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Top 6 Picks: Best Breast Pump for Travel 2024
By Tehreem Fatima Updated May 15, 2024
Are you in search of the best breast pump for travel? I know how challenging it can be to find the right breast pump that meets your needs and is travel friendly.
But worry not—I’m here to help! In this article, I’ll introduce you to the top 6 best breast pumps for travel, making your journey much more accessible and stress-free.
These travel breast pumps are compact, portable, efficient, and ideal for on-the-go moms. I’ve considered size, weight, functionality, and price to create this list of the best travel breast pumps.
So, without further ado, let’s dive in and find the best breast pump to travel with!
List of 6 Best Travel Breast Pump Options
Below, I have outlined six best breast pumps for travelling moms, ensuring that every traveling mother can find a pump that fits her needs:
1. Best Overall: Pumpables Genie Advanced Breast Pump Jump to Skip ↘
2. Best Lightweight: Ameda Mya Joy Plus Breast Pump Jump to Skip ↘
3. Best Suction: Baby Buddha Portable Breast Pump Jump to Skip ↘
4. Best Hands-free: Elvie Stride Breast Pump Jump to Skip ↘
5. Best Wearable: Elvie Wearable Breast Pump Jump to Skip ↘
6. Best Manual: Philips Avent Comfort Manual Pump Jump to Skip ↘
Detailed Analysis
In this segment, I will delve in detailed analysis of each breast pump listed, examining its features, benefits, and drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.
1. Pumpables Genie Advanced Portable Breast Pump
Best Overall Breast Pump
Combines powerful suction with a compact design, making it ideal for efficient and convenient pumping on the go.
Key Specifications
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- Weight: Weighing in at only 0.9 lbs.
- Battery Life: With a built-in battery, this pump offers up to 3 hours of pumping time on a single charge, allowing moms to express milk wherever they are.
- Suction Settings: The pump offers ten expression levels and seven massage levels, ensuring a customized pumping experience for maximum comfort and efficiency.
- Included Accessories: The package comprises two flange sizes (21mm and 25mm), backflow protectors, tubing, bottles, and nipples.
If you are looking for the best overall breast pump for travel, the Pumpables Genie Advanced Portable Breast Pump is a fantastic option. It’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to fit in your travel bag.
The pump has 14 different suction levels, is customizable for each breast, and provides comfort and efficiency for all milk supply types. Additionally, the closed system design ensures hygiene and prevents milk backflow.
One unique feature of this pump is the “Tweak” mode, which allows mothers to mimic their baby’s suckling patterns for a more natural pumping experience. It also has a built-in battery and an automatic shut-off feature after 30 minutes.
Moms who have used the Pumpables Genie praise its portability, efficiency, and customizable settings. However, there may be better options for exclusive pumping, as it is not designed for heavy use.
If you want to get Spectra S1 plus through Insurance, check it out on Aeroflow Breast Pumps.
After-Sales Support and Warranty:
Pumpables offers a 2-year warranty for its Genie Advanced Breast Pump. Its customer support team is available via inquiries or email for troubleshooting or phone.
Mom Insights:
“I travel for work, and the Pumpables Genie has been a lifesaver. It’s compact, discreet, and super easy to use. I can pump on the go without any hassle.” – Rachel, working mother.
“As a first-time mom, I was worried about keeping up my milk supply while traveling. This pump has made it much easier for me to express milk on the go, and it’s efficient at emptying my breasts.” – Jenny, first-time mother.
Verdict:
The Pumpables Genie Advanced Breast Pump is a top pick for traveling mothers. Its compact size, customizable settings, and efficiency make it an excellent choice for those who need to express milk while on the go.
If you want to purchase the Pumpables Genie Advanced Breast Pump, check out their website or buy through insurance!
2. Ameda Mya Joy Plus Portable Breast Pump
Best Lightweight Breast Pump
Ultra-lightweight and portable, offering a quiet operation and easy portability without compromising performance.
Key Specifications
- Weight: The pump weighs less than a pound, making it ultra-portable and lightweight.
- Battery Life: The battery provides approx three hours of pumping time on a single charge.
- Suction Settings: It has ten suction strengths and six different speed levels. The “Genius Mode” mimics a baby’s natural nursing pattern for optimum comfort and efficiency.
