Where to get cheap and free period products

If you’re struggling to afford period products or you’re just looking to save some money, support is out there, such as discount codes, freebies in your local area and support from organisations.

Some shops and public spaces now provide free period products in their toilets. In 2025, ALDI became the first UK supermarket to give free access to pads and tampons in its in-store toilets, without needing a loyalty card or code. 

Morrisons now provide a free package of sanitary products at their stores, with a commitment to tackling period poverty. Just visit a customer service desk and ask for ​‘a package for Sandy.’ You’ll be given a discreet package of products to use, free of charge.

Lidl is Northern Ireland’s first supermarket to offer free period products to its customers. By partnering with Homeless Period Belfast, they’re taking a step towards ending period poverty in communities. Just sign up to receive a free monthly coupon through the Lidl Plus app.

Supermarkets and shops often offer discounts on period products. We recommend checking Money Saving Expert who regularly update their coupon page, to see if any discounts crop up.

If you’re buying period products yourself, it might be worth taking a little time to compare prices and see if you can grab a deal.

• Try a price comparison site: The website Sanitary Saver lets you compare the different costs of period products. You can filter by pads or tampons, retailer, brand and flow.
• Own-brand products: These can often be significantly cheaper than branded products, while still meeting safety standards.
• Reusable products: Reusable pads, menstrual cups or period pants may save money in the long run, but they may not be an option for everyone. You may need to account for needing access to washing facilities, as well as thinking about a larger upfront cost.

Many local organisations quietly provide free period products, even if they’re not advertised.

The My Period live map will let you see if there are any additional support hubs in your town or local area, giving you centre details, opening times and the products they have available for free.

Scotland has become the first country in the world to make period products free. Not only do they include a range of products, but they’re also easy to get hold of. Download the PickupMyPeriod app for IOS or Android to find free period products in Scotland. They can usually be found in public spaces such as libraries and schools during term time, and some councils also offer home delivery.

Many foodbanks now include toiletries, hygiene items and period products as part of their parcels. It’s okay to say if you need them; food banks know these items are important and want to help you maintain dignity by asking for support.

Many churches are actively involved in supporting their local communities in practical ways. Some work alongside food banks or community groups, while others offer informal support when people are struggling. This may include essential items like period products. 

If you’re unsure how to ask, you could get in touch with your local church and say, ​‘I’m struggling to afford some essentials at the moment, so you know of any local support that could help?’

Some pharmacies and councils partner with local schemes to provide free or subsidised period products, such as Freedom4girls that run in Leeds and Leicester. Availability of schemes can vary, so it’s worth checking your local council’s website, community noticeboards and libraries. 

The UK Government is running a scheme for the academic year 2025/26, giving free period products to those who can’t afford them, have forgotten to bring them, or have come on their period unexpectedly. It’s up to the school or college to put them in a place where they can be easily accessed for students.

Many train companies now offer free period products when you’re travelling: 

• Avanti West Coast: You can access free period products by speaking to staff at the onboard shop or using your phone to order via click and collect.
• Free products at railway stations: Check your local railway station, as many are offering free period products. East Midlands Railway is an example of one station running the scheme: just use the code phrase ​‘Package for Sandy’ or ​‘Ask for Sandy’ at the supervisor’s office, where you’ll get a discreet pack of sanitary products.
• LNER: You can request TOTM period products directly from an LNER team member or order a ​‘Package for a Friend’ through the train operator’s ​‘Let’s Eat At Your Seat’ catering service on your phone. LNER colleagues will then discreetly bring the product to you at your seat.

At CAP, we’re here to help you if you’re struggling to afford the essentials such as period products. Find support below.