We’re sharing expert tips from our friend, Bri — a lactation consultant and mom of three — so you can pump on the go with ease.

If you're pumping with a wearable, chances are you're pumping on the go — whether you're at work, traveling, or just running errands.

While it may seem a bit overwhelming at first, pumping while you're out and about is totally manageable with just a little bit of planning. So we sat down with our friend Bri, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant at SimpliFed and mother of three, to get a few of her top tips for pumping anywhere and everywhere. 

What we’ll cover: 

• Importance of mastering pump assembly and cleaning
• Essential accessories for safely storing your milk 
• Ways to advocate for yourself if you’re met with resistance
• And more! 

Remember: you’re allowed to pump in public no matter what anybody says. You’re working hard to provide your baby with breast milk — and you deserve to be celebrated! 

Go hands-free and app-controlled

Our #1 tip for pumping on the go? Getting a wearable pump that gives you the freedom to move without bottles or cords in the way.

Wearables make it easy to pump while traveling or simply just out and about, since you don’t need to worry about plugging into an outlet or moving a huge motor around.

Look for one that's fully in-bra with a shape that mimics your breast — you don't want anything poking out of your bra. If you can find one that's app-connected, you won't need to reach into your shirt to manage your session, since you can do it all with a tap. 

Gain confidence in your pumping routine 

One of the best things you can do to pump more comfortably on-the-go is to gain confidence in your pumping routine. That means: 

• Learning how to quickly assemble your pump
• Practicing your alignment (aka the way that your flange sits centered over your nipple) so that you don't need to fumble with your bra
• Mastering milk transfer once your session is complete

You'll also want to get the hang of managing your pump's modes so that you know how often to toggle between stimulation and expression, and what level suction is right for you. (This is key not only for pumping on the go, but for maximizing your milk output on a daily basis.)

Practice at home until you feel confident!

Pack what you’ll need 

First things first, you'll want a durable pumping bag (like our Pump Anywhere Bag) that has pockets for holding your pumps in place.

You'll also need a milk cooler (like our Portable Breast Milk Cooler) or ice pack to store your pumped milk, extra pump parts, and cleaning wipes in case you don't have access to a sink. You'll also need a milk cooler or ice pack to store your pumped milk, extra pump parts, and cleaning wipes in case you don't have access to a sink.

A foldable travel cleaning pack, which has pegs to hold clean bottles and pump parts, can also be helpful, especially if you're away for an extended period of time.

Finally, you'll want a water bottle and snacks (staying hydrated and nourished is key for maintaining a healthy milk supply), and a change of clothes in case your milk leaks through your bra. 

Plan pumping into your day

Since you're likely pumping on a schedule, chances are you know where you'll be when it's time to start your session. So if it's possible, try to pump when you know you'll have enough time to wash and dry your parts, hydrate, and have a snack.

This will help you manage your stress (important, once again, for keeping your supply up!) and also give you enough time to fully empty your breasts during each session.

Know your rights! 

If you'll be spending time in a public venue, remember that you can always reach out and ask if there are clean and semi private places to pump.

Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, you have the right to pump in public no matter what state you live in. That includes at your office on airplanes, in restaurants, and more. Come up with a response to unwanted comments, and recite it in front of the mirror or to your partner until you feel comfortable saying it.

If you’ll be spending a lot of time pumping at work, make sure to read up on the PUMP Act so that you’re clear on what your employer needs to provide you with. This includes a space that has been designated for pumping, adequate pump breaks throughout the day, compensation for any time spent pumping, and more. 

You’re ready! 

With these tips, we hope you're feeling ready to pump anywhere your day takes you with confidence.

Make sure to follow us @willowpump on Instagram and TikTok and check out our YouTube for more pumping at work tips. You can find expert-backed guidance on all things pumping and feeding here, and shop our wearable pumps and accessories onewillow.com.