When people are traveling, there’s always the urge to give up moral standards that they observe at home. There’s greater potential for casual sex, mostly because of alcohol and drug use, peer pressure, desire for adventure, and travel excitements. And while there’s nothing wrong with casual sex, statistics show that many Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) occur during international travel.
Travel can be a great way to explore the world, and having sex while at it can make the experience even better. There are even now apps available (check it out) to enable you to find someone for a casual hook up wherever you are! However, it’s important to understand the social and cultural differences of sex around the world. This way, you’ll enjoy the experience to the fullest without putting your health on the line. So, here are 4 great tips that will help you have better, safer sex while traveling:
- Know Your Status Before Leaving
Normally, sexually active adults should take STI tests at least every 6 months. According to Sandra Larson, a nurse and relationship expert at My Sex Toy Guide, getting tested regularly should be a standard procedure, especially if you have multiple partners. “Knowing your status, at least twice a year allows you to make the right decisions to protect yourself,” she says.
When planning to travel, testing becomes even more important as it helps you to take all the necessary precautions. Depending on whether you have an STI or not, the doctor will advise you on what to do to protect yourself and those around you. You can even choose to postpone travel until you’re off the medication.
- Pack Your Condoms
Whether you plan to have sex or not, make sure you pack enough condoms in your bag before leaving. Furthermore, condoms are affordable, lightweight, and even the TSA guy will give you the go-ahead nod. So, depending on the duration of your stay, pack as many as you might need. Having enough condoms puts you a step ahead in avoiding STIs and pregnancy.
Sandra advises that you avoid the temptation to buy when you get to your destination. “It can be a hassle to buy condoms when traveling, especially female condoms.” So, take care of your sex life and pack up before the journey.
- GET CONSENT Before Sex
Regardless of how tempting it might be to disregard your moral responsibility away from home totally, consent is a MUST! After all, the last thing you want is to be accused of rape in a foreign land. Besides the embarrassment, you might be jailed and might need to get help from criminal lawyers. So, before anything else and despite how intoxicated you might be, ask for consent before touching, kissing, or sleeping with someone. Besides getting you out of trouble, consent clears the confusion, doubt, and cultural misunderstanding.
Note: You don’t have to engage in sex when traveling. But if you must, ensure you’re familiar with the sexual etiquette at your destination. Understand the norms for sex but don’t fall victim and participate in uncomfortable and risky behaviors.
- Everything in Moderation
As stressed before, the feeling of being no longer obligated to observe the same moral standards when traveling as at home can lead to risky behavior. Whether it’s from peer pressure or the desire for adventure, do everything in moderation. Besides learning about the sexual etiquette at your destination, make sure you drink and do drugs (if you have to) in moderation.
Remember, you’re in a foreign land, and you might not be able to get away with it as you do back home. Most importantly, look out for yourself and enjoy the experience. Also, make plans on how to get back home beforehand and have a clear understanding of no-go zones.
To sum it up, traveling can be good for your sex life, especially when done well and responsibly. The adrenaline that comes with experiencing a new culture is immeasurable, especially because you know it’s only for a limited period. However, numerous things might not go as you’d have anticipated, and prevention is better than cure. Isn’t it?
So, whether you’re traveling with your partner or exploring new ground solo, know your status before leaving, pack your own condoms, get consent before sex, and most importantly, do everything in moderation. Additionally, get a good private room for accommodation, be aware of your surroundings, and have fun!