Headed out on a journey during “that time of the month,” or maybe just taking a quick flight for spring break? Looking for tips for staying healthy “down there” while trekking through the Himalayas, or splashing through the coast of Florida? 

Welcome to the go-to resource for women seeking advice on maintaining intimate area health and wellness during their travels. Whether you're venturing to a remote location or simply taking a short vacation, these tips will help you stay fresh and confident on your journey.

Let’s face it; travel may be fun and adventurous, but it often wreaks havoc on our health. Constipation, lack of hygiene and ‘modern comforts’, poor sleep, and digestive distress are just a few of the culprits. But let’s focus on the area of your body you can keep healthy with a little planning and attention. 

Here is a quick list of do’s and don’ts for optimal feminine health for your next big adventure. 

Travel Essentials and Tips for Optimal Feminine Hygiene 

1. Prioritize cleanliness: Regardless of the destination, make a point to clean your intimate area daily. If facilities are limited, use a wet washcloth or opt for Healthy Hoohoo's Individually Wrapped Feminine Wipes for a gentle and effective clean. Remember to always wipe front to back to avoid infections.

2. Choose appropriate clothing: Opt for loose-fitting skirts or pants and natural fiber underwear to promote air circulation (check out our blog post on healthy underpants for our favorites). Tight clothing can restrict pelvic area air circulation. If sweat doesn't have an opportunity to evaporate, it can open the door for unwanted bacteria. Sleep without underwear when possible to let your v breathe. 

3. Prepare for your menstrual cycle: Pack your preferred hygienic supplies, as availability may vary by location. Also, be mindful of your hygienic-product footprint--by that, we mean the waste you are leaving behind. Consider using applicator-free tampons or other eco-friendly options to reduce waste. Healthy Hoohoo's Individually Wrapped Feminine Wipes, made from plant-based fibers, are another earth-friendly choice. 

4. Maintain overall wellness: Stay hydrated, eat fresh fruits and vegetables, limit sugar intake, and exercise. Probiotics, or yogurt with live cultures, can help regulate your system when trying new foods or beverages.

5. Master the squat: In certain situations, the "restrooms" may consist of nothing but a hole in the floor, and you won't have the opportunity to sit down; or perhaps, you encounter some unsanitary restroom conditions and don't want to sit on the toilet. Avoid sitting on toilet seats by squatting instead. This will minimize contact with bacteria and also build your leg muscles.

6. Be mindful of environmental factors: Vaginal yeast infections are more common in hot and humid environments. Keep your intimate area dry by sleeping without underwear and using a blow dryer on the "cool" setting after showering.

7. Change wet clothing: After swimming or sweating, change out of wet bikini bottoms or underwear to prevent the growth of fungus that can lead to yeast infections.

8. Use antibiotics cautiously: Some medications, like antibiotics or malaria medicine, may increase the risk of yeast infections, as antibiotics kill not only the "bad" bugs, but the "good" ones too. These "good guys" (aka vaginal flora) naturally fight off infections and protect us. Carry your own remedy if necessary.

We created our travel-friendly individually wrapped feminine wipes with you in mind, after many miles, trials and our own travel nightmares!  Please let us know if you have any travel questions, concerns or other great tips.  

Here’s to getting out there and confidently exploring this amazing world!

This article was first published on September 7th, 2015.