Whether you’re hitting the trails, paddling across glacial lakes, or camping deep in the woods, your period may be part of the adventure. But have no fear, because we're having a hot period summer!
From casual day-trips or multi-day boating adventures, there are ways to stay comfortable, healthy, and prepared. So let's break it down: how to work with your cycle, protect your skin, and choose products that go the distance with you.
Your Period in the Summer: What's Happening
Your body is constantly adapting—responding to your cycle, your movement, and your environment. Here's what to be mindful of so you can take care of yourself!
Hydration: Hormonal changes during your period affect your body’s ability to regulate fluids. You may sweat more, feel dehydrated faster, or be more prone to cramps if you don’t stay on top of your water intake. Pack more water than you think you’ll need, and consider adding electrolytes if you’re out all day or in hot temps.
Energy Levels: The start of your period may bring a dip in stamina—and that’s completely normal. Iron levels drop slightly with blood loss, and prostaglandins (hormones involved in cramping) can leave you feeling tired or achey. Listen to your body and don’t push past your limits. Prioritize gentle movement, stretching, and rest when you need it.
Mood & Focus: Mood shifts are common in the early days of your period. Getting outside can help regulate stress hormones and boost serotonin, but only if you’re not battling discomfort from poor period care. If you’re bleeding through, chafing, or constantly adjusting your pad, that time in nature may be a bit of a struggle.
Lastly, sweating during your period is natural! Even more so when you're active in the outdoors. Opt for breathable, well-fitting period products instead of moisture-trapping plastic pads that can cause discomfort fast. Heat, sweat, and pads that don’t breathe can lead to irritation, chafing, and even yeast imbalances.
Your Period Toolkit: What to Pack for Outdoor Comfort
You wouldn’t head into the wild without proper gear. Your period deserves the same respect. Whether you're hiking a local trail or heading off-grid, your comfort comes down to preparation—and the right tools.
1. Breathable Pads: Your Soft, No-Chafe Go-To
If you prefer pads, the material matters—a lot. Most mainstream pads use synthetic topsheets and plastic backings that trap heat and moisture. Combined with a hot summer, it’s a recipe for irritation.
Enter: breathable pads made with natural materials. joni pads feature a super absorbent bamboo viscose topsheet with non-GMO cornstarch that’s uber soft on skin, moisture wicking, and allows for airflow. That means you’re less likely to get that sticky, swampy feeling on a humid day and no awkward shifting while you climb, kayak, or crouch around a campfire.
And because they’re individually wrapped and biodegradable (where facilities exist), you can stash a few in your pack and pack them out without worry.
2. Tampons: Compact Protection That Moves With You
If internal protection is more your style, tampons are a great solution, especially for water activities or when you just want to forget you're even on your period.
Applicator-free tampons hardly take any room, making them easy to stash in your backpack, a dry bag, hip belt pocket, or trail pouch. No bulky boxes. No plastic applicators to dispose of.
Pro tip: Keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer or biodegradable wipes on hand, especially if you’re changing tampons in the outdoors.
3. Reusables: Great for the Planet, Not Always Practical on the Trail
Menstrual cups, discs, and period underwear are sustainable champions in the world of period care. They reduce waste, offer long wear times, and are often loved by outdoor adventurers for their lower impact. But there’s a catch when you’re away from modern amenities.
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Cups & discs can be worn for up to 12 hours, which is great for long stretches without a bathroom. They’re internal, discreet, and water-safe. But they do need to be emptied and rinsed with clean water—something that’s not always available if you’re backpacking, canoe tripping, or using backcountry toilets.
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Period underwear is comfortable and secure—like wearing regular underwear, but with built-in absorbency. While they’re great for light to moderate flow days, you’ll need to carry spares and a way to store used pairs until you can wash them.
Bottom line? Reusables are a great choice when you can clean and manage them properly. But don’t force it if it’s not practical for your trip. It’s your body. Choose what works best for your situation.
Planning = Power
If you want to feel at ease while outdoors on your period, preparation is everything. Build yourself a simple but effective period kit for adventuring:
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A mix of your preferred products (pads, tampons, or reusables)
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A few resealable bags to store used disposables (remember: “pack it in, pack it out”)
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Biodegradable wipes for quick clean-ups and freshness on the go
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Spare underwear and a change of pants if your flow tends to surprise you
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Hand sanitizer or soap sheet strips for safe, clean handling
Keep your kit compact, organized, and easy to access.
Listen to Your Body: Signs of Irritation or Imbalance
Your body will let you know when something’s off—especially in hot, damp, or high-friction environments. Be aware of the following signs:
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Itching, burning, or redness near the vulva or inner thighs
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Unusual discharge with a strong odour or new consistency
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Small bumps or irritation near the bikini line
These can be signs of a yeast imbalance, bacterial irritation, or simple friction burn. If you're using synthetic pads or wearing damp clothing for too long, your skin can get angry fast. The fix? Stay dry, wear breathable fabrics, and opt for natural period care that’s designed with your skin in mind.
And if symptoms don’t improve in a few days, don’t wait—check in with a healthcare provider.
joni: Period Care That Moves With You
At joni, we believe period care should support your lifestyle—not slow it down. Our products are designed to help you stay comfortable, confident, and connected to what matters.
Our organic cotton pads and tampons are:
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Ultra-thin and breathable to prevent chafing
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Free of toxins, dyes, and synthetic fragrance
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Biodegradable wherever possible—so you can take care of the planet while taking care of yourself
With the right support, you’re free to keep going, mile after mile, wave after wave.
So there you have it! Periods are IN. Skipping your summer outdoor adventures because of your period are OUT.
Let's have a hot period summer!