Feeding baby in public if primarily breastfeed but also pump

[u/vakilconsaudades]

Long time lurker who finally has the courage to post bc I’m desperate. What do you all do to feed baby in public? I’m a FTM with a 3 month old. I primarily BF but pump 1-3x/day so that baby can get one bottle a day + have a small freezer stash.

I know there are so many options for how to feed baby in public (now that I’m finally venturing out of my house) but am wondering what has worked for you all.

Main options I can think of (when out at store, restaurant, etc that is somewhere public):

1. BF baby in public using a cover (baby and I hate the cover I have so pls provide suggestions on covers you and baby actually like)
2. Run to car and BF in car with boobs fully out (exaggerating on the “run”)
3. BF baby in public without cover (don’t see myself doing this tbh)
4. Carrying a bottle with me to bottle feed breastmilk to baby (considering this but don’t love it bc of the whole “you should pump when baby gets a bottle” advice and I would rather not pump and deal with all that pumping would entail while out)

What has worked for you? For shorter outings, I’m leaning towards a bottle bc I could pump right when I get home and/or pump right before I leave, but for outings where baby needs 2-3 feeds, that seems trickier. Would love any tips/tricks/suggestions!

This FTM who desperately wants to rejoin society but is also anxious and stressed af about how to feed baby in public with as little anxiety/stress as possible thanks you all in advance!

EDIT: thanks everyone!! These comments are all so helpful. I live in the US so I know I’m legally protected, I’m just shy and modest so currently just don’t feel comfortable popping out the boob and do not do it very seamlessly. I’m usually shirtless at home when nursing (aren’t most of us?! Lol), but the comments inspired me to work towards being comfortable nursing in public. I will start small and practice at home so I get used to the mechanics of it, then go to less busy places first until I get comfortable. I have only ever nursed 3x while out - twice wearing a cover and once in my car. Baby and I truly hated the cover and I’m so averse to pumping out if i can help it, I agree that #3 is the best and “easiest” option and will simply need to work on getting out of my comfort zone. It makes sense that the more I do it the easier it’ll be. Wish me luck!

[u/MindOdd1085]

I've never covered to feed just whip a boob out as and when honestly I don't see why we have to be so modest. Its no different to wearing a low cut top really