Being transgender is not easy in many ways, so it is no surprise that going on vacation raises one or two issues as well. It is very important to choose a safe location to travel to—unfortunately, there are still places where being transgender may be dangerous.
After you choose your destination and make all the necessary arrangements, it is time to start planning the trip and thinking ahead of what you will need or what you will experience.
⚠️ Safety First
If possible, avoid countries where anti-transgender attitudes are still considered normal. Your safety is the top priority when planning any trip.
🚪 Metal Detector Usually Safe
The Metal Detector only registers metal objects on your body, so there should not be any problems if you are wearing your silicone prosthetic correctly.
💡 Important Tip
Make sure your harness does not have any metal details to avoid unpleasant situations. Many airports are now replacing Metal Detectors with Body Scanners, so there is a good chance you will have to go through a Body Scanner instead.
📡 Body Scanner (Millimeter Wave Scanner) May Trigger Pat-Down
Body Scanners are not the most pleasant thing for transgender travelers and can cause unpleasant situations. The Full Body Scanner works by having a TSA agent press a button determining gender (male/female), then the machine scans the person and compares data to anatomical standards.
The main problem is that the machine registers every deviation from anatomical norms as an "abnormality" and immediately requires further inspection. If you are wearing a binder or packer, or if you don't pack but look masculine, there is a big chance the scanner will flag you for additional screening.
⚠️ Be Prepared
Many LGBTQ travelers report issues with this process due to limited gender-binary settings. Although it is for everyone's security, it can be an unpleasant experience. Prepare yourself for all scenarios, remain calm, and hope that in the future the process will be improved.
✋ Pat-Downs Know Your Rights
If you were selected for a pat-down, the first thing you need to do is take a few deep breaths and stay calm. We understand there is nothing pleasant about being touched by a stranger, but it is their job—the faster you allow them to complete the process, the sooner it will be over.
TSA states that travelers are patted-down by same-gender officers. However, there are multiple instances where transgender travelers were subjected to pat-downs by one officer, then after realization they were replaced by another.
💡 Our Advice
Stay calm and explain that your gender identity is different from your paperwork
Request to be patted-down by male/female officers based on your preference
You can request a private screening if public pat-downs are too uncomfortable
You can bring a witness with you to private screening for comfort
What You Need to Know About TSA Agents
TSA agents are responsible for security and take their job very seriously. Make sure you communicate calmly and explain any situations as clearly as possible. Most situations are resolved easily when communication is respectful on both sides.
⚖️ Your Rights During Security Screening
You are NOT required to remove or lift clothing that reveals your prosthetic
You should NOT be asked to reveal or remove your prosthetic
If asked improperly, you have the right to speak to a supervisor
TSA agents must warn you about actions they will perform
You can prepare a Notification Card explaining your situation in advance
Document and report any violations to proper channels at the airport
🚫 IMPORTANT: Countries Where Prosthetics Are Banned
Below is a list of countries where all sex toys are banned. As prosthetics may also be considered sex toys, traveling to any country listed below with your packer would be breaking the law. Punishments can include large fines, confiscation, deportation, or even imprisonment.
Make sure you are not risking your safety by taking your packer with you before you travel!
Safe Travels!
Most transgender FTM individuals successfully travel without any issues. However, it is better to be prepared and well informed about the process to avoid unnecessary stress. Take care of yourself properly and do not break the law unintentionally.