When I got pregnant with my first child, I told myself I wasn't going to let my kids stop me from traveling. Now, four years later, I find that funny. Traveling with kids isn't easy, but it's also super cool to be able to explore new places and cultures through my son's eyes.
Cooper was born in January 2020. We didn't travel much (for obvious reasons). So last year, when his son Charlie was born, I decided things were going to change. I quickly realized that traveling nursing was a whole different ball game. After several failed attempts to whittle down my list of travel gear, I finally settled on a few (well, six) essentials that will allow me to nurse while traveling through Europe, the Caribbean, and even late Japan. I settled on. Just a little promise: It is possible to plan.
portable breast pump
Look out for ones with rechargeable batteries so you don't have to worry about power outlets (especially in foreign countries where adapters are required). You'll want a breast pump that fits perfectly in your bra, like the Willow Go Wearable Breast Pump or the ultra-lightweight Spectra 9 Portable & Rechargeable Double Electric Breast Pump.
freeze dried breast milk
Leche harvests your own breast milk and turns it into a powder that lasts up to three years. It's a genius feature for people who want flexibility and don't want to carry around frozen or expressed milk. You also have the option of carrying your breast milk in individually sealed sachets.
Dual use travel bag
Traveling with children requires a lot of luggage. And if you are breastfeeding? An incredible amount of stuff. Invest in a baby bag that you'll want to use, as you'll be carrying it with you everywhere. I love Prada's Renylon Baby Bag (fashion and functionality, check). Because you can actually wash them. Lululemon's New Parent tote bag is also great.
breast pump cleaning wipes
Believe please. The last thing you want to do while traveling is stop at a public restroom to thoroughly clean your breast pump. We found these multipurpose cleaning wipes to do an excellent job of removing residue and buildup quickly and safely. Make sure the pump is dry before wiping it down.
reusable storage containers
There are ready-made containers specifically designed for storing breast milk or in case of emergency. A travel mug can help (make sure it has a good seal; I like the Ceres Chill and Willow portable breast milk coolers). According to the CDC, breast milk should be refrigerated after four hours, so keep that in mind if you plan on going sightseeing for a while.
Wet/dry bag for all purposes
If you're still not sure, a multi-purpose item like a wet/dry bag is your best bet. I like to keep different sizes of Mushie and Calpak to store pump parts, hide dirty children's clothes, and use them to organize things like chargers and passports. is.
