Most airlines have made it clear to travellers that they are very accepting of breastfeeding mums and thatbreastfeeding on one of their planes is allowed (though we always suggest that you explore a specific airline’s breastfeeding policy first). However, the policy is not usually what troubles mums the most. The real problem is being able to breastfeed in a confined area where they may have little space apart from their seat and the small amount of leg room in front of them.
Your quarters may be a bit more cramped than if you were to feed at home or in the airport, butbreastfeeding comfortably during a flight is possible.
Bring Your Breastfeeding Pillow
We know, yet another thing to bring on board. But if you are going for a long flight, a breastfeeding pillow will allow your baby to:
- Breastfeed comfortably and in a way in which she is familiar; and
- Enjoy a more relaxing nap time
Your baby may be happy using an airplane neck pillow. Test it out a few times at home though, to be sure that he will be happy using it.
Bring Your Sling
If you are going on an overnight flight, bring a ring sling with you (although small babies who are not fussy may sleep in the bassinet provided by the airline). The ring sling will help you keep your larger baby sleeping, meaning you may be able to sneak in a bit of a nap as well.
Pack The Essentials
You may be saving room in the nappy bag because you do not need to pack bottles, but that space will be well used. Some of the essentials you should bring includes:
- A burp cloth
- Extra zippered plastic bags (perfect for storing messy clothes or grabbing ice if you are pumping)
- An extra shirt for you(in case of leaks, spit ups, and other messes)
- A change of clothes for your baby
- Dress Wisely
Dress babies in clothing without elastic waistbands and dress yourself in yoga pants or, if you have recently given birth, a pair of Peachymamahigh-waisted pants (our pants are designed to not rub against or irritate any tender areas).
Peachymama also has an extensive line oftanks,tees, and long sleeved specially designedbreastfeeding shirts that allow mums to feed their babies while showing little to no skin. See ournewest on-trend arrivals andbreastfeeding basics!
Further Reading:
http://www.phdinparenting.com/blog/2008/9/3/tips-for-breastfeeding-on-a-plane.html
https://walkingontravels.com/breastfeeding-on-a-plane/