7 Tips for Getting Your Sex Toys Through Airport Security

According to a recent study conducted by Sandals Resorts, 80 percent of Americans plan to devote more time to romance in 2023, with 63 percent planning to go on a romantic getaway this year and 58 percent saying they won’t let inflation or rising costs get in the way of their plans. Of the people polled last year who went on a couples trip, a whopping 73 percent claimed their intimate time together was more satisfying while on vacation compared to how things usually were at home, with 80 percent saying they were more willing to prioritize intimacy with their partner once they returned from their trip.

Traveling in general has also been known to provide a boost in your sex drive, likely as a result of being away from all the constant distractions and commitments you normally have to contend with at home, such as long workdays, taking care of your kids, finding the right place and time for some alone time, financial worries, everyday stresses, and other social obligations you need to fit into your already busy schedules.

With all that passion brewing, you may want to step outside your comfort zone a bit and bring some adult toys along on the trip. But figuring out how to pack those intimate items might seem intimidating, especially since your bags will be scanned and screened by TSA officers. So many questions arise: Can you bring lube on a plane? Is it okay to pack condoms in a carry-on? As it turns out, the answer to both is yes — you can take lube on a plane, even in your carry-on, provided it’s under 3.4 oz. (it can be any size if you check your bag).

To help make things easier for all the amorous travelers out there, Travel + Leisure reached out to We-Vibe’s former Global Passion Ambassador, Tristan Weedmark, for her tips on seamlessly getting your sex toys through security.

1. Choose a smaller vibrator

When traveling, it’s always advisable to pack light, and the same goes for your sex toys. You won’t want to be lugging around a big vibrator in your suitcase and you certainly won’t want a huge mysterious object to pop up on the security monitor. Instead, stick with a petite but powerful toy that can easily be tucked away in an inner suitcase pocket.

2. Prevent impromptu buzzing

Having your vibrator accidentally start buzzing as you go through airport security will certainly draw unwanted attention. If you have a battery-operated toy, simply remove the batteries. If you have a rechargeable vibrator, you may want to run the charge out before you pack it. This might mean using it every night for a week before your trip, but who’s complaining about that?

3. Bag it

Put your vibrator in a clear plastic bag. This way, if TSA screeners do open your bag, they’ll be able to see what it is without having their hands all over it; much more hygienic!

4. Play it cool

TSA staff are trained to pick up on travelers who are acting suspiciously. If you act nervous because you’re worried about your vibrator being found, they’ll notice. Try to stay cool, calm, and collected. Always keep in mind, you are certainly not the first or last person to travel with a vibrator.

5. Own it

Let’s say the worst-case scenario does happen and the TSA screener searches your bag. The best thing you can do is tell the truth. Traveling with a vibrator says that you’re comfortable with your sexuality and there is nothing wrong with that. Be confident and comfortable, and you’ll save yourself from any more questions or probing.

6. Follow the 3.4-oz. Rule

Can you take lube on a plane? If you plan to bring some lube or toy cleaner to go along with your vibrator, it shouldn’t be an issue, so long as you follow the TSA’s restrictions for liquids. Keep it to 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less [for carry-on bags, though any size is okay for checked luggage].

7. Do Your Research

Unfortunately, some countries, like India, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Maldives, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, have restrictions on sex toys. Do your research ahead of time to avoid the risk of having your vibrator confiscated. When it comes to flying with intimate objects, the TSA also has a handy “What Can I Bring?” search tool on its website. Enter the name of the product you’re planning to bring, such as “vibrator,” and you’ll quickly be able to see if the item is permitted and any restrictions that might apply.