Introduction to Pumping While on Holiday
As a breastfeeding mum, going on holiday can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to expressing milk. However, with the right preparation and equipment, you can enjoy your holiday while still providing for your baby's needs. In my London clinic, I have worked with numerous mums who have successfully pumped while on holiday, and I am excited to share their tips and tricks with you. According to the NHS, it's essential to follow proper guidelines for storing expressed milk, which can be found on the NHS Start4Life website.
One of the most essential pieces of equipment for pumping while on holiday is a reliable and portable breast pump. I recommend considering the TheRelievoo Wearable Pump, which is a hospital-grade, hands-free wearable pump that is under 35 dB and available for £85.90, a significant reduction from its original price of £171.80. This pump is perfect for mums who want to express milk discreetly while on-the-go, whether that's in a café in Covent Garden or on a train to Edinburgh.
Step-by-Step Guide to Pumping While on Holiday
Step 1: Plan Ahead
Before you go on holiday, make sure you have a plan in place for expressing milk. This includes researching your accommodation and finding out if they have any facilities for storing expressed milk, such as a fridge or freezer. You can also consider packing a small cooler bag with ice packs to keep your milk cool while you are out and about, just like you would when visiting the local market in Camden. The NICE guidelines (CG30) recommend storing expressed milk at a temperature of -18°C or below, so be sure to check your accommodation's freezer temperature before storing your milk.
Step 2: Choose the Right Equipment
As mentioned earlier, a reliable and portable breast pump is essential for pumping while on holiday. Look for a pump that is lightweight, easy to use, and has a good battery life. The TheRelievoo Wearable Pump is a great option, and it also comes with free Royal Mail tracked delivery, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and a lifetime warranty. This pump is also quiet and discreet, making it perfect for expressing milk in a busy London café or on a crowded train.
Step 3: Find a Private and Comfortable Space
When you are on holiday, it can be challenging to find a private and comfortable space to express milk. Look for a quiet corner in a café or restaurant, or consider renting a private room or apartment. You can also use a nursing cover or scarf to help you feel more comfortable and discreet, just like many mums do when feeding their babies in public. I recall a mum who visited my clinic and shared her experience of expressing milk in a quiet corner of the British Museum, where she felt comfortable and relaxed thanks to her nursing cover.
I was worried about expressing milk in public, but with my nursing cover, I felt confident and comfortable. I even expressed milk in a quiet corner of the British Museum, where I could take in the sights and sounds while still providing for my baby's needs. The sound of the museum's fountain and the feel of the cool marble floor beneath my feet made the experience even more enjoyable, and I was able to express a full bottle of milk without any issues.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not Planning Ahead
One of the most common mistakes mums make when pumping while on holiday is not planning ahead. This can lead to stressful situations, such as not having enough storage space for expressed milk or not having a reliable breast pump. According to the NHS guidelines (CKS 071), it's essential to plan ahead and research your accommodation and local facilities before expressing milk on holiday.
Not Following Proper Hygiene Procedures
It is essential to follow proper hygiene procedures when expressing milk, especially when you are on holiday. Make sure you wash your hands regularly, and clean and sterilize your breast pump and equipment regularly. The NICE guidelines (CG30) recommend washing your hands with soap and water before and after expressing milk, and cleaning your breast pump and equipment with a mild detergent and warm water.
Not Storing Expressed Milk Properly
Expressed milk should be stored in a cool, dry place, such as a fridge or freezer. Make sure you follow the NHS guidelines for storing expressed milk, and consider using a small cooler bag with ice packs to keep your milk cool while you are out and about. The NHS recommends storing expressed milk in the fridge at a temperature of 4°C or below, or in the freezer at a temperature of -18°C or below.
Tips and Tricks for Pumping While on Holiday
Use a Nursing Cover or Scarf
A nursing cover or scarf can be a great way to help you feel more comfortable and discreet when expressing milk in public. Look for a lightweight and breathable material, such as cotton or bamboo, and consider wearing it when expressing milk in a busy London café or on a crowded train. The feel of the soft fabric against your skin and the sound of the café's background noise can make the experience even more enjoyable.
Consider Using a Portable Bottle Warmer
A portable bottle warmer can be a great way to warm up expressed milk on-the-go. Look for a compact and lightweight design, such as the ones featured in our Best Portable Bottle Warmer for Breastmilk UK guide. This can be especially useful when you're on a long train journey or visiting a busy tourist attraction, and you need to warm up your baby's milk quickly and easily.
Take Regular Breaks
Expressing milk can be tiring, especially when you are on holiday. Make sure you take regular breaks to rest and recharge, and consider using a hands-free breast pump to make expressing milk easier and more convenient. The sound of the pump's gentle hum and the feel of the soft cushioning against your skin can make the experience even more relaxing.
Conclusion
Pumping while on holiday can be challenging, but with the right equipment and planning, you can express milk on-the-go with ease. Remember to plan ahead, choose the right equipment, and find a private and comfortable space to express milk. Don't forget to follow proper hygiene procedures and store expressed milk properly. For more information on wearable breast pumps, check out our Wearable Breast Pump Comparison UK guide. Consider investing in the TheRelievoo Wearable Pump for a convenient and reliable pumping experience, and enjoy your holiday with peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: Does pumping affect your period?
A: Yes, pumping can affect your period. The frequency and duration of pumping can impact hormone levels, which can in turn affect your menstrual cycle. For more information, visit the Tommy's website, which provides guidance on breastfeeding and menstruation. -
Q: What not to do while breast pumping?
A: Avoid tight clothing, stress, and dehydration while breast pumping, as these can impact milk flow and overall health. The NCT website has more information on breast pumping tips and tricks, including how to manage stress and stay hydrated while expressing milk. -
Q: How to pump while on vacation?
A: Plan ahead, choose the right equipment, and find a private and comfortable space to express milk. Consider using a portable breast pump, such as the TheRelievoo Wearable Pump, and follow the NHS guidelines for storing expressed milk. -
Q: How to travel while pumping?
A: Pack a small cooler bag with ice packs, use a portable breast pump, and consider wearing a nursing cover or scarf for discretion. The NICE website has more information on traveling while breastfeeding, including guidance on storing expressed milk and managing milk supply while on-the-go. -
Q: What happens if I only pump during the day?
A: Pumping only during the day can impact milk supply and overall health. It is recommended to pump regularly, including at night, to maintain a healthy milk supply. The La Leche League GB website has more information on maintaining a healthy milk supply, including tips on how to manage nighttime pumping and express milk effectively. -
Q: Does pumping at work count as a break?
A: Yes, pumping at work can count as a break, and employers are required to provide a private and comfortable space for expressing milk. The NHS website has more information on breastfeeding at work, including guidance on expressing milk and storing expressed milk in the workplace.
Written by Olivia Bennett, IBCLC
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (London, UK)
Olivia is an IBCLC and mum of two based in London. Since 2018 she has supported 500+ British families with breastfeeding, expressing and the back-to-work transition, and writes all TheRelievoo UK guides in-house with the product team. She has been quoted in Mother and Baby and Cosmopolitan UK.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Hannah Whitfield, MBBS MRCGP (London)
