The TSA breastmilk rules have become very mom-friendly in 2026,  but can be confusing with their government language and outdated Reddit threads. Here’s exactly what you need to know before your next trip, straight from TSA’s official guidelines.

Yes — and in any quantity you need. Breastmilk is classified as a medically necessary liquid by the TSA, which means it is completely exempt from the standard 3.4-ounce liquid rule. You can bring as much breastmilk as you need in your carry-on bag. In fact, we offer a Tiny Tote Kit that holds 50 ounces and fits in the overhead compartment.

No — and this is the #1 myth that stresses moms out unnecessarily. Your baby doesn’t need to be traveling with you to bring breastmilk and your pumping items. You can fly solo for a trip and still bring your pumped milk home.

Ice packs, freezer packs, frozen gel packs and other accessories required to cool breastmilk are allowed in carry-ons. This is great becuase all of our kits come with ice sheets, some come with instant ice packs. 

Your pump is considered a medical device and is fully allowed in your carry-on along with all parts, chargers, flanges, and bottles. It does not count against your carry-on limit.

Here’s exactly what to do:

1. Let the TSA officer know upfront that you’re carrying breastmilk and cooling accessories
2. Remove these items from your carry-on for separate screening.
3. If you don’t want your milk X-rayed or opened, you have the right to say so! TSA can swab the outside of the bags and or accessories with a tiny paper that collects bomb particles.  This entire process takes less then 5 minutes.
4. You can request private screening at any point.

What you can say at checkpoint: “I’m traveling with breastmilk, ice packs, and pumping supplies. These are medically necessary liquids exempt from the 3.4-ounce rule.” However, most TSA agents are familiar with this process and will make the situation easy. 

This is brand new and most moms don’t know about it yet. On November 25, 2025, the BABES Enhancement Act was signed into law. Under this act, if TSA needs to handle your milk or pump parts directly, you can ask the officer to use fresh, clean gloves before touching your items — backed by law. You can also request that officers use alternative screening methods like swabbing the outside of containers rather than opening them.