It is entirely possible and common to enjoy a camping trip while menstruating. Proper planning ensures the experience is comfortable and environmentally responsible, even with the logistics of remote hygiene and potential physical discomfort. Managing a period in the wilderness requires understanding the best products, knowing how to safely handle waste, addressing misconceptions about wildlife, and proactively managing physical symptoms.
Managing Menstrual Hygiene and Waste Disposal
Menstrual hygiene in the outdoors is guided by Leave No Trace (LNT) principles, requiring all non-biodegradable waste to be packed out. Disposable options like pads and tampons require careful containment because their synthetic fibers do not decompose in the wilderness. Used disposable products must be placed in a sealable, opaque bag, such as a Ziploc bag wrapped in duct tape, to be carried out of the backcountry.
Reusable products, such as menstrual cups or discs, significantly reduce the amount of waste that needs to be packed out. Cups necessitate a clean water source for rinsing and require careful hand hygiene before and after insertion. If a trash receptacle is unavailable, the collected menstrual fluid must be disposed of by treating it as human waste.
Disposal requires digging a cathole 6 to 8 inches deep, at least 200 feet away from water sources, campsites, or trails. The contents of the cup or disc are emptied into this hole, which is then covered with the original soil. Personal cleaning, including hands and reusable products, should also occur at least 200 feet away from water, using minimal biodegradable soap and scattering the rinse water widely.
Addressing Wildlife Safety Concerns
A common concern for menstruating individuals camping in bear country is attracting wildlife, particularly bears. Scientific research indicates that for black bears and grizzly bears, menstrual odors are not a significant attractant compared to human food smells. Studies involving black bears showed no appreciable interest in used tampons or menstruating women.
The misconception that menstruation causes bear attacks is largely linked to a 1967 incident in Glacier National Park, though subsequent analysis found no evidence that the women’s cycles were a factor. An exception exists with polar bears, where some captive studies showed a response to used tampons, but this is geographically limited due to their highly carnivorous diet.
Regardless of the low risk, used menstrual products should be treated like any other scented item or food waste. Store the sealed waste bag securely in a bear canister, a properly hung bear bag away from the campsite, or a locked vehicle, depending on local regulations. Following standard bear country protocols for all smellables is the most effective safety measure. Avoid sleeping in the clothes worn while managing menstrual products and store those garments with other scent items.
Maximizing Comfort and Symptom Management
The physical experience of menstruation requires proactive management in the backcountry to maintain comfort and energy. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, manage common symptoms like headaches and cramps. These medications inhibit the production of prostaglandins, the chemical compounds that trigger uterine contractions and cause pain. Taking the pain reliever one to two days before the expected period onset and continuing for the first few days maximizes its effectiveness.
For localized relief, applying heat helps muscles relax and increase blood flow. Since a traditional heating pad is impractical, a hot water bottle filled with heated camp water can serve as a substitute for temporary relief from cramps. This application of heat helps soothe the contracting uterine muscle.
Choosing the right clothing is important for comfort and leak management. Dark-colored clothing, especially base layers, helps conceal accidental leaks. Quick-drying and moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal, as they manage sweat and humidity exacerbated by hormonal fluctuations. Wearing layers allows for easy adjustment to temperature changes, helping the body regulate heat.
Maintaining consistent energy levels and hydration is important when combining physical activity with menstruation. Staying well-hydrated helps reduce the intensity of cramping and minimize feelings of sluggishness. Consuming nutrient-dense foods and proactively addressing fatigue counteracts the energy drain that accompanies the menstrual cycle, ensuring a more enjoyable outdoor experience.