Formula feeding and flights

Since my post about being told to give up breastfeeding, I’ve had lots of lovely supportive comments – and even more usefully some helpful tips on how to combine formula feeding and flying, as I’ll need bottles rather than being able to rely on breastfeeding.

The lovely Lynley, who was already taking long-haul flights when her baby was two months old, had some great suggestions.

1. Don’t get the warming habit – ‘My son was happy to feed at room temperature. In fact he has always hated his food too warm, and continues to dislike it to this day,’ she said. It’s a tip I’d had from others during my pregnancy as well, and while Minnie hates milk straight from the fridge, she’s not too fussed as long as I’ve taken the chill off. Which means that I shouldn’t have to worry about heating bottles.
2. Take ready-made formula cartons and disposable pre-sterilised bottles – ‘I took a few in my luggage, and a few in my carry-on for use on plane,’ she says. I’ve been using the Aptamil cartons for Minnie’s top-up feeds (although no-one’s allowed to recommend particular brands of formula, the grapevine seems to suggest this is easily digested so a good one to start with) and I’m planning to investigate the new recyclable tommee tippee steri-bottles which went into Boots this summer. Instead of having to wash and sterilise, you just unwrap and use – they’re for three months plus, with fast flow teats, priced from £2.99.
3. Pre-order at Duty Free – although I’d always want something to hand in case of long security queues (and baby milk doesn’t count in the 100ml limits, although you’ll probably be asked to taste it). Boots offers the service at most airports, as long as you call up in advance – the internet suggests around a week before. It’s also worth remembering that some low-cost airlines (especially Ryanair) will insist your Duty Free shopping fits in your single hand luggage bag, so leave some space or be prepared to pay through the nose.
4. Measure in advance – ‘The other absolute necessity for travelling with formula, for me, was a little round container with a lid in which you can put three lots of already measured out formula,’ says Lynley. ‘They will have boiling/boiled water on the plane, get a bottle filled up ready, and cooling once you’re in the air.’ It’s also a useful bonus for night feeds, as you can measure the amount you need when you’re not sleep-deprived. There’s one from Avent for £5.50, which you can also get on Amazon.
5. Boil in the bag – ‘Lindam Microwave steriliser bags (20 uses) are an absolute godsend too,’ she adds. ‘Especially as when I got them they had instructions in three languages so I could give bottles to hotel staff to sterilise in the kitchen.’ I’ve found them on Boots as well for £5.10, as well as Amazon.

Let me know if you’ve got any other suggestions!

Image: hddod/Flickr