag for storing milk, separate from your regular carry-on items.
- Allegiant Air breast milk policy
Although Allegiant is a smaller carrier, its policies align with TSA's federal travel regulations.
Breast milk, formula, and juice for infants are all allowed onboard in reasonable quantities because they are considered medically necessary.
- Spirit breast milk policy
Spirit Airlines allows expressed breast milk, ice packs, and related accessories in your carry-on bag under the medically necessary liquids exemption.
There is limited space onboard, so it's best to keep your milk nearby in a portable breast milk cooler that fits under the seat.
Why You Can't Rely on Airlines to Store Breast Milk (and What to Do Instead)
One of the most common misconceptions among breastfeeding travelers is that airlines will refrigerate your milk for you. However, that's practically never the case.
Aircraft refrigerators are reserved for in-flight meals, beverages, and medical supplies, and they're not approved for personal use.
Even if a crew member offers to "help," there's no guarantee your milk will stay cold enough or be returned in a safe condition.
That's why bringing your own solution, like a proper breast milk cooler or portable mini fridge for pumped milk, is so important. A reliable cooler keeps milk at a safe temperature throughout your journey, eliminates the stress of asking for ice mid-flight, and gives you full control over how your milk is stored.
If you're pumping on the plane during a long trip, you can store freshly expressed milk right inside your cooler bag, without needing to rely on unpredictable airplane conditions.
Related article: TSA's Rules for Breast Milk Explained
How to Advocate for Yourself While Flying
Even with clear airline policies, some staff members may not be familiar with the specific rules around breast milk.
Confidence and preparation go a long way.
✅ Bring printed or saved copies of your airline's breast milk policy.
✅ State clearly but calmly that breast milk is medically necessary.
✅ Use your cooler to keep milk secure and cold throughout the flight.
✅ Give yourself grace! Traveling while pumping or breastfeeding is not easy, and you're doing an amazing job.
Related article: Do Airport X-rays Affect Pumped Breast Milk? A Parent's FAQ Guide
Final Tips to Fly Confidently with Breast Milk on Any Airline
Flying while breastfeeding or pumping isn't easy. It takes planning, patience, and knowing what to expect at the airport.
The good news? Nearly every major North American airline recognizes your right to travel with breast milk because they know how essential it is.
If you're flying internationally or with a smaller carrier, always double-check their specific rules. Policies outside the U.S. may vary, and a quick look before you go can save you stress.
You've worked hard for every ounce of your breast milk, and you deserve to protect it and travel with confidence.
Don't forget these key takeaways for your next flight:
🍼 Breast milk is allowed: Breast milk is recognized by the TSA and FDA as a medically essential liquid. You can bring it on board in reasonable quantities.
🎒 Policies may differ by airline: Each carrier's guidelines vary slightly, so always double-check before you fly.
❄️ Bring your own cooler: Most airlines can't store milk, so use a reliable breast milk cooler or portable mini fridge for breast milk.
💪 Preparation = peace of mind: Print policies, stay calm, and know you're fully within your rights.
💬 We'd love to hear from you!
Have you flown with breast milk on American Airlines, Delta, or another carrier? How was your experience? Smooth and supportive? Or a little stressful?
Share your story or any tips you have for other pumping or breastfeeding travelers in the comments below. And if we missed one of your questions, ask away. We're here to help!
