There are so many other things we have to consider when we women go out for a bimble in the mountains! So, let's discuss all things periods, toilet tribulations, bras and much more!

Periods

For many of us, being on your period whilst on a trek is far from ideal. If you know you are due on your period whilst out on your adventures don't panic! We’ve got you girl! Finding what best works for you is all about trialing different options and seeing which best suits you.

Speak to your GP

When I was in sixth form, I did my Gold Duke of Edinburgh award. I knew I was going to be on my period whilst we were on the five day expedition. Especially being younger and being in a mixed group, I remember being mortified by the idea of being on my period and panicking about leaks etc. I ended up calling my doctor and they prescribed me the contraceptive pill which temporarily delayed my period so I didn't need to worry about it the whole time. If you are already on the contraceptive pill, sometimes you can “double back” but again, speak to your GP as they will be able to advise what's best for you.

Pads < Tampons < Menstrual Cups

If medication isn't the route you want to go down, there are so many options on the market so there will be something that suits you.

• Sanitary towels - whilst pads are bulkier than some other options on the market if they’re what you are most comfortable with then go for it.
• Tampons - super compact and absorbent. They are ideal for packing as they are so lightweight take up such little space. You could consider applicator free tampons to reduce waste even further.
• Menstrual cups - eco friendly and you will not have to worry about disposing after use, you can simply rinse with water between use. There are many options on the market and lots of different shapes and sizes so do your research and trial different ones to find which you find the most comfortable

There is often a mini quiz on the website to help you find your size, as it is based on age and body shape. There are lots of articles and YouTube videos which explain how to correctly put one in if you are unsure. Click HERE to see a video!

Being comfortable on your period

Keep period products in an accessible compartment in your day pack.

Your essentials:

• Pads / tampons/ menstrual cup
• Zip lock bag
• Extra pairs of pants / period pants
• Toilet roll
• Unscented wet wipes
• Paracetamol
• Hand sanitizer

A company who I have used before is Ohne. They have some great pain relief products, oils, and balms which you can rub into your stomach when you are cramping which are super effective. Please be aware that some of these products contain CBD oils so do check the local government's stand on this!

Remember!

1. Keep hydrated
2. Often getting out walking in the fresh air helps with cramps
3. Don’t be embarrassed or uncomfortable, speak to other ladies in your group and seek help from your guide, they’ve heard it all before!

Going to the Loo

Depending on the trip you are on your toilet situation will differ. If you are staying in tea houses (for example on our Nepalese trips) you will be able to use their loos. There will be a mixture of both western and squat toilets. If you are camping (for example on a Kilimanjaro or Machu Picchu trek) EverTrek provide a private toilet per group, which consists of a tent with a chemical toilet.

Peeing whilst on the Trail

Travel John Pee Bags - you can buy these off Amazon. Essentially they are ziplock bags which have absorbent crystals in which turn your wee to a gel like substance. It just means you can dispose of your toilet waste hygienically.

She Wees - I have heard very mixed reviews about these, some people love them, others hate them! But certainly worth trailing them whilst you are out walking near home.

Sports bras

Depending on your shape and your preference for support there are many different styles and fit on the market to suit whatever you are after. Personally, when I’m out trekking, I don’t need or want anything super tight and supportive like I would perhaps when I’m at the gym. But other female trekkers, like our Bimbling Yeti, Fi, like to have everything fully supported and strapped in tight!

As a general rule, merino wool and bamboo are great materials. They are super breathable and will always have a big thumbs up from us Yeti’s. I personally like the Under Armour sports bras but definitely get in the shops and try on a range of different styles to see which you most prefer.
Other brands which we like using are Shock Absorber, Panache (for you bigger busted ladies) and Nike.

Pants

Breathable, quick drying pants are a must! In terms of materials, again merino wool and bamboo are fantastic and what all us Yeti’s use. I have also seen advertised a hemp material combination which has had some great reviews, the company is called Modi Bodi.

Personally, I like wearing a thong, it's just what I find most comfortable. I recently bought some from Kalenji “Running Thong Breathable” from Decathlon. They are super stretchy, breathable fabric with moisture management technology.

Other yetis prefer a bigger, more shorts like brief like THESE.

Panty Liners

A good way of making the most of a short supply of undies is making the most of panty liners! They don't take up much room in your bag and are a great way to stay hygienic whilst on the trip!

As with all trekking gear and equipment so much is up to personal preference, so our best advice is to try things out on your long training treks and see what suits you. We hope you’ve found this useful but as always if you’d like to discuss anything in more detail or have a chat with one of our yeti’s just give us a call or drop us and email on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - we always love to hear from you.

I always love a bit of girl talk so if you have more questions or want to tell me your brand recommendations, just give us a call or pop us an email!