Feeding Your Baby While Traveling

Apr 02, 2025

Traveling with a baby is an adventure—so much fun, but sometimes unpredictable or even a little nerve-wracking, especially when it comes to feeding. Whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or introducing solids, a little preparation can make all the difference. As a speech and language pathologist, lactation consultant, and mom, I know how important it is to keep feeding routines as stress-free as possible so you can fully enjoy your trip.

Breastfeeding on the Go

One of the biggest perks of breastfeeding while traveling means you usually need minimal supplies. But that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. Finding a comfortable spot, dealing with distractions, and staying hydrated while on the move can be challenging. Here are some things to consider:

Know Your Rights: Many places are welcoming to nursing mothers, and you should always feel comfortable feeding your baby anywhere you need to. Unfortunately, not all states are as supportive of nursing mothers as others. Before you go, it's a good idea to check the breastfeeding laws in your destination so you know what to expect.
Scope Out a Spot: If you're going to an airport or if you're planning to visit any major tourist attractions or large public venues like a professional sporting event or museum, many of these places may have designated lactation spaces for parents to feed and change their babies. They usually post the location on their websites, so check that out before you go!
Dress for Convenience: Wear comfortable, easy-access clothing, like nursing tanks or button-up shirts, to make feeding in public easier. You can also throw a nursing cover in your diaper bag for extra privacy.
Stay Hydrated: When you're out of your usual routine, it's so easy for the basics like water intake to fall off your radar. Be mindful of your fluid intake to avoid dehydration which can impact your milk supply!

Bottle-Feeding While Traveling

If your baby takes a bottle, there’s a little more planning involved, but it’s totally doable. Start by thinking through how many bottles you’ll need for the trip and where you’ll be able to wash them. A portable bottle cleaning kit and travel-sized dish soap can come in handy if you’re washing bottles on the go. If washing isn’t an option, you could opt for disposable bottle liners. Or, bottle cleaning wipes can come in handy if you're in a pinch.

If you’re using formula, consider bringing ready-to-feed bottles. They’re more expensive, but incredibly convenient for long travel days. If you prefer powdered formula, carrying a portable formula dispenser allows you to measure out portions in advance, making bottle prep quick and easy. For warm water on the go, a thermos filled with hot (but not boiling) water can help when mixing formula while traveling. You could also consider a portable bottle warmer if you won't have easy access to an outlet and your baby prefers their bottles warm.

Starting Solids on the Road

Traveling with a baby who has started solids adds another layer of logistics, but it can also be a fun way to expose them to new experiences. To make it easier on all of you, you can try these things:

Stick to familiar foods: Sometimes with travel comes missed naps, over-stimulation, and overwhelm. Introducing new textures and flavors may be too much for an already tired baby, so try offering foods your baby is comfortable with.
Pack Portable Options: Aim for foods that don't require much prep and can be eaten on the go. Things like bananas, soft-cooked veggies, beans, dry cereal, or puree pouches.
Bring the Right Gear: Pack a small spoon and wipeable bib that you can easily stash in your diaper bag. A portable high chair or booster seat can also be super helpful if you have room to pack one.
Anticipate the Mess: Expect some spills, and bring extra wipes and a change of clothes.

Tips for Success

Adjust for Time Changes: If crossing time zones, gradually adjust feeding times to help your baby adapt.
Traveling with Breast Milk: For a breakdown of how to keep your breast milk safe while traveling, as well as a breakdown of TSA guidelines for breast milk, formula, and infant/toddler food, check out this blog post!
Be Flexible: Travel schedules can be unpredictable. Try to maintain your baby's usual feeding patterns but allow room for adjustment. It probably won't look exactly like it does at home, and that's okay.

Making It Work—Wherever You Go

No matter how you feed your baby, flexibility is key when traveling. Time zone changes, long travel days, and unpredictable schedules might mean that meals don’t happen exactly when or how they usually do. That’s okay. Babies are adaptable, and as long as they’re getting enough to eat, they’ll adjust.

Most importantly, try to enjoy making memories with your family! Feeding your baby on the go may come with a few challenges, but it’s also a chance to soak up quality time together. With a little planning and a lot of patience, you’ll be set for a smooth, stress-free trip.

Safe travels and happy feeding!

Feeling like you need more in-depth help with feeding your baby? I'm here to walk beside you on your feeding journey with my Bottle & Breastfeeding Course! It's full of comprehensive, evidence-based strategies for feeding your baby to help you feel more confident and prepared. Click the link below for more!