Traveling for work while pumping can raise extra questions—especially when your trip takes you outside the United States. If your employer offers Maven Milk as a benefit, you can still use this program while traveling internationally, with a few important details to keep in mind.
Using Maven Milk outside the United States
If your employer offers Maven Milk as a benefit, you can use the program even if you live outside of the United States. The only kit that is not available outside the U.S. is the Pump + Post Kit.
If you live outside the United States, you can order the following Maven Milk kits:
Pump + Carry Kit
- Best for shorter trips by car, train, or plane
- Holds up to 36 oz (1 L) of breast milk
- Designed to carry milk with you while you travel
Pump + Check Kit
- Best for longer trips
- Holds up to 270 oz (8 L) of breast milk (approximately a 9-day supply)
- Designed to keep milk frozen so it can be checked when flying
When should I order my kit?
- Please place your order at least 1 week before your travel start date to help ensure your kit arrives on time.
- If you’re ordering a Pump + Check Kit for international travel, we recommend placing your order at least 5 business days before departure so it can be delivered to your home address prior to your trip.
Please allow up to 1 week for your kit to arrive at your hotel or accommodations.
Will I have to pay customs fees?
No. You will not need to pay customs fees for your Maven Milk kit. If you receive a notification about customs fees, please contact the Maven Care Team for support.
Are Maven Milk kits reusable?
Yes! The Pump + Carry tote, Pump + Check cooler, and foam ice packs are all reusable.
Traveling internationally with the Pump + Check Kit
If you’re traveling internationally and plan to use the Pump + Check Kit:
- Request that the kit be delivered to your home address before your trip
- Check the kit on your flight to your international destination
- Check it again on your return flight home
This approach allows you to safely transport your milk without relying on international shipping.
Why can’t breast milk be shipped internationally?
Maven Milk kits that involve shipping breast milk (including the Pump + Post Kit) can only be used within the United States.
While breast milk can be shipped reliably within the U.S., shipping breast milk back to the U.S. from another country is less predictable. U.S. Customs regularly inspects incoming packages, which can cause delays of up to two weeks. To help ensure your milk gets home safely and does not spoil, Maven does not ship breast milk internationally.
Why can I carry breast milk when leaving the U.S., but not when returning?
U.S. airport security allows parents to bring breast milk through security and carry it on board flights departing the United States.
However, many other countries treat breast milk like any other liquid. In most cases, amounts over 4 oz must be checked—even if the milk is frozen—when flying internationally back to the U.S.
Need more help?
If you have questions about ordering a kit, traveling with breast milk, or planning for your specific itinerary, the Maven Care Team is here to help. You can message them anytime through the Maven app for personalized guidance and support.