Quick answer: Good news: breast pumps are considered medical devices, so they don't count toward your carry-on limit. With a little preparation, flying with your pump can feel much less overwhelming than you might think.
Flying with a breast pump isn't always simple. You're balancing your pumping schedule with flight times, trying to pack your pump correctly, and hoping TSA won't give you a hard time at airport security. Then there's the question of how to pump mid-flight and whether your breast pump will count as a carry-on.
It's a lot to manage, especially when all you want is to keep your routine and your milk supply steady while you travel.
Luckily, you don't have to figure it all out alone, and with a bit of planning, flying with a breast pump can be much easier than it seems.
In this guide, we're sharing 8 essential tips that will take a bit of stress off your shoulders and help you feel more confident the next time you take your breast pump on a flight.
Related article: How to Fly with Breast Milk: A Complete Guide for Parents
Are Breast Pumps Allowed on Planes?
Before diving into the tips, let's clear up this important doubt many new parents have when flying with a breast pump for the first time.
Yes! Breast pumps are allowed on planes. TSA and most major U.S.airlines recognize breast pumps as essential medical items, which allows you to bring them in addition to your regular carry-on allowance.
With that worry out of the way, let's go over a few key tips to help your trip go smoothly from start to finish.
Tip 1: Check Your Airline Breast Pump Policies Before You Fly
The first step in preparing to fly with a breast pump is understanding the policies of your airline. As we've just mentioned, TSA and most major airlines allow breast pumps onboard.
Here's a quick overview of what major and low-cost U.S. airlines say about bringing a breast pump on their flights:
- Delta Airlines: Breast pumps are considered a medical device and do not count as a carry-on. Delta allows you to bring your pump and milk in addition to your standard personal item.
- United Airlines: Pumping devices are permitted in carry-on luggage. Milk and ice packs are allowed beyond liquid restrictions, and staff are trained to accommodate breastfeeding parents.
- American Airlines: Considered medical devices, breast pumps are allowed in addition to carry-on limits.
- Alaska Airlines: Breast pumps are classified as medical devices and may be brought on board in addition to your standard carry-on allowance. You can also bring expressed milk and cooling accessories like ice packs or gel packs on your flight.
- Frontier Airlines: Breast pumps can be brought onboard in addition to your personal item.
- Spirit Airlines: Breast pumps are allowed to be carried onto an aircraft and don't count against your carry-on allowance.
- Allegiant Air: Allows breast pumps as medical devices. Check their carry-on policies if you're traveling with multiple bags.
- Southwest Airlines: You can bring a bag on board for a breast pump and/or breast milk (in addition to your personal item and carry-on).
After reviewing the major U.S. airline policies about breast pumps, it's worth noting that international airlines and smaller regional carriers may have slightly different rules when it comes to carry-on allowances, battery-powered devices, or milk storage.
Checking policies in advance is the best way to make sure you know whether your breast pump counts as a carry-on, what size limits apply, and if any documentation is required.
Taking a few minutes to confirm these details can prevent last-minute surprises and save you a lot of stress at the airport.
Related article: Airline Policies for Breast Milk in 2025!
Tip 2: Choose the Right Breast Pump for Flying
Selecting a travel-friendly breast pump can make your flight much easier. Not all pumps are created equal when it comes to portability, noise, and power options.
Lightweight and portable pumps are ideal for flights, especially if you'll be navigating busy airports or boarding multiple connections. Many travel pumps are compact, quiet, and easy to pack in a carry-on.
Bring a manual pump as a backup. Even if you have a battery-operated pump, it's smart to have a manual option in case your battery dies mid-flight or there isn't a power outlet.
When choosing a pump, consider your power options. Battery-operated or USB-powered pumps are perfect for planes that don't have standard outlets, which tends to be the case on budget or low-cost carriers.
Tip 3: Pack Your Breast Pump in Your Carry-On Bag
Packing your pump properly is critical. Always bring your breast pump in your carry-on bag rather than checking it in your luggage.
Checked luggage can be lost or delayed, and it's not worth risking your pump or milk during transit.
Keeping your breast pump in your carry-on:
✅ Reduces the risk of damage from rough handling
✅ Makes it easier to pump during a layover or delay
✅ Keeps it accessible during your entire journey
In most cases, a breast pump bag does not count as a carry-on.
Most airlines classify breast pumps as medical devices, which means you can bring them on board in addition to your regular carry-on bag and personal item.
In other words, you can still travel with your standard carry-on suitcase and your purse or backpack, plus your breast pump bag.
Tip 4: Keep Milk and Pump Parts Organized and Cool
Proper breast milk storage and organization of both your pump and pumped milk is essential for stress-free air travel.
Use labeled milk bags and cooler compartments
Labeling milk containers helps prevent confusion during TSA screening and ensures you always know whose milk is whose if traveling with multiple babies.
