Your Ultimate Pumping Holiday Guide

Holidays are full of travel, family, and fun—but let’s be honest, keeping up with your pumping routine can be a challenge. With a little planning and the right tools, you can maintain your milk supply while staying present for every moment.

Read on for all the tips you need to pump confidently wherever the holidays take you.

At the Airport

Airports can feel stressful, but traveling with breast milk and your pump doesn’t have to be. Understanding TSA guidelines and packing intentionally can help everything go smoothly. A little preparation goes a long way.

Breast milk and your pump can go through security without removing them from your bag. TSA may randomly select you for a liquid check—remember it’s your right to request clean gloves and proper handling to protect your liquid gold.
Store pump parts, flanges, and milk bags in a clear, easily accessible pouch to make setup fast and simple when it’s time for your pump session.
Use the Spectra Wearable for discreet, on-the-go pumping—it fits easily under a sweater or into your carry-on.

On the Road

Long drives don’t have to mean missed sessions. Consistency supports your supply and keeps you feeling comfortable. The Spectra S1 is a road-trip favorite thanks to its rechargeable battery and hospital-strength performance.

Plan pumping breaks every 2–3 hours and set reminders so you stay on schedule.
Keep a cooler case in the car to safely store milk for up to 24 hours.
Try Power Pumping if you want to give your supply boost.
Fully charge your S1 before leaving and pack a car adapter so you never run out of battery.

In the Hotel

A new environment doesn’t have to disrupt your routine. With a few quick setups, you can make your pumping space feel comfortable and familiar.

Choose a designated pumping spot in your room for consistency and peace of mind.
Store milk in the hotel mini-fridge—call ahead to confirm availability, or use your cooler as a backup.
Charge your S1 for 3–4 hours before use. Avoid overnight charging, it can damage battery life.
Keep milk fresh rather than frozen—some research suggests it can safely remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to 8 days.

Holiday Meals & Family Gatherings

You don’t have to miss the fun while staying on track with pumping. And with the Spectra Wearable, you can even feed your baby directly from the same milk container you pump in—making meal times quicker and easier during holiday gatherings. With the right Spectra pump and plan in place, you can stay connected and fully present.

Use the Spectra Wearble between courses or while chatting with family—hands-free options make it easy to stay engaged in conversation.
Coordinate with hosts ahead of time if you’ll need privacy, and thank them for supporting your feeding goals.
Wear your baby if you prefer limiting how often others hold your newborn—it sets gentle boundaries without needing explanations.

More Travel Pumping Tips

A little preparation goes a long way—these essentials will help make your holiday pumping smooth and stress-free. Check them off before you travel.

Extra accessories, like bottles and flanges
Refillable water bottle and snacks
Backup adapters & car chargers
Hand pump
Cooler case with reusable freeze packs

Don’t forget to communicate your pumping schedule with travel companions—they can offer support when you need it the most.

Spectra Makes Travel Easy with the NEW Ultimate Bundle

Take the stress out of holiday pumping with our most loved breast pumps Spectra® Ultimate Bundle S1 Plus & Wearable —the S1 Plus Premier Rechargeable Breast Pump and the Spectra® Wearable Breast Pump for ultimate flexibility. Whether you’re focused on your pumping routine or balancing a busy day, the best routine isn’t about choosing one over the other— it’s about pairing them together.

Maintain your milk supply and pump anytime, anywhere—so you can focus on what matters most: your little ones and your loved ones.