Camping with Endometriosis: Packing Essentials for a Successful Trip

Camping and endometriosis might seem incompatible, but they don’t have to be. For a long time, I thought my love for the outdoors would have to take a backseat to managing my symptoms. The idea of sleeping on the ground or handling a flare-up far from modern conveniences felt overwhelming. But my connection to nature has always been grounding for me, and I wasn’t ready to give it up.

What I’ve learned is that with thoughtful planning and the right tools, I can still enjoy the peace and beauty of the outdoors without compromising my well-being. Whether it’s stargazing by the fire or waking up to the sound of birds, nature offers something worth fighting for—even with endo. Here are the tips I swear by for making camping doable and even enjoyable:

When camping with endometriosis, leaving behind the heating pad isn’t an option. A portable battery pack with an AC outlet is a lifesaver. Make sure to choose one that supports your heating pad’s voltage to keep it running when you need it most. This little gadget ensures you have access to pain relief even in the middle of nowhere. Don’t forget to test it before heading out to avoid surprises. My favorite heating pad is Pure XXL and wide heating pad because it covers my entire torso. On cold nights it also doubles as a mini heating blanket. Pure also offers a warranty so if your heating pad stops working you can send it back and they will swap it out for a new one. I've had to do this and the process was seamless.

Managing endo flare-ups in the wilderness is hard enough without worrying about privacy. A portable camping toilet paired with a one-person pop-up tent creates a private, stress-free space to handle whatever comes your way. Whether it’s a quick bathroom break or managing a multi-directional flare, having this setup means you can focus on your well-being. Extra waste bags and toilet paper are non-negotiable—nature doesn’t exactly come stocked with amenities. The pop-up tent also doubles as a shower space or a personal retreat when you need a breather.

A restful night outdoors starts with a solid sleeping setup that supports both comfort and recovery. A good sleeping pad or an inflatable air mattress can make all the difference in easing the discomfort of sleeping on uneven ground. Adding a cozy pillow and a blanket that feels like an abrazo from abuelita makes the experience more inviting. Don’t forget to bring an extra set of sheets, just in case those hot and cold sweats or any menstrual accidents decide to make an appearance. I personally love using bamboo sheets because its soft on the skin and moisture wicking. Having a backup ensures you can quickly swap out and stay comfortable no matter what happens. I also love bring cozy moisture-wicking pajamas it makes it better for sleeping. Just because you're outside doesn't mean you can't be comfortable.

Overpacking your meds isn’t just a precaution; it’s a necessity when you’re managing endometriosis. A travel pill organizer can help you neatly store everything you need without carrying a bag full of bottles. Pack your pain medication, anti-nausea pills, and any other treatments that help you during a flare. Add extras for unexpected delays or mishaps, because running out of meds in the middle of a trip is a situation no one wants to face. Having your meds organized and readily accessible ensures you can focus on enjoying the experience instead of worrying about what might go wrong.

Some sunscreens are endocrine disruptors in disguise, loaded with chemicals that can throw your body out of balance. Choosing an EWG-verified sunscreen means protecting your skin without compromising your hormones. These sunscreens are formulated with safer ingredients that still offer reliable protection against UV rays. To find the best option for you, download the EWG app and scan products to see their ratings and choose one that works for your skin and lifestyle.

Squatting in the wild is an endo nightmare, and that’s where a female urination device (like the GoGirl) comes to the rescue. It allows you to stand and pee with ease, sparing you the pain and awkwardness of crouching. This simple tool saved me during a hike up the Villarica Volcano in Pucon, Chile, where there were no trees or private spots in sight. Lightweight and easy to clean, it fit neatly into my bag and allowed me to handle bathroom needs without stress or awkwardness. A female urination device is practical for unpredictable restroom situations and essential for maintaining some comfort and dignity when nature decides to challenge you.

Essential oils can be a versatile addition to your camping kit. Lavender is perfect for calming anxiety and helping you unwind after a long day, while peppermint can ease nausea and provide a refreshing boost. Certain essential oils, like citronella and eucalyptus, double as natural insect repellents, keeping bugs at bay without harsh chemicals. Tea tree oil is another must-have, as its antibacterial properties can help clean minor cuts or scrapes. Adding a few drops to a diffuser or applying them directly (with a carrier oil) can turn your camping experience into a outdoor sanctuary.

A TENS unit is a must-have for managing endo pain on the go. This small but mighty device uses electrical impulses to ease discomfort, making it an essential part of my camping kit. I always bring extra batteries and replacement electrode pads to ensure it’s ready when I need it most. While it’s not a cure, it provides reliable relief by reducing the intensity of pain and allowing me to stay mobile or get some rest. In moments when a flare hits, having this tool at hand can make all the difference between feeling stuck and regaining some control. I do want to mention that tens units only work for me when I have mild pain. Once my pain level exceeds a 7 it doesn't seems to work for me but it might for you.

Camping with endo is possible, with thoughtful planning (and a lot of snacks), you can find joy in the great outdoors. Sure, it’s not glamorous, and yes, you’ll probably still have moments of pain and discomfort. But you might also find moments of peace and beauty that make it all worthwhile. So pack your gear, round up your people, and hit the road. Nature’s waiting—just make sure you’re ready for her. Y vamos, endo warriors.