Go With the Flow: Traveling With Your Period

Sunscreen? Check.
Camera? Yep.
Tampons? Got it!

You've planned your trip right down to the last detail. Take a moment to think about that unexpected "traveling companion".

Whether you're expecting your period or not, you can't overlook the possibility of your period barging in on your vacation plans (definitely not mentioned in the Florida brochure). And the frenzy of pre-travel prep and the stress of travel itself can throw your system out of sync, turning even the most predictable cycle into an unpredictable one.

Here are some helpful ideas to make traveling with your period the very least memorable part of your trip!

What to Pack
There are more women on the planet than men, which means the chances are quite good that no matter your destination, tampons or pads will be readily available!

But don't cross the necessary supplies off your packing list just yet. While Kotex® brand products are widely used throughout the world, your “flavor” or most familiar product may not always be on hand. You might also have to pay steep prices for fem-care products in “convenience” travel stops. And who wants to take spend time hunting down a tampon while you've got places to go and people to see?

So save room in your suitcase for your favorite (no doubt Kotex®!) pads, tampons and liners. You'll be glad they're there, and they travel light!

What to Carry
If you are flying, put a few pads or tampons into your carry-on for changes at airport stopovers and be sure to also tuck them into your purse for in-flight changes. The last thing you want is to hover above the heads of passengers midflight, reaching in the overhead bin to dig out your supplies!

Whether flying or driving, these additional items are great to put in your purse or a tote bag that will be accessible to you when you need it:

•Ibuprofen or other preferred pain reliever. If you're flying, it's best to keep the pills in their original container to avoid additional airport security scrutiny.

•Wet wipes. For hands or freshening up.

•Healthy snacks. Avoid salty snacks, sugary sweets and junk foods. They can worsen PMS symptoms and make you feel more bloated.

•Water. Staying hydrated while traveling is always a good idea, even more so when you're on your period as it helps to ease PMS.

What to Wear
Comfort is the key word when dressing for travel, period or not. This doesn't mean sloppy. Nice-fitting yoga pants that don't look as though you just left the gym are a much better option over sweatpants.

Wearing layered tops will help you adjust your comfort level in travel environments that are beyond your control. When those environments run cooler, a pashmina shawl can double as a warm blanket.

If you're on your period and on a long international flight, consider wearing extra absorbent, overnight maxi pads. The added absorbency can help with limited bathroom access or if you just want the extra confidence. Or wear a tampon with a pad if you feel you need added reassurance. Remember to always change your tampon or pad frequently, whether you're flying, driving or riding.

Bon Voyage!
Traveling with your period isn't exactly ideal, but a little preparation will keep it from tripping up your plans. With the right supplies and strategy, you'll have just the travel insurance you need to go with the flow!