Are you feeling anxious about breastfeeding during an upcoming flight? While it’s completely normal to feel apprehensive, it’s good to know that most airlines have specific policies allowing breastfeeding. Some can even store breastmilk for you, while others will provide a limited supply of ice to store your expressed milk safely. In this article, we’ll offer tips for breastfeeding on a plane, as well as provide information on major European airlines’ breastfeeding policies. First things first:
What should I pack to breastfeed on a plane?
If you’re breastfeeding:
All you’ll need is comfortable clothing, nipple shields (if that’s how you usually breastfeed), a cover (if you like), and some snacks. You can ask the cabin crew for water to keep yourself hydrated. Since breastfeeding pillows are bulky, you can pack a travel neck pillow instead.
If you’re exclusively pumping:
Prepare your breast pump in your hand luggage, regardless of how short your flight is. Most airlines categorise breast pumps as a ‘medical device’ and so won’t count it as a carry-on.
You will need your bottles and caps, pump parts, a ziplock bag for used pump parts, your pump, ideally, a hands free bra and if you prefer, a cover. You can use a manual pump or a pump with a portable battery pack. Otherwise, ask for a seat close to a power outlet.
Safely store some breast milk prior to departure – breast milk is not subject to the 100ml restriction but you may still need to pass it through the X-ray machine at the security checkpoint. Some airports will not accept ice packs, so check with the airline and airport you’re flying from to check their policy.
You can either feed your little one the freshly pumped milk, or store it safely for later.
When should I breastfeed my baby on the plane?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend:
- Nursing your baby during take off and landing to help limit ear pain
- Feeding your baby on demand as this is the best way to maintain your milk supply.
To cover or not to cover… breastfeeding on a plane
This depends on what you’re comfortable with. You are in no way obliged to cover up, but if you feel more comfortable doing so, pack a light blanket, large muslin, or nursing cover. A scarf also works well and is easier to carry (plus, you’ll get more use out of it as you can also wear it on your trip).
As suggested by Mother.ly, it might be good to let neighbouring passengers know about your choice to breastfeed. It also means less disturbance while feeding. If anyone objects, notify the cabin crew immediately.
Stay hydrated
Airplane air is extremely dehydrating. Prepare your body by drinking a lot of water ahead of your flight. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids while flying to keep yourself hydrated.
What do European airlines say about breastfeeding on a plane?
Below is a quick overview of what the major European airlines say on breastfeeding your baby while flying:
British Airways: British airways supports breastfeeding mothers so you don’t need to ask cabin crew if you can breastfeed. You can also breastfeed during take off and landing, as long as you and your little one have your seat belts fastened.
easyJet: the airline supports breastfeeding mothers and you can feed your baby on board at any time.
Ryanair: While a spokesperson for Ryanair told news organisations that ‘breastfeeding mothers are very welcome to board our flights’, mums report conflicting answers on this, so it might also depend on the cabin crew working that day.
Transavia: The airline says: ‘if you are breastfeeding, please feel free to do this on board’. However, Transavia does not allow breast or bottle feeding during take off and landing: “for safety reasons, do not bottle or breast-feed until the aircraft has taken off and the fasten seat belts signal has been switched off.
SAS: As of writing, the airline does not have a breastfeeding policy.
Turkish Airlines: The airline does not have an official breastfeeding policy but some mums note that they were advised to breastfeed during take off and landing.
KLM: Following media fire in 2019, KLM clarified their stance on breastfeeding, saying: “Of course mothers can breastfeed their children during our flights. By no means is the mother obliged to cover up herself or her child. And we absolutely don’t want to make the mums of our youngest passengers feel judged about the most natural thing in the world. That is why our cabin crew may suggest the mum options to ensure some privacy when feeding their child.”
We hope you find this helpful as you plan your upcoming trip with a baby!
Remember: you have a right to breastfeed your child. Most people around you won’t even notice that you’re breastfeeding. Still, if you are worried, email your airline and ask for their breastfeeding policy if this is not made readily available online. While on board, simply breastfeed your baby as you do at home, and all should be fine. Safe trip!
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Disclaimer:
The content of this page is purely for informational purposes. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Should you decide to act on the information presented on this page, you do so at your own risk.
We’ve carried out meticulous research to ensure the accuracy of the information available, however bookingwithkids.com is not responsible for any errors or omissions contained on our website and websites used as sources, and bookingwithkids.com accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever.
FAQs
Are you allowed to breastfeed on a plane?
Yes, you can continue breastfeeding on a plane. It’s suggested to do so at take-off and landing when travelling by plane to protect your baby from ear pain due to cabin pressure changes. Feeding your baby on demand as this is the best way to maintain your milk supply.
What should I wear if I’m going to breastfeed on a plane?
Wear comfortable and loose clothing. Just make sure that it’s easy clothing and discreet. You can ask the cabin crew for water to keep yourself hydrated. Since breastfeeding pillows are bulky, you can pack a travel neck pillow instead.
How do I carry breast milk when travelling?
Make sure to store your breast milk in small, sealed containers, kept in an insulated cooler with ice packs. There are also pre-sterilised sealable bags that can be used.
What amount of breastmilk can I fly with?
Formula, breastmilk and other liquids in quantities greater than 100ml are allowed in carry-on baggage.
How do I warm up baby milk on a plane?
If you’re using formula, you can ask a cabin crew to bring you some boiling water. Otherwise, you can take with you a thermos flask with some boiling water.