Bring a TSA-approved breast milk cooler
A compact, TSA-approved cooler is one of the best travel investments you can make. Insulated or refrigerated breast milk coolers, like the ones from 4AllFamily, are designed to meet airport security standards while keeping your milk at a safe temperature for hours.
Related article: Packing Tips: Keep Your Breast Milk Safe and Accessible On the Go!
Tip 5: Know the TSA Rules for Breast Pumps on Planes
TSA has clear guidelines for traveling with breast pumps and milk, but knowing the details ahead of time can reduce stress.
✅ You can bring breast milk, formula, and breast pump parts in your carry-on. All breast milk and pumping equipment are permitted in your carry-on bag. Keeping them with you ensures they stay at the right temperature and won't get lost or damaged in checked luggage.
Quick TSA Security Tips for Flying with a Breast Pump
✅ Arrive a little early. Give yourself extra time at security in case your pump or milk needs to be screened separately.
✅ Let the TSA agent know right away. When you reach the front of the line, calmly explain that you're traveling with a breast pump and, if applicable, breast milk.
✅ Keep everything organized. Pack your pump, tubing, and milk storage bags in clear, resealable bags to make inspection easier and faster.
✅ Ask for fresh gloves. It's completely fine to politely ask the officer to put on a new pair of gloves before handling your items for hygiene and peace of mind.
✅ Expect quick swabbing or X-ray screening. Your pump or milk cooler might be swabbed or X-rayed - this is totally routine and usually takes just a minute.
✅ Stay calm and patient. Most TSA agents are familiar with breast pumps and will handle your screening respectfully if you stay organized and polite.
Related article: Can I Bring a Breast Pump Through Airport Security? TSA Guidelines Explained
Tip 6: Plan How You'll Pump on the Plane If Necessary
Whether you're traveling for work or family, the key is planning ahead and knowing your options.
You can pump breast milk on a plane either in your seat or in the bathroom if you prefer more privacy. Keep your essentials, pump, bottles, milk bags, and cleaning wipes, organized in your carry-on so everything's within reach.
Every parent's comfort level is different, and there's no one "right" way to pump while flying. What matters most is staying relaxed, prepared, and confident that you're doing what's best for you and your baby, even at 30,000 feet.
Tip 7: Bring Backup Power for Your Breast Pump
Even if your breast pump is battery-powered, it's smart to plan for the unexpected. Not every plane has reliable outlets, and some seats don't offer power at all.
💡 Pack a portable power bank or USB charger. Make sure it's compatible with your pump so you can recharge on the go. If your pump uses a USB connection, you can even plug it into your laptop or personal device in a pinch.
🍼 Bring a few backup parts and a manual pump if you can. Extra tubing, flanges, or adapters can save the day if something breaks or gets misplaced. A small hand pump is also a great backup in case your battery dies mid-trip.
Having a plan B (and even a plan C!) keeps you one step ahead, and makes sure your milk supply stays consistent, no matter what happens in the air.
Related article: How to Clean Your Breast Pump On the Go
Tip 8: Remain Calm and Know Your Rights as a Passenger!
Flying with a breast pump can feel stressful, but knowing your rights makes everything easier. Here's what to remember:
- Breast pumps are medical devices. TSA and all major U.S. airlines classify them as essential medical equipment, so they're allowed on planes.
- You can bring milk and ice packs. Breast milk, formula, and ice packs are exempt from the standard 3.4-ounce liquid rule. You can carry as much as you need for your trip.
- Your breast pump bag doesn't count as a carry-on. You can bring it in addition to your regular carry-on and personal item.
- If questioned by TSA or airline staff, calmly explain that your pump is a medical device. Mention that you're allowed to travel with breast milk and cooling packs. Most agents know the policy, but keeping a copy of TSA's rules on your phone can help if there's confusion.
Final Advice Before Taking Off On Your Next Flight
Flying with a breast pump might seem daunting at first, but with the right preparation, it's completely manageable.
From checking airline policies and packing your pump in your carry-on to staying calm at security, applying these tips can help make your trip easier.
You deserve to travel confidently. Know your rights, trust your planning, and focus on what matters most: caring for yourself and your baby, wherever your journey takes you.
Don't forget these important tips before you fly:
👜 Check policies early: Review your airline's breast pump rules before your flight to avoid surprises.
💼 Carry it on: Always keep your pump and milk in your carry-on to prevent loss or damage.
🧊 Stay cool and organized: Use a TSA-approved cooler and labeled milk bags for safe storage.
✈️ Know your rights: Breast pumps are medical devices, so you can bring your pump, milk, and ice packs on board.
💬 We'd Love to Hear From You!
Do you have your own favorite tips for flying with a breast pump?
We'd love to hear them! Share your experience in the comments and help other breastfeeding parents travel with confidence.
