How to Pump Breastmilk Discreetly on a Plane: A Step-by-Step Guide

AvatarByDale Richard Airplane Travel Tips And Etiquettes (Do's/Don'ts)

How to Pump on a Plane

Air travel is a convenient way to get around, but it can also be a challenge for people who need to pump breast milk. Whether you’re a new mom or a seasoned traveler, there are a few things you can do to make pumping on a plane as smooth as possible.

In this article, we’ll discuss the best practices for pumping on a plane, including how to prepare, what to pack, and what to expect during your flight. We’ll also provide tips for dealing with potential challenges, such as dealing with crying babies or dealing with flight delays.

By following these tips, you can make pumping on a plane a breeze, so you can enjoy your trip without having to worry about your milk supply.

Step Action Explanation
1 Find the nearest bathroom Bathrooms on planes are typically located in the back of the plane, near the galley.
2 Lock the door This will ensure your privacy and prevent anyone from accidentally walking in on you.
3 Pull down the toilet seat This will create a barrier between you and the toilet bowl, preventing any splashback.
4 Place toilet paper on the seat This will help to protect your clothes from any spills.
5 Do your business This is the fun part!
6 Flush the toilet Be sure to flush the toilet multiple times to ensure that all of your waste is gone.
7 Wash your hands This is an important step to prevent the spread of germs.
8 Open the door Be sure to open the door to let the air circulate and prevent the bathroom from becoming too stuffy.

How To Pump On A Plane?

Pumping on a plane can be a daunting task, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. Many people have to pump on planes every day, and there are a few simple steps you can follow to make the process as smooth as possible.

1. Find the nearest restroom.

The first step is to find the nearest restroom. This may be easier said than done, as restrooms on planes can be small and cramped. However, it is important to find a restroom that is clean and well-maintained.

2. Lock the door and turn on the light.

Once you have found a restroom, lock the door and turn on the light. This will give you some privacy and make it easier to see what you are doing.

3. Open the toilet lid and seat.

The next step is to open the toilet lid and seat. This will make it easier to access the toilet and pump.

4. Sit down on the toilet.

Once you are seated on the toilet, you can begin to pump. It is important to sit comfortably and to make sure that you are positioned correctly.

5. Pull the flush lever to start the flushing process.

Once you have finished pumping, you will need to pull the flush lever to start the flushing process. This will help to clean the toilet and remove any waste.

6. Use toilet paper to wipe yourself.

After the toilet has flushed, you will need to use toilet paper to wipe yourself. Be sure to use a clean piece of toilet paper each time you wipe.

7. Throw the toilet paper in the toilet and flush again.

Once you have finished wiping, you will need to throw the toilet paper in the toilet and flush again. This will help to ensure that the toilet is clean and sanitary.

8. Wash your hands with soap and water.

After you have finished using the restroom, it is important to wash your hands with soap and water. This will help to prevent the spread of germs.

9. Dry your hands with a paper towel.

After you have washed your hands, you will need to dry them with a paper towel. Be sure to use a clean paper towel each time you dry your hands.

10. Open the door and leave the restroom.

Once you have dried your hands, you can open the door and leave the restroom. Be sure to close the door behind you.

Dos and Don’ts of Pumping on a Plane

In addition to the steps outlined above, there are a few dos and don’ts to keep in mind when pumping on a plane.

Dos:

  • Do flush the toilet after you are finished pumping. This will help to keep the restroom clean and sanitary.
  • Do use toilet paper to wipe yourself. This will help to keep the toilet clean and sanitary.
  • Do wash your hands with soap and water after you have finished using the restroom. This will help to prevent the spread of germs.
  • Do dry your hands with a paper towel after you have washed them. This will help to keep your hands clean.
  • Do close the door behind you when you leave the restroom. This will help to keep the restroom clean and sanitary.

Don’ts:

  • Don’t flush paper towels or other non-flushable items down the toilet. This can clog the toilet and cause a mess.
  • Don’t throw trash in the toilet. This can also clog the toilet and cause a mess.
  • Don’t smoke in the restroom. This is a fire hazard and is prohibited on all planes.
  • Don’t leave the restroom door open. This can allow other passengers to see you while you are using the restroom.
  • Don’t use the restroom as a changing room. This is not sanitary and can make other passengers uncomfortable.

How To Pump On A Plane?

1. What do I need to bring?

To pump on a plane, you will need:

  • A breast pump
  • Breast milk storage bags
  • Ice packs or freezer packs
  • A nursing cover or privacy shield
  • A comfortable place to sit
  • A power outlet (if you are using an electric pump)

You may also want to bring:

  • A travel adapter (if you are traveling internationally)
  • A bottle brush and soap
  • A small towel
  • A nursing pillow

2. Where can I pump on a plane?

You can pump on a plane in the following places:

  • The airplane lavatory
  • The airplane galley
  • The airplane seatback pocket
  • The airplane bassinet area
  • The airplane nursery

If you are using an electric pump, you will need to find a power outlet. Most airplanes have power outlets in the lavatory and galley. If you cannot find a power outlet, you can use a battery-powered pump or a hand pump.

Pumping in the airplane lavatory

The airplane lavatory is the most private place to pump on a plane. However, it is also the smallest and most cramped. You may have to share the lavatory with other passengers, and you may not have enough space to set up your pump and store your belongings.

To pump in the airplane lavatory, follow these steps:

1. Lock the door and turn on the light.
2. Place a nursing cover or privacy shield over the toilet.
3. Set up your pump and connect it to your breast.
4. Pump for the desired amount of time.
5. Dispose of your breast milk and pump parts in the trash.
6. Wash your hands and face with soap and water.
7. Unlock the door and leave the lavatory.

Pumping in the airplane galley

The airplane galley is a more spacious place to pump on a plane. However, it is not as private as the lavatory. You may have to share the galley with other passengers, and you may not have enough space to set up your pump and store your belongings.

To pump in the airplane galley, follow these steps:

1. Find a quiet spot in the galley.
2. Place a nursing cover or privacy shield over your pump.
3. Set up your pump and connect it to your breast.
4. Pump for the desired amount of time.
5. Dispose of your breast milk and pump parts in the trash.
6. Wash your hands and face with soap and water.

Pumping in the airplane seatback pocket

The airplane seatback pocket is a small and convenient place to pump on a plane. However, it is not as private as the lavatory or the galley. You may have to share the seatback pocket with other passengers, and you may not have enough space to set up your pump and store your belongings.

To pump in the airplane seatback pocket, follow these steps:

1. Remove the contents of the seatback pocket.
2. Place a nursing cover or privacy shield over your pump.
3. Set up your pump and connect it to your breast.
4. Pump for the desired amount of time.
5. Dispose of your breast milk and pump parts in the trash.
6. Replace the contents of the seatback pocket.

Pumping in the airplane bassinet area

The airplane bassinet area is a large and private place to pump on a plane. However, it is not always available. You may have to share the bassinet area with other passengers, and you may not have enough space to set up your pump and store your belongings.

To pump in the airplane bassinet area, follow these steps:

1. Find a bassinet that is not in use.
2. Place a nursing cover or privacy shield over your pump.
3. Set up your pump and connect it to your breast.
4. Pump for the desired amount of time.
5. Dispose of your breast milk and pump parts in the trash.
6. Wash your hands and face with soap and water.

Pumping in the airplane nursery

The airplane nursery is a dedicated space for parents to care for their children. It is usually located in the back of the plane. The nursery is a great place to pump because it is private, spacious, and has a sink.

To pump in the airplane nursery, follow these steps:

How do I pump breast milk on a plane?

  • Before you board the plane, make sure you have everything you need, including:
  • A breast pump
  • Breast milk storage bags
  • Ice packs or freezer packs
  • A nursing cover or scarf
  • A comfortable seat
  • Once you’re on the plane, find a comfortable seat where you can pump. If you’re in a window seat, you can use the window ledge to support your breast pump. If you’re in an aisle seat, you can use the armrest to support your breast pump.
  • Start pumping as soon as you’re comfortable. You may need to adjust the suction level on your breast pump to find a comfortable setting.
  • Express your breast milk into a breast milk storage bag. You can label the storage bag with the date and time of pumping.
  • Store your breast milk in a cool place. You can keep your breast milk in the overhead bin or in the seat pocket in front of you.
  • Once you’ve finished pumping, dispose of the breast milk storage bags according to your airline’s regulations.

What are the best practices for pumping breast milk on a plane?

  • Plan ahead. Make sure you have everything you need before you board the plane.
  • Find a comfortable seat. You’ll need to be able to pump comfortably for several minutes at a time.
  • Start pumping as soon as you’re comfortable. This will help you avoid engorgement and mastitis.
  • Express your breast milk into a breast milk storage bag. You can label the storage bag with the date and time of pumping.
  • Store your breast milk in a cool place. You can keep your breast milk in the overhead bin or in the seat pocket in front of you.
  • Dispose of the breast milk storage bags according to your airline’s regulations.

What are the challenges of pumping breast milk on a plane?

  • Finding a comfortable seat. You may need to adjust your seat or use a nursing cover or scarf to create a private space for pumping.
  • Expressing breast milk in a public place. You may feel self-conscious about pumping in public.
  • Dealing with jet lag. Jet lag can affect your milk production and make it difficult to pump on a regular schedule.
  • Storing your breast milk. You may need to find a way to store your breast milk in a cool place on the plane.
  • Disposal of breast milk storage bags. You may need to dispose of your breast milk storage bags according to your airline’s regulations.

What are the benefits of pumping breast milk on a plane?

  • You can continue to breastfeed your baby while you’re traveling. This is important for maintaining your milk supply and for bonding with your baby.
  • You can avoid engorgement and mastitis. Engorgement can be painful and mastitis can be a serious infection. Pumping can help to relieve both of these conditions.
  • You can save your breast milk for later use. You can freeze your breast milk and use it to feed your baby when you’re not together.

If you have any questions about pumping breast milk on a plane, talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant.

pumping on a plane can be a daunting task, but it is possible with the right preparation and planning. By following the tips in this article, you can safely and discreetly pump your breast milk while in the air. Remember to stay hydrated, eat a healthy meal, and take breaks as needed. Most importantly, listen to your body and do what is best for you and your baby.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.