Sisterhood of the Traveling Baddies: Part 2 – Blood, Sweat, and Catholes
A full-truth guide to period prep, pee rags, gear hacks, and solo resilience on the trail. No fluff, no shame; just what every wild woman deserves to know before heading out alone.
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Solo Female Thru-Hiking: Sisterhood of the Traveling Baddies
If you engage with thru-hiking content online (especially as a woman) you’ve probably witnessed the same algorithm-induced rabbit hole.
In the first installment of this series, we peeled back the curtain on what it actually feels like to hike solo as a woman. We rifled through key aspects of the mental game, emotional unraveling, and power in reclaiming our stories, one switchback at a time. Now, we’re getting down to brass tacks: the gritty, glorious, and sometimes gross realities of lady logistics on trail.
This is the no-fluff, full-truth guide to managing your health, your gear, and your resilience when you’re out there alone. Whether you're bleeding, bloated, or battling a UTI at 10,000 feet, you are not the only one. And you’re definitely not the first.
This part of the journey is where practicality meets empowerment. From packing a “just for me” luxury item to digging a cathole in the rain with cramps, this is where trail baddies are born. Welcome to the Sisterhood of the Traveling Baddies: where every step forward is a declaration that you belong in the wild.
Let’s get into it!
The “Lady Business”: Menstrual Health and Hygiene on Trail
One of the most common questions women ask is the pragmatic: “What do I do about my period out there?”. The thought of managing menstruation without bathrooms can be intimidating, but with some preparation it’s totally manageable.
As thru-hiker Allison “Bandit” wryly states, “The bloody truth about getting your period while backpacking? It sucks… now take away flushing toilets, sinks, showers… Piece of cake.”
Her tongue-in-cheek tone tells the real story: it’s not fun, but women handle it on trail all the time – and you can too. “Anyone who has gone through menses in any type of wilderness environment deserves five gold stars and a trophy just for existing,” Allison jokes. In other words, give yourself credit – it’s a challenge, but nothing you can’t overcome with a bit of strategy.
Plan ahead for your “period kit.” Many experienced hikers swear by the menstrual cup (e.g. Diva Cup, MoonCup) as a game-changer for backpacking. Cups are reusable, need to be emptied only every 8-12 hours, and eliminate the waste (and weight) of packing out used tampons/pads. If you go the cup route, practice using it at home before the hike – there’s a learning curve, but “you’ll thank me,” promises Allison. Another benefit: you won’t need to hunt for your preferred tampon brand in tiny trail-town stores.
That said, use whatever method you’re most comfortable with, whether it’s tampons, pads, a cup, or period underwear. Tampons and pads are perfectly fine on a thru-hike – just remember the Leave No Trace rule: pack it in, pack it out. Carry a dedicated zip-top bag (opaque or duct-taped for discretion) to store used products until you can throw them away in town. A pro tip from the trail: an empty Pringles can or a duct-taped bag can hide the “bag of bloody tampons” so you don’t have to visually confront it each day. If you use disposable products, bring a few more than you think you’ll need (cycles can be unpredictable under the physical stress of hiking). Also pack some unscented wipes or a small bottle of water for cleaning up; many hikers bury fluid waste in a cathole when emptying a cup, for example. Hand sanitizer is a must in your toiletry kit for general hygiene, especially before and after handling any menstrual products.
Some women choose a different approach: skip your period entirely during the hike. Extended intense exercise often makes menstruation lighter or irregular, but there’s no guarantee you won’t bleed on trail. To play it safe, a number of thru-hikers use birth control pills continuously (skipping the placebo week) or opt for a hormonal IUD to suppress menstruation during their big hike. Hiker “Nala,” for example, decided “Aunt Flo is not invited to join my tramily this year” and continuously took birth control to avoid periods on her thru-hike. This can be a convenient solution if it works for your body – just consult with your doctor and test how your body reacts well before you hit the trail. And remember, nothing is 100% – even with hormonal help, you should carry some backup pads or liners, because the mountains love surprises.
Beyond menstruation, general hygiene on a long trek just takes a bit of adaptation. You’ll be sweating, going days without a real shower, and yes, you’ll feel dirty sometimes – but so will everyone else! To stay healthy, focus on a few key things: keep your hands clean (carry hand sanitizer and use it often), practice good bathroom hygiene (dig proper catholes for waste, and pack out your toilet paper or use natural alternatives), and take care of any areas prone to infection or chafing. Many women bring along a pee rag or pee cloth – a dedicated bandana or quick-dry cloth to wipe after urinating, which can prevent UTIs and eliminate the need to carry tons of toilet paper. (Pro tip: clip the pee cloth to your pack to dry in the sun – UV rays help sanitize it.) Hiker blogs also recommend packing a few yeast infection pills, UTI antibiotics, or other personal medications just in case, since the combo of sweat, synthetic clothing, and disrupted routines can sometimes trigger these issues on a long hike.
Above all, don’t be embarrassed to address “women’s issues” on trail. Plenty of female hikers swap tips for dealing with it – you might be surprised how openly topics like cramps or menstrual mishaps are discussed around the campfire. One hiker suggests finding a “trail sister” you can commiserate with: “Buddy up with another hiker who gets it and just let those hormones flow…it’ll be over soon.” You might not want company when you’re bloated and cranky, but knowing another woman out there “gets it” can be a huge morale boost. And rest assured, every woman who has backpacked through her period will tell you: if we can do it, so can you. Come prepared, then embrace the fact that it might be messy and uncomfortable for a few days – but it’s just one more challenge you’re strong enough to handle.
What is your trail-tested period routine? Don’t be shy — other female hikers want to know! Leave a comment with what you’ve learned, and don’t forget to check the comments section if you’re still on the fence.
Gear: 7 Must-Know Tips for the Solo Female Hiker
When it comes to gear, there are sworn-by cottage companies and equipment brands that nearly all thru-hikers tend towards. That said, there are a few special considerations and hacks that experienced female hikers in particular swear by:
Backpack fit: Many packs are available in women’s models, which typically accommodate shorter torsos, narrower shoulders, and curved hips for a better fit. The right fit is crucial for comfort on a 2,000-mile trek. Try on packs with weight in them and don’t hesitate to choose the “men’s” version if it fits you better. Aim to keep your base weight (gear not including food/water) in a manageable range – around 20% of your body weight or less – but don’t sacrifice too much comfort or safety just to shave ounces.
Sleep system: Women tend to sleep colder than men, so a warm sleeping bag or quilt is important. Many women-specific sleeping bags have extra insulation, especially around the feet and torso. If you’re tall or don’t like the fit of women’s bags, size up in a unisex bag but consider a bag rated a bit warmer than the lowest temps you expect. A sleeping pad with a high R-value (insulation) can also make a big difference for warmth. Test your sleep setup before your thru-hike – being cold every night is miserable, and something you can often prevent by tweaking gear.
Hydration & hygiene gadgets: One item frequently recommended by female hikers is a pee cloth (as mentioned earlier) or a lightweight trowel for digging catholes when nature calls. Some women also like using a pee funnel (like a She-Wee or GoGirl) so they can urinate standing up and with less hassle – this is personal preference, but worth trying at home to see if it makes life easier for you. And everyone needs a water purification method, but no matter which you choose (filter, chemical tablets, UV pen), make sure you’re comfortable using it solo. Practice backflushing that Sawyer Squeeze or changing the UV lamp batteries ahead of time.
Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or Satellite Messenger: As a solo hiker, consider investing in a device like the Garmin inReach Mini or SPOT beacon for emergency communication. Many thru-hikers carry these now for peace of mind – you can hit an SOS button if you have a serious emergency, and some devices allow two-way texting so you’re never completely out of reach. It’s an extra safety net well worth considering for solo adventurers.
Trekking poles: Not a women-specific item per se, but a must-have for many hikers – they improve balance and reduce strain on downhill knees. If you’re new to using poles, give them a try on training hikes; they can also double as tent poles for some ultralight shelters.
Clothing hacks: Lots of women sport braids/buns on a long hike or even cut their hair short – easier maintenance and fewer tangles. Some hike commando (no underwear) to reduce moisture and chafing, especially under leggings or shorts. Others prefer breathable quick-dry undies. One veteran advises hiking in a dress or hiking skirt for ventilation and easy pit stops – “Every woman’s gear list could use some cute clothing pieces, and I much prefer hiking in dresses for so many reasons,” she says. Try different options: you might be surprised that a lightweight skirt is both practical and fun (you get to feel a bit more you, not just a hiker in uniform). Just make sure whatever you wear won’t cause chafing after hours of walking – Body Glide or similar anti-chafe balm is a lifesaver for many, especially for thighs and sports-bra lines.
“Just for me” items: Finally, don’t shy away from packing a couple of small luxury or personal items that can hugely boost morale. Whether it’s a notebook, a tiny vial of your favorite essential oil, or a lightweight personal vibrator (hey, it’s on some gear lists!), bring what you need to stay sane out there. One solo hiker included a 3.5-ounce “stress relief” device on her trek – proving that self-care in the wilderness can take many forms! You’ll be out there for weeks or months; a little treat that’s just for you can make a tough day so much better. Do keep it small though – you’ve got to carry it the whole way.
Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all gear solution for anyone. Part of the thru-hiking journey is dialing in what works best for you. Do shakedown hikes to test your gear, read blogs by other female hikers for ideas, and don’t worry if your kit looks different from someone else’s. As long as you have the essentials – shelter, weather-appropriate layers, navigation, first aid, food, and water – the rest is tweaking comfort and convenience. With time, you’ll refine your gear preferences and carry only what truly serves you on the trail.
Mental Resilience: Solitude, Struggles, and Strength
Thru-hiking isn’t just a physical test – it’s a mental and emotional journey as well. Solo hiking can swing from glorious freedom to bouts of loneliness or self-doubt, sometimes in the same day. Building your emotional resilience is key to thriving on a long trail. The good news is the trail itself will toughen you up in this regard, mile by mile. But it helps to go in with realistic expectations: there will be incredible highs – and there will be days you want to quit, when you’re cold, wet, tired, and missing home. This is normal. Almost every long-distance hiker, male or female, goes through low moments out there.
To cope, draw on the “why” that inspired you to do this hike. Perhaps you crave the confidence that comes from self-reliance, or you’re seeking healing or a fresh start. Solo adventurer Renee Hahnel (aka “Renee Roaming”) notes that one of the greatest rewards of solo backpacking is the sense of “empowerment and accomplishment” it brings: “It will prove to you just how brave, strong, and capable you truly are.” On the hard days, remember that why. Remind yourself, “I chose this, and I’m stronger than I think.” Some hikers even carry a few motivational quotes or a letter to themselves to read when morale dips.
Loneliness is a common fear before a solo hike, but many are surprised by how they come to appreciate – even cherish – the solitude. Embrace the positives of being alone: journal by that alpine lake, sing out loud on the ridgeline, revel in having total freedom in your day. As Renee says, there’s nothing quite like sitting in silence with nature – experiences we rarely get in our hyper-connected daily lives. That said, if you’re an extrovert or simply hit a point where you need company, don’t be afraid to seek it out (more on trail community in a moment). Many solo hikers strike a balance – hiking alone during the day for peace and reflection, then camping near others or teaming up occasionally when they crave conversation. It’s your hike; you can tailor the social vs. solo mix as you go.
Fear management is another mental skill you’ll develop. It is absolutely okay (and smart) to admit you’re nervous about going solo.
“I wanted to try solo backpacking for a long time before I actually gathered up the courage to do it,” Renee shares. “It’s totally okay if it takes you a little while to feel brave enough to get out there on your own.”
You can build confidence through small steps: do a solo day hike first, or camp solo in your backyard or a local park before the thru-hike. Renee suggests a “pseudo solo” trip – hike with a friend but stay independent (camp separately nearby, carry all your own gear) to get a feel for being on your own while having a safety net. Each little taste of solo adventure will expand your comfort zone.
When on trail, take it day by day. It’s normal to have twinges of anxiety, especially at night or in unfamiliar terrain. Many women report the first night alone is the hardest; after that, you realize you can do this. You start trusting your routines and wilderness skills. If anxiety flares – say, you hear a strange noise outside your tent at 2AM – run through logical steps (is it likely just a raccoon? can I use my light/voice to startle anything away?) and remind yourself that hundreds of women before you have successfully done this. You are not the first, and you won’t be the last – you’re carrying the torch for all the future women who will look to your example.
It’s also important to acknowledge that post-trail blues can hit after the hike ends. It might seem odd to think about the finish when you’re just starting, but it’s worth knowing that many thru-hikers experience a sort of emotional hangover when they return to “normal” life. Heather “Anish” Anderson – a legend who’s completed 15+ long trails – has spoken openly about this:
“Long-distance hiking… most poignantly mirrors life in this aspect: it ends. …A depressive period following a huge endeavor is absolutely guaranteed, at least on a biological level,” she writes.
After months of pure freedom, fresh air, and a simple mission each day, re-entry to regular life can be jarring. If you feel a bit lost or down when your hike is over, know that it’s normal – even Heather still experiences it. Have a support plan for post-trail: keep in touch with trail friends, set a new goal to channel your energy, or simply give yourself grace and time to adjust. As Heather emphasizes, we should talk about this aspect as a hiking community so no one feels alone in it. The trail changes you, and that’s a wonderful thing – just be prepared for the emotions that may come with accomplishing your dream.
Throughout your hike, practice self-compassion. Some days you’ll crush 20 miles and feel on top of the world; other days, you might crawl into your tent early, utterly spent and emotionally raw. Both are okay.
“The journey doesn’t end at the terminus,” Heather says. “Learning how to create space for the grief (of ending) while cherishing the memories is crucial… If you feel alone, you are not – find your tramily or other thru-hikers you respect and talk to them about it… I guarantee they have felt it too.”
In short: you are tougher than you think, but you’re also human. Solo hiking will test your mettle, but it will also show you new reserves of strength, resilience, and faith in yourself that you never knew you had.
Cheers to Trail Sisterhood
Thousands of women have successfully navigated the trails before you and I, each overcoming their doubts and fears. Remember: you are brave, strong, and more capable than you realize. Hiking solo as a woman is empowering, transformative, and profoundly rewarding. Step confidently onto your next path, and I assure you the trail sisterhood will be cheering you on.
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