Whether you are traveling alone or taking a getaway with your partner, you want to bring your sex toys … right? The anxiety of navigating airport security and flying on a plane is already too much for many people. The thought of TSA waving your vibrator in front of a crowd and confiscating your prized possession would downright ruin many people’s vacation.
We took the time to read through all of the TSA guidelines and FAA regulations to assemble this handy guide for what you can and can not bring on an airplane. Keep in mind that these regulations change often and it’s best to consult the TSA website for the latest information.
Can I Pack Vibrators in a Carry-On or Checked Bag?
Yes. According to the TSA website, both rechargeable and non-rechargeable, removable battery-powered vibrators can be placed in your carry on or checked bag.
Tip: check the manual of your vibrator to see if it has a “travel lock” Travel locks will prevent the vibrator from turning if the buttons are accidentally pressed in your carry-on. If your vibrator has a removable battery, just remove it.
Can I Pack Dildos in a Carry-On or Checked Bag?
Yes. According to the TSA website, any silicone or soft dildo can be placed in your carry-on or checked bag. While there are no rules that specifically call out hard dildos made of stainless steel or glass in your carry-on (like the Njoy Pure Wand), the safe thing to do is to pack them in a checked bag. Similarly hard and large objects like hammers and clubs are expressly prohibited.
Tip: wrap your metal or glass dildos firmly in clothes. They may scratch if they bump against other hard objects during turbulence.
Can I Pack Lube or Oil in a Carry-On Bag?
Yes – as long as it follows the rules for carrying on liquids. Even thick lubes that are more gel-like are subject to the liquid rules for carrying on. Limit yourself to 3.4oz (100ml) per container in your carry-on and make sure the top is on tightly!
Tip: Most lube manufacturers make convenient 2oz bottle sizes that are convenient for traveling like this 2oz bottle of Sliquid Silk.
Can I Wear a Butt Plug or Wearable Vibrator Through Security?
Not really. While it’s allowed, it almost certainly will raise suspicion through security and necessitate a search. Unless you are seeking attention and are looking to cause a scene, wait for a more appropriate time and place.
Can I travel With My BDSM stuff?
It depends. Handcuffs and tape are allowed in both your carry-on and checked bags. Paddles, especially ones made out of a hard material like wood, need to be packed in a checked bag. The same goes for anything that is sharp or forms a point. While these items are not specifically called out in any regulation, use good judgment and put anything questionable in a checked bag.
What if my Bag Gets Searched by TSA Anyways?
TSA may find something else in your that requires closer inspection or you may be selected for a random search. There’s nothing you can do to prevent this under any situation so just stay calm and politely ask for a private screening. Private screenings are common in a lot of situations and won’t raise any suspicions even if you are traveling in a group. The agent should bring your bag to a discreet location away from the crowd and search in private.
Tip: TSA sees dozens if not hundreds of sex toys on every shift. They don’t care about it as long as it’s not a prohibited item.
What Countries Can I Bring My Sex Toys to?
Please consult the country’s website at the time of your travel to be sure you are following the rules. At this time in 2023, sex toys are prohibited in the Maldives, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Thailand, Vietnam, India, and Malaysia.
Tip: You might think you can get away with bringing a sex toy to a banned country. Don’t. Many people are caught every year and facing criminal charges in a foreign country with strict standards can be a very expensive and life-changing experience.