Festival Sex Survival Hacks
Read about the author Megan Barnett
Thanks to good music, food and drink, and relaxed vibes whatever the weather, it’s quite easy to get swept up in the festival atmosphere. However, with 14% of festival goers admitting to a one-time hook-up and 6% stating that they regularly engage in festival trists (2013), it’s really important to be prepared so that you stay safe while you’re away.
Safe sex made easy
Condoms are perhaps the most essential item on the list when it comes to practising safe sex and protecting your sexual health. A recent Superdrug survey (2016) found that the top concern for women was that their partner wouldn’t use a condom during sex, followed by the fear that their partner had an STI, the latter being the top concern for men.
Due to poor sex education in schools, some girls believe that they don’t need to use condoms if they are on the contraceptive pill, however this is not the case! To protect yourself from STIs, you need to use a condom, and for safe oral sex use a dental dam. When using a dental dam, do not flip it over to use on the other side, as this can spread infections.
We’ve all seen those viral videos of girls adorning condoms on their limbs, but getting the right fit for condom sizing is really important. If a condom is too small it’s going to hurt, and if it’s too big it’s going to fall off, leading to a risk in pregnancy and exposure to STIs.
Skins condoms come in a range of sizes and styles to accommodate for everyone, so be mindful when you’re getting hot and heavy.
It’s also really important to check the expiration date of your condoms, or alternatively you could always pick up a fresh pack from the shops or visit your local Family Planning Clinic, where condoms are often available for free.
Get wet!
English summers are notoriously wet, but sometimes we need a helping hand during sex to get things going. Using a good lubricant such as YES Organic lube is great due to their nourishing qualities, and the Selection Pack is the perfect size for travelling. The recently revamped packaging looks more like hand cream, making it really discreet too.
Don’t feel embarrassed about using a lubricant: it can benefit anyone at any age. Using a sexual lubricant doesn’t mean you’re a sexual failure or that you’re no good at getting someone else or yourself off. Think about it: women need a little longer than men to become aroused, and having sex in a cramped tent, or in a field for that matter, isn’t exactly a sensual setting!
If you’re using condoms, stick to water based or silicone based lubricant as oil based lubricant will damage the latex, leaving you vulnerable to infections and pregnancy.
Be prepared
If you’re planning on taking any sex toys along for the ride, make sure you’re familiar with the controls and how the toy works. You might not want to take a splashproof toy along in case it gets water damaged, so a fully waterproof product is probably a better option.
If it’s a battery operated toy, remember to take along a few spare batteries just in case. If it’s rechargeable, give it a good charge before you go to avoid any disappointment later on.
A discreet bullet or lipstick vibrator is a good toy to take on your travels, as are vibrating and non-vibrating cock rings. These are small, good quality sex toys that won’t take up too much room in your backpack or handbag and will enhance your sexual pleasure.
If you’re worried about your bag being checked at security and want to stave off any embarrassment, pack your sex toy or toys of choice in a clear, labelled bag so the attendant knows what they are straight away.
Get real about your sexual health
Despite the festival atmosphere, it’s important to keep on top of your sexual health.
Festivals are notoriously muddy places, so if you’re planning on taking some sex toys with you it’s even more important to keep them clean to avoid any nasty surprises! The Pjur® Med Cleaning Spray and Dr Rocco Toy Cleansing Remedy both come in a handy pump spray which is ultra-convenient to use. These non-alcohol cleaning spray has been made from a mild formula that provides protection against bacteria, fungus, and even lipophilic viruses. In addition, the product can be used on the body for intimate cleaning – great as an emergency wash kit!
Always practice safe sex, especially if you’re hooking up with a person you’ve just met whatever your age. Also, let your friends know where you are going and who with if you’re sneaking off to a tent for some summer fun.
If you have any worries regarding your sexual safety, lots of festivals have Health Care Tents and Sexual Health Pop-Up Clinics offering services ranging from procuring condoms to chlamydia tests. If you notice any changes to your genitals or vaginal discharge, or start to experience pain during sex, seek medical advice as soon as you can.
It’s all about getting the right balance: having fun, but staying safe too!