Traveling With Adult Toys and Sex Toys. Learn from a sex educator the best ways and tips and tricks when you are traveling with your sex toys.
What’s the best way to travel with sex toys?
When it’s summer or the holidays, most people go on vacation. And with vacation comes lots of relaxation and…sex! We all know that nothing beats hotel sex. Whether you’re going across the city or across the world, bringing sex toys with you helps ensure you have great sex while away. In a new environment, you may feel more adventurous and sensual than usual, so take advantage of it!
Dos and Don’ts When Traveling With Sex Toys
Here are some helpful tips about what to do and not to do if you are going on vacation and will be traveling with adult toys:
DO remove your batteries from your vibrator before packing. Of course, this is a non-issue if you have a rechargeable vibrator. It’s also a good idea to lock your vibrator if it comes with a travel lock feature. Finally, although airport security does wear gloves, we recommend storing your adult sex toys in clear plastic bag just in case they need to “inspect” your toys.
DO remember that size does matter when it comes to what’s inside your carry-ons. TSA restricts “hand tools” longer than 7 inches in carry-ons, so if you a have a longer toy, it might fall into the category of “baton-like” or “club-like” items that have to be checked. Also, it’s worth mentioning that TSA sometimes confiscates items from checked luggage when they cannot tell what they are. So if you think your toy is ambiguous, consider attaching a (nice) note.
DON’T forget a sexy outfit! Whether it’s a new dress or sexy lingerie, pack something that will not only make you feel sexy but make your lover want you!
DO take personal lubrication with you. You don’t want to be caught in a foreign city explaining that you need lube. Come prepared to enjoy yourself and you won’t have to waste your time finding a drug store.
DON’T forget to limit the liquids (including lubricant) in your carry-on to 3.4 oz/100ml. Whether you remember or not, there is a chance that security will open your bag. So, be prepared. If you don’t want to take any chances, check your luggage.
DO remember to use the “Do Not Disturb” sign in your hotel room so that you’re not interrupted in the middle of something.
DO remember that hotel walls can be super thin and that your neighbors may be able to hear everything.
DO try to pack smaller mini vibrators and adult toys, which are more discreet, when traveling. The larger heavier items should stay home.
Adult Sex Toys Are Among The Most Common Items To Get Flagged
Has this ever happened to you? Maybe you had a conversation that was similar to this:
ME: “Just FYI, there’s a vibrator in there.”
TSA: “Did you say a personal device ma’am?”
ME: “Yup! A vibrator.”
TSA: “Oh ok. Those are some of the most common things that get flagged. Plus there’s newbies screening right now.”
ME: “Really? They trigger searches that often?”
TSA: “Yeah, especially among newer agents.”
*hands me back my bag*
“You’re good to go.”
Having Your Bag Searched Isn’t the End of the World
Unless you are a sex educator, this scenario might sound super embarrassing. You probably don’t want your relationship enhancement products being touched or displayed for all to see.
Of course it could happen. If so, remind yourself:
- You’ve done nothing wrong. Vibrators are legal (for someone to own) everywhere in the US. So you can’t get “in trouble” for having them. Note: if you are traveling outside the U.S., check the country’s laws. Toys are illegal in certain countries including but not limited to India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, United Arab Emirates.
- TSA agents have seen everything. Your toy(s) and other sexy things (lingerie, BDSM gear, etc.) really won’t phase them. You aren’t the first person to travel with them and you definitely won’t be the last!
- Vibrators are just another electronic device. If there’s any question, just respond with a straightforward, “That’s my vibrator/marital aid/romance product/adult sex toy/relationship enhancement product/passion product/whatever word you’re comfortable with.” Only its use differentiates it from things like cameras and computers.
Still feeling really embarrassed or nervous? Then, ask to be screened in private. This way you don’t have to worry about anyone else seeing your toys.
More Tips When Traveling With Sex Toys
Now that you’re worries are calmed, what can you do to make traveling with sex toys easier? Here are 6 tips:
1. Bring A Toy That Doesn’t Look Like A Sex Toy
If it gets removed, it’s less likely to draw attention.
SEX EDUCATOR TIP:
Most toys from My Secret Luxury are discreet.
In fact, people often ask, “What do I do with that?!” or mistake certain toys for something else.
In fact, people often ask, “What do I do with that?!” or mistake certain toys for something else.
2. Prevent Vibrators From Accidentally Turning On
Always remove the batteries if your toys have them. If not, see if you can lock the toy. This means your toy won’t turn on even if it’s buttons get pushed. Check the toy’s instruction manual for directions how.
SEX EDUCATOR TIP:
Bring the instruction book with you or take a photo of how to unlock the toy. Every toy is a little different and this makes sure you won’t be stranded with a locked toy.
3. Put Your Toys In A Clear Plastic Bag
This way if someone inspects your carry-on OR checked suitcase, they don’t actually touch your toy.
4. Don’t Forget Toy Cleansers
Yes — even if you put the toy in a plastic bag, you still need to wash your toys before and after each use with toy cleaner. I love S+HE AfterGlow Cleansing Tissues. They come in a thin package and they don’t take up precious space.
5. Remember: Size Matters.
Anything more than 7 inches is considered baton- or club-like and isn’t allowed in your carry-on. Checking it is a better option but there is still a risk the toy will be confiscated. Unless you can’t live without it, leave your heavy and larger toys at home.
6. Remember The 3-1-1 Rules For Liquid
Personal lubricant, toy cleanser, and other liquids or gels need to be in small containers (3 oz. or less) and then placed in a quart-sized plastic bag. Anything bigger? Check them! Another option would be to get a sample or variety pack of lubes. These individual packs are less than 3 oz., ensure your lube won’t spill, and let you try something new. A final option would be to order lube, toy cleaner, etc. from My Secret Luxury and have to sent to your destination.
The Rules For Other Sex Toys Vary
The tips above are great for dildos, vibrators, and liquids. But what about other sex toys and accessories? When in doubt, check the TSA website or contact the TSA directly.
Definitely Okay To Carry-On
- Handcuffs
- Strap-on harnesses or other gear made of leather, fabric, buckles
- Rope
Gray Areas: Might Be A Good Idea To Check
- Toys longer than 7 inches, especially ones made of hard or heavy materials like glass, stone, or stainless steel
- Whips: Riding whips and riding crops are okay for carry-on but other whips must be checked
- Paddles & Floggers: ping-pong paddles are ok; anything bigger should get checked
- E-stim: TENS units for pain treatment are okay to carry-on, so you e-stim should be too
MUST Check
- Objects with sharp edges or points
- Objects that are similar in size/shape/weight to clubs, bats, or batons
Traveling With Sex Toys Does Not Have To Be So Hard
Yes, there’s a risk of embarrassment. But with at least half of the people in the US using sex toys, they’re common and not all that surprising. Take a deep breath, practice saying, “That’s my sex toy,” and focus on the fact that a fabulous getaway is right on the other side of the gate!
