Traveling while on your period can be a real challenge, especially if you don’t know what kind of bathroom situation you’re walking into or if your plans involve the ocean or hiking a remote trail. That’s why I always recommend a menstrual cup to the wanderlusters of the world. They’re convenient, hygienic, and make traveling during your period so much easier. My menstrual cup has made many of my trips stress free from the time I went beach hopping and when I went hiking at Mt. Rainier.
Imagine not having to worry about carrying a stash of tampons or pads in your backpack. With a menstrual cup, you’ve got everything you need in and the best part is it is only the size of a small kiwi which also means space saved in your carry-on or purse. You can wear them for up to 12 hours, so those long travel days or overnight flights are no longer a hassle. Plus, they’re reusable, eco-friendly, and save you money in the long run.
I’ve tried a few different menstrual cups on my travels, but two have stood out as my go-to choices: the Diva Cup and the June Cup. Let me share why these might just become your new travel essentials.
Why Choose a Menstrual Cup for Travel?
- Hygienic: Menstrual cups are made from medical-grade silicone, latex, or elastomer, which are safe and hygienic. They form a seal with your vaginal walls, preventing leaks and reducing the risk of infection.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike pads or tampons that need to be changed every few hours, menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours. This makes them perfect for long travel days or overnight flights.
- Eco-Friendly: Menstrual cups are reusable for several years, drastically reducing the waste generated by single-use pads and tampons.
- Cost-Effective: While the initial investment in a menstrual cup might be higher, it pays off quickly as you no longer need to buy monthly supplies of tampons or pads.
- Convenient: Whether you’re trekking in remote areas or exploring a new city, having a menstrual cup means you don’t have to worry about finding and carrying around sanitary products.
Top Menstrual Cups for women on Travel
Diva Cup – proven and trusted brand
The Diva Cup is one of the most popular and widely trusted menstrual cups on the market. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
- Material: Made from 100% medical-grade silicone, it’s free from latex, dyes, and BPA.
- Sizes: It comes in three sizes: Model 0 (for those under 18), Model 1 (for women under 30 who haven’t given birth vaginally), and Model 2 (for women over 30 or who have given birth vaginally).
- Capacity: Holds more fluid than a super tampon, making it ideal for heavy flow days.
- Comfort: The Diva Cup’s soft silicone makes it easy to insert and comfortable to wear.
June Cup – budget friendly option
The June Cup is another excellent option, especially for those new to menstrual cups or looking for a more budget-friendly alternative:
- Material: Also made from medical-grade silicone, ensuring safety and comfort.
- Sizes: Available in two sizes: Small (for lighter flow) and Regular (for heavier flow).
- Design: Its softer silicone and unique design make it easier to fold and insert, which is great for beginners.
- Price: The June Cup is more affordable compared to many other brands, making it a great option for travelers on a budget.
Tips for Using Menstrual Cups While Traveling
- Practice Before You Go: If you’re new to menstrual cups, start using them a few cycles before your trip to get the hang of insertion and removal.
- Pack a Backup: While menstrual cups are reliable, having a backup (like a pair of period underwear) can give you peace of mind.
- Stay Clean: Carry a small bottle of water and a gentle soap to clean your cup if you’re in a place without clean water. Hand sanitizer can also be useful for cleaning your hands before and after handling your cup.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can make insertion and removal easier, as hydration affects your vaginal moisture.
- Know Your Flow: Familiarize yourself with your flow patterns to plan when to empty and clean your cup.
How to care and sanitize your menstrual cup?
Taking care of your cup is simple. After each use, rinse it with warm water and a gentle, unscented soap. At the end of your cycle, boil it for 5-10 minutes to sterilize it before storing it in its breathable pouch. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can degrade the material. Regular cleaning ensures your cup remains in top condition for years.
How long will a menstrual cup last?
A well-cared-for menstrual cup can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, making it a fantastic long-term option for managing your period.
Conclusion
Switching to a menstrual cup has made my travel experiences much less stressful, and I highly recommend giving them a try. Whether you opt for the well-loved Diva Cup or the budget-friendly June Cup, you’ll find that traveling during your period becomes a whole lot easier. So pack one in your travel kit, and enjoy those adventures with one less worry on your mind!
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