Whether you’re going on vacation or heading to summer camp, knowing how many pads to bring can be a challenge! Consider this your official guide to period planning for the summer.
You just finished packing for your 3-week summer sleepaway camp:
☑ Pajamas
☑ Day clothes
☑ Jackets
☑ Swimsuit and towel
☑ Sunscreen
☑ Toothbrush and toothpaste
As you put your bags in the car, a thought hits you… “What if I get my period while I’m at camp?” Of course, no one wants to be caught unaware by their time of the month. And if you haven’t gotten your period yet, it can be tricky knowing just how many pads you should bring with you.
Below, we’ll break down how to figure out the right amount of pads to pack to manage your period and enjoy a fun, stress-free summer!
What’s a “normal” amount of pads to use every day?
Before we get into what “normal” is, keep in mind that each of us (and our periods!) is unique. So, a “normal” number of pads for one person may look different from yours. And that’s okay! Please use this as a guideline rather than a rule to prepare for your period on vacation.
Menstrual bleeding lasts an average of 5 days, with the first two days featuring a heavier flow than the last 3 days. To stay hygienic, experts recommend changing your pad every 3-4 hours during the day. This prevents blood from sitting and combining with sweat and heat, which can be uncomfortable and promote bacterial growth.
So over the course of a day, you’re likely to need between 4 to 7 pads. But again, this is highly individual.
Period Packing Guideline → Bring between 20-35 pads, depending on your flow.
Don’t forget overnight pads!
While day pads are great for active hours, most aren’t equipped to handle the unique challenges of overnight protection. Overnight pads are typically longer to provide more coverage, versus day pads, which are usually shorter to facilitate more activity and movement. They often feature sticky wings to keep the pads in place during nightly tossing and turning.
Overnight pads are also more absorbent, allowing you to keep one on for the full 8-hour night.
That’s why we’re excited to introduce Pinkie’s new Overnight Pads – featuring our signature organic cotton top sheet, extra-long design for complete coverage, and powerful leak-proof protection that lasts all night long!
Period Packing Guideline → Plan for 3-6 overnight pads.
“How many pads should I bring on vacation?”
Ultimately, the answer depends on your flow. In the months leading up to your vacation, note how many pads you usually use daily while on your period. This is the best way to get the most accurate estimate!
Otherwise, a reasonable estimate for a medium flow might be 4-5 regular pads and 1 overnight pad a day. So if you’re going to be gone for a month (meaning you only expect to have your period once) — between 25-30 pads should be enough.
Here are a few extra considerations that might change your period product prep number:
➤ Do you have heavy periods? You might need to change your pads more often.
➤ Is it going to be an active summer? Hiking, swimming, dancing, or just a hot summer in general? Bring extra pads for peace of mind and to keep things hygienic.
➤ Feeling worried about getting your period at summer camp or on vacation and not having enough pads? There’s no harm in packing extra!
➤ Want to keep undies discharge-free? You know your body best — pack Pinkie’s Prep Pouch so you always have extra sanitary pads, no matter what part of your menstrual cycle you’re in!
3 Other Period Prep Tips!
- Pack your pads everywhere
And we do mean everywhere! Our periods can sneak up when we least expect it. So, if you’re heading on a flight or bus with multiple bags? Pack pads in both your carry-on and checked luggage. That way, you don’t have to worry if your luggage gets delayed, and you always have them handy.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Period caught you by surprise? Don’t worry – we’ve all been there! Your summer camp should have extra menstrual products on hand. There’s no shame in asking a camp counselor for extra sanitary pads or period products. If you don’t feel comfortable with a counselor, consider asking a friend you trust.
What can you do if you get your period without a pad? Learn more >>
- Pack extras, just in case
It’s always a good idea to have extra pads on hand! With Pinkie’s slim and sleek design, you can pack all the pads you need for your summer travels. Plus, by packing extra pads, you’ll have plenty to share with new friends who might need them.
- Create a period emergency pack
If you want to be super prepared, you can put together an emergency pack with other menstrual products as well. You can consider adding in a spare pair of period underwear, panty liners, more pads, and tampons. You may also want to add in a few items for pain relief, like ibuprofen, Advil, or Midol.
