Ask the Sexpert: Nov. 12, 2009

I was traveling with my boyfriend over Fall Break. When we got to the hotel where we were staying, we realized there weren’t any condoms that we recognized in the hotel store or anywhere else for that matter.

For future reference, are there things I should bring if I’m planning to be sexually active on vacation and traveling to an out-of-the-way place?

— Sex Kit

Dear Sex Kit,

This is a really great issue to bring up and something few people think about. While you are traveling, particularly if you are abroad, you may not be able to buy your favorite brand of condoms — or even condoms at all — not to mention other sexual accoutrements you may use.

If you are traveling with your partner, or even if you just think you may be sexually active while away from home, I would suggest bringing at least a couple condoms with you to be safe —you can never have too many condoms! Just make sure to keep them in a cool, dry location in your luggage where they won’t be pierced, broken, torn or otherwise damaged. And, as always, check before you use them.

To be extra safe, it’s best to always use a condom if you have sexual relations while traveling, especially to developing countries, even if your partner is someone you know very well. Not all countries have the same standard of hygiene as the United States, and while many travelers will be perfectly healthy abroad, your health is not something worth risking.

If you’re on birth control, bring extra packs when traveling for an extended period of time. It can be very difficult to find specific brands when you travel, and I doubt you’d like to spend your vacation on the phone with pharmacies and your doctor back home.

Moving beyond the basics, if there is any other ingredient that makes your sex life spicier that isn’t too hard to fit in your suitcase, pack it. Just remember that you may not be able to get everything past security if it’s in your carry-on. Large bottles of lubricant will be confiscated as liquids, metal objects (especially handcuffs) may be considered potential weapons, and items with motors or batteries might be suspect (not to mention embarrassing if your bag gets hand-searched). Of course, all of these items should be able to go in your checked luggage without a problem.

Bon Voyage!

— Sexpert