Tommy has over 15 years experience within the insurance industry, and his primary focus is helping travellers find the right cover for their medical conditions.
For most of us, travelling is about switching off, exploring new places, and enjoying ourselves, and we really don’t want to worry about whether we are going to get our period.
Having your period on holiday can feel inconvenient, especially if you are flying long-haul, going somewhere hot, planning beach days, or tackling a packed itinerary; it’s just not ideal. However, with the right planning and options to make it a little easier, managing your menstrual cycle while travelling can end up being completely fine.
In this guide, we have looked at how travel can affect your cycle, how you could potentially stop your period for a holiday, and shared advice to help you stay comfortable, confident, and in control whilst you are away.
Why Planning Ahead Matters
Travel can have more of an impact on your menstrual cycle than you might expect, due to changes in routine, disrupted sleep, different diets, and travel anxiety, which can all contribute to stress and period irregularities during holidays.
Many people also wonder, can travelling delay your period, or can flying delay your period, and the answer is yes, it can. However, planning can help to reduce uncertainty and stress, whether that means packing the right products, tracking your cycle, or preparing for possible delays so you can stay prepared.
If you are considering medication or managing an existing health condition, having travel insurance for pre-existing conditions in place can also offer reassurance should you need medical advice or treatment while abroad.
Tracking Your Cycle Before You Travel
One of the easiest ways of managing your cycle while travelling is to know roughly when your period is due, which can sometimes be difficult if you have irregular cycles. However, there are period-tracking apps available, or you can use a simple calendar to help you predict your cycle and plan activities around heavier or more uncomfortable days.
It’s also worth bearing in mind that travel can sometimes disrupt your usual cycle. Long flights, jet lag, changes to your routine, and the general stress that can come with travelling may all affect your hormone levels. As a result, your period might arrive earlier than you expected, be slightly delayed, or feel a little different to normal, which is why it’s a good idea to plan with some flexibility in mind.
If you are thinking about stopping periods for holidays, it is really important to speak to your GP or pharmacist in advance about safe options, including whether a pill to stop periods for your holiday is suitable for you.
READ MORE: How to enjoy stress-free travel
Packing Essentials for Periods on Holiday
A well-thought-out holiday packing checklist for periods can make all the difference. Even if your period isn’t due, it is always worth being prepared, because, as mentioned above, travel can sometimes affect the timing of your menstrual cycle.
Essential items to pack include your preferred period products, such as pads, tampons, menstrual cups, or period pants, along with period swimwear if you’re planning on swimming while on your period.
It is also worth bringing a small hygiene kit with wipes, hand sanitiser, as well as pain relief you’re familiar with, since brands and availability can vary abroad. Loose, breathable clothing can help you stay comfortable if you experience bloating or cramps during your holiday.
These are often considered the best products for periods on holiday, as they are easy to use and travel-friendly.
Managing Your Period During Your Trip
If your period starts while you are on holiday, there are a few simple adjustments that can help you stay comfortable and let you keep enjoying your holiday. Try planning more physically demanding activities, such as hiking or long sightseeing days, around lighter flow days where possible.
It is also important for you to stay hydrated and to try to eat magnesium-rich foods, such as leafy greens, nuts, and even dark chocolate, as these can help ease cramps. Prioritising rest, good sleep, and gentle movement, such as stretching or yoga, can also reduce discomfort and help you manage your cycle while travelling, particularly when dealing with jet lag or long travel days.
READ MORE: Signs you need a holiday
Can You Delay Your Period for a Holiday?
You may be wondering whether it is possible to delay your period for holiday plans, and in some cases, you can. There are certain hormonal medications that can be prescribed to delay bleeding, but these are not suitable for everyone, and they should always be discussed with a healthcare professional first.
If you are thinking about medication to delay your period while away, you need to make sure you have the right travel insurance to cover any unexpected health issues while you’re away.
Your period doesn’t have to ruin your travel plans, and with a little planning, smart packing, and an understanding of how travel can affect your body, you can stay comfortable and confident wherever you’re headed.
Whether you’re preparing for a period while on holiday, exploring options to delay your cycle, or simply packing for peace of mind, being prepared is key.
Medical travel insurance covers you in case of illness whilst you’re travelling and will cover any unexpected medical costs or treatment. For more helpful tips, visit our travel blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
You should speak to your GP or a pharmacist well before you travel, as they can advise whether the medication is suitable and explain how to use it safely.
Yes. Many people experience cycle changes due to jet lag, disrupted sleep, and stress.
Tampons, menstrual cups, and period swimwear are generally considered the most practical options for swimming whilst on holiday.
Staying hydrated, eating balanced meals, gentle movement, and using familiar pain relief can help reduce discomfort.
Yes. Having travel insurance ensures you’re covered if you need medical support while travelling.