Travelling while on your period: Top tips and tricks

Anyone that has a menstrual cycle knows that it can really put a damper in your week. Some of you out there may have made your peace with the crimson wave and are surfing it in style, power to you (wish that was me), but it’s safe to say that when travelling we’d all prefer to avoid it.

But this natural part of life comes when it comes, and unless you’re scheduling your vacations around your cycle, you’re probably going to experience your period on holiday at least once. We’ve partnered with AWWA, an indigenous and woman-owned sustainable period company from New Zealand, to give you some tips and tricks to help you manage your period while travelling so you can still have a great time without feeling too uncomfortable.

1. Pack comfortable and pack extras

Starting off simple, what should you pack? If you’re expecting your period over a few of the days you’re travelling, then do yourself a favour and bring comfy clothes! Sweat sets for the evenings, cosy pyjamas you can curl up into, and loose flowy skirts and dresses will be your best friend.

We all want to look good on holiday, I get that, but no photo opportunity in an outfit you’re going to feel bloated and uncomfortable in is worth it. Obviously, you do you, and if you can stand an evening in high heels and a mini skirt we love that for you! But if you can’t, no pressure – wear what you like.

It’s of course helpful to pack some extra pairs of underwear in case of any leakage, as well as a few darker clothing options if you’re worried about stains. A few bathing suits are a good idea as well!

2. Don’t forget your period must-haves

Aside from your outfits, these are a few other bits that you should think about bringing with you on your travels to ensure you have the best time:

• A hot water bottle or sticky heating pads to help you counteract those cramps
• Any kind of above the counter pain killer for the same purpose
• Some comfy slippers to wear around your accommodation just for the extra plush and cosy feeling
• A pillow for comfort during transport or if your hotel bed doesn’t have enough
• Plenty of snacks! Those period cravings are real, and if there was ever a time to treat yourself it’s now
• A small bag you can carry on your adventures with you to hold your period supplies

3. What kind of period products to bring

The specific products that you use for your body and your flow are a case of personal preference, but here are some pros and cons for each when it comes to travel, as well as some sustainable product options.

Tampons

Pros:

• Small and easy to carry around
• Great option for beach and swimming holidays

Cons:

• Need to be changed often
• Need to be thrown away

Pads

Pros:

• Great coverage for lighter and heavier days
• Easy to carry around
• Some are reusable

Cons:

• Not the best for swimming
• Some need to be thrown away

Menstrual cups/discs

Pros:

• Reusable and washable
• You only need to bring one or two
• Doesn’t need to be thrown away
• Great for swimming

Cons:

• Might be awkward finding places to clean and empty them

Period underwear

Pros:

• Reusable and washable
• Easy to pack and only need one a day
• Doesn’t need to be thrown away
• Safe to wear for the full day (if your flow allows)
• AWWA’s period swimwear is great for swimming!
• Easy to rinse out and wash in the shower and hang out to dry while travelling

Cons:

• Might be hard to have access to a washing machine if you do not want to hand wash

4. Sustainable period products companies

If you’re wanting to keep things sustainable on your travels (and also your day to day life), then these are some sustainable companies you can purchase from to prepare for your period while travelling.

We are big fans of AWWA, a Māori owned brand from New Zealand which creates soft-as-butter period underwear. This company is amazing because not only do they sell absorbent boxer shorts and underwear for people of all ages and sizes, but they also donate 2% of their sales to help fight against period poverty. AWWA also sells absorbent swimwear, so no matter what kind of travel you’re planning, you’ll be set! 

If period underwear isn’t your jam, you can opt for menstrual cups, reusable pads, or other sustainable pad and tampon companies.

5. Research your destinations

It’s a good idea to research your holiday destinations beforehand if you’re expecting your period while travelling. Though we believe you’ll come fully packed and prepared, you may run out of period supplies or painkillers during your stay, so figuring out where you can buy these in a foreign country.

You should look up what time pharmacies and supermarkets close as well. In Europe, for example, most places tend to close quite early, around 5 or 6PM, whereas in the US many stores operate 24/7. It’s also a good idea to keep some cash and coins on you while travelling in Europe, as certain public bathrooms charge a small fee and you don’t want to get caught out during changes.

