Adult toys already have a reputation for being a little bit naughty and that feeling only grows when you are thinking about travelling with your vibrator. But there’s no need to feel daunted. This is our guide to how to travel with sex toys…
Firstly, let’s clear the air a little. If you are considering travelling with your adult toys you are not alone. In fact, while ‘sex toys on the plane’ might sound slightly random; it’s actually one of the most frequently (if sneakily) Googled questions when it comes to sexual wellness and travel.
And, because you asked, we are here to answer. After all, despite there being nothing wrong with wanting to enjoy some self-pleasure when away from home, travelling with adult toys can feel a little bit awkward if you want to be discreet.
So, from advice on how to avoid an embarrassing dildo-in-hand encounter at security to whether vibrators are actually allowed on airplanes, here’s how to pack sex toys for travel to ensure you get through any airport security regulations hassle-free.
First up, are sex toys allowed on airplanes?
Yes – most sex toys like vibrators and dildos are perfectly fine to carry with you on airplanes (or any other type of transport for that matter, as long as they stay in your bags, of course!). However, there are some exceptions and things to keep in mind when packing your adult toys to avoid awkward moments and unnecessary delays.
Should you pack your sex toys in checked luggage or your carry-on bag?
It depends a little on the sex toy in question. If your toy does not contain batteries (or uses standard ones that can be taken out), your checked luggage may offer more discretion to avoid potential questions at security.
But if your chosen toy contains lithium-ion – aka rechargeable – batteries (as many modern vibrators do), it needs to go in your carry-on. This is because airlines restrict lithium batteries in checked baggage due to fire risks. (Basically, treat your vibrator like your portable charger when flying). If you’re worried about keeping it discreet, smaller toys like bullet vibrators or love eggs are less likely to draw attention in your carry-on bag.
Will my vibrator set off airport security scanners?
While most sex toys won’t set off airport security scanners, sometimes the material and size of your sex toys can raise some eyebrows, meaning your bags are more likely to be flagged for a thorough security search. That can obviously be a little embarrassing (and delay you at security) even if they don’t end up being confiscated. Large metal toys are the most likely to trigger alarms and warrant further investigation, while small silicone vibrators usually pass unnoticed, so the latter may be the safer option for frequent travellers.
Are there any sex toys you can’t bring in your carry on?
As mentioned, larger metal toys are more likely to be flagged on security screenings, so are probably better left at home or checked into your hold bags. Similarly, anything that could resemble or be used as a weapon will likely be confiscated – after a security agent has a good old rummage in your bags. So if you do happen to want to travel with your cheeky handcuffs or bondage gear, these should be checked in.
What happens if my bag does get searched?
Ultimately, if your bag does get flagged for inspection, don’t panic or be embarrassed. The security staff are trained individuals who have probably seen it all before, we promise. If you can, try to treat the interaction exactly as you would if you had forgotten about a bottle of water in your bag – the security officer is likely to do exactly the same.
The worst that is likely to happen is that your toy may be taken off you, but often you’ll just be asked to identify what it is to check that it is suitable for in-cabin flying. To minimise embarrassment, it might be helpful to pack your toy in a dedicated case labelled ‘personal massager’ so that you (and others) can quickly identify it without too long or awkward a conversation.
Top tips: How to pack sex toys for travel
To make security screenings super smooth when travelling with sex toys, here are our top tips:
- Remove the batteries or lock the toy
A word of warning! Some vibrators can turn on unexpectedly due to pressure changes in the cabin, and, of course, they may accidentally be switched on when being bumped around in your luggage. To avoid this, remove the batteries if you can, pad them when packing, and, for the best holiday-safe sex toys, look for one with a travel lock to ensure it only turns on when you want to be too.
- Use a discreet case
Keeping your sex toy in a storage case not only maintains privacy and hygiene when travelling. It also means you can easily find and identify it if asked by security staff. Keep some spare batteries (or the charging cables) in there as well to ensure your toy never runs out of charge.
- Don’t forget about lubricants and wipes
If you want to bring accessories such as lubricant with you to use alongside your toys, make sure they are in your checked luggage or are under 100ml to ensure they comply with liquid restrictions. Don’t forget wipes or toy cleaning sprays too, to make sure you can clean your toy while travelling.
- Choose quieter/smaller toys if you are nervous
Although, there should be no shame in using sex toys of any kind, if you are a little subconscious travelling with them, smaller toys and stimulators in more subtle colours might be the best approach for you. Choosing one with a whisper-quiet motor can also mean you can enjoy using them in hotels without worrying about your neighbours too.
Are sex toys illegal in certain countries?
While airport security staff in the UK won’t bat an eyelid at the sight of a dildo (they have seen it all before, we promise), not every country is the same. In fact, in some countries sex toys are classified as pornographic material, meaning your adult fun could be confiscated or at worst, place you in legal hot water, so it is definitely best to leave them at home.
For example, Thailand, Saudi Arabia and the Maldives are just some of the destinations that have banned sex toys. And, if you are unsure, always check with your airline (or do a quick Google online if you are shy) to confirm that your sex toys are fine to travel with.
The final word on travelling with sex toys
It is 2025, so travelling with sex toys shouldn’t make you beetroot red with embarrassment and travelling with them should be as normal as packing your skincare routine if you wish. But just as you plan ahead when ensuring you only have 100ml bottles in your carry-on, being savvy about how you carry sex toys through airport security will definitely save you any stress, so you never have to leave your pleasure behind…
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Any Questions or Tips to add?