When on the move with breastmilk, you’ve got two main tools: chillers (which often let you pump directly and keep milk cold in one unit) and coolers/bags (which keep bottled or pumped milk cold with insulation or ice packs). Both are super useful depending on how you feed, how long you’re out, and your routine.
Here are my top picks for chillers and coolers, what makes them good, where they might fall short, and who they are best for.
What to Look for in a Chiller
Before the picks, quick checklist:
- How many ounces / bottles it holds
- How long it keeps milk cold safely
- Whether you can pump into it directly (fewer transfers)
- Size/weight (fits in diaper bag or backpack?)
- Cleaning ease + how many parts
Here are my top 3 chillers and top 3 coolers, with quick pros, cons, and best-for notes.
Top 3 Breastmilk Chillers
1. Ceres Chill OG
Why it’s #1: Big capacity, keeps milk cold up to 20 hours, and you can pump directly into it. Great for commuting, travel, or all-day outings.
Ceres Chill OG Breastmilk Chiller
- Up to 34oz capacity
- Keeps milk cold for 20 hours
- Pump directly into chamber
- Connects with most pumps
Pros: Long chill time, large capacity, pump-compatible. Cons: Pricier, heavier than others. Best for: Exclusive pumpers or long workdays.
2. Momcozy 22 oz Portable Chiller
Why it’s great: Holds two bottles’ worth (22 oz), uses a cooling tube for 24-hour chill, and is compact enough for most diaper bags.
Momcozy 22 oz Portable Chiller
- 22oz capacity (2 bottles)
- 24-hour cooling time
- Compact design
- Fits in most diaper bags
Pros: High capacity, long chill time, portable. Cons: Cooling tube has to be frozen ahead of time, cleaning takes a little effort. Best for: Parents who want long cooling in a smaller form.
3. Boon Frosh Stainless Steel Chiller
Why it’s solid: Sleek stainless steel design that keeps milk cold up to 17 hours. TSA-friendly and easy to toss in a bag.
Boon Frosh Stainless Steel Chiller
- Stainless steel construction
- 17-hour cooling time
- TSA-friendly
- Sleek design
Pros: Durable, stainless build, mid-price. Cons: Less capacity than Ceres or Momcozy. Best for: Travel days, pumping on the go.
What to Look for in a Cooler
When choosing a cooler bag, think about:
- Capacity: How many bottles or milk bags you usually carry
- Insulation type: Built-in freezable walls vs. needing separate ice packs
- Size/portability: Daily use vs. travel days
- Ease of cleaning: Wipeable lining is a must
- Style: Minimalist vs. “baby gear” — choose what you’ll actually want to carry
Top 3 Breastmilk Coolers (Bags/Totes)
1. PackIt Freezable Bottle Cooler
Why it’s #1: Built-in freezable gel walls — no separate ice packs needed. Keeps bottles or milk bags cold for hours.
PackIt Freezable Bottle Cooler
- Built-in freezable gel walls
- No separate ice packs needed
- Collapsible design
- Antimicrobial lining
Pros: Easy, foldable, no extra parts. Cons: Must freeze overnight. Best for: Day trips, daycare drop-offs.
2. Skip Hop Grab & Go Double Bottle Bag
Why it’s great: Small, stroller-friendly, holds two bottles, and includes a freezer pack.
Skip Hop Grab & Go Double Bottle Bag
- Holds 2 bottles
- Includes freezer pack
- Stroller-friendly
- Easy to clean
Pros: Compact, cute design, easy to clean. Cons: Limited space. Best for: Quick errands, short outings.
3. Medela Breastmilk Cooler Set
Why it’s solid: Affordable and reliable. Comes with a contoured ice pack that hugs bottles for even cooling.
Medela Breastmilk Cooler Set
- Comes with 4 bottles
- Contoured ice pack
- Proven brand reliability
- Affordable price
Pros: Budget-friendly, proven brand. Cons: Only fits smaller bottles. Best for: Backup cooler or everyday basics.
Many parents find they end up using both: a chiller for pumping on the go, and a cooler for everyday bottle storage. Always bring one, even if you think you won’t need it. Babies love a surprise hunger strike exactly when you’re least prepared.