Storing expressed breastmilk safely is crucial for ensuring your baby receives the best nutrition, whether you’re at home in Singapore or on the go. Traveling adds a layer of complexity, but careful planning ensures your baby’s milk remains safe. Let’s explore the essentials of breastmilk storage, adapt them for travel, and address common questions for those journeying from Singapore.

General Breastmilk Storage Guidelines:

  Storing Expressed Breastmilk – A Guide by BMSG

• Freezer Storage:
  • Chest/Deep Freezer (-20°C to -10°C): Up to 12 months (best within 6).
  • Self-Contained Freezer (-10°C to 0°C): Up to 6 months.
• Refrigerator (0°C to 4°C): Up to 8 days.
• Room Temperature:
  • Cooler with Ice Packs (approximately 15°C): Up to 24 hours.
  • Air-Conditioned Room (16°C to 26°C): Up to 8 hours.
  • Room Temperature (28°C to 35°C): Up to 3 hours.
  • Untouched Warmed Milk (approximately 37°C): Use within 1 hour.

 

Important Notes:

• Always assess milk for freshness by smell and taste.
• Use refrigerated leftover milk within 1-2 hours.
• Breastmilk is nutritionally superior to formula. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasises the hierarchy of feeding: direct breastfeeding is the optimal method, followed by a mother’s expressed milk, donor milk, and, as a last resort, formula. Breastmilk contains essential antibodies and nutrients that formula cannot replicate. It provides a perfect balance of nutrients, supports immune development, and is easier for babies to digest than formula. WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding with complementary foods until at least 2 years of age.
• For premature or sick babies, please consult your doctor for specific storage times.

 

Traveling with Breastmilk: Strategies for Stress-Free Travel

Traveling, especially on long-haul flights, demands careful planning. To ensure the safety and quality of your breastmilk during extended travel, consider these essential steps. When preparing milk for a long flight, opt for high-quality milk bags and freeze them flat to conserve space and expedite thawing. Fill the bags to a maximum of two-thirds to prevent leaks that may only become apparent after defrosting. Storing milk in smaller, single-serving portions helps minimise waste. Insulate frozen milk bags within your cooler using newspaper or other suitable materials, and pack as many long-lasting ice packs as possible to maintain a consistently cold environment. If a flight delay leads to slight thawing, the milk is still considered frozen as long as ice crystals remain. Be aware that carry-on restrictions generally necessitate packing breastmilk in your checked luggage.

For more tips, check out the article on traveling mothers and Eleanor’s story, where you can learn about a mother’s experience traveling with breastmilk and the challenges she faced.

Travelling with Breastmilk: Top Tips for Long-Haul Flights by BMSG

• During transit, thaw milk by refrigeration or warm water, avoiding microwaves as they can destroy nutrients and create hot spots. Maintain hygiene with wipes and sanitiser, and consider a portable bottle warmer for convenience. When going through Changi Airport security, inform personnel about the breastmilk and be prepared for screening, carrying relevant guidelines from both Singaporean authorities and your destination country if applicable.
• Upon arrival, immediately refrigerate or freeze milk to maintain its quality. When staying in hotels, it is very important to confirm the availability of a refrigerator or freezer in your room beforehand. If possible, consider bringing a small portable cooler that plugs into a power outlet, for use at the destination. Research destination regulations regarding breastmilk transport and storage, and be aware of potential differences in water quality and sanitation if expressing milk at your destination. Dispose of spoiled milk in trash, not sinks, to prevent plumbing issues.
• For general travel, pack extra storage bags or containers in case of leaks or spills, and have a small cooler bag readily available for short trips. If possible, express milk at your destination if the environment is sanitary. Manage stress by maintaining your normal pumping schedule and allowing extra time for travel-related tasks. Remember to stay hydrated, as this will help maintain milk supply. For an inspiring and humorous travel experience, read about Leanne Sim’s adventures in Pumping Through Asia.

Traveling with breastmilk is achievable with careful preparation. Adhering to proper storage guidelines, taking necessary precautions during transit, and maintaining hygiene are key to providing your baby with nourishment wherever you go. Research destination-specific rules, prioritise cleanliness, and give yourself grace.

If you need to send breastmilk back home while you’re abroad, check out this helpful guide on how to do so safely: Sending Breastmilk Back Home. This article offers tips on the best practices for safely packaging and shipping breastmilk internationally. 

Also, join the Breastfeeding Group on Facebook for ongoing discussions about milk storage, traveling with breastmilk, and more!

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