Organizing an adult getaway should be just as enjoyable as the trip itself, but understanding the ins and outs of navigating airport security can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re new to it. It’s not as simple as seeking advice from a travel agent about the best practices for traveling with intimate items. If you’ve ever wondered about carrying lubricants on a flight or bringing a vibrator in your carry-on bag, you’re in the right place.
A satisfying sexual experience is important for everyone, and if you decide to bring your personal items on vacation, there’s no reason to feel any embarrassment. However, there are a few factors to consider if you want to ensure the safety of your toys and avoid any awkward moments during security checks. To assist you in planning effectively, here’s a comprehensive guide on traveling with your intimate accessories.
Maintaining Cleanliness and Safety for Your Toys
First and foremost, ensure your toys remain clean and protected by wrapping them in a cloth or using a drawstring bag. It’s crucial to avoid allowing items meant for intimate use to gather dust or crumbs at the bottom of your suitcase, or even worse, come into contact with your shoes.
To be well-prepared for any unexpected security checks, it’s advisable to keep your items discreetly tucked away. Although random luggage checks are infrequent, they can still occur. By keeping everything concealed and out of sight, you prevent any unwanted scrutiny. Many toys come with their own storage bags, but if you’re seeking something unique, you can explore options like colorful silk, velvet, and lace bags available on platforms like Etsy.
Furthermore, it’s essential to wrap your toys individually due to potential chemical reactions between certain materials. Silicone, for instance, doesn’t react well with other silicone products (including silicone-based lubricants), and porous jelly toys can deform when stored in proximity to each other. Rather than taking chances, keep your plastic toys separated from each other. Avoid using Tupperware containers or plastic bags, as they can lead to unfavorable outcomes, such as toys that resemble melted gummy bears by the end of your journey.
Opt for Travel-Friendly Variants of Your Preferred Toys
When traveling, packing efficiently becomes essential, especially if you’re limited to carry-on luggage. While space might not be a concern when checking in your larger bags, packing smartly is crucial for hand luggage. Just as you can pack yoga gear, you can also bring along your intimate accessories.
Compact items such as bullets, small butt plugs, and cock rings can easily fit into your suitcase without causing much hassle. Moreover, miniature versions of your favorite vibrators, including rechargeable models accompanied by travel-friendly bags, are available. For male travelers interested in bringing a Fleshlight, consider opting for a sleeve instead. These provide the same sensation without the bulky, rigid plastic shell and are less conspicuous should your bag be subject to a search.
It might be a good idea to pack your more affordable toys for the trip as well. This serves as a backup plan in case anything gets lost or damaged during your journey. After all, you wouldn’t want your newly purchased $100 vibrator to break en route.
Prepare in Advance with a Checklist for Your Sex Toys
Bringing battery-operated toys? Don’t forget extra batteries. Carrying a mains-powered vibrator? Ensure you have the necessary adapter. Traveling with a rechargeable toy? Charge it fully before departing. While these steps might seem like common sense, it’s easy to overlook them when the thrill of trip planning takes over.
Include other essentials on your checklist, such as lubricant and sex toy cleaner. It’s a good practice to use these before your journey (in case your bag is subjected to a security check) and again before you actually use the toy. By staying organized and proactive, you can enjoy a worry-free and satisfying experience with your intimate items during your travels.
Remove Batteries as a Precaution
We’ve all come across tales of unfortunate instances where a vibrator unexpectedly starts buzzing inside a suitcase. While the likelihood of this happening is low (as many vibrating toys include a travel lock option, which should be used), it’s wise to prioritize caution. Furthermore, taking out the batteries before your flight, as well as when the toy is not in use, is essential. Leaving batteries in the toy can lead to corrosion and unnecessary drainage of battery life.
While most batteries are generally allowed on flights, some airlines might have restrictions on alkaline batteries, including commonly used AAA and AA batteries found in many sex toys, being placed in checked baggage. To ensure a trouble-free experience, opt to carry these batteries in your carry-on bag.
Verify Airline Regulations for Liquids
If you intend to bring lubricant, it’s permissible to pack it in your checked baggage. For those traveling with only carry-on luggage, ensure that the lubricant container holds 100 milliliters/3.4 ounces or less. If the volume exceeds this limit, security will require you to surrender it, even if it’s a partially filled 250-milliliter bottle.
Keep in mind that the plastic bags designated for holding liquids during security checks are transparent. If you prefer to maintain privacy about your belongings, consider either removing labels or transferring the contents into smaller containers. And don’t forget to securely tighten the lid of the lubricant bottle, as these containers have a tendency to open during flights.
Exercise Caution with Bondage Accessories
Bringing bondage equipment on vacation requires careful consideration. Items like whips, floggers, and paddles might be categorized as self-defense tools and confiscated. To avoid any potential issues, it’s advisable to leave these items at home.
Handcuffs, rope, nipple clamps, and hoods are generally deemed acceptable. Arrange them together and ideally place them in their original packaging or branded bags, complete with labels indicating their purpose. It’s important to pack these items in your checked luggage, not your carry-on bag. However, be aware that there’s a possibility they could be confiscated, which is a risk you should be willing to accept.
Should you need to include bondage accessories in your carry-on, make your selections thoughtfully. Non-threatening items like blindfolds, feather ticklers, and bondage tape are likely to be permissible. Keep in mind that airline personnel have discretion in such matters. If questioned, remain composed, offer a smile, and calmly explain that these are personal items. Stand confidently – they’re accustomed to similar situations.
Opt for Discreet-Looking Toys
Concerned about the x-ray machine revealing the unmistakable shape of adult products? Consider investing in toys that don’t immediately resemble sex toys.
While a dildo might be difficult to disguise, there are numerous vibrator options on the market that steer clear of the traditional “rabbit” shape. Some resemble necklaces, USB sticks, or body massagers. However, keep in mind that if your vibrator appears too unconventional or resembles a weapon, security personnel might react unexpectedly. For added security, keep it in its original packaging and label it accordingly.
If you’re carrying Viagra or similar medications, place them securely in a compartment within your bag. Ensuring it’s zipped shut will prevent any accidental spillage. Avoid situations where universally recognizable pills end up scattered while you’re trying to retrieve items from your bag. Taking precautions can help you travel discreetly and comfortably.
Verify the Legality of Your Toys at Your Destination
Sexual attitudes and regulations vary significantly across the globe. To avoid the frustration of having your toys confiscated at security, it’s prudent to verify the rules and regulations of your destination beforehand. Some countries, such as Thailand, India, Vietnam, the Maldives, and Malaysia, have strict prohibitions on adult toys and pornography. In the United States, most states allow the possession of sex toys, with the exception of Alabama, where their sale is considered a criminal offense.
In the unfortunate event that your luggage is held or your belongings are inspected, it’s best to remain honest and confident. Remember that you’ve done nothing wrong. If circumstances necessitate, you can request a private screening with multiple agents present. In the rare instance of encountering unprofessional behavior, don’t hesitate to contact your local embassy and formally voice your concerns. Always remember: There should be no shame in embracing a healthy and enjoyable sex life.
