Using Dry Ice to Travel with Human Milk

Instructions for traveling:

If you are traveling with frozen human milk for longer than 12 hours, you need to use dry ice to prevent the milk from thawing. If you need dry ice because you are traveling over 12 hours, our lactation coordinator can help pack your milk on dry ice. If possible, please provide your own foam cooler. Have your baby’s nurse contact the lactation coordinator at least a few days before your baby’s scheduled discharge date to plan to have your milk packed.

What is dry ice?
Dry ice is solid carbon dioxide. It is used to keep foods cold, so they do not spoil while being transported. Unlike regular ice, dry ice does not melt. It changes from a solid to a gas and creates a vapor that looks like fog or smoke.

How can I handle dry ice safely?

• Dry ice is colder than regular ice. It can cause severe frostbite if it touches your skin. Always protect your hands when you are working with dry ice. Wear oven mitts or work gloves. Use tongs to pick up items that are stored in dry ice.

• Avoid contact with eyes.

• If dry ice is used in small, closed spaces, the vapor may fill the room and there will not be enough oxygen left to breathe. Open the container of dry ice in a large room or a room with an open window or an exhaust fan in the ceiling.

• If dry ice is kept in an airtight container, it can burst or explode. Store dry ice in a foam cooler. This allows the vapor to escape safely.

• Do not store dry ice in a refrigerator or freezer. The extremely cold temperature may cause the fridge or freezer thermostat to turn off.

How do I travel safely with dry ice?

• If you are traveling with dry ice in a car or truck, place it in the car trunk or truck bed.

• If your vehicle does not have a trunk, for example, an SUV, van, or hatchback, DO NOT put dry ice in your vehicle.

• If you are traveling with dry ice in an airplane, notify your airline as soon as you arrive at the airport.

How do I dispose of dry ice?

• Place the cooler outside in a wide-open space, away from children and pets.

• Allow the ice to evaporate completely.

• Do not dump dry ice in sinks or toilets due to the risk of pipe bursting or explosion.

Reviewed July 2024 by Rachelle Lessen MS, RDN, LDN, IBCLC and Meghan Devine RN, BSN, IBCLC