Today, past Market Development Specialist Andrea Coulter talks through the many benefits of the menstrual cup while camping.
If you’ve ever camped with a period, you’ll know it can make the happiest of campers see, well…red.
It can be a major inconvenience along the trail or portage. Instead of enjoying the view, you’re thinking about the closest place to change your tampon.
A little over a year ago, I made the switch to a menstrual cup and it forever changed my period, on and off the trail.
Read on if your period is a barrier to getting you out into the backcountry!
Less to pack in
Anyone who’s gone backcountry camping understands the importance of packing light.
Bringing tampons and pads means more items in your pack. A menstrual cup is small, lightweight, and can flatten to take up less room than a granola bar.
Less to pack out
The “pack in, pack out” rule applies to used tampons and pads.
These products cannot be put in privies (a.k.a., “thunderboxes”) because almost all contain plastics that will not break down in our lifetime. Not the legacy most of us would like to leave for future generations visiting our parks.
Fewer animal attractants on your campsite
Used tampons and pads are considered an animal attractant, and should always be stored in your bear hang along with other waste you are packing out.
If you aren’t excited about hanging your used tampons from a tree, try a cup!
Fewer stops along the trail to change your pad or tampon
If you are experiencing a heavy flow, you may need to change your tampon or pad every few hours.
This can be an inconvenience when you’re on the trail. A menstrual cup lasts longer. You can often go a whole day and only empty it 2-3 times.
A greener period
One menstrual cup can be used for years. Think about how many tampons or pads you would use in that time!
If you are looking to reduce your environmental footprint, switch to a cup.
If your period is holding you back from getting out into the backcountry, this could be the solution you need!
