You’ve planned the perfect vacation, and the last thing you want to stress about is whether to bring your favorite vibrator. The fear is real: What if it goes off in your bag? What if a TSA agent pulls it out in front of everyone? Don't worry, we've got your back. While leaving your trusty vibe at home is an option, you don’t have to. With a little preparation, you can travel with your toys completely worry-free. Consider this your handy guide to navigating all the challenges of traveling with sex toys.
Before you pack: 2 essential checks
A little research before you even open your suitcase can save you a lot of trouble later.
1. Check the laws at your destination
This is the most important step. Customs and laws differ from one country to the next. Some countries, such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia, prohibit the importation of sex toys. Do your homework beforehand to prevent having your favorite toy confiscated or, even worse, facing legal trouble.
2. Check TSA rules (carry-on vs. checked)
In the U.S. and most Western countries, sex toys are perfectly legal to bring on a plane. The main rule you need to know involves batteries. According to the TSA, devices with lithium-ion batteries (which includes most rechargeable sex toys) must be in your carry-on luggage. This is for fire safety reasons. For toys with removable batteries (like AA or AAA), you can pack the toy in your checked bag, but the batteries should be removed and kept in your carry-on.
How to pack your sex toys: a step-by-step guide
Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to pack like a pro.
Step 1: Choose discreet, travel-friendly toys
While you can travel with an 8-inch realistic dildo, a smaller, more discreet toy will likely make you feel more comfortable. This is where a powerful but compact toy like the Ultra Wand Mini really shines. Toys that come with their own charging cases are also great for inconspicuous packing.
Step 2: Disable the power
The last thing you want is a buzzing bag. To prevent your toy from accidentally turning on, either remove the batteries completely or make sure it's fully drained of its charge. Better yet, opt for toys that have a built-in travel lock feature, like our Cadenza or Plua.
Step 3: Use a clear, separate bag
Store your toys in a clear, sealable plastic bag. This is more sanitary, and in the unlikely event your bag is searched, the agent can see what it is without having to touch your personal items directly.
Step 4: Pack your liquids correctly
Don't forget your lube and toy cleaner. Remember that the 3.4oz (100ml) liquid limit for carry-ons applies to them. Pack them in travel-sized bottles in your clear toiletries bag to avoid having them confiscated.
Step 5: Don’t forget condoms and other essentials
Whether you’re meeting a partner or not, it’s always smart to bring your own condoms. The size, quality, and availability of condoms can vary widely in other countries, so it’s best to be prepared.
At the airport: navigating security with confidence
If you're new to flying with a sex toy, try not to act fidgety or nervous. Airport security is trained to detect suspicious behavior. You haven't done anything wrong — you just have a vibrator in your suitcase, not a weapon. You are hardly the first person to travel with a sex toy, so own it with confidence.
In the worst-case scenario where an agent does search your bag and asks what the item is, just state the truth calmly: "It's an adult toy" or "It's a personal massager." They’ve seen it all before, and being confident and direct is the fastest way to end the interaction.