Now, let’s talk about the sex. If you are looking forward to some great hookups during Pride, then it’s time to prepare your sexy travel bag, for pleasure and safety. So, let’s unpack the things you should be packing.
For Safety
Condoms
The first thing we think about in terms of safe sex is condoms. And they are absolutely necessary. Don’t count on any partner having them. You bring your own, and make sure you buy high quality.
But there are other options too.
-
A dental dam for oral sex
-
A female condom for vaginal or anal sex
Remember, the point of a condom is to prevent bodily liquids from coming in contact with a partner’s genital areas or mouth. They are not 100% safe (they can tear or break), and they do not protect against STIs that are transmitted by skin-to-skin contact.
HIV
If you are HIV positive, it is your ethical responsibility to be on a regimen of medication that makes it non-transferable. And you may want to take “proof” that you are on that regimen.
Antiseptic and Antibacterial Wipes/Cleansers
Especially if you bring your favorite toys, you will want to have reliable ways to keep them clean and germ-free.
Drug Testing Strips
These are available in stores and online. You should take a package or jar of them to test your drinks. They will detect GHB (the “date-rape” drug), Ketamine, and more. If you and your drink get separated, you can ensure that no one messes with it.
Things Not in Your Travel Bag, But in Your Behavior Bag
-
Get vaccinated for HPV
-
Get tested before your go – proof of this would be something you might put in your bag
-
Reduce the number of partners you have. It’s a numbers game – the law of averages, you know.
For Fun and Comfort
Once you have taken care of your safety, let’s talk about stuff you will want for the “fun and games.” Of course, you may want some sexy clothing for parties or one-on-one encounters. But beyond that, think in terms of the kind of sex you are looking for. Here are some options:
Lubes
Don’t count on a potential partner to have brought these. And you have plenty of choices here. They come in all kinds of scents and flavors – what are your favorites? Pack those.
Toys
Again, think about the type of sex you want. Buying some new toys just for this occasion might be in order. There are some great rainbow-designed toys that might just be perfect.
Sexy Underwear
Whether you are male or female, great underwear is a must. Jockey shorts to show off your junk, bras and panties to show off your girls and your butt. Again, there are rainbow-colored undies that might be fun.
Tall Socks
If you have a backpack, you have to wiggle out of it, maybe in the heat of the moment. Why not have a pair of tall socks that can hold your ID and money? You don’t have to take them off for sex!
Antibiotic Wipes
This could also be a safety item, but, really, it’s for convenience too. So much easier to clean up with these than trying to find clean washcloths and towels when you’d just rather stay entangled for a while.
For Convenience – Your Phone
Really? Do you need to be told to bring your phone? Of course not. But how about putting some apps on your phone that can help you out?
-
Apps that will help you navigate around a town or city you don’t know
-
Apps to purchase event tickets
-
The app of the Pride Celebration organizers, so that you know exactly what is happening where, and you can choose events that might be perfect for finding a hookup
-
How about a dating app like Taimi? You can search for matches who might be at the same Pride celebration, and you can arrange to hook up.
You’re All Set
Review these suggestions. Pick and choose the gear that relates to the sex you anticipate, get it together, pack it up, and be ready for anything amazing encounters that might just come your way.