Must-Haves for Every Period Kit—Whether You’re at School, Work or Travelling

Getting stained in public. No toilet nearby. Cramps starting halfway through an owambe. Many women and girls know how it feels when a period shows up unexpectedly. A period emergency kit helps you stay ready, clean, and confident even when your flow comes out of the blue.

From school to travel and special occasions, this guide shows you how to build a small but powerful kit you can always keep in your bag.

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Why a Period Emergency Kit Is a Must-Have

Even with a regular cycle, your period can still surprise you. Sometimes, it starts earlier than usual or comes heavier than expected. Other times, you forget to pack a pad, or your cramps suddenly flare up in public.

A period emergency kit helps you:

• Avoid leaks or stained clothes

• Feel fresh and comfortable throughout the day

• Handle cramps or fatigue

• Stay confident wherever you are

What to Pack in a Period Emergency Kit

Here’s a list of essentials every kit should include, no matter where you’re headed:

1. Sanitary Products

• Pads (day and night)

Price: ₦3,430 Where To Buy: Shop: Supermart

• Tampons (if that’s your preference)

Price: ₦7,500 Where To Buy: Shop: Jumia

• Menstrual cup (for those who use one)

Price: $28.99 Where To Buy: Shop: Amazon

• Panty liners (great for spotting or light days)

Price: ₦2,210 Where To Buy: Shop: Supermart

Keep at least two to three of whichever products suit your flow best.

2. Wipes or Tissue

Unscented feminine wipes help clean up when water isn’t available. Tissue is also helpful for quick cleanup.

Price: ₦5,000 Where To Buy: Shop: Jumia

3. Extra Underwear

Pack one extra pair of pants, preferably dark cotton. It’ll come in handy if your current one gets stained.

4. Pain Relief

Include a strip of painkillers like ibuprofen or Panadol. These help with cramps, headaches, and back pain.

5. Hand Sanitiser

Changing in public toilets can feel irritating sometimes. That is why a hand sanitiser is important; it keeps your hands clean, especially when soap and water are unavailable.

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6. Nylon or Ziplock Bag

This will come in handy to store stained underwear or used products if you can’t find a bin right away.

Price: ₦9,900 Where To Buy: Shop: Jumia

7. Small Pouch

Store all your items in a clean, zippered pouch. It keeps everything in one place and makes it easy to move between bags on days you want to change bags.

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How to Pack a Period Kit for School

If you’re in secondary school, university, or even at a NYSC camp, you need a kit that’s easy to carry and discreet. Include:

• 2–3 pads or tampons

• 1 panty liner

• Tissue or wipes (travel size)

• 1 pair of underwear

• Pain relief (clearly labelled)

• Small deodorant wipe or roll-on

• Ziplock bag

Make sure your pouch fits inside your school bag or backpack. If you can, keep an extra kit in your locker or hostel. Some girls also tape a pad to the inside of a notebook for emergencies.

How to Pack a Period Kit for Travel

You might not get easy access to clean toilets when you're on the road, especially on long trips or during layovers. Here’s what to pack to stay comfortable during travel. Include:

• 4–6 pads or tampons

• 2 panty liners

• 2 pairs of underwear

• Wipes (full or travel pack)

• Deodorant wipes or spray

• Painkillers

• Nylon bag for disposal

• Chocolate or snack (to lift your mood or boost energy)

• Water bottle

• Heat patch for cramps

• Tissue

Pack the kit in your hand luggage or somewhere you can reach quickly. If you’re using public transport, make sure your items are in a pouch that fits inside your handbag or carry-on.

How to Pack a Period Kit for Events

Getting your period during a party or wedding can make things uncomfortable. To avoid stains, body odour, or general discomfort, carry a compact version of your kit that can fit in a small clutch. Include:

• 2 ultra-thin pads or tampons

• 1 panty liner

• Travel-size wipes or tissue

• Painkillers

• Spare underwear (dark and seamless)

• Stain remover pen (optional but helpful)

• Mini body spray or roll-on

• Lip balm or mirror (if you like to freshen up)

Pick a small, stylish pouch or makeup purse that fits your event bag. You can even tuck some of these items into your bra or pocket if your outfit doesn’t allow space for a bag.

Starter Period Kit for Teens

For a younger girl who just started her period, keep it light and easy to manage. The goal is to make her feel prepared, not overwhelmed. Include:

• 2–3 pads (day and light flow)

• 1 panty liner

• 1 extra underwear

• Pocket tissue or feminine wipes

• Ziplock or nylon bag

• Painkillers (only if supervised)

• Small roll-on or sanitiser

Let the kit pouch be bright or patterned, something fun and confidence-boosting but not necessarily. Teens are more likely to carry it when it doesn’t feel awkward or medical.

Extras You Might Find Useful

While the basics are important, here are some nice-to-have items that can make your kit feel more complete:

• Chocolate or granola bar (helps boost mood)

• Period tracker, note or reminder app

• Mini towel or flannel

• Mint or chewing gum

• Hair tie or scrunchie

• Tea bag (for comfort, if you like warm drinks during cramps)

Where to Keep Your Period Kit

To always stay prepared, keep at least one kit close by at all times:

• In your handbag or backpack

• In your locker or work drawer

• Inside your travel bag or overnight bag

• The glove compartment of your car

• At your friend’s or partner’s place (just in case)

You can even keep a tiny version of the kit in your pocket on days your period is expected.

READ ALSO: These 10 Nigerian Foods Help Control Blood Pressure the Natural Way

A period emergency kit is one of the simplest ways to feel in control during your cycle. With the right supplies, you won’t have to worry about leaks, cramps, or unexpected stains again. Pick a pouch, add your essentials, and keep it close at school, while travelling, or when heading out for fun.

No stress. No panic. Just peace of mind, every day of the month.