Ever tried hunting for period swimwear at your local pharmacy? If so, you're probably still looking. In my experience, it's pretty surprising that despite half of pharmacy products targeting women, period swimwear remains practically invisible on most store shelves. But here's the thing—this game-changing solution for swimming during your period is absolutely worth the search.
The good news is that period swimwear works just like period underwear, using the same absorbent technology but with extra water protection built right in. These specially designed swimsuits can absorb up to three tampons' worth of blood—pretty impressive for something that looks exactly like regular swimwear. You'll find all the features you'd expect too, like adjustable straps and built-in bras for comfort and support.
But here's what you really want to know: where should you actually shop for period swimwear, and how can you save money in 2025? Whether you're weighing online retailers against local stores, understanding your options can save you both cash and headaches. Let's dive into the real differences between shopping online versus in-store to help you find the perfect fit.
Key Takeaways
- Vast Online Selection: Online stores offer 3-5 times more variety in styles, brands like Modibodi, Ruby Love, and Beautikini, and inclusive sizing (XXS-4X) that is rarely found in physical stores.
- Superior Savings Online: Digital retailers provide substantial savings through promo codes (often 20% off), seasonal sales, and loyalty programs, while pharmacies typically stick to full retail price.
- In-Store's Instant Gratification: The main benefit of in-store shopping is immediate availability and the ability to try before you buy, but this comes at the cost of severely limited choice, especially in rural areas.
- Plan for Shipping: Online orders offer convenience but require planning for shipping times (typically 2-5 business days domestically), whereas store purchases are instant.
- Informed Decisions: Online platforms empower shoppers with detailed product specs, absorbency ratings, and thousands of customer reviews, helping to overcome the lack of a physical fitting room.
Availability and Accessibility: Online vs In-Store
Finding period swimwear isn't as simple as walking into any store. In 2025, your location and shopping style will largely determine the options you'll actually find.
Store Access: Local Pharmacies and Retail Chains
Let's be realistic: physical stores have extremely limited period swimwear selections compared to what you'll find online. Major pharmacy chains like Walgreens may stock some period products like Thinx underwear, and you can check availability at specific locations. At Walgreens, for instance, you might spot the Thinx for All Cotton Bikini Leakproof Period Underwear for $16.99.
While retailers like Target have started carrying more period products, their in-store selection varies wildly by location. Department stores might occasionally stock period-friendly swimwear, but many shoppers find these specialized items are rarely on the shelves.
This frustration is common. One customer captured it perfectly: "I've searched Amazon for period swimwear and cannot find any that will fit her able to be delivered by tomorrow". Sound familiar? When you need period swimwear right now, store options often fall short.
Online Reach: Global Brands and Direct-to-Consumer Sites
Online shopping? That's where the real options live. Direct-to-consumer brands like Modibodi, Ruby Love, and our own Beautikini offer complete collections directly through our websites.
Shopping online gives you serious advantages:
- Exclusive styles and extended size ranges you won't find in stores.
- The ability to browse multiple brands without driving all over town.
- Detailed product descriptions and absorbency ratings for each style.
At Beautikini, we get it. We address this exact frustration head-on: "Forget wondering 'can I buy period swimwear in stores?' or searching endlessly for 'where to buy period swimwear in store'". We know finding reliable period swimwear in physical locations is tough, so we've built our online store to be the ultimate solution.
Rural vs Urban Availability of Period Swimwear
Where you live makes a huge difference in your period swimwear options. Urban shoppers have more choices, with better access to specialty stores and major retailers that might stock these products. Rural customers, however, often deal with shipping delays and fewer local options.
For example, City Beach offers express shipping to metropolitan areas within 1-4 business days for $13.99, while regional/rural deliveries can take 1-7 business days at the same cost. Standard shipping shows similar gaps. This means planning ahead is crucial, which isn't always realistic when dealing with unpredictable periods.
