TSA Breast Milk Rules Explained: A Stress-Free Guide (2025)

Traveling with breast milk can be overwhelming — between the pump, the bags, and the TSA line, it’s a lot. 

And digging through the TSA’s confusing website or Reddit threads? No thanks.

This guide has everything you need to know — fast, clear, and parent-friendly — so you can prepare for your travels and fly with confidence.

At Milk Stork, we’ve helped thousands of parents ship or carry breast milk safely. We’ve been there, and we’re here to make your next trip a whole lot easier.

Need a printable checklist?

Download the TSA Breast Milk Travel Checklist:

 

Flying with Breast Milk

TSA Breast Milk Rules – The Basics

If you’re flying with breast milk, the good news is: TSA allows it, and you have rights. Here’s a quick, no-stress overview of what to expect at airport security.

 

1. Breast Milk Is Exempt from the 3.4 oz Liquid Rule

You can bring more than 3.4 oz of breast milk through TSA security. There’s no limit — bring as much as you need for your trip, even if your baby isn’t traveling with you.

 

2. You Can Travel with Fresh, Frozen, or Thawed Milk

TSA allows all forms of breast milk — fresh, frozen, or partially thawed. Just be prepared for them to be screened separately

Note: sometimes TSA will also require partially thawed breast milk to be able to test it - it doesn't always happen and depends on the airport. Be prepared for the possibility of them requiring enough liquid to use a sanitary test strip to test it. You can ask them to pour a small sample into a separate container so your breast milk is not contaminated.

 

3. Coolers, Ice Packs, and Gel Packs Are Allowed

You can bring ice packs, gel packs, freezer packs, and insulated coolers (like the Milk Cubby by Milk Stork) to keep milk cold. These are also exempt from the 3.4 oz rule when used for breast milk storage.

 

4. Declare Your Milk at the Security Checkpoint

Let TSA officers know you’re traveling with breast milk. Your milk and cooling supplies will be screened separately, and you can request hand inspection instead of X-ray if you prefer.

 

5. You Can Refuse X-ray Screening of Your Milk

If you’re not comfortable with X-ray or other screening methods, you have the right to request alternative inspection methods (usually visual or swab testing). TSA officers are trained to accommodate breastfeeding parents.

 

6. TSA Cares Can Help Before Your Trip

Need extra support? Contact TSA Cares, a helpline for travelers with medical conditions — including breastfeeding moms. They can assist with accommodations and smooth out your security experience.

TSA Cares Helpline: 1-866-289-9673

bag

Packing Tips for TSA Screening

When it comes to flying with breast milk, how you pack can make all the difference. Here’s how to get through TSA smoothly — with your milk safe and your sanity intact.

1. Pack Your Milk for Easy Access

TSA requires that breast milk be screened separately from the rest of your liquids. Pack your milk in a cooler or insulated bag that’s easy to open and remove when going through security. The Milk Cubby by Milk Stork was built for this, 

Pro Tip: Use a separate Ziploc or tote just for your milk and pump parts — it speeds up screening and keeps things organized.

 

2. Use TSA-Friendly Containers

Store milk in breast milk storage bags or bottles with secure, leak-proof lids. Labeling is optional, but it can help avoid confusion during screening.

 

3. Coolers and Ice Packs: No Problem

You can bring ice packs, gel packs, or freezer packs — they’re TSA-approved when used to keep breast milk cold. Even if they’re partially melted or slushy, they’re still allowed.

 

4. Bring Printed TSA Guidelines

Not all TSA agents are familiar with the breast milk rules. Print TSA’s official breast milk guidelines and keep them handy — it can save time and prevent confusion.

Download TSA Breast Milk Guidelines:


Bonus: What to Pack for Travel Pumping

  • Extra storage bags or bottles
  • Battery-powered or manual pump
  • Sanitizing wipes & Ziplocs for parts
  • Hands-free pumping bra
  • Milk Stork’s Pump & Check kit or Milk Cubby for carrying milk on the go


Want to skip the TSA hassle altogether?

Milk Stork lets you ship your milk home overnight — no ice packs, no coolers, no stress.

Learn More About Milk Stork

What TSA Agents May Ask — And How to Respond

check in terminal

You Have Rights — TSA Guidelines Support You

  • Breast milk is a medically necessary liquid and exempt from standard limits.

  • You’re allowed as much milk as needed, along with cooling items.

  • You can request a supervisor if you encounter issues.

  • Print TSA’s official breast milk guidelines to bring with you — it’s your best backup.

 

Shipping vs. Carrying Milk — What Are Your Options?

When you’re traveling and need to get your breast milk home, you have two main options: carry it with you through TSA or ship it home. Each option has its pros and cons — here’s how to decide what’s best for you.

 

Option 1: Carrying Milk Through TSA
Pros:

  • Keep your milk with you at all times
  • No shipping fees
  • Immediate access to your milk after arrival
Things to Consider:
  • You’ll need to go through TSA screening, which can take extra time
  • Requires a special cooler and ice packs to keep breast milk cold during your trip
  • Storage space on flights and during layovers can be tricky
  • Some airlines limit cooler sizes or may ask for extra screening


Best for: Short trips, small volumes of milk, and parents who want to keep milk close

Want to carry your milk easily? 

Milk Stork’s Pump & Check kit holds up to 108 oz. of breast milk and keeps it refrigerated for 90 hours.

Alternatively, our Milk Cubby carries up to 24 oz. of freshly pumped breast milk on the go and can keep breast milk refrigerated at CDC-approved temperatures for up to 15 hours.

 

Option 2: Shipping Milk Home with Milk Stork

Pros:

  • No TSA screening — skip the stress and save time at the airport
  • Temperature-controlled, overnight shipping directly to your home or baby
  • No need to carry milk through hotels, airports, or flights
  • Milk Stork provides everything you need — ready to go

Things to Consider:

  • Shipping fees apply (many parents have their employers cover this expense)
  • Plan ahead to schedule shipments and delivery timing

Best for: Longer trips, larger volumes of milk, or anytime you want a stress-free experience

 

Want the ultimate peace of mind?

Milk Stork’s Pump & Ship kit makes shipping breast milk home easy, safe, and reliable.

FAQs – Flying with Breast Milk & TSA Guidelines

Plan Your Next Trip with Milk Stork

Traveling while breastfeeding isn’t easy — but with the right information (and the right support), you’ve got this.


Whether you’re flying for work, visiting family, or simply getting away for a few days, Milk Stork is here to help you get your milk home safely and stress-free. Thousands of parents have trusted us to simplify the process — from TSA lines to hotel freezers to getting that precious milk back to baby.