6. Form a community

If anything, periods are a really good icebreaker. There’s just a bond between us menstruating peeps that gets formed when you ask a stranger ‘Do you have a tampon?’. If you’re travelling solo don’t be afraid to ask someone for a hand if you need it, and you may make some friends out of it!

If you’re travelling in a group with Contiki, then you can rest assured by knowing that you’ll have a little community around you who can offer you painkillers and also moral and emotional support on the rocky days. Your Trip Manager will also be able to assist you with anything you might need like locating your nearest pharmacy or stopping for a toilet break.

7. Be kind and gentle to yourself

The worst thing you can do on your period, whether you’re travelling or not, is to be harsh on yourself. This is a vulnerable time for many – you may be feeling physically or emotionally sensitive, you may be prone to mood swings or bouts of fatigue, you may be dealing with some pain. All of this is completely normal, so give yourself some grace and know when you need to tap out.

You know yourself and your cycle best, so be realistic about what activities you think you can participate in and what you can achieve. Your holiday destinations will always be there, so worst case scenario, if you have to skip out the zip-line or the bike tour, you can return and do it again!

8. Don’t let it spoil your fun

That being said, don’t let your period spoil your fun! Your menstrual cycle is the most natural thing in the world, so there’s no need to feel self-conscious about it when travelling with other people, and it’s no excuse to stop you from doing the things you really love. 

Trust me, this is coming from a girl who missed out on a day of swimming down gorgeous (and safe) waterfalls all because I was an awkward 15 year old on my period – worrying about getting a little blood in your underwear is no reason to miss out on incredible experiences! Know your limits, but make sure to live your life. 

9. Travelling with PCOS and Endometriosis

PCOS and Endometriosis can be quite debilitating, so it’s so so so important that you treat yourself kindly and that you take care of yourself. If you’ve had any of these conditions for a while you probably know the drill, so if you’re on your period while travelling make sure you’ve packed your essentials as well.

It’s a good idea to chat to your doctor about it beforehand so that they can offer you any advice and extra tips, and you may want to let your Contiki Trip Manager know ahead of time just so that they are aware and can offer you some support if you need it.

How can I comfortably fly on my period?

It’s not fun, to be honest, but it is manageable. Pack enough period products so you can change whenever you need, and the good thing about flights is you know where the bathrooms are at all times! 

You’ll also want to make sure that you have enough painkillers or anything you personally use to manage cramps. If your preferred method is heat, you can ask the cabin crew to boil some water for a hot water bottle for you – they’ll be more than happy to help. 

Planes aren’t that comfortable, so this is about being smart. Use that included pillow and blanket to your advantage by bolstering your head or back, wherever needs more support, and make sure to wear something extra cosy to get you through those long hours. Drink plenty of water, it’s important to stay hydrated, and keep some snacks on you. 

What if I bleed through my clothes or bed sheets while travelling?

Don’t panic, it’s all going to be okay! If you bleed through your clothes while travelling, find a nearby bathroom to do a little bit of cleaning up, cover up the stain with a jumper wrapped around your waist, and change at the next opportunity. This isn’t a big deal at all and nothing to be embarrassed about. 

Most cities will have laundromats that you can use, and certain hotels and hostels offer laundry services as well, so you’ll be able to wash your clothes on the go if you really need to.

As for bedsheets, no worries as well! Just let your Trip Manager or the employees at the front desk know and they’ll be able to take care of it for you.

What about swimming during my period?

Though swimming on your period might seem like a daunting prospect, it doesn’t have to be! Prepare beforehand by packing plenty of swim-friendly products so your flow won’t bother you while you enjoy the shimmering ocean or the cool pool.

Period swimwear is also a great idea as well, and so many more options are popping up with this absorption method becoming more and more popular. AWWA have a beautiful range that we love for its style and sustainability.

AWWA have given us a discount code for all Contiki customers. Save 25% on AWWA period underwear by using code CONTIKI25 at checkout. 

Terms and conditions apply. Discount code not able to be combined with any other promotions, sales or discounts. Code not valid on bundle, accessories, outlet or sale items. Code is valid until 31 December 2024.