PCT Hikers Share Period Gear and Packing Strategies

Pacific Crest Trail thru-hikers have compiled a gear and packing guide for managing menstruation during the 4.5-month, 2,650-mile journey. The guide, based on community wisdom shared on the PCTA website, covers reusable collection methods, disposal logistics, and planning for hormonal suppression.

The Cup: A Favorite with Caveats

The menstrual cup is the most popular choice among PCT thru-hikers for its reusability and minimal waste. It can stay in place for up to 12 hours, eliminating the need for daily packing out of used products. However, hikers stress that mastering its use requires practice before hitting the trail, as fit varies significantly between brands and individuals.

Even experienced users face challenges. Hiker Laila Cohen described a night where their cup leaked in bear can territory, staining their base layers. They advise keeping hygiene wipes and hand sanitizer easily accessible. Another hiker, Linz McKlinz, notes that planning for two changes on a heavy first day, followed by single daily changes, helps in scheduling stops.

Between periods, boiling the cup is essential for proper sanitation, especially to clean small ventilation holes that wipes cannot reach.

Alternative Collection Methods

The menstrual disc is an underrated alternative, favored for allowing emptying without removal. Hiker Caro recommends it, stating, "You can empty it throughout the day while peeing without taking it out and you only have to deal with the bloody mess like once a day." It sits at the base of the cervix, which many find more comfortable under a hip belt than a cup.

For those who prefer tampons, the applicator-free variety is the most compact. Nurse and hiker Cailin Keenan chose tampons to avoid sanitizing concerns in dusty conditions, packing out used products in sealed bags within a bear can. Pads are generally considered less trail-friendly due to chafing, with unscented versions being essential.

Period underwear and reusable pads work best as a backup layer, particularly overnight, rather than a primary method due to washing and drying difficulties on trail.

Hormonal Suppression and Planning

Suppressing menstruation for the trail's duration is an option many discuss with medical providers. Methods include hormonal IUDs, implants, continuous birth control pills, the three-month shot, and continuous-use vaginal rings. The universal advice is to initiate the chosen method three to six months before the start date to allow the body to adjust.

Jessica Bagnell used a cup on the Appalachian Trail but switched to a continuous-wear ring for the PCT. They said if they didn't need birth control, they would still recommend the cup.

Managing Symptoms and Disposal

For managing cramps, hikers recommend taking ibuprofen before pain peaks, using a hard-sided water bottle as a heat pad, and maintaining iron intake with a multivitamin. Ensuring adequate food intake is also highlighted as a challenge.

All used products must be packed out. Experienced hikers wrap items in aluminum foil before placing them in multiple odor-blocking bags. Odor-blocking food bags are noted as significantly more effective than standard zip-top bags.

A basic hygiene kit for the trail includes items for sanitation and waste disposal.

The guide concludes by acknowledging that managing a period on trail, while not fun, is entirely manageable. Sharing experiences and solutions helps build a supportive community knowledge base for future hikers.