Lois Larson
Getting your period while travelling can be stressful, especially when you are unable to access period products. While some airports provide free pads and tampons in bathrooms, others do not. This has led to calls for airports to be required to make period care products available to those who need them. However, it is essential to be prepared when travelling, so it is recommended to pack enough pads for your trip and follow the guidelines for carrying period products in your hand luggage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Availability of pads at airports | Inconsistent availability across airports; some provide free pads in bathrooms, while others have coin-operated machines or dispensers. |
| Accessibility | Pads may be locked behind mirrors in plane bathrooms or available from flight attendants. |
| Quality | Pads may be basic and uncomfortable, such as those provided free at some airports. |
| Price | Price gouging may occur at airport shops; free options are often preferred. |
| Alternatives | Infant diapers can be used as an alternative in emergencies, as can period underwear. |
| Travel advice | It is recommended to pack enough pads for the trip and carry them in carry-on luggage, following TSA guidelines for clear plastic bags. |
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What You'll Learn
Pads are allowed in carry-on luggage
Traveling with period pads in your carry-on luggage is generally allowed. However, it is essential to be aware of and follow your airline or travel authority's specific regulations. It is advisable to carry enough pads for your trip and consider bringing a separate, small travel-sized bag for used pads. This will help ensure a comfortable and stress-free journey.
Before your trip, make an inventory of the number of pads you will need. Consider the duration of your trip and the intensity of your flow. Pack more than you think you will need, plus a few extras in case of emergencies. Think about the type of pads you prefer. For example, some women prefer pads with wings for added protection, while others may opt for ultra-thin pads for minimal bulk.
Additionally, it is always good to carry extra underwear, especially dark-colored ones, in case of leaks. This will help you feel confident and prepared throughout your travels. Knowing the travel rules and being prepared will ensure a smooth journey.
Although pads are allowed in carry-on luggage, it is important to note that even generally permitted items may be subject to additional screening or may not be allowed through the checkpoint if they trigger an alarm, appear tampered with, or pose security concerns.
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They are often hard to find at airports
While it is possible to buy pads at some airports, they are often hard to find. Many airports do not stock period products in their bathrooms, and they may not be available in shops or vending machines either. This can be a significant issue for those who unexpectedly get their period while travelling. One person describes how they were unable to locate any pads or tampons at newsstands near their gate, in coin machines in the restroom, or on the plane. Another traveller recounts how they couldn't find any period products at a small airport or at either end of their flight to Disney World.
Some airports have made efforts to improve access to menstrual products. For example, YVR airport in Vancouver has made tampons and sanitary pads free in the bathrooms. Aunt Flow is another company that provides free organic cotton pads and tampons at airports, prioritising guests' needs and ensuring they have convenient access to essential amenities. However, these initiatives are not yet widespread, and many travellers still struggle to find pads and other period products at airports.
The lack of access to menstrual products at airports can lead to uncomfortable and unhygienic situations for passengers. One traveller describes having to resort to using toilet paper and hand towels as a substitute for a pad, which is neither sanitary nor practical. Another traveller expresses frustration at the irony of being able to buy almost anything at fancy airports, except basic necessities for women.
The issue of inaccessible period products at airports is not just a matter of convenience but also one of equity and public health. Menstrual health is an essential aspect of overall health and well-being, and the inability to access period products can lead to stigma, embarrassment, and fears for one's health and livelihood. As one traveller puts it, "accessibility to menstrual products is a human right. It shouldn't be a luxury or a nice-to-have".
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They should be packed in a clear bag
While travelling, it is essential to be prepared and pack everything you need for a comfortable journey. This includes packing enough period pads to last the entire trip, plus a few extras for emergencies. It is also a good idea to carry a separate bag to store used pads and extra underwear, particularly dark-colored ones, in case of leaks.
When packing period pads in your carry-on luggage, it is important to follow the guidelines of the TSA or your local travel authority. The TSA states that period pads, tampons, and menstrual cups are permitted on board a plane but must be packed in a clear, plastic, resealable bag along with other personal hygiene items. This means that if you are carrying pads with wings, you must remove them from their original packaging and place them inside the clear bag.
It is always best to pack your period pads in an easily accessible location in your carry-on bag to avoid any delays or unnecessary searches at the airport security checkpoint. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a stress-free travel experience while carrying all the necessary personal hygiene products.
Unfortunately, it can be difficult to find period pads or other menstrual products at airports, and they are not always readily available. Some airports have coin-operated dispensers or vending machines, but these may be empty or inaccessible. Others may have period products available for free in the bathrooms or from flight attendants on the plane. However, it is always a good idea to come prepared with your own supply of period pads when travelling, as you may not be able to rely on finding them at the airport or on your flight.
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They are sometimes available on planes
While pads are not always available at airports, they are sometimes available on planes. One traveller, who unexpectedly got their period at a small airport, found regular-absorbency tampons at the Disney shops at the other end of their flight. Another traveller, who was transferring flights in Istanbul, couldn't find any pads in the departure lounge and had to ask a shop assistant for one. However, on the plane, they found pads in the bathroom and were told by a flight attendant that there were pads behind a liftable bit under the mirror.
Another traveller, who was looking for pads at their gate, couldn't find any at the newsstands or in the restrooms. They were told by a flight attendant that the airline didn't offer pads, not even for sale. However, the flight attendant suggested using paper napkins from the plane's lavatory. This traveller resorted to making a "TP and sandpaper diaper" out of toilet paper and paper towels.
It seems that the availability of pads on planes varies depending on the airline and the airport. While some planes may have pads in the bathroom, others may not. It's always a good idea to pack enough pads for your trip, plus a few extras in case of emergencies.
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They are usually sold at airport shops
While some airports provide free pads and tampons in their bathrooms, others sell them in airport shops or vending machines. However, the availability of period products at airports is inconsistent, and some travellers have reported being unable to find any for sale. This has led to calls for airports to be required to provide free menstrual products, just as they are required to provide lactation areas for nursing mothers.
Aunt Flow is one company that provides free period products in airport bathrooms. They have installed dispensers for organic cotton pads and tampons in some airport restrooms, with the aim of creating an "inclusive airport environment" and making travel a "smoother and more comfortable" experience.
Some airports, such as YVR in Vancouver, used to sell pads and tampons in their shops but found that they were being taken without payment, so they made them free in the bathrooms instead.
While some airlines provide pads and tampons in their plane bathrooms, others do not. It is always a good idea to pack enough pads for your trip, plus a few extras in case of emergencies. However, it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations regarding carrying period products in your hand luggage, as these can vary by airline or travel authority.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the airport. Some airports sell pads at newsstands or in vending machines in the restrooms. However, it's not uncommon for airports to not stock pads at all. It's best to be prepared and pack enough pads for your trip.
Some airplanes stock pads in their bathrooms, but this is not guaranteed. It's recommended to bring your own pads on the plane.
No, period pads are allowed in carry-on luggage. However, they must be packed in a clear, plastic, resealable bag along with other personal hygiene items.
Some airports provide free pads in their bathrooms. If pads are not available, you may be able to ask a female TSA agent or a female airport staff member for assistance.
