Whether you’re venturing into the wilderness or enjoying a local trail, immersing yourself in nature is always refreshing. When your outdoor plans coincide with your period, there’s no need to cancel those camping trips or hikes. Embrace your adventures regardless of the time of the month with these common questions answered and tips for managing your period in the great outdoors.
Can I still hike and camp while on my period?
Absolutely! You can do ANYTHING! Seriously, as long as you feel comfortable and well-prepared, there’s nothing stopping you from swimming, hiking, or engaging in any outdoor activities during menstruation. It may require a bit of extra packing or carrying a little more weight, but planning ahead can greatly enhance your experience while menstruating outdoors.
I’ve heard that periods attract BEARS!
Not true! Your period will NOT attract bears. According to a 2016 study by the National Park Service, there’s no evidence that bears are drawn to the scent of menstrual blood any more than other odors. However, it’s wise to store menstrual products out of bear reach, just as you would with any trash or hygiene items like toothpaste. Rest assured, menstruating won’t make you bear bait.
How do I manage my period outdoors?
Menstruating outside the comfort of home requires some additional considerations, as you can’t simply grab supplies from a bathroom cabinet or run to the store. Being prepared and knowing what to expect during your adventure will help you navigate the outdoors while on your period. Here’s a quick checklist of things to consider:
- The type of activities planned and their intensity
- Access to restrooms and running water
- Managing menstrual hygiene without running water
Choosing Your Activity
Listen to your body when planning hikes and camping during your period. The outdoors can be peaceful and rejuvenating, but they can also push you outside your comfort zone. Make the best choice for yourself when the time comes, whether that means postponing your outdoor plans or modifying them to better suit your needs, such as opting for easier terrain or shorter excursions.
Access to Facilities
If you’re camping in established campgrounds with accessible drive-up sites, you’re likely to have bathroom facilities nearby. In such cases, clean your menstrual cup as you would in any public restroom—how discreet you want to be is up to you—by flushing away the collected blood and rinsing or wiping the cup.
On backpacking trips or in the backcountry, you may need to be more resourceful when cleaning your cup, as toilets might be unavailable. Follow the Leave No Trace principles by digging a 6-inch cat hole to dispose of menstrual blood and cleaning water, then cover it up. If you anticipate limited access to clean water on the trail, ensure you bring enough to keep your cup clean throughout your journey.
Making a Period Plan
While many strategies can help ensure a great time outdoors, planning for your period and maintaining hygiene is crucial. Most individuals have two primary options for managing menstruation outside: tampons/pads or menstrual cups.
Both methods have their pros and cons, but menstrual cups often provide significant advantages, such as being eco-friendly and requiring only a one-time purchase. They can be worn for up to 12 hours without risk of toxic shock syndrome and are easy to use during bathroom breaks, making them ideal for full days of hiking.
If you’re using a menstrual cup without running water, you can rinse it with clean water, use wipes, or clean it with dry cloths. A collapsible cleaning cup is also handy—just add water, shake, and clean! For disposing of menstrual blood, remember that catholes should be at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, or campsites. If you choose to use tampons, designate separate bags for ‘clean’ and ‘dirty,’ and always pack out used products as trash; do not bury them.
What to Pack for Menstruating While Camping:
- Menstrual cup
- Clean water
- Sealed container for cleaning
- Hand sanitizer
- Backup period underwear (optional; period underwear is a great choice)
- Hygiene wipes (optional; biodegradable wipes are ideal, but none should be left behind)
Maintaining good hygiene in the backcountry is essential for a comfortable period experience. You’ll want to change or clean your underwear if leakage occurs. If your flow is particularly heavy, consider packing an extra pair or carrying period-absorbent underwear. If showers won’t be available for a few days, gently wiping your vagina with a clean washcloth or feminine wipes between menstrual cup changes can help prevent bacteria buildup.
Some studies suggest that physical activity can alleviate certain negative symptoms associated with menstruation, but ultimately, you should choose what feels right for you. The great outdoors can be incredibly healing, and if your body is eager to explore, don’t let your period slow you down!
