Whether this is your first trip or you're a seasoned traveler, you may be concerned about how to breastfeed while on the road.
TO PUMP OR NOT TO PUMP: Some mothers prefer to breastfeed directly when traveling, while others prefer to give their breast milk in a bottle. Choose the option that feels most appropriate to you! If you plan to travel with breastmilk in a bottle, make sure you know how to pump or hand express it. Expression of milk aids in:
Maintain your milk supply.
Breasts that are full and/or engorged can be relieved.
If you are unable to feed your infant directly, have your milk available.
Allow family members to assist with the baby's feeding.
BREASTFEEDING TRAVEL PLAN: Whether you're travelling by car, bus, train, or aircraft, planning and expecting the unexpected can make traveling with your infant less stressful.
Imitate your daily routine at home: Keep your sleeping, eating, and diapering routines the same as you do at home.
Make a list of everything you want to do: Before you go, establish a list of when you expect to breastfeed and what you'll need to feed your baby on the move to make your vacation go more smoothly. Some examples of such items are:
Breastfeeding in public can be daunting if you don't have a nursing cover. Many airports and trains have dedicated private breastfeeding places, but if you can't find one, a nursing cover or blanket can help if you want to breastfeed more discreetly. To gain confidence, try practicing with the cover before your trip.
Nursing bra: When breastfeeding in public, a nursing bra can make the experience of breastfeeding while traveling much easier.
Breast pumps, storage bags or bottles, and a portable cooler: Having bags and bottles to keep your milk is crucial if you want to pump while traveling. Your pump may additionally require an electric converter or batteries. A portable cooler with ice or gel packs will be required to ensure that your breast milk is properly kept. Remember to store your expressed breastmilk as soon as possible in the refrigerator or freezer.
Baby carrier: Having a baby carrier makes going around easier, keeps your infant close (comforting the baby), and can be utilized to feed your baby discreetly when traveling.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF TRAVEL TIPS
BY CAR
When you travel by car, you may have more control over your schedule and when you feed your kid. When going by car, keep the following in mind:
You may need to make frequent stops to comfort, soothe, and feed your infant.
Expect a long journey due to the need to stop for baby care.
BY TRAIN OR BY BUS
Traveling by bus or rail might be simple, but it requires some planning ahead of time. Consider the following suggestions:
Inquire with the bus or rail company about early boarding alternatives. If you're going to breastfeed your infant, make sure you get a comfy seat.
BY AIRPLANE
Traveling by air is the quickest way to reach our destination, which means fewer meals while on the road. Take into account the following:
Determine where breastfeeding-friendly areas are located in the airport where you will be flying in and out.
Allow extra time at the airport to get through the airport security checkpoints if you're traveling with expressed milk and related supplies.
Know what to expect when it comes to breast milk screening procedures at airports.
Breastfeeding your infant during takeoff and landing can protect him or her from ear aches caused by variations in cabin pressure.
The thought of traveling with the baby might feel daunting but with due preparedness you can make a great memory out of the holiday with the baby.