If you’re travelling to Fiji, it’s best to bring your own personal hygiene products from home. You don’t want to miss out on snorkelling because of a period.

Is it easy to find pads and tampons in Fiji?

If you are in Nadi or Suva you can find pads at a pharmacy or grocery store, but tampons can be harder to find. Very few women use tampons in Fiji, most use pads.

Many of the smaller islands don’t have any shops at all, or there may only be a very small supply store unlikely to have pads or tampons. Resorts may keep a stock of personal hygiene products for purchase.

How much do pads and tampons cost in Fiji?

Globally recognised brands like Libra and Carefree are available, as well as cheaper options. It may still be more expensive than you expected.

• Pads can cost between $3 to $10 FJD for a pack of 20.
• Tampons can cost between $7 to $9 FJD for a pack of 20.

What if you get caught short and can’t find any at the shop?

You can try asking your host at your accommodation. Keep in mind that if you are at a homestay, and someone gives you their own item, you may like to offer to buy it from them since these products can be expensive for local people. In rural or isolated areas some women do use reusable cloths to save costs, and pads and tampons might be seen as a luxury item.

Another option is to ask a fellow traveller. I carry some spare so I can always help someone in need.

Are periods taboo in Fiji?

Menstruation is seen as a normal bodily function. However, women are likely to use discretion when talking about periods, and may avoid talking about it in front of men.

More information is available is this study about attitudes and accessibility to personal hygiene products in Fiji.

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