đ Don't Cancel Summer: Period-Proofing Your Kiwi Summer
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Summer in Aotearoa is absolute magic. Think long, golden evenings âď¸, road trips with your besties, and diving into the cool ocean after a scorcher of a day. But letâs be realâwhen your period shows up unannounced, those perfect plans can feel suddenly complicated.
At Clever Little, weâre all about making sure you feel comfortable and empowered â¨, no matter what phase of your cycle youâre in. Your period should never be the reason you skip out on that weekend camping trip or that epic beach day.
Here is your guide to period-proofing your summer, so you can focus on soaking up those beautiful beachy đ vibes.
1. Mindset Shift: Embrace the Flow
First things first: let go of the period panic. Weâve been conditioned to view our cycles as inconvenient, but remember, this is a natural part of having a uterus! If your period aligns with the summer break, the goal isn't to fight it, but to plan with it.
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Be Prepared, Not Paranoid: Knowing you have the right products for the day ahead (more on that below!) is the ultimate confidence boost.
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Listen to Your Body: If youâre usually wiped out on Day 1, maybe swap that intense 8-hour tramp for a gentle beach walk or a movie marathon with your heat pack. Summer is about relaxing, too!
2. The Summer Period Product Arsenal
When you're constantly changing into togs or trekking away from the nearest toilet block, your regular products might not cut it. You need reliable, discreet, and comfortable options.
đ For the Swim Days (Every Kiwi Summer Must)
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The Go-To: Tampons or a Menstrual Cup are your best mates for swimming. They collect the flow internally, meaning you can jump in the sea or the pool without a worry. If youâre using tampons, simply pop a fresh one in before you swim and change it once youâre dry.
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The Key: Always choose products made with natural, breathable cotton (like ours!) to minimise irritation, especially when you're in and out of damp swimwear.
âş For the Road Trips & Camping
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Bulk & Value: This is where our value bundles shine! Don't rely on finding that tiny, overpriced 10-pack at a petrol station in the middle of nowhere. Pack enough cotton pads and tampons for your whole trip (plus a few spares for your campmates!).
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Discreet Disposal: Pack small, sealable disposal bags. Itâs always better to carry out used products responsibly until you can reach a proper bin, especially if youâre enjoying some rugged, off-grid freedom camping.
3. Beat the Heat and the Bloat
Summer heat and hormonal changes can sometimes be a double whammy for discomfort.
| Problem | Natural Clever Fix | Why It Works |
| Bloating | Drink plenty of water (stay away from sugary fizzy drinks). | Hydration flushes out excess sodium and reduces water retention. |
| Cramps | Apply a natural roll-on or a heating patch. | Heat increases blood flow and relaxes the uterine muscles, providing instant, discreet relief on the go. |
| Irritation | Wear cotton undies and change out of wet togs ASAP. | Breathable fabrics prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to chafing or thrushâyuck! |
4. Pack a Clever Little Summer Cycle Kit
Keep this kit in your beach bag or car at all times.
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A Fresh Pair of Undies: Always!
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Your Preferred Products: Tampons, pads, or a cup (enough for 24 hours).
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A Natural Comfort Product: Your trusty roll-on or a portable heat patch.
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Hand Sanitiser: For quick hygiene checks when the public facilities are less than ideal.
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A Small Disposal Bag: (Reusable or disposable) for responsible waste management.
This summer, don't let your cycle decide your plans. With a little clever preparation and the right natural care, you'll be ready to embrace every BBQ, beach, and backyard cricket game the Kiwi summer throws your way!
What are your favourite period-proof summer hacks? Share them below!