- Included Accessories: The package consists of two flanges (25mm and 28mm), backflow protectors, tubing, and wide-neck bottles with caps.
If you want a lightweight breast pump for travel, the Ameda Mya Joy Plus is an excellent option. Weighing only 0.5 lbs, it’s one of the lightest breast pumps on the market.
The pump offers customizable suction levels and a letdown mode, mimicking a baby’s natural suckling pattern for maximum milk expression. It also has two different flange sizes included in the package for a comfortable fit.
One standout feature of the Ameda Mya Joy Plus is its quiet operation, making it discreet and perfect for pumping in public or around others. It also has a built-in rechargeable battery and automatic shut-off after 30 minutes.
Mothers who have used this pump appreciate its lightweight design, quiet operation, and efficiency at emptying breasts. However, it may be less comfortable for mothers with larger breasts due to the smaller flange sizes.
If you want to get Spectra S1 plus through Insurance, check it out on Aeroflow Breast Pumps.
After-Sales Support and Warranty:
Ameda offers a 2-year warranty for the Mya Joy Plus Breast Pump, and customer support is available via phone or troubleshooting needs or email for any inquiries.
Mom Insights:
“I love how lightweight and discreet this pump is. I can pump in public without feeling self-conscious, and it’s easy to pack in my diaper bag when traveling.” – Sarah, working mother.
“The Ameda Mya Joy Plus has been a game-changer for me while traveling. It’s efficient at emptying my breasts, and the letdown mode is a lifesaver.” – Lisa, frequent traveler and mother of two.
Verdict:
Overall, the Ameda Mya Joy Plus is an excellent lightweight breast pump for travel. Its compact size, customizable settings, and quiet operation make it an excellent choice for pumping on the go.
If you want to purchase the Ameda Mya Joy Plus Breast Pump, check out their website or buy through insurance!
3. Baby Buddha Portable Electric Breast Pump
Best Suction Breast Pump
Features strong suction power in a small, portable design, perfect for mothers who need efficient milk expression while traveling.
Key Specifications
- Weight: At just 0.6 lbs, this is one of the lightest electric breast pumps on the market, making it highly portable and convenient for travel.
- Battery Life: This pump features a built-in battery, which provides up to 3 hours of pumping time on a single charge. Thus, moms can express milk wherever they may be.
- Suction Settings: The pump features nine expression modes and five massage levels, allowing mothers to adjust the settings for maximum comfort and efficiency.
- Included Accessories: The package comprises two flange sizes (21mm and 24mm), a cooler bag, ice packs, and extra valves.
If you want a breast pump for travel that offers strong suction, the Baby Buddha Portable Electric Breast Pump is a top choice. It has ten different suction strength levels, making it great for moms with a higher milk supply.
The pump also features two stimulation modes and six expression modes, mimicking a baby’s natural nursing pattern for maximum milk expression. It’s also compact and lightweight, with a battery life of up to two hours on a single charge.
Mothers who have used this pump praise its strong suction, customizable settings, and compact design. However, it may be too powerful for those with a lower milk supply or sensitive nipples.
If you want to get Spectra S1 plus through Insurance, check it out on Aeroflow Breast Pumps.
After-Sales Support and Warranty:
Baby Buddha provides a 2-year warranty for their Portable Electric Breast Pump, with customer support available via phone or troubleshooting needs or email for any inquiries.
Mom Insights:
“I was hesitant to try an electric breast pump, but the Baby Buddha has exceeded my expectations. The suction is strong, and I love being able to customize the settings for my comfort.” – Michelle, mother of three.
“This pump’s compact size and powerful suction make it ideal for travel. It fits easily in my carry-on and efficiently empties my breasts.” – Emily, frequent traveler and working mother.
Verdict:
The Baby Buddha Portable Electric Breast Pump is a fantastic choice for traveling mothers who need strong suction. Its compact size, customizable settings, and efficient milk expression make it a top pick for on-the-go pumping.
If you want to purchase the Baby Buddha Portable Electric Breast Pump, check out their website or buy through insurance!
