5 Tips for Moms Who Need to Pump on the Go

Need to Pump on the Go? Medela Has You Covered!

Ready to start venturing out and getting back to your favorite pre-baby activities? You may be curious how to best take the leap into pumping while balancing life and other responsibilities. While your ideal spot to pump may be your baby's nursery or while curled up on your couch, that may not always happen. Whether you're heading back to work, scheduling time to work out, meeting with friends, or simply taking a family excursion, we've put together some tips to help you easily pump on the go:

Find a private place to pump

You're doing something natural and amazing for your baby and you do not, by any means, need to hide. Still, some moms may be more comfortable and able to relax in a quiet, private space. If you're heading back to work, speak to your employer ahead of time to ensure they provide an appropriate place for you to pump (that isn't the nearest restroom) with a door that closes. If you're out and about, it may be more of a challenge to find a dedicated space to pump on the go, but many malls and even airports are now offering family lounges or "pods" with nursing and/or pumping areas.
Stimulate your senses

To encourage letdown while pumping, carry a picture of your little one or pack a piece of clothing or a blanket that smells like them. Recording and playing their hunger cries or coos on your phone can also help with output during your pumping session. Try to relax, think about baby, and take some deep breaths.

Consider a portable, electric breast pump

If you're an active mom and know you'll be shuffling between family time, work, friends, and other commitments, you'll want a reliable and efficient breast pump that's designed with you in mind. An all-in-one mobile and portable breast pump like our Freestyle may be a great choice. This double electric breast pump is an easy grab and go solution that gives you everything you need to pump on the go! Need to pump hands-free? Simply add the Hands-free Pumping bustier with your Freestyle pump so you have the flexibility to multitask as often as needed.

Keep accessories, cleaning products, and extra parts on hand to help

Convenience is key if you need to pump on the go. To be prepared for getting caught in a not-so-sanitary pumping space, having cleaning wipes and sanitizer spray can help until you’re able to get home and steam clean your breast pump parts.

It can also be hugely convenient for a busy mama to keep an extra set of parts at work or in your car. Finally, keeping disposable nursing pads on hand – whether thin pads work for you, or you need something a bit thicker and more absorbent for heavier milk flows – can help protect your clothing from unexpected leakage while out and about, between pumping sessions, or until you can find a suitable place to pump on the go.

Plan for breast milk storage

It would be a shame if you were to lose the liquid gold you worked so hard to pump for your little one, so make sure you know current breast milk storage guidelines. It may be helpful to download a printable infographic with current guidelines (also available in Spanish), so you can remember when to safely feed, refrigerate, and/or freeze your milk and ensure none of it goes to waste. Scope out refrigeration options at your destination ahead of time, or keep an insulated cooler with you to store your pumped breast milk until you’re able to put it in the fridge or freezer once you’re home.

Pumping while away from home takes a bit more effort and planning, but it is worth it to give yourself the freedom to return to the active lifestyle you've always enjoyed while continuing to provide your baby with all the amazing benefits of your breast milk.