Generally, yes, even though the TSA and most airport securities stated that all liquids must be 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less per container when transported in carry-on bags, there are exceptions when traveling with baby food and breast milk, you can bring them in carry-on and they do not need to follow the TSA 3-1-1 liquid rule.
But how and where should you pack your breast milk on flights?
Let’s dive right in and start with more about the TSA rules.
Can You Take Breast Milk Through The TSA Security Checkpoint?
The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) searches for prohibited and dangerous items at security checkpoints.
So, it regulates what is allowed on flights within and from the US.
According to the TSA, breast milk, baby formula, and infant drinks are considered medically necessary liquids.
This means you can take them through airport security and on board the airplane in reasonable quantities, without following the standard liquid size limits.
You will need to let the TSA officer know that you have these types of liquids inside your diaper bag so they can be inspected separately.
It makes sense to place any baby food, including breast milk, in transparent, clear containers before putting them in your bag to speed up the screening process.
Even if you are not traveling with a baby, you can bring breast milk and baby formula on board the airplane, and they can exceed the standard liquid size limits.
I checked social media to find some answers from TSA customer service.
Mike understands that he can take more than 3.4 oz / 100 ml of breast milk in his carry-on bag, but he wonders whether he can use a glass Mason jar and whether the jar’s lid needs to be plastic.
The TSA didn’t specifically answer his questions, but it does not restrict the type of container you can use for breast milk or other types of baby food, although it advises passengers to use clear bottles.
Let’s take a look at checked baggage.
Can You Pack Breast Milk In Checked Luggage?
If you want to bring additional breast milk that you won’t need during your flight, you can pack it in checked baggage.
Ensure that the breast milk is well protected to avoid leaks inside your bag.
You can use a sturdy diaper bag like the waterproof MOMINSIDE Diaper Bag or a cooler to maintain the temperature of the milk and keep it fresh.
Keep in mind that checked bags can be thrown around, crammed together, and occasionally go missing.
So, you don’t have to pack any type of baby food in checked baggage if you can bring it on board the airplane.
Can You Bring Breast Milk on an International Flight?
Yes of course you can bring breast milk on most international flights, but the amount you can bring with you will depend on the country you are flying from and to.
For example, Canada’s airports allow you to bring breast milk in containers larger than 100 ml, even if you’re traveling without your baby., but you will need to present the breast milk to undergo additional security.
In United Kingdom you can carry breast milk in containers of up to 2,000 ml each, even without your baby, but frozen breast milk isn’t allowed in hand luggage.
Keep in mind that the TSA breast milk exemption only applies to U.S. security checkpoints.
Can You Bring Frozen Breast Milk On a Plane?
The TSA liquid rules restrict only items that are in liquid form. This means solid food items are generally allowed in carry-on baggage without liquid size limits.
The good news is that breast milk has no standard liquid size restrictions, whether it is frozen or liquid.
The breast milk will be subject to additional screening, but overall, you should be good to go.
Here is another answer from @AskTSA on Twitter confirming that frozen breast milk is permitted on planes and that the TSA liquid rules do not apply to it.
Frozen food in general is considered solid by the TSA, but it must be frozen solid when transported through the security checkpoint.
Any ice used to keep the milk cold must also be completely frozen.
Can You Bring Breast Pump On a Plane?
Yes, you can bring both electric and manual breast pumps on a plane in either carry-on or checked baggage.
You may be required to place the pump in a separate bin when going through the security checkpoint.
Here are the TSA rules regarding breast pumps.
This is also the TSA team on X replying to this user that breast pumps and breast milk are allowed through the security checkpoint.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are traveling with a baby or not, you can bring breast milk, frozen or liquid, on planes without following the TSA 3-1-1 liquid rule.
Even when you are traveling with ice to keep the milk or baby formula fresh, the ice itself can exceed the standard liquid size limits as long as it is completely frozen when presented for screening.
I hope this helps.
Happy travels.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling With Breast Milk
How Much Breast Milk Can You Bring on a Plane?
When you fly from a U.S. airport, you don’t need to worry as you can bring more than 3.4 oz / 100 ml of breast milk with you in the cabin. TSA doesn’t apply the usual 3-1-1 liquid limit to breast milk, and it doesn’t need to fit inside a quart-sized bag.
Can TSA Open or Test Your Breast Milk?
The TSA officers may need to take a look at your breast milk to make sure it doesn’t contain any explosives or other prohibited items. If you don’t want your milk opened or X-rayed, you can ask the security officer. TSA can use additional screening methods, but the may take longer.
Can You Bring Breast Milk in a Cooler Bag?
Yes. You can carry breast milk in an insulated cooler bag or in storage bags with ice packs or gel packs to keep it cold. This is especially a bright idea if you have a long flight, a layover, or several hours of travel.
Can You Bring Breast Milk in a Thermos?
You can generally carry breast milk in a thermos through U.S. airport security. However, a regular thermos isn’t necessarily designed to keep milk cold for a long journey.
Can You Bring Breast Milk in a Glass Bottle or Mason Jar?
Yes. TSA doesn’t specify that breast milk must be stored in a particular type of container, so a glass bottle or Mason jar can be an option even though it is not recommended.
How Do You Pack Breast Milk to Prevent Leaks?
Before putting breast milk in your carry-on or checked bag, make sure every bottle or storage bag is properly sealed. Place the containers inside a separate leakproof bag, then pack them upright if possible.
Does a Breast Pump Count as a Personal Item?
A breast pump may be allowed in addition to your usual carry-on items, but this depends on the airline’s baggage policy. TSA security rules and airline baggage allowances are two different things.
What Happens if Your Ice Packs Melt Before Security?
If you’re using ice packs to keep breast milk cold, don’t assume you have to throw them away just because they’ve started to melt. TSA allows cooling accessories used for breast milk, but the packs may need additional screening.
Can You Pump Breast Milk on a Plane?
Yes, you can generally use a breast pump during a flight. However, privacy, space, and access to a power outlet can vary by aircraft.
Gargie, is writer, traveler & a digital marketing specialist
passionate about traveling and exploring new cultures. She is a savvy traveler who likes to pack light, testing various luggage brands and seeking out budget-friendly airline options. Gargie enjoys creating unique recipes when she’s not on the go.