4. Elvie Stride Hands-free Breast Pump
Best Hands-free Breast Pump
Provides hands-free pumping with powerful suction and flexibility, allowing moms to pump discreetly and comfortably anywhere.
Key Specifications
- Weight: At just 0.6 lbs, this is one of the lightest hands-free breast pumps available, making it easy to use while on the go.
- Battery Life: The pump’s built-in rechargeable battery offers up to two hours of pumping time, perfect for travel or pumping on the go.
- Suction Settings: Mothers can adjust the settings for maximum comfort and milk expression with customizable suction levels and stimulation modes.
- Included Accessories: The package comprises two flange sizes (21mm and 24mm), bottles, and a USB charging cable.
The Elvie Stride is an excellent option if you’re looking for a hands-free breast pump for travel. It’s completely silent and discreet, allowing mothers to pump anywhere without drawing attention.
The pump also offers customizable suction levels, stimulation modes, and a built-in rechargeable battery lasting up to two hours. The accompanying app also tracks milk volume and pumping history for convenience.
Mothers who have used this pump rave about its silent operation, hands-free design, and efficiency at emptying breasts. However, it may be pricier compared to other options on the market.
If you want to get Spectra S1 plus through Insurance, check it out on Aeroflow Breast Pumps.
After-Sales Support and Warranty:
Elvie offers a 2-year warranty for their hands-free breast pump, and customer support is available via phone or email for any inquiries or troubleshooting needs.
Mom Insights:
“The Elvie Stride has been a game-changer for me. I can pump discreetly in public or while working without anyone noticing. Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to use.” – Jenna, working mother of twins.
“I was skeptical about a hands-free pump, but the Elvie Stride has exceeded my expectations. It’s quiet, efficient, and easy to use, making it perfect for travel or pumping on the go.”—Sarah, stay-at-home mom.
Verdict:
Overall, the Elvie Stride is a top choice for mothers who need a hands-free breast pump for travel. Its discreet operation, customizable settings, and lightweight design make it an excellent option for pumping anywhere on the go.
If you want to purchase the Elvie Stride Hands-free Breast Pump, check out their website or buy through insurance!
5. Elvie Wearable Electric Breast Pump
Best Wearable Breast Pump
Sleek, silent, and wearable under clothing, enabling truly hands-free and discreet pumping without being confined to one spot.
Key Specifications
- Weight: Weighing only 0.6 lbs, this is one of the lightest wearable electric breast pumps available, making it easy to wear and use while on the move.
- Battery Life: The pump’s rechargeable battery offers up to two hours of pumping time on a single charge, perfect for travel or pumping while out and about.
- Suction Settings: Mothers can customize the suction levels and stimulation modes for maximum comfort and milk expression.
- Accessories: The package includes two flange sizes (21mm and 24mm), breast shields, and a USB charging cable.
If you are looking for the best wearable breast pump for travel, the Elvie Wearable Electric Breast Pump is a top contender. It’s small and discreet, fitting seamlessly into a nursing bra for hands-free pumping.
The pump offers customizable suction levels, stimulation modes, and a rechargeable battery lasting up to two hours. It’s also silent and easy to clean, perfect for travel or pumping.
Mothers who have used this pump love its compact size, discreet design, and efficient milk expression. However, it may be weaker than other electric pumps.
If you want to get Spectra S1 plus through Insurance, check it out on Aeroflow Breast Pumps.
After-Sales Support and Warranty:
Elvie stands behind its wearable electric breast pump with a generous 2-year warranty, and you can rely on their dedicated customer support team via troubleshooting needs you encounter or phone or email to address any inquiries.
Mom Insights:
“I love my Elvie Wearable Electric Breast Pump. It’s so discreet that no one knows I’m wearing it while pumping. Plus, it’s small and easy to clean, making it perfect for travel.” – Ashley, working mother of one.
“I’ve tried several wearable breast pumps, and the Elvie has been my favorite. It’s comfortable, efficient, and quiet. It’s perfect for pumping on the go or running errands.”—Maria, a busy mom of two.
Verdict:
Overall, the Elvie Wearable Electric Breast Pump is a top choice for mothers who need a discreet and compact option for pumping while traveling. Its customizable settings, long battery life, and ease of use make it a top pick for busy moms on the go.
