Vacations are supposed to be breezy, easy, and full of perfect weather and even better photos. But nothing throws off that dreamy escape quite like the realization that your period’s scheduled to show up right in the middle of your beach week or city adventure. Suddenly, instead of just swimsuits and sundresses, you’re thinking about cramps, leaks, and emergency tampon runs in foreign pharmacies. It’s not fun—but it’s also not the end of the world. The trick is packing like a total genius so you’re not caught off guard. And yes, it’s totally possible to still feel cute and confident while your uterus does its monthly thing. You’ve just gotta be smart about what goes in your bag.

Plan Like You’ve Done This Before (Even If You Haven’t)

First things first: if there’s even a small chance your period will land during your trip, just assume it will. It’s easier to plan for it and not need your supplies than to scramble and stress out when your only pad is stuck at the bottom of your checked bag. Start by mapping out your cycle with whatever app or method works for you. Then, picture your days—are you going to be walking around all day, swimming, hiking, sitting on planes, hitting up fancy dinners? Match your supplies to your actual activities. That way, you’re not stuck trying to MacGyver a pad out of toilet paper on a trail in the middle of nowhere.

Don’t skimp on options. Even if you normally use just one kind of product, bring backups in case your usual doesn’t vibe with the trip. Travel messes with your body. You might get your period early, it might come late, it might get heavier. Pack like you’re ready for anything. And if you’re flying, always—always—keep your supplies in your carry-on. Bags get lost. Periods do not.

The One Thing That Will Save You From Murderous Cramps

Okay, listen up. If there’s one small thing that deserves permanent space in your travel bag from now on, it’s a disposable heating pad. No wires. No need for an outlet. Just stick it on, feel it warm up, and suddenly your cramps feel manageable instead of like they’re trying to ruin your whole vibe. Whether you’re on a plane, walking through cobblestone streets, or chilling in a hotel, it just works. It’s discreet, lightweight, and makes a world of difference when you feel like curling into a ball but still want to enjoy the day.

When you’re packing, throw in a few. They weigh nothing and take up basically no space. You can wear them under anything, and they’re a total lifesaver if your plans include long rides, city tours, or really anything that doesn’t involve lying in bed binge-watching old sitcoms. Honestly, even if you don’t get the worst cramps, bring them. Your future self will be weirdly thankful.

Don’t Let Outfit Planning Stress You Out

You know those fantasy outfits you packed last time and never wore? Yeah. Skip those. When you’re on your period, comfort becomes king—but that doesn’t mean giving up on style. The goal is to feel like yourself even if your body’s doing its annoying hormonal thing. Think loose but flattering. Stretchy but structured. Cute but functional.

Dark colors are your best friends. Not because you plan on leaking, but because they’ve got your back if you do. Black bike shorts under dresses? Yes. High-waisted flowy pants that don’t hug your belly too tight? Absolutely. A lightweight oversized button-down you can toss on over anything? Perfection. The right outfits can help you feel like you’re still in vacation mode, not curled up in a fetal position back home.

And don’t forget underwear that makes you feel secure. Not your oldest pair that you only wear during “those days,” but something that fits right with your perfect vacation wardrobe. Something you wouldn’t hate if you had to strip down at the spa or suddenly ended up changing in a beach cabana. It’s not about dressing like you’re on your period—it’s about dressing like the version of yourself who’s on her period and on vacation, which is a very specific and powerful energy.

Bring A Tiny Emergency Kit That Isn’t Actually Tiny

There’s something comforting about knowing you have exactly what you need when things go sideways. That’s why making a little period emergency kit—one that lives in your purse or beach bag—is a total game changer. Toss in a few pads or tampons, painkillers, wipes, a spare pair of underwear (trust me), and even a stain remover pen if you’re a white-jeans daredevil. Zip it all into a cute little pouch so you’re not digging through your bag like a maniac in a café bathroom.

It’s also worth thinking about nighttime. Hotel sheets are not the place for surprises. A period-proof sleep short, or an overnight pad with some real power, can make the difference between waking up rested and waking up panicked at 3 AM. You’ll sleep better knowing you’re covered—literally.

Let Yourself Still Have Fun (Yes, Even Now)

Here’s the thing nobody talks about enough: you’re allowed to enjoy your trip even if you’re bloated, cramping, and vaguely annoyed at the world. You don’t have to cancel plans, skip beach days, or stay in just because you’re bleeding. Pack with your period in mind, yes, but don’t let it take over. Swim if you want. Eat the gelato. Wear the cute dress. Laugh through the bloating. The best travel memories don’t care if you were on your period or not—they just care that you showed up.

It’s all about being prepared enough to feel like your body isn’t the boss of you. When you’ve got what you need, your period becomes just another detail—not the main event. And honestly? That’s the best-case scenario.

You don’t have to dread your vacation just because your period’s coming with you. Pack smarter, dress comfortably, and keep your mood intact with a few low-effort lifesavers. Because a week off should feel like a break—not another chore. Let your suitcase do the heavy lifting so you can focus on the part that actually matters: enjoying yourself.