How to Deal with a Heavy Period on a Flight

20 May 2024  |  Admin

Looking forward to your summer holds shortly? Yep, we're counting down to ours too as it seems like forever since we had some sunshine.

But, oh, the timing is dreadful with a super heavy visit from Aunt Flo on the horizon. Managing your period on holiday is one thing, but travel with a heavy period? That's a real challenge. Don't worry, though, because we've got some cheeky tips to help you handle a heavy period up in the air without any turbulence.

Whether it's a quick city break or a long-haul flight to exotic lands, being prepared will make all the difference. Here's how to keep things under control so you can enjoy your flight and look forward to your holiday stress-free. Here's our top tips for how to deal with a heavy period on a flight:

 

Pack Period Essentials in Your Carry-On Bag

First things first, always pack a period kit of menstrual products in your carry-on, even if you don't *think* you're due on.

Sarah from the Fanny Diaries who lives with endometriosis had a 'had a 10 hour flight from hell with the heaviest period of my life and no access to any period products' but luckily, she had a pair of her Cheeky Pants in her hand luggage to save the day!

Take a small wet bag and pack it up with all the bits and pieces you might need—pads or tampons, or menstrual cups and maybe some reusable intimate wipes too.

Consider packing some Cheeky pants and pads. They're perfect for extra security against leaks, thanks to their super absorbent layers and comfy fit. Plus, they're reusable, so you're doing your bit for the planet even while jet-setting!

"Great items! We've tried a lot of different brands of period pants and I would genuinely say these are the best. Fantastic prices, about a third of the price of comparable items without reducing any of the quality. I personally have very heavy periods and the pants I bought could withstand the flow for the day with absolutely no leaks. I found the size chart unbelievably helpful, and truthful. So comfy, will definitely purchase more and recommend to everyone!" Trustpilot Review

Wear Dark, Comfy Clothing

When it comes to travel attire, dark colours are your best friend. They're great at hiding any unexpected leaks (or coffee spills from turbulence).

Choose loose-fitting clothes like joggers or a breezy dress to keep pressure off your belly and make those long hours on the plane more bearable. Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton to stay comfy and cool.

Double Up On Protection

Double down on your protection. If you're using a menstrual cup, why not pair it with a panty liner or pad for that extra peace of mind? Or slip into a pair of Cheeky’s period pants for a combo of comfort and security. It's like wearing a safety net that feels just like regular underwear—only better! Cheeky even offer detachable quick snap period pants which makes changing a doddle, even in a cramped airplane toilet.

Another alternative that we do ourselves at Team Cheeky is to wear a reusable pad AND period pants. The pants are either a back up for super heavy periods or if your period is manageable you simply remove the reusable pad part way through your journey and enjoy that fresh knicker feeling for the remainder of your trip. Cheeky reusable pads popper closed for easy carrying too and can simply be hand washed on arrival.

"Amazing Products. Easy to use website. Great prices, for how expensive period products can be these guys are very reasonable. They are so comfortable as well, and the material is so soft. I got the comfort shorts and comfort is definitely the word.

I also love the large coverage area of the lining, it means there ia better protection, even for those with heavy (and I mean heavy) periods like myself. It's so good to have to worry less about accidents. They're super easy to wash, clean and care for too, bonus." Trustpilot Review

Can a Long Haul Flight Actually Cause a Heavy Period?

Flying itself isn't likely to cause your period to suddenly go heavy. However travel can affect your period. The stress of travel, potential jet lag, and sitting still for long periods might mess with your flow. Upsetting your internal body clock's circadian rhythm through disrupted sleep cycles, multiple time zones and the jet lag affect can also affect your menstrual cycle.

Staying hydrated, moving around the cabin when possible, and keeping stress levels low can help keep your cycle in check while you're up in the clouds.

'Was due to be on my period whilst on holiday abroad and the idea of having to use tampons and towels in the heat whilst on a heavy period did not seem appealing! Ordered these at the last minute and they came at such speed and was pleasantly surprised with how good they were with zero leaks and able to wear something other thank black due to not having the worry about leaks as I was covered front and back completely with these period underwear! Absolute lifesavers and will be using them every period from now on!' Katherine, Trustpilot

Recommended Period Products For Travel

3 for £30
5 for £45
7 for £56
Feeling Cosy - Bamboo Period Pants Shorts
3 for £30
5 for £45
7 for £56
Quick Change Period Pants - Detachable Underwear
Mix & Match
ANY Pads
Buy 5 get the
cheapest
FREE
Reusable Cotton Sanitary Pad - Regular - Day

Managing a heavy period while travelling doesn't have to be a hassle. With a little preparation and the right gear, you can fly comfortably, even on your heaviest days. Pack smart, dress smart, and remember, Cheeky's got your back (or rather, your flow) covered with sanitary products designed to make your period a breeze, no matter where in the world you are.

Looking for more tips on how to handle your period in all kinds of situations? Check out our blog posts on reusable period products vs. period pantshow long do cloth pads last and are reusable pads safe?. Or if you're specifically wondering about periods on holiday, dive into our holiday guide here. Safe travels and happy trails!

Alternatively if you've got more questions, please do contact us.  The team all wear the pants and pads themselves and love helping people make the switch.  Nothing is TMI!

About the Author: Helen Rankin founded Cheeky Wipes, the original reusable wipes kit back in 2008 after disposable wipes caused her eczema to flare up. 4 kids later, she went on to develop their range of 'Simple Reusables' to include period pants, reusable period kits and reusable sanitary pads. Both she and the rest of the leadership team are now navigating menopause, with all the joys it brings!

The Cheeky customer services team pride themselves on providing honest, friendly advice and just LOVE to chat pee, poo and periods all day long, helping people make the switch to reusables! The Company was recognised for their hard work in developing environmentally friendly products with the Queens Award in Enterprise for Sustainable Development in 2021.

 

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