If you want to purchase the Elvie Wearable Electric Breast Pump, check out their website or buy through insurance!
6. Philips Avent Comfort Manual Breast Pump
Best Compact Breast Pump
Designed for comfort and convenience with an ergonomic handle, making it an excellent option for occasional use while traveling.
Key Specifications
- Weight: Weighing only 0.7 lbs, this manual breast pump is lightweight and easy to pack for travel.
- Suction Settings: With a unique design that mimics natural sucking, this pump offers comfortable and efficient milk expression.
- Included Accessories: The package includes a 4oz bottle with a newborn nipple, travel cover, and sealing disc for hygienic storage while on the go.
The Philips Avent Comfort Manual Breast Pump proves to be a dependable and practical choice for mothers who favor a manual breast pump for travel. It offers a unique design that mimics natural sucking, making it comfortable and effective at milk expression.
The pump also features an ergonomic handle for easy use and a travel cover for hygienic storage while on the go. Its compact size also makes it easy to pack and use while traveling.
Mothers who have used this pump appreciate its comfortable design, efficient milk expression, and ease of use. However, some may find the manual pumping process tiring compared to electric pumps.
If you want to get Spectra S1 plus through Insurance, check it out on Aeroflow Breast Pumps.
After-Sales Support and Warranty:
Philips offers a 2-year warranty for its manual breast pump and customer support via phone or email for any inquiries or troubleshooting needs.
Mom Insights:
“I love my Philips Avent Manual Breast Pump. It’s so easy to use and mimics my baby’s natural sucking motion, making it comfortable and efficient.” – Rachel, stay-at-home mom of three.
“I prefer manual pumps for travel because they’re smaller and easier to pack. They have been a lifesaver during our road trips, and having the travel cover included is a great extra benefit!”—Emily, working mother of one.
Verdict:
Overall, the Philips Avent Comfort Manual Breast Pump is a top choice for mothers who prefer a manual option for travel. Its unique design, compact size, and included accessories make it a reliable and convenient choice for on-the-go pumping.
If you want to purchase the Philips Avent Comfort Manual Breast Pump, check out their website or buy through insurance!
How Choosing the Best Breast Pump for Travel
When selecting the ideal breast pump for travel, several crucial When selecting the ideal breast pump for travel, several crucial factors warrant careful consideration. Firstly, it’s essential to ensure it aligns perfectly with your requirements.
1. Portability and Weight: Evaluate the pump’s portability and weight to guarantee ease of transportation, vital for travel convenience.
2. Convenience Features: Look for features that enhance your overall experience, such as battery life, additionally, consider the ease of cleaning, and, furthermore, the choice between manual or electric operation.
3. Discreetness and Noise Level: Consider the pump’s discreetness and noise level, since these factors significantly influence your comfort and privacy, especially when pumping in public spaces.
4. Replacement Parts and Compatibility: Check the availability of replacement parts and also assess the pump’s compatibility with various power sources, which is particularly crucial for international trips.
By carefully considering these aspects, you can choose a breast pump that meets your fundamental needs and elevates your travel experience, ensuring seamless and enjoyable breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the best breast pump for travel requires identifying your needs and carefully evaluating the pump’s features to ensure they align with them. Whether you prioritize portability, convenience, or discreetness, a breast pump can make your travel experience as a breastfeeding mother more manageable and enjoyable.
With the right breast pump at your side, you can embark on your travels confidently, ensuring you can continue to nourish your little one without any compromises.
So, pack your bags, grab your breast pump, and enjoy traveling quickly and confidently! Happy traveling!
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some frequently asked questions about travel breast pumps:
1. Can You Travel with a Breast Pump?
Yes, you can travel with a breast pump. Airports are accustomed to travelers carrying breast pumps both domestically and internationally.
Carrying it as part of your carry-on luggage is advisable to avoid damage or loss. Be prepared to show it during security screenings since security personnel may need to inspect it.
To ease this process, consider informing the security officer that you have a breast pump in your carry-on.
Most airlines typically don’t count a breast pump as part of your carry-on allowance, recognizing it as a medical device. However, it’s always wise to confirm with your airline to understand their specific policies before traveling.
