TSA & Your Toys

Whether you're about to leave for a romantic weekend or traveling for business, many of us have accessories that assist in intimacy or destressing at the end of a long night. Here's an easy guide to what can come in the carry-on (in case of layovers?), what should be checked, and what to leave at home.

Lube or Other Liquids: It's got to follow the TSA's 3-1-1 guidelines, which means 3.4 oz max container in 1 quart plastic bag and 1 bag per person. Note this means the container, not just the amount of liquid in it, needs to be 3.4 oz or less.

Take the batteries out.

If it's sex-related, BAG IT. Whether checked or carry-on, don't risk a stranger's greasy fingers on items destined for your precious orifices. 

 Packing through Security. From the TSA website: "Travelers should be aware that prosthetics worn under the clothing that alarm a walk through metal detector or appear as an anomaly during Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) screening may result in additional screening, to include a thorough pat-down." This means if you choose to wear your small rubber strap-on and fabric harness (both able to be in carry-on) through the security line, be prepared to have TSA staff need to see it and/or inspect it in person. Better to put in a carry-on and change into your gear later.

Size may matter. I do want to believe TSA has seen it all and will display a level of professionalism, but who knows. If you drop $200 on a great Lelo vibrator, you certainly don't want to miss your flight getting it shipped, so just in case, 7" and under is recommended for vibrators and dildos. Dildos should be small and made of rubber or silicone. Cloth restraints and nylon or cloth harnesses are also fine.

There is some debate about the origins of the 7" rule. TSA forbids many tools above 7" but was not referring to toys. However, TSA has stated that toys large enough to be 'club-like' are forbidden. Many have erred on the side of safety and surmised that above 7" is more likely to appear 'club-like.'

Piercings. If your nips are massively gauged or your dick could be mistaken for a metal rod, prepare to be inspected at security or take the piercings out in advance. That being said, I've left my small but hidden piercings in for 13 years without problems. It's your call.

A Note on Latex. Remember to add talc powder and store it in a plastic bag. Also, it needs to be stored outside of direct sunlight in a cool, dry place. Depending on your travel this could mean in checked luggage or stowed away at the bottom of your backpack.

Iffy Items. If you argue with TSA, you probably won't win, so try to avoid bringing anything but the 'must haves' in your carry-on. 
Supposedly, handcuffs and leather floggers are fine. 

TSA rules are about making travelers feel safe, and hopefully, be safe, too, so appearances can be a dividing line. Your spring-loaded mouth gag looks more dangerous than your plastic heart-shaped cuffs.

Check it or leave it at home. 
E-stimulation Devices.
Razors and Wartenberg wheels.
Vibes or dildos above 7".
Metal dildos. 
Harnesses or BDSM gear with metal. 
Nipple clamps.

Traveling while Trans
If your driver's license or identification says male and you do not appear to be that gender (or vice versa), be prepared to be questioned or need to explain. Even if your gender appears the same as on your license, the Patriot Act allows airport staff to see a database of all identifications, so be aware that you may still need to explain. If in transition, travel with a letter from your therapist.  Please be calm about it. This is a post-9/11 world, and it's part of their job. However, if staff harasses you, calmly ask them to stop, get their name and information, and write later to request action be taken and more employees given GLBT-sensitivity training. If in transition, travel with a letter from your therapist. 

Use Common Sense.  Educate yourself on the news and culture of your destination. It is not the right time to bring your collection of the Sauna Boys series to Russia. The Middle East reacts differently from San Francisco during Leather Week.

Don't cause a ruckus at the airport. Calmly voice your objections. You don't do anyone any good by proving what a scene the woman with the dildo stash can make.

If you are harassed or believe TSA staff has acted inappropriately, e-mail TSA-ContactCenter@dhs.gov. Or call, write, Facebook, tweet, blog, contact the news stations. Just be sure to BITCH about it.

DON'T LET ANYONE SHAME OR EMBARRASS YOU ABOUT YOUR SEXUALITY.