Period Due On Holiday? Here’s What You Can Do

You’ve planned the outfits, booked the excursions and started counting down the days — then it hits you. Your period is due right in the middle of your holiday. If you’re feeling frustrated, anxious or just fed up, you’re not alone.

Travelling on your period can feel inconvenient, especially when you’re dealing with long flights, limited bathroom access, hot climates or busy itineraries. The good news? Getting your period on holiday doesn’t have to derail your plans. With a bit of preparation — and the right period products — you can travel comfortably and confidently.

In this guide, we’ll cover whether travelling can delay your period, your options for managing or postponing it, and why menstrual cups are a popular choice for travelling while on your period.

Can You Delay Your Period For A Holiday?

One of the most common questions is: can travelling delay your period — or can you delay it yourself?

Travel stress, changes in routine, disrupted sleep and long flights can sometimes affect your menstrual cycle. For some people, flying or travelling across time zones may cause a late or early period, but it’s unpredictable. If timing really matters, relying on travel alone to delay your period isn’t guaranteed.

Medically, period delay tablets such as norethisterone are sometimes prescribed to postpone a period. These work by maintaining progesterone levels, preventing the lining of the womb from shedding. They’re usually taken a few days before your period is due and continued until you want bleeding to start.

That said, period delay medication isn’t suitable for everyone. It may not be recommended if you have certain health conditions, and side effects can include bloating, nausea or mood changes. Always speak to a pharmacist or GP before using medication to delay your period.

It’s also completely valid to decide not to delay your period at all. Many people choose instead to focus on managing their period comfortably while travelling, using products that make things easier — especially for swimming, sightseeing and long days out.

Travelling On Your Period: Why A Menstrual Cup Is A Great Option

Packing light, spending hours away from bathrooms and navigating unfamiliar environments can make travelling on your period more challenging than usual. Disposable pads and tampons often mean carrying extras, changing frequently and dealing with waste — not ideal when you’re on the move.

This is why many people choose a menstrual cup for travelling on their period.

Menstrual cups are small, reusable and designed to collect — rather than absorb — menstrual flow. They take up very little space in your luggage and can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow. That makes them especially useful for long flights, full sightseeing days or overnight journeys.

Because you don’t need to change them as often as tampons or pads, they can offer more freedom and less disruption when travelling. They’re also swim-friendly, making them a popular option for holidays involving pools, beaches or water sports.

It’s worth noting that finding the right menstrual cup can take a little trial and error. Different shapes, sizes and firmness levels suit different bodies, so it’s best to try a cup at home before relying on it for travel.

Other Period Products For Travel

While menstrual cups are a favourite for many, they’re not the only option. The best period product for travel depends on your comfort, destination and routine.

• Pads - Pads are familiar and easy to use, but they can feel uncomfortable in warm climates and need changing regularly. They’re single-use, take up space and can be tricky to dispose of while travelling.
• Tampons - Tampons are discreet and widely available, making them a common choice when travelling on your period. However, they need changing every few hours, absorb water when swimming and also create more waste.
• Period pants - Reusable period underwear can be comfortable and make a good backup option. They’re useful for travel days or overnight wear, but they do need washing and drying — which isn’t always easy on holiday.
• Menstrual cups - Menstrual cups are reusable, compact and cost-effective over time. They can be worn for up to 12 hours, are suitable for swimming and reduce waste. The main downside is the learning curve and the need for occasional sterilisation.

Many travellers use a combination of products — for example, a menstrual cup as their main option with period pants or liners as backup.

Swimming, Sunbathing and Staying Active

Holidays often involve swimming, walking, exploring and staying active — none of which need to stop just because you’re on your period.

Menstrual cups are particularly well suited for swimming on your period. Once inserted correctly, they create a gentle seal that helps prevent leaks and won’t absorb water like tampons do. This makes them a reliable option for pools, the sea or spa days.

When sunbathing or exercising, wearing breathable clothing, staying hydrated and listening to your body can help manage symptoms like cramps or fatigue. Light movement can actually ease discomfort for some people, so don’t feel pressured to slow down unless your body asks for it.

Travelling With A Menstrual Cup: Hygiene, Cleaning and Carrying

Good hygiene is important when using any period product, especially while travelling.

When access to clean water is limited, you can rinse your menstrual cup with bottled water or wipe it with a menstrual cup cleansing wipe before reinserting. At the end of your cycle, it’s best to sterilise your cup properly.

Popular sterilisation options for travel include:

• Microwave sterilising bags
• Boiling your cup when facilities allow
• Using a dedicated Menstrual Cup Cleansing Wash

Always store your cup in a breathable carry pouch rather than an airtight container. It’s also a good idea to pack a spare cup if you’re travelling for a longer period, just in case.

Helpful reads:

• Why you should use a menstrual cup
• How to use a menstrual cup
• Looking after your menstrual cup

Period Travel Checklist

Packing smart can make travelling on your period much easier. Consider adding these to your suitcase or carry-on:

• Menstrual cup(s) and carry case – compact and long-lasting
• Backup period pants or liners – for extra reassurance
• Sterilising wipes or cleansing wash – for hygiene on the go
• Reusable water bottle – useful for rinsing if needed
• Hand sanitiser – especially when facilities are limited
• Wet bag – to store used products until you can wash them

Planning ahead means fewer worries once you arrive.

Travel Lighter, Stress Less

If your period is due on holiday, you have options. While period delay tablets may work for some, managing your period comfortably is often a simpler and more reliable approach.

For many people, menstrual cups offer a practical solution for travelling while on their period — helping you pack lighter, worry less and stay active. That said, the best choice is always the one that suits your body, your plans and your comfort level.

Whichever option you choose, a little preparation can go a long way in making sure your period doesn’t take centre stage on your holiday.