2. How Do You Pump Breasts While Traveling?
Pumping breast milk while traveling requires some planning. However, it can be smoothly managed with the right approach. First, ensure a portable, lightweight breast pump fits your travel needs. Battery-operated or manual pumps are ideal for places where accessing power might be an issue.
Remember to carry spare batteries or a power bank if your pump operates on batteries. Maintaining a consistent pumping schedule also helps prevent discomfort and ensures a steady milk supply. Adjust as needed for time zone changes or travel plans to support your breastfeeding routine.
Consider wearing a nursing cover or finding a private place if you prefer discretion while pumping in public spaces. Finally, bring storage bags or containers to store your expressed milk safely; keep it cool with an ice pack or in a cooler bag until you can refrigerate or freeze it.
3. How Do You Exclusively Pump and Travel?
Exclusively pumping while traveling demands careful planning and preparation but, fortunately, is manageable with implementing the right strategies. Choose a reliable, portable breast pump that aligns with your travel plans.
If you’re flying, inform the airline beforehand, as pumps are usually not counted against your carry-on quota. Pack all necessary accessories, including extra batteries or a portable power source, storage bags for milk, cleaning supplies, and a universal plug adapter for international travel.
Establishing a pumping schedule that mimics your baby’s feeding times can help maintain your milk supply. If you’re in public, look for discreet and comfortable places to pump. To store expressed milk safely, you’ll need a cooler bag equipped with ice packs to maintain the correct temperature until you can transfer it to a refrigerator.
4. How Do You Keep the Breast Pump Clean While Traveling?
Keeping your breast pump clean while traveling is crucial for your health and, consequently, your baby’s. Firstly, prioritize bringing a portable cleaning kit. Additionally, this should include bottle brushes, antibacterial soap, and, if accessible, microwave sterilizing bags for convenience.
Resources for Breastfeeding and Pumping Support:
Here’s a summary of some valuable resources and what they offer:
1. Kellymom (Kellymom): This website is well-regarded for its evidence-based information on breastfeeding, pumping, and parenting. It’s an excellent starting point for mothers seeking lactation support and practical advice on balancing work and breastfeeding.
2. UpToDate – Pumping Breast Milk (Beyond the Basics) (UpToDate): This resource offers detailed patient education materials for mothers seeking a deeper understanding of pumping breast milk. It includes additional resources for finding lactation specialists and peer support.
3. La Leche League Online Support Resources (La Leche League International): La Leche League (LLL) is a global organization offering breastfeeding support in over 80 countries. Their online resources include a search function for finding local LLL leaders and groups, providing mothers access to personal guidance and community support.
4. WIC Breastfeeding Support – Expressing and Pumping Milk (WIC Breastfeeding Support): The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program offers tips and videos on milk expression and pumping. This resource is beneficial for solving breastfeeding challenges and making milk expression work for each mother.
5. Women’s Health – Breastfeeding Resources (Women’s Health): This government website provides general information about breastfeeding from reputable sources like the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Academy of Pediatrics. It’s a trustworthy source for mothers seeking authoritative advice on breastfeeding.
6. PHFE WIC – Breastfeeding Support, Resources & Information (PHFE WIC): PHFE WIC offers extensive breastfeeding support and resources, including classes and lactation information. Contacting their offices can connect mothers with more personalized support and educational materials.
7. Mamava – Breastfeeding Resources for Parents (Mamava): Mamava provides resources tailored to the needs of working mothers, including facts and talk tracks to help explain the necessity of pumping at work. It also reviews products like nursing covers, aiding mothers in finding the best gear for breastfeeding and pumping.
8. Cincinnati Children’s – Maintaining Milk Supply with a Breast Pump (Cincinnati Children’s): This resource offers insights into using a breast pump to build and maintain milk supply, alongside clinical trials, research studies, and ongoing support resources. It’s a valuable source of information for mothers looking to optimize their pumping routine.
9. Lurie Children’s – Breastfeeding and Pumping Resources (Lurie Children’s): Catering especially to mothers of NICU babies, this resource compiles support sites, organizations, and instructional videos to assist with breastfeeding and pumping during a challenging time.
These resources collectively provide knowledge and support for breastfeeding mothers, especially those in the consideration stage looking to make informed decisions about pumping.