THIS ENTRY WAS POSTED ON December 22, 2011 BY Matt Cornell.
A little over a month ago, we wrote to the TSA with some questions about the rules for travelling with sex toys. There has been no response. We've decided to post our letter here, in the hopes that our readers can share their experiences, and add to the list of questions. TSA, are you listening?
To Whom it May Concern,
I am writing on behalf of The Pleasure Chest, one of the oldest adult toy boutiques in the country. We have been fielding many questions from our customers about which adult toys can be stowed in carry-on luggage and which cannot. We would very much appreciate your clarification on the following questions, so that we may share it with our readers.
We understand that products made of silicone show up on X-ray scanners as a “liquid” and will therefore be removed for inspection. Can you confirm this?
Are travelers allowed to carry BDSM-related items like whips, handcuffs, riding crops and leather restraints in a carryon bag, or must these be checked?
We know that travelers are restricted to 3.4 oz. of liquid in bottles. Many of the lubricants that we sell have a creamy consistency. Does the rule about liquids also apply to creams?
Are travelers allowed to wear butt plugs? If a butt plug is discovered during a body scan or pat down, will the traveler be required to remove it?
Some of our customers use electrostimulation or TENS units which use electrical current to stimulate muscles. Can such devices be packed into carry-on luggage? Can they be checked?
Can travelers carry vibrators or dildos in carry on baggage? Are there any specific materials that are prohibited (metal, plastic, glass, wood)?
Some of our customers wear chastity devices made of metal. Can these individuals ask to be searched in a private area to avoid going through the metal detectors? Also, will they be required to remove these devices?
Some of our customers wear the Fun Factory “Fun Cup,” which is an insertable silicone device, used as an alternative to tampons and pads. Will this show up on a body scan? And if so, will it need to be removed?
If a traveler is concerned about their bag being inspected in public, can they request a private inspection?
Is there anything else that might be helpful for our readers to know?
I appreciate your attention to our queries, and look forward to your response. Thank you.
Best Regards,
Matt Cornell
Social Media Guru & Content Writer