Winter travel is almost inevitable. Whether you’re flying home for the holidays or to a warmer climate for vacation, we’ve got tips to keep your travel hygiene easy and non-toxic.
Multipurpose items
Whether you’re flying, or taking a roadtrip – odds are you’re going to have limited space for packing. Consider products that can essentials during winter and provide multiple purposes:
Coconu lubricant: You already know this is a long-lasting, organic, non-toxic lubricant that’s great for all types of vacation sex. It’s hydrating properties can cover so many more bases than just play. It’s safe enough to be used as vulva moisturizer or help you insert your menstrual cup. The packaging is also discreet enough to pass as an in-flight hand cream.
Essential oils: Essential oils are incredibly multifunctional. Use them to smell better, feel some stress relief, or as a mild disinfectant. Peppermint is particularly versatile as you can use it to calm nerves or cope with nausea. On long flights, try adding a couple drops of peppermint on your feet for circulation and to keep your socks fresh.
Wipes: If it’s safe for your genitals, it’s safe for the rest of your skin. Pack wipes to quickly wipe down your body in the airport bathroom, use wipe hands or wipe down sticky tray tables in a pinch.
Bring a change of undies
If you’re going on an international flight or a long road trip you may want to pack extra panties in your carry-on. A full outfit change is unrealistic but fresh panties can help you feel refreshed. Simply roll them compactly in a small wet bag so you can quickly change during a bathroom break. The wet bag will keep your dirty laundry contained without making your entire luggage smelly.
If you’re too grossed out by public restrooms to do a full change, you may benefit from Luna Pad’s period underwear – just change the removable gusset for a similar benefit.
Consider a menstrual cup
If your period coincides with your vacation, try transitioning over to a menstrual cup. This will save you tons of space since you won’t have to lug around a supply of tampons or pads. Plus, you can leave it in for up to 12 hours, meaning you may be able to get through your whole travel experience without changing it. The Lily Cup is a convenient option because it folds flat for easy travel and is easy to clean. For longer flights, you can simply wipe the cup down with a portable wipe and reinsert.
Vanessa Torres, MA
Vanessa Torres M.A. is a sexual health expert whose passions include harm-reduction and individual agency. Her work has been featured in Critical Public Health and the Journal of Homosexuality.
