"Every woman should have a purse of her own," said Susan B. Anthony, a key player in women's rights. Imagine what Ms. Anthony would say about a woman and her travel pump bag. Most moms who express milk know what they should keep in their pump bags, the general list of items to take usually contain the following:
- Breast pump (manual or electric)
- Power cords
- Shields (aka horns or phalanges)
- Membranes and adapters
- Bottle or sealable bag to store the expressed milk in
- Pictures of baby that you're expressing milk for
- Water for Mom to drink
Been-there-done-that moms may have:
- hand sanitizer
- Ice packs/freezer packs
- Hands-free Bra
- Resealable gallon-size plastic bags (to store horns between pumping sessions)
- Battery pack with extra batteries (you never know when the power may go out or your cord may stop working)
- Nursing pads
- Nipple Cream
Very experienced travel moms who pump may also have:
- Reading material (Yes, some moms read for pleasure, ladies!)
- Headphones and Ipod/iPhone/iPad for listening to your favorite music
- Toys or games for older children to play with
- Extra shirt (usually wrinkle-free) in case of any spillage or extra leaks
We think these lists are pretty extensive but we often hear from other moms about interesting things they've decided to include in their pump bags. These items include gum, candy, or snack foods because many moms need to express during their lunch breaks at work.
Detailed Summary: Things a Traveling Mom Who Nurses Should Have in Her Bag
1. Breast Pump and Accessories
A breast pump is indispensable for a traveling mom who nurses. Whether you’re on a long flight, a road trip, or just spending the day out, there may be times when you can’t nurse your baby directly. A portable, lightweight breast pump allows you to express milk as needed. Don’t forget to pack extra pump accessories, such as bottles, storage bags, and a small cooler with ice packs to keep the milk fresh. If you’re pumping on the go, having a battery-operated pump or a car adapter can be a lifesaver.
2. Nursing Cover
Privacy is a top concern for many nursing moms, especially in public places. A nursing cover can help you breastfeed discreetly, whether you’re in an airport lounge, on a plane, or at a busy restaurant. Choose a cover that’s lightweight and breathable, so both you and your baby stay comfortable. Some covers double as scarves or wraps, making them a stylish and functional addition to your wardrobe.
3. Breast Pads
Breast pads are essential for preventing leaks, which can happen at any time, especially when you’re away from home. Disposable or reusable breast pads can be tucked into your bra to absorb any excess milk and keep you dry and comfortable. Make sure to pack a few extra pairs in your bag so you’re always prepared.
4. Nursing-Friendly Clothing
Traveling often means spending long hours in transit, so comfort is key. Wear nursing-friendly clothing, such as tops with easy access or dresses with hidden zippers, so you can nurse your baby without hassle. Layering is also a good idea, as it allows you to adjust to changing temperatures and makes breastfeeding more discreet.
5. Snacks and Water
Breastfeeding can be dehydrating and energy-consuming, so it’s important to keep yourself nourished and hydrated. Pack a variety of healthy snacks, such as nuts, granola bars, or fruit, to keep your energy levels up. A refillable water bottle is a must-have, as staying hydrated is essential for maintaining your milk supply.
6. Hand Sanitizer and Wipes
Hygiene is crucial when you’re handling breast pumps, bottles, and feeding your baby on the go. Hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes should be easily accessible in your bag. These are especially useful when you don’t have immediate access to a sink or when you need to clean your hands before and after pumping or feeding.
7. Portable Changing Mat
A portable changing mat is a lifesaver when you need to change your baby’s diaper in an unfamiliar place. Many public restrooms don’t have suitable changing stations, so having a clean, comfortable mat for your baby is essential. Choose a compact, foldable mat that can easily fit in your bag.
8. Diapers and Diaper Cream
It’s always a good idea to pack more diapers than you think you’ll need, especially if you’re traveling long distances or to remote areas where you may not have easy access to baby supplies. Don’t forget to include a travel-sized tube of diaper cream to prevent and treat diaper rash, which can be more common when traveling.
9. Pacifiers and Toys
Keeping your baby calm and entertained during travel is essential for a stress-free journey. Pack a few of your baby’s favorite pacifiers and small toys to help soothe them when they’re fussy or bored. Clip-on toys or teething rings are great because they can be attached to your bag or stroller, reducing the chances of them getting lost.
10. Baby Blanket or Swaddle
A soft, lightweight baby blanket or swaddle has multiple uses when you’re on the go. It can provide warmth in chilly airports or airplanes, be used as a cover for nursing, or create a cozy spot for your baby to nap. Swaddles are especially versatile, as they can also be used to cover a stroller or car seat from the sun.
11. First Aid Kit
A basic first aid kit is a must for any mom traveling with a baby. Include essentials like baby-safe fever and pain relievers, a digital thermometer, adhesive bandages, and antiseptic wipes. You might also want to pack a few saline drops and a nasal aspirator in case your baby develops a stuffy nose during the trip.
12. Breastfeeding Pillow
While not always necessary, a small, portable breastfeeding pillow can be incredibly helpful for ensuring comfort during long nursing sessions, especially in cramped spaces like airplane seats. Some pillows are inflatable, which makes them easy to pack and carry.
13. Plastic Bags
Having a few plastic bags on hand can be incredibly useful for storing soiled diapers, wet clothes, or any other messes that might occur during your travels. They can also be used to store pump parts after use until you have a chance to clean them.
14. Documentation
Traveling with a baby often requires additional documentation, such as a birth certificate, immunization records, or a doctor’s note if your baby has specific medical needs. Keep these documents organized in a waterproof pouch within your bag for easy access.
15. Phone Charger and Portable Battery
Your phone is not just a communication tool but also a source of entertainment, a camera, and a navigation device. Make sure you have a charger and a portable battery pack to keep your phone charged throughout your journey. This ensures you can stay connected, capture memories, and have access to important information at all times.
Traveling as a nursing mom requires careful planning, but with the right essentials in your bag, you can make the journey smoother and more enjoyable for both you and your baby. Each trip is an opportunity to bond and create lasting memories, and being well-prepared ensures you can focus on those special moments instead of worrying about what you might have forgotten. Happy travels!
Please share - what's in your pump bag?
