The holiday season is upon us; we can't wait to enjoy all the exciting things in life that are in short supply at other times, including the sun, sea, and sex. So, it's no surprise you're wondering - “Can I take condoms on a plane?”

To dive straight in — Yes, you can take your favourite condoms on the flight, but there are many essential things to consider when packing your condoms for the journey. To help make sure your holiday romps run smoothly, we're here to tell you everything you need to know about taking condoms on a plane.

Table of Contents:

Can You Take Condoms on a Plane in the UK?

Absolutely! Many people are confused about bringing items like condoms on the plane, but you can take them in the UK and elsewhere without problems. Unlike other things like liquids, there are no restrictions or limits on carrying condoms when you fly, no matter where you're going or what type of luggage you'll use.

Can You Take Condoms in Plane Hand Luggage?

Yes! You can take condoms in your hand and check-in luggage when flying within the UK and overseas. However, we recommend that you pack your condoms in your hand luggage, as the temperature changes in the hold of an aircraft can make them faulty and less effective.

Therefore it's best to keep them close to you during the flight when you know they will be protected from any potential temperature damage. There are reports some foil packaging set off metal detectors. If customs officers have questions about what's inside your bag, you can answer them without issue.

It's also true that customs officers see condoms (along with vibrators) in luggage all the time, so there's no need to be shy — frankly, customs officers are busy looking for illegal items to be interested in your Bare Skin Condoms.

Can You Take Condoms on a Plane in Checked Luggage?

You can take as many condoms as you want in your luggage when flying to or from the UK and overseas. There are no restrictions on how many condoms you can bring, so fill your case if you're inclined.

However, as mentioned above, the temperature in the hold of an aircraft can make condoms less effective. Therefore, we suggest keeping some condoms in your hand luggage during the flight (especially if it's a long journey). It gets freezing in the hold, which isn't ideal, especially for hours.

If you can take condoms on the plane, what can't you take on the plane?

Sexual Health Carry-On No, No's

Taking your vibrator on the plane in your carry-on luggage is fine — the problem lies with the batteries. Rechargeable vibrator batteries can be transported in hand luggage.

However, lithium-polymer batteries exceeding 160wh (watt-hours) and lithium metal batteries exceeding 8g lithium are prohibited in both hand and hold luggage; while you're unlikely to need such a powerful battery, it's helpful to know that loose batteries (AA, AAA) must only travel in carry-on bags.

So if you're squeamish and prone to embarrassment, pack your dildo in your suitcase and put it in the plane's hold for peace of mind.

Can You Take Lubricant on the Plane?

The rules on the amount of liquids, cream, and gels you can take on the plane are about to change (in 2024), but the restrictions are the same for now.

You can only take 100ml containers of liquids, creams, or gels in your hand luggage, and these must be placed into a clear plastic bag measuring 20 cm x 20 cm when passing through security.

Lubricants typically come in smaller bottles (50ml), and this amount of liquid is airline friendly, but you must put them in a clear plastic bag, which makes your lube visible to other travellers and airport staff. Larger bottles (250ml) will need decanting into smaller amounts.

So again, if you care about what others think about your lube habit, put your lubricant in your suitcase in the plane's hold.

FAQs

Q: Can I take condoms on a plane?

A: You can take condoms on a plane in your hand and check-in luggage when flying within the UK and overseas. However, we recommend keeping them in your hand luggage, as the temperature changes in the hold of an aircraft can make them less effective.

Q: Can I take a vibrator on the plane?

A: Taking your vibrator on the plane in your carry-on luggage is fine — the problem is the batteries. Rechargeable vibrator batteries must not exceed 160wh (watt-hours), and lithium metal batteries must not exceed 8g lithium in both hands and hold luggage. Loose batteries (AA, AAA) must only travel in carry-on bags.

Q: Can I take lube on the plane?

A: You can take 100ml containers of liquids, creams, or gels — including lubricant — in your hand luggage, but they must be placed into a clear plastic bag measuring 20 cm x 20 cm when passing through security. Larger bottles (250ml) will need decanting into smaller amounts.

Whether you're flying within the UK or overseas, there's no reason why you can't take condoms, so stock up because foreign chemists may not have the brands you know and love.

Dec 8, 2023
Reviewed by:
Dr Deborah Lee BM MRCGP FFSRH DRCOG Dip GUM
May 23, 2023
Written by:
Victoria Walsh