So, you’re a breastfeeding mom who’s back to work. You’ve settled into a routine and are finally feeling confident in your role. Then suddenly, your first business trip pops up! Mine happened when my baby was just four months old. While the opportunity was exciting, I was anxious about leaving my little one and worried that maintaining our breastfeeding relationship would be challenging, if not impossible.
However, as I write this from 20,000 feet, returning from my first trip, I can assure you: it is absolutely doable! It just requires some forethought, support, and a few minor mishaps (which I’ll get into). Here’s how to make breastfeeding work while you’re away, whether it’s for a business trip, a getaway with friends, or any time you find yourself apart from your baby:
Plan Your Supply
Once you know about your trip, start estimating your baby’s daily milk intake and multiply that by the number of days you’ll be away. Be sure to add around 20% to account for any unexpected hunger spikes or spills!
- Pump and Store: Aim to have a stash ready before you leave. In my case, due to some unforeseen events, I had depleted my emergency reserve. As a result, I ended up shipping milk home to ensure my baby had enough. While it wasn’t ideal, I had no other option.
Pump on the Go
To keep your supply up while traveling, pump frequently. Stay hydrated—flying can be dehydrating—and wear comfortable clothing for ease of pumping. I found that traveling with my pumping equipment was straightforward; TSA agents were accommodating and didn’t question my supplies.
- Plan Pumping Locations: Research potential pumping spots at your travel destinations. A quick Google search led me to a fantastic pumping room in one airport, while others required me to make do with less-than-ideal locations, like bathrooms on planes and in airports.
Shipping Essentials
During my trip, I was fortunate to stay at a full-service hotel. I called ahead and asked the concierge for assistance with supplies: an in-room fridge, a cooler, dry ice, packing tape, and a shipping box. When I arrived, the concierge remarked, “I love these requests! It’s inspiring to see women balancing it all.” Remember, you’re not the first to ask for help, and you might motivate someone else along the way!
- Handle Dry Ice with Care: When preparing my shipment, I learned the hard way that dry ice can be dangerous. Despite wrapping it in plastic, I got a painful burn, so be cautious!
If you’re looking for more tips on family planning, check out this post on Modern Family Blog. And for those interested in at-home insemination options, Make A Mom offers top-notch kits. For additional support and information, MedlinePlus is an excellent resource on pregnancy and insemination.
In summary, with proper planning and the right resources, breastfeeding while traveling can be a smooth experience. Just remember to keep your supply in mind, pump frequently, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed.
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