As Vancouver resident Lucia discovered firsthand, travelling with unusual items can sometimes lead to unexpected and amusing situations. Her story, which quickly went viral on X, highlights the potential pitfalls of carrying uniquely designed gadgets through airport security.
Lucia’s experience with her Diablo 3 Soulstone power bank, which was mistaken for a sex toy, has captured the internet’s imagination and sparked a broader discussion on how to handle potentially embarrassing items during travel.
Lucia’s trial began at the airport security checkpoint. Security personnel initially flagged her bag, suspecting she might be carrying a knife. However, the situation took a hilarious turn when they followed up by asking if she had a “self-pleasuring device” in her backpack.
Lucia, baffled and embarrassed, had no idea what they were referring to until the security staff pointed out the source of their confusion: her Diablo 3 Soulstone power bank.
The Soulstone, a spiky, cone-shaped item inspired by the game Diablo 3, holds the essence of demons in the game. Its distinctive design, however, raised eyebrows among the security personnel.
Lucia took to X to recount her embarrassing yet amusing experience, writing, “I got stopped at security at the airport and they asked me if I had a knife, which of course I didn’t. Then they awkwardly asked if I had a “self-pleasuring device” in my backpack, and I was HORRIFIED… Turns out it was my Blizzcon exclusive Diablo III Soulstone Power Bank.”
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Lucia’s post quickly went viral, garnering a range of reactions from internet users.
One user humorously suggested, “The person who asked the question was hoping you would call it a knife so he doesn’t have to ask the next question.”
Another shared a similar experience: “Hey, I had a similar incident with this power bank at the airport. They pulled me aside and said, ‘What is this? It looks weird.”
The incident even prompted commentary on the specifics of airport security protocols, with one user asking, “I thought airport security in the US required you to put a magical power bank in your checked baggage, right?”
Others speculated about the potential embarrassment caused by the situation, with one user remarking, “I bet they asked in a loud tone that everyone could hear.”
Despite the humour, many expressed sympathy and solidarity, with one user admitting, “I know I’m not supposed to laugh at this, but my god, too epic. I’m mortified for you, though.”
Lucia’s experience shows that it is essential to have practical advice for dealing with potentially embarrassing items while travelling.
Reddit’s guide to discreetly travelling with adult items (because awkwardness is