The geographic divide runs deep. While urban shoppers might find basic options in stores, specialty products like stylish period swim bottoms or period swimwear for teens remain almost exclusively online-only purchases.
Product Variety and Sizing Options
When it comes to style and sizing, where you shop makes all the difference. The variety between online and in-store options isn't just noticeable—it's dramatic.
| Feature | Online Shopping | In-Store Shopping |
|---|---|---|
| Variety & Selection | Vast (100+ styles, multiple brands) | Extremely Limited (1-2 brands, basic styles) |
| Sizing | Inclusive (XXS-4X), teen & long torso options | Standard (XS-XL), rarely inclusive |
| Pricing | Competitive with frequent discounts & sales | Full retail price, rarely discounted |
| Convenience | Shop 24/7, but requires shipping time | Instant purchase, but limited hours & stock |
| Information | Detailed specs, reviews, fit guides | Limited product knowledge from staff |
In-Store Limitations: Fewer Brands and Sizes
Walk into most physical stores, and you'll quickly realize the selection is minimal compared to what's online. Most brick-and-mortar retailers stock only standard sizes, typically ranging from XS to XL. Finding extended sizes in stores is where things get truly frustrating. As one shopper shared, "I've searched for period swimwear and cannot find any that will fit her". Sadly, this experience is all too common.
Physical stores also play it safe with styles. Limited shelf space means fewer choices in colors, cuts, and absorbency levels. And remember: proper fit is non-negotiable for period swimwear to work effectively—you need that snug, secure fit to prevent leaks.
Online Stores: A World of Extended Sizes and Styles
This is where online retailers truly shine. Many brands offer sizes from XXS to 4X, ensuring there's something for every body type. Knix even offers long torso options for one-piece swimsuits.
Online shopping unlocks a universe of style variety:
- Two-piece sets with mix-and-match options
- One-piece suits with various necklines and coverage levels
- High-waisted bottoms, boyshorts, and even the versatile period swim skirt
- Multiple absorbency levels for different flow days
Crucially, online retailers offer period swimwear with different absorption levels. This means you can choose based on your specific flow rather than settling for a one-size-fits-all option at a local store.
Teen Options: Why Online is the Only Real Choice
If you're shopping for a teenager, online is your go-to destination. Brands like Ruby Love and Modibodi offer dedicated teen collections with sizes from XXS to XXL, understanding that teens have unique preferences for style and comfort.
KT by Knix creates period swimwear for teens that is specifically designed for younger bodies. Their one-piece absorbs approximately two super tampons' worth of blood while offering quick-drying comfort, perfect for active teens.
Unfortunately, finding these options in stores is nearly impossible. One parent's frustration says it all: "She'd need at the biggest an adults size 6, but more preferably a kids 11/12". This gap leaves most families with no choice but to shop online.
A Personal Story
As a former NCAA Division I swimmer, I vividly remember the constant anxiety of training and competing during my period. I'd worry about leaks, discomfort, and whether my tampon would hold up through a two-hour practice. It was a distraction that no competitive athlete needs. We were told to just 'deal with it,' but it impacted my focus and, honestly, my love for the sport some days. That experience is exactly why I joined Beautikini. Discovering a solution like our period-proof swimwear—a product I desperately wish existed back then—felt like a revolution. The freedom to swim, surf, and compete without a second thought is something I'm passionate about sharing with every woman and girl.
Price Comparison and Cost Savings
Here's where things get interesting: the price difference between online and in-store period swimwear shopping can seriously impact your wallet in 2025. Understanding where you'll save money is key.
Retail Pricing: Full Price at Pharmacies
When you shop for period swimwear at physical pharmacies, expect to pay full retail price almost every time. Unlike their online counterparts, brick-and-mortar stores rarely discount such specialized items. For anyone buying multiple pieces or shopping for a growing teen, this adds up quickly.
Online Discounts: Promo Codes and Seasonal Sales
This is where online shopping becomes a no-brainer for the budget-conscious. Period swimwear brands regularly offer promotions. Here's what I've seen:
- Ruby Love frequently offers promo codes for up to 20% off a first order.
- Free shipping is common on orders over a certain amount—Ruby Love offers it on orders over $65.
- Loyalty programs provide real value, like Ruby Love's VIP program where points earn you cash discounts.
Seasonal events like Black Friday and end-of-summer sales are also huge for scoring substantial discounts online.
Shipping Costs vs. In-Store Pickup
The catch with online savings can be shipping costs. Standard shipping typically runs $7-8 for orders that don't meet the free shipping threshold. Plus, you have to wait. Ruby Love's standard shipping takes 1-2 weeks, so last-minute purchases for a vacation are off the table.
Store purchases offer instant gratification with no shipping fees. Some retailers also offer "click and collect," letting you combine online discounts with in-store pickup.
Return Policies and Hidden Costs
Returns get tricky. Given the intimate nature of period swimwear, many companies have strict, non-negotiable return policies for hygiene reasons. Ruby Love, for example, only offers exchanges for unworn items. This can be a hidden cost if the fit isn't right. Always check the return policy before you buy!
Trust, Reviews, and Brand Transparency
How do you know who to trust when shopping for something so personal? It's a fair question, and my research shows the answer depends heavily on where you shop.
Expert Advice at Pharmacies
In-store shopping offers face-to-face advice, which can feel more trustworthy. Health experts like OB/GYN Dr. Jen Gunter have reassured shoppers that "There's no association of any of these products with any health concerns."
However, here's the catch: most pharmacy staff have little to no specific training on period swimwear. Because these products are still rare in stores, you're more likely to get general advice rather than the detailed guidance you really need.
Customer Reviews and Ratings Online
Here is where online shopping provides immense value. You gain access to hundreds, even thousands, of real experiences. The Good Housekeeping Institute, for instance, tested over 50 period products with more than 200 testers. Their analysts even put swimwear through multiple wash cycles to test durability.
This real-world feedback tells the true story:
- "I was in and out of the pool for literally 7+ hours a day every day of my period and not once did these disappoint me."
- "I felt fully confident to swim in the ocean, lake and pool!"
- A parent shared their daughter wore her suit at "a waterpark for seven hours" without any leaks.
Publications like Women's Health magazine have vetted "thousands of reviews" for their recommendations—a level of research you simply can't replicate in a store aisle.
Brand Recognition: Beautikini, Knix, Modibodi
Certain brands have built serious trust through performance and transparency. Modibodi's swimwear is praised for being "comfortable and absorbent without feeling like they were wearing something akin to a diaper."
At Beautikini, we position ourselves as offering "a chic and dependable collection of bathing suits for periods." I'm proud that our period swim skirt earned top marks from Teen Vogue for its absorbency and design. It's this fusion of style and science that builds lasting trust.
Ultimately, while in-store shopping offers a personal touch, the depth of data, authentic reviews, and brand transparency available online provide a more comprehensive and trustworthy foundation for making your choice.
Convenience and Shopping Experience
When it comes to actually buying period swimwear, the shopping experience itself is often the deciding factor. Price and selection matter, but convenience can be a total game-changer.
Immediate Purchase vs. Delivery Wait Time
Need period swimwear today? In-store shopping wins on speed, hands down—grab your swimsuit and you're pool-ready in minutes. But if your local pharmacy closes at 8 PM, you're out of luck for last-minute needs.
Online orders require you to plan ahead. Domestic deliveries usually arrive within 2-5 business days, but international shipping can take much longer. This timing is crucial if a beach vacation or pool party is on the horizon.
Trying Before Buying: The Online Fit Challenge
Here's where physical stores have a clear advantage. You can actually try on period swimwear before buying, helping to avoid frustrating size mismatches. Feeling the fabric and testing the comfort level in-store gives you confidence in your purchase.
Online shopping can feel like a guessing game in this regard. This uncertainty is probably the biggest downside of buying intimate apparel like period swimwear online, which makes reading those return policies even more important.
User Experience: Website Navigation vs. In-Store Help
In-store shopping can give you access to staff for personalized recommendations. However, as noted, their expertise on this specific product may be limited.
The beauty of online shopping? You can browse anytime, compare multiple brands, and read tons of reviews at 2 AM if you want. Many retailers now offer live chat support and virtual fitting tools to bridge the expertise gap.
The Final Verdict: Where Should You Shop?
So, where should you shop for period swimwear in 2025? After weighing all the factors, my expert opinion is clear.
For the vast majority of shoppers, online shopping is the unequivocally better choice. If you're looking for the best selection, inclusive sizing, and significant savings, online is your best bet. You'll find innovative brands like Modibodi, Ruby Love, and Beautikini that you simply won't see in stores. The wealth of customer reviews and detailed product information provides a level of insight that browsing a store shelf just can't match.
However, if you are in a last-minute bind and need a suit for tomorrow, in-store shopping serves a purpose. There's value in walking out with a product in hand, as long as you're willing to compromise on selection and price.
No matter where you choose to shop, you're making a choice that grants you freedom. No more sitting on the sidelines. These swimsuits work, they look great, and they empower you to feel confident in the water.
Ready to take the plunge? My recommendation is to explore the incredible variety available online. Click "add to cart" at a trusted retailer like Beautikini, and discover the game-changing confidence that comes with gear designed for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What are the main advantages of buying period swimwear online in 2025?
The primary advantages of shopping online for period swimwear are a significantly larger selection, inclusive sizing (often from XXS to 4X), and access to direct-to-consumer brands not found in stores. Additionally, online retailers frequently offer discounts, promo codes, and seasonal sales, leading to better overall pricing than the full retail prices typically found in physical stores.
Q2: Is it still hard to find period swimwear in physical stores?
Yes, for the most part. While some major pharmacies and retail chains have begun to stock a few period care items, the selection of actual period swimwear is still very limited. You're unlikely to find a wide range of styles, sizes, or absorbency levels. Availability is even more scarce in rural locations, making online the most reliable option for most people.
Q3: How long can I actually wear period swimwear in the water?
Modern period swimwear is designed for extended wear in the water, just like a regular swimsuit. Many can be worn for hours at a time, comfortably absorbing your flow. For hygiene and freshness during a long day at the pool or beach, it's a good practice to rinse the swimsuit in cool water between extended swimming sessions if possible, but it's not strictly necessary for it to function correctly.
Q4: How much can period swimwear absorb?
Most period swimwear is designed to absorb the equivalent of one to three regular tampons' worth of menstrual fluid. Many online brands, like Beautikini, offer various absorbency levels, so you can choose a suit based on your specific flow—whether it's a light or heavy day.
Q5: Are there good period swimwear options for teenagers?
Absolutely! However, you'll almost exclusively find them online. Brands like Ruby Love, Kt by Knix, and Beautikini have dedicated collections for teens that feature age-appropriate styles, a wider range of smaller sizes, and designs perfect for active young bodies. It's nearly impossible to find this kind of specialized teen swimwear in physical stores.
Q6: Can I trust the fit when buying period swimwear online?
Yes, you can. While you can't try it on first, reputable online brands provide detailed size charts, fit guides, and customer reviews that offer real-world feedback on how the suits fit. As a textile engineer, I recommend measuring yourself carefully and comparing it to the brand's chart. A snug fit is key for leak-proof performance, and online resources are designed to help you achieve that.
Q7: Is online cheaper than in-store for period swimwear?
Generally, yes. Physical stores usually sell period swimwear at full retail price. Online, you can take advantage of first-order discounts (often 15-20% off), seasonal sales like Black Friday, and loyalty programs. While you have to consider shipping costs, the overall savings from online promotions are often much greater.
