Should you be pumping or nursing while travelling? Breastfeeding while travelling can be challenging especially when it comes to maintaining your milk supply. It’s important for you to explore the options and plan ahead to ensure that you continue producing enough milk for your baby throughout your trip! This comprehensive guide will help you decide whether to pump or to nurse or both while travelling.
Understanding Your Options
Nursing While Travelling
Nursing is the most straightforward and convenient option as it doesn’t require you to use additional equipment and you can nurse anywhere you feel is comfortable! However, your baby may get excited in new environments which could distract them from nursing as regularly as they do which may affect your supply.
Pumping While Travelling
Pumping gives you more control over keeping up with your pumping/nursing schedule which will allow you to maintain your milk supply. It will be especially beneficial in instances when you might be separated from your baby (for example if the baby's grandparents want to bring him out for the day). However, it might be more inconvenient as you need to lug around your pumping equipment and find places to pump.
Factors to Consider
1.Convenience and Comfort
Nursing: Doesn’t require you to bring out your pumping equipment and doesn’t require you to find a spot where you can pump in peace. You can nurse discreetly with a nursing cover when you’re out!
Pumping: Pumping allows you to take control of your routine and ensure that you extract milk when you usually do. However, you need to take into account having to store your breastmilk and clean your equipment.
2.Maintaining Your Milk Supply
Nursing: Direct latching is the best way to maintain your milk supply as it is based on demand and supply. However, you may encounter situations where your baby might not be interested in feeding at their regular time because he’s too excited.
Pumping: Pumping is just as effective as direct feeding, especially if you already have your pumping routine down and you maintain your regular pumping/nursing schedule. It’s a great way to ensure that your supply is maintained.
3.Logistics
Nursing: You don’t need to bring any equipment along with you but you have to be prepared to nurse in different environments
Pumping: You will need to prepare a check-list of pumping equipment you need to bring along with you. To reduce the amount of items to carry, we suggest using the Ceres Chill breastmilk chiller which is a multi-functional chiller that allows you to pump directly into the chiller, allows you to use it as a bottle and keeps your breastmilk chilled for up to 20 hours!
Tips for Nursing While Travelling
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose nursing-friendly attire to make breastfeeding easier.
- Scout Nursing Locations: Identify baby-friendly spots such as nursing rooms in airports or rest areas.
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Travelling can be exhausting, so ensure you’re drinking enough water and eating nutritious food to support milk production.
Tips for Pumping While Travelling
- Invest in a Good Pump: A portable, double electric breast pump can be a lifesaver.
- Bring Extra Supplies: Pack more storage bags or bottles than you think you’ll need, as well as spare parts for your pump.
- Plan Your Pumping Schedule: Try to stick to your regular pumping times to keep your milk supply steady.
- Find Storage Solutions: We suggest using the Ceres Chill breastmilk chiller to store your milk safely until you can refrigerate or freeze it.
Should I Do Both?
Sometimes, combining nursing and pumping can offer the best of both worlds. You might nurse your baby when you’re together and pump when you’re apart or when nursing isn’t practical. This hybrid approach ensures you’re maintaining your milk supply while accommodating the realities of travel.
Whether you choose to pump or nurse while travelling, the key is to be prepared and flexible. Both methods have their pros and cons, but with careful planning and the right tools, you can successfully maintain your milk supply and continue to provide for your baby. Remember, every mom and baby pair is unique, so choose the method that works best for you and your family. Safe travels and happy feeding!