Article: Whether you use tampons, pads, or a menstrual cup, be sure to pack plenty of supplies prior to your vacation. Overestimate the amount of products you will need as you do not want to run out. For example, if at home, you usually use four tampons a day, bring six per day. If you unexpectedly get your period on vacation, visit a drug store to purchase your supplies. Alternatively, you could ask a friend to give you some items. Some countries will not have the same supplies available that you normally use. For example, in Central Europe, it is more difficult to find tampons with applicators and in Asia, it would be hard to find tampons at all. If you expect that your period will start prior to or during your trip, bring painkillers. Ibuprofen or aspirin can reduce cramps. Naproxen sodium (e.g. Aleve) and Midol are also good options. Midol particularly works to reduce bloating in addition to relieving pain. Keep in mind that in some countries (for example, Germany) you cannot buy painkillers over-the-counter. You are, however, allowed to bring medication with you in your checked luggage. If traveling to countries that limit access to painkillers, be sure to pack enough for the duration of your period.  Follow the instructions on the medication packaging. Do not overdose. Also, talk to your doctor if you are using any other prescription medication. Although it is not medication, a disposable heat pad can be useful to have. These pads often include adhesive tape and stick to your abdominal area. If you know your period will arrive on vacation, take care to pack correct clothing. For example, add a few extra pairs of underwear to your list. Also, think about what clothing options are the most comfortable during your time of month. Flowing skirts might be preferable to tight skinny jeans. Having extra shorts to wear under your skirts might make you feel more secure as well.  Packing for comfort does not mean packing to be sloppy. Keep in mind your destination and any applicable dress codes. Waterproof underwear can help you prevent leaks on long days out. If at all possible, plan your trip to maximize your comfort. This will depend on how you normally feel on your period. For example, if you know the first day of menstruation tends to be very rough, do not plan any adventurous activities on that day. Avoid strenuous hikes or excessively long walks. Going to a sauna where you must remove your swimsuit is also not a great option. Instead, use your first period days to do short walks around your area, go to movies, or do other less active things. Not all vacations offer this flexibility. There are other things you usually can control, however, like how much sleep you get. If you feel extra tired on your period, try to sleep earlier and/or later if possible. If you will be on your honeymoon, for example, and your period arrives, you can still enjoy intimacy with your partner. Pack old dark towels to use, as you might feel uncomfortable having fun on a hotel's white sheets. Look at Have Sex During Your Period for additional tips.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Bring feminine hygiene products. Pack painkillers. Pack appropriate clothing. Plan your days wisely. Prepare for sex.