Business Travel with Pumps: Know Your Pumping Rights

For many working mums, business travel doesn’t mean leaving breastfeeding behind. Whether you’re heading interstate for a conference or overseas for client meetings, you still have the right to express milk comfortably and safely while away from your little one. With the right information and tools, like The Night Owl’s wearable breast pumps, pumping on the go can be smooth, discreet, and stress-free.

Why Planning Ahead Matters
Travelling for work can be unpredictable. Between flight schedules, hotel stays, and long meetings, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed about where and when you’ll be able to pump. Having a plan helps you stay consistent with your routine, protect your supply, and reduce stress.

• Pack smart: A wearable breast pump is ideal because it slips easily into your bag and works without bulky parts.
  
• Know your power options: Bring adaptors and portable chargers to keep your pump ready to go.
• Storage solutions: Insulated cooler bags and ice packs are essential for keeping milk safe until you return home.

Pumping Rights in Australia
Here’s the good news: in Australia, the law is on your side. Under the Sex Discrimination Act 1984, breastfeeding is protected. This includes the right to express milk in a safe, private space, whether that’s at your workplace, a conference venue, or while travelling for business.

Your employer has a responsibility to make “reasonable adjustments,” which can mean:

• Providing breaks for you to express.
  
• Offering a clean, private space (not a bathroom).

• Allowing you to store expressed milk safely, where possible.

If you’re travelling for work, you’re still entitled to these rights. Don’t be afraid to communicate your needs with your employer ahead of time, most will appreciate the proactive approach.

Pumping While Flying
Airports and airlines are becoming more supportive of parents, but facilities can vary. Many Australian airports now have parents’ rooms with power points and sinks, perfect for pumping. Some airlines also allow the use of battery-operated pumps during flights.

Tips for air travel with a pump:

• Check your airline’s policy on carrying breast milk. Most allow you to carry expressed milk in reasonable amounts, even beyond the usual liquid limits.
  
• Carry milk in clear, labelled containers for easier security screening.

• Use a hands-free pump like the Mumma Owl to express quietly at your seat if you’re comfortable.

Hotels and Conference Venue
When booking accommodation, it’s worth asking in advance about access to fridges or freezers. Many hotels are supportive when they know you’re travelling as a breastfeeding mum.

At conferences, scope out private rooms or ask organisers if they can provide a suitable space. Remember, it’s your legal right to have safe conditions for expressing.

Night Owl Travel Essentials for Pumping Mums
Here’s what we recommend packing in your travel kit:

• Mumma Owl Wearable Pump – hands-free and portable for discreet pumping anywhere.
  
• Extra flanges and parts– just in case you misplace or need a clean swap.
• USB charger or power bank – keep your pump powered even in transit.
  
• Cooler bag with ice packs – to keep expressed milk fresh.

• Travel pouches – to keep parts clean and organised.

Balancing Work, Travel, and Parenthood
Business travel doesn’t mean compromising on your feeding goals. With preparation, the right gear, and an understanding of your rights, you can continue pumping confidently while away from your baby.

At The Night Owl, we’re here to remind you: you don’t have to choose between your career and your breastfeeding journey. Your goals matter, your rights are valid, and your pumping success is possible, anywhere in the world.