For women who have started having their period, traveling has always been a challenge. If you've ever had your period while on a trip, you understand how stressful it can be. When you're shuffling through airport security, lounging by your hotel pool, or paddleboarding on tranquil waters, the last thing you want to worry about is cramps and stained underpants.
But as much as you'd want to avoid or delay your period while you're on holiday, periods come—and sometimes, when you least expect them.
Whether you're going to the beach for the weekend or spending a few months in a foreign country, it's good to be prepared for the possibility of getting your period. Even though a lot of women try to avoid traveling on "those days” of the month, you shouldn't have to schedule your vacation around your menstrual cycle. With a little extra planning, you can be prepared to deal with your period whenever or wherever it occurs.
From airports and hotel pools to hiking trails and campsites, here is a list of tips and must-have things to travel with confidence even when you’re on your period.
Plan your travel dates and activities around your period.
While periods can be unpredictable, you may find success in charting your cycle and knowing exactly when your period would arrive, allowing you to avoid traveling on those days. However, you can’t always put traveling on hold especially when you’ve been planning a trip with friends for years. Maybe you only have a week off work or school, or perhaps you’re traveling with a group and you need to plan an itinerary that works for everyone.
In any case, knowing when to expect your period can help you plan—or at the very least, offer recommendations—for travel dates and activities. Choose relaxing activities while you’re on period, such as taking a leisurely walk to the museum or going on a scenic drive.
If you joined a women’s expedition that involves hiking and mountain climbing, and your group has the choice of going on a hiking trail on different weeks, suggest having the adventure trek on your non-period week. If that isn't an option, pack a period kit, stay hydrated, and find moments throughout the day to take a break and rest.
Prepare a period kit.
Add an emergency period kit to your list of backpacking essentials. Even if you’re not expecting to have your period on the days you’re out of town, it’s a good idea to pack some supplies just in case. Depending on your destination, you might not find tampons or other sanitary products readily available. Some countries don’t sell tampons, and if you’re traveling to a remote location, you might be left with no options.
In addition to sanitary items, your emergency kit should include wet wipes, pain relievers, extra underwear, and plastic bags for disposing of used tampons and pads.
Tip: Pack your emergency kit in your carry-on bag. If the airline loses your luggage, at least you still have your sanitary supplies.
Use the right sanitary products.
Sanitary pads and tampons are the most popular sanitary products. Even though cotton pads are available almost everywhere and tampons are a good option if you’re planning to go swimming, they aren’t the easiest to manage when traveling. They’re also not the most comfortable to wear, and they aren’t eco-friendly.
If you haven’t yet, consider switching to reusable and sustainable sanitary products that are generally safer for you and better for the environment.
Menstrual Cup
It's easy to see why menstrual cups are so popular for camping or glamping. They're reusable, environmentally friendly, and can be worn for up to 12 hours. You can swim in them, and you get to save a lot of money because they're reusable.
Period Underwear
These are padded, absorbent panties that can accommodate light to medium flow, with some brands capable of absorbing two to four tampons worth of blood. They may be more expensive than conventional underwear, but they are reusable, so they are better for your wallet, as well as the environment, in the long run.
Period panties come in a variety of shapes, styles, and colors, including generic briefs for those who don't like lace and frills. Since they need to be washed after each use, bring a couple of pairs along with a separate bag to store worn ones in.
Reusable Cloth Pads
If you like using cotton pads but want a more eco-friendly and sustainable option, try washable, reusable pads. They're more breathable and flexible than disposable pads, and they come in a variety of sizes and absorbencies.
Don’t forget pain relief.
Periods can be unpleasant and painful. Often accompanied by mild to severe cramps on the first day or two, they can put a damper on what should be a wonderful travel experience.
If you’re planning to spend time exploring various locations and participating in walking tours, bring enough painkillers or other remedies to keep you pain-free and comfortable. Don’t forget to pack a hot water bag to help ease your pain without any medication.
While it may sound like the last thing you want to do, exercise is also an effective and natural way to relieve period cramps. Your brain releases endorphins when you exercise, and endorphins do not just block pain, but they also trigger a positive feeling in your body, improving your mood and any depression or anxiety associated with your period. So, instead of staying in your hotel room, take a walk and enjoy the sights.
Final Thoughts
Traveling during your period can be uncomfortable and annoying. However, by following these tips, it’s possible to stay relaxed, happy, and confident throughout your trip. With the right knowledge and essential items, along with your complete period kit, there’s no reason to say no to your next travel destination.
Post written by: Aussy Aportadera