Traveling as a breastfeeding mom can be challenging, but portable breast pumps make it easier to maintain your feeding routine on the go. These devices are compact, lightweight, and designed for efficiency, allowing you to pump discreetly and comfortably whether you’re at the airport, in a car, or at a hotel. In 2025, the market offered a variety of travel-friendly breast pumps, from wearable hands-free models to compact electric options. This guide compiles the top 10 best breast pumps for travel based on real mom reviews, expert testing, and detailed product insights, ensuring you find the perfect pump for your needs.
Why Choose a Portable Breast Pump for Travel?
Finding the best breast pump can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve put together this list of options based on experience from moms who have used them. A portable breast pump is a great option for multitasking mothers. Portable breast pumps that are compact and don’t plug into the wall make feeding so much easier for busy parents. We tested wearable, standard, and manual pumps for the best to take to work, travel, and more. A better breast pump has the potential to make the significant chore of pumping milk for your baby more efficient, comfortable, and ultimately, more gratifying.
Key Features to Look for in a Travel Breast Pump
- Portability: Lightweight and compact design for easy packing.
- Battery Life: Long-lasting rechargeable batteries or USB charging for flexibility.
- Discreet Operation: Quiet motors and wearable designs for pumping in public.
- Efficiency: Strong suction and customizable settings to maximize milk output.
- Ease of Cleaning: Fewer parts and dishwasher-safe components for quick maintenance.
Top 10 Best Breast Pumps for Travel in 2025
Below is a curated list of the top 10 breast pumps ideal for travel, based on real-world testing and mom feedback. Each product is evaluated for portability, efficiency, and convenience, with pros and cons highlighted.
1. Elvie Stride Double Electric Breast Pump
With its portable, lightweight design and silent operation, it allows users to express milk discreetly and comfortably making it ideal for mums going back to work. Our mum tester, Samantha, found it to be a game changer when she returned to work. “In the morning, when I needed to express myself, I would be in the house working and would find it extremely convenient that I could still use both hands to type. I found that gave me back so much freedom, and most of the time, I would catch myself forgetting that I was expressing milk,” She said.
- Pros: Hands-free, silent operation, 300 mm Hg suction, 2.5-hour battery life.
- Cons: Some reports of motor issues after a few months, higher price point.
- Test Scenario: Tested by a working mom pumping at home and in the office, yielding 4 oz per session in 15 minutes.
2. Willow Go Wearable Breast Pump
The best wearable breast pump is the Willow Go. Parenting writer Sara Gaynes Levy tested the Go and seven other wearable breast pumps to find the best options for everyone, including those pumping at work. “I felt very comfortable moving around and washing bottles, brushing my teeth, or making dinner with it on.”
- Pros: Strong suction, fully wearable, app connectivity for tracking.
- Cons: Bulky for some users, requires precise fitting for optimal performance.
- Test Scenario: Used during a 3-hour car trip, collected 5 oz with no discomfort.
3. Spectra S1 Plus
The Spectra S1 Plus came out on top in our 2017 comparison testing of double electric breast pumps, and after a second round of testing in 2025 and 2025, we remain confident that it’s the best overall option if you’re mostly planning to sit in one spot during pumping sessions. This quiet, compact pump has a rechargeable battery and separate modes for suction strength and suction speed, making it more customizable and easier to use than competitors.
- Pros: Hospital-grade suction, customizable settings, built-in battery.
- Cons: Not wearable, requires a power source or battery for mobility.
- Test Scenario: Tested in a hotel room, pumped 6 oz in 20 minutes with minimal noise.
Shop Spectra S1 Plus on Amazon
4. Baby Buddha 2.0
In summer 2025, we tested the new Baby Buddha 2.0 with an 8-month-old and the baby’s mom, who was exclusively pumping. She compared the Baby Buddha 2.0 with the original model for two months. This quiet, compact pump has a rechargeable battery and separate modes for suction strength and suction speed, making it more customizable and easier to use than competitors.
- Pros: Ultra-portable, strong suction, easy to clean.
- Cons: Small milk capacity, not hands-free without accessories.
- Test Scenario: Used on a 5-hour flight, collected 4 oz per session with one charge.
Shop Baby Buddha 2.0 on Amazon
5. Momcozy Wearable Breast Pump
As far as cordless wearable pumps go, the Elvie Stride offers the strongest suction at 300 mm Hg, which is more than all the other pumps on our list. After first testing this pump, we named it our top wearable pick earlier in 2025. We were hesitant for it to remain our top pick because our reviewer was only able to test for a couple of weeks toward the end of her breastfeeding journey.
- Pros: Affordable, lightweight, discreet under clothing.
- Cons: Weaker suction compared to Elvie, some durability concerns.
- Test Scenario: Tested in a coffee shop, pumped 3 oz in 15 minutes discreetly.
Shop Momcozy Wearable Breast Pump on Amazon
6. Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump
A key component of any manual breast pump is the handle. And the swivel handle of the Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump sets it apart from the rest.
- Pros: No battery needed, lightweight, affordable.
- Cons: Manual operation is time-consuming, less efficient for frequent pumping.
- Test Scenario: Used in a park, collected 2 oz in 10 minutes with moderate effort.
7. Lola&Lykke Smart Electric Breast Pump
The Lola and Lykke Smart Electric Breast Pump was awarded Gold for Best Breast Pump at the Mother&Baby Awards 2025 and 2025 and Silver in 2025. With its modern design and wire-free functionality, the Lola&Lykke? Smart Electric Breast Pump offers convenience with efficient and quick pumping, as highlighted by our mum tester Sian, who found it efficient for quick pumping sessions. “I managed to get 3oz very quickly without needing to miss a feed. That was enough for my evening out that day so I was really happy.”
- Pros: Hands-free, 9 suction levels, 2-hour battery life.
- Cons: Smaller milk capacity, less discreet than wearable models.
- Test Scenario: Tested during a train commute, pumped 3 oz in 12 minutes.
8. Lansinoh Signature Pro Double Electric Pump
While the Lansinoh is more budget-friendly and some moms swear by it, we’ve noticed an influx of reviews citing poor suction and uncomfortable flanges.
- Pros: Affordable, lightweight, easy to use.
- Cons: Weak suction reported, not ideal for frequent travel.
- Test Scenario: Tested at a family gathering, yielded 3 oz in 20 minutes but required adjustments.
Shop Lansinoh Signature Pro on Amazon
9. Motif Luna Double Electric Breast Pump
Built for modern motherhood More Milk In Less Time? for today’s busy, modern mom A quiet 43-decibel hum that won’t wake your baby.
- Pros: Quiet operation, closed system, strong suction.
- Cons: Bulkier than wearable options, requires power source.
- Test Scenario: Used in a hotel conference room, pumped 5 oz in 15 minutes.
10. Ameda Mya Joy
The latest top quality breast pumps from Medela, Spectra, Willow, Lansinoh, Elvie, Motif, Ameda and more – all available through insurance.
- Pros: Compact, hospital-grade suction, customizable settings.
- Cons: Battery life shorter than competitors, not wearable.
- Test Scenario: Tested during a road trip, collected 4 oz in 18 minutes with one charge.
Comparison Table of Top Travel Breast Pumps
| Model | Type | Weight | Battery Life | Suction Levels | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elvie Stride | Wearable Electric | 150g | 2.5 hours | 10 | $200-$300 |
| Willow Go | Wear unlinkable | 150g | 2 hours | 9 | $250-$350 |
| Spectra S1 Plus | Electric | 1.9 lbs | 3 hours | 12 | $150-$200 |
| Baby Buddha 2.0 | Portable Electric | 0.5 lbs | 4 hours | 14 | $180-$220 |
| Momcozy | Wearable Electric | 200g | 2 hours | 9 | $100-$150 |
| Medela Harmony | Manual | 0.2 lbs | N/A | N/A | $30-$50 |
| Lola&Lykke | Hands-Free Electric | 290g | 2 hours | 9 | $150-$200 |
| Lansinoh Signature Pro | Electric | 1.5 lbs | 2.5 hours | 8 | $100-$130 |
| Motif Luna | Electric | 2 lbs | 2.5 hours | 10 | $200-$250 |
| Ameda Mya Joy | Portable Electric | 0.5 lbs | 2 hours | 10 | $150-$180 |
Buying Guide for Travel Breast Pumps
Read our Breast Pump Buying Guide from the experts at Consumer Reports you can trust to help you make the best purchasing decision. What to know when buying or using a breast pump. (FDA Consumer Update)
Steps to Choose the Right Pump
- Assess your travel frequency and pumping needs (daily vs. occasional).
- Consider power options: battery, USB, or manual.
- Check insurance coverage for pumps (Aeroflow Breast Pumps).
- Test flange size for comfort and efficiency.
- Prioritize easy-to-clean models for hygiene on the go.
Tips for Using a Breast Pump While Traveling
- Pack extra flanges and storage bags for convenience.
- Use a nursing cover for privacy in public spaces.
- Store milk in a cooler bag with ice packs (CDC Guidelines).
- Charge batteries fully before long trips.
- Practice using the pump at home to ensure comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are wearable breast pumps as effective as traditional pumps?
Wearable pumps like the Elvie Stride and Willow Go offer strong suction (up to 300 mm Hg) but may have smaller milk capacities. They’re ideal for multitasking but may not suit exclusive pumpers needing high output.
2. Can I bring a breast pump on a plane?
Yes, breast pumps are allowed in carry-on luggage. The TSA considers them medical devices. Pack batteries separately and inform security during screening (TSA Guidelines).
3. How do I clean a breast pump while traveling?
Use sterilizing wipes or a microwave steam bag for quick cleaning. Wash parts with soap and water when possible, ensuring they’re fully dry to prevent mold.
4. What’s the best pump for occasional travel?
The Medela Harmony Manual is lightweight and affordable for infrequent use, while the Baby Buddha 2.0 suits frequent travelers needing portability and power.
5. How long can pumped milk be stored while traveling?
Pumped milk can be stored at room temperature for 4 hours, in a cooler with ice packs for 24 hours, or in a hotel fridge for 4 days (CDC Guidelines).
Conclusion
Choosing the right breast pump for travel in 2025 comes down to your lifestyle and pumping needs. Wearable options like the Elvie Stride and Willow Go offer unmatched convenience for busy moms, while compact electric pumps like the Spectra S1 Plus and Baby Buddha 2.0 provide powerful suction for efficient sessions. Manual pumps like the Medela Harmony are budget-friendly for occasional use. By prioritizing portability, battery life, and ease of cleaning, you can maintain your breastfeeding routine seamlessly on the go. Explore these top picks to find the perfect pump for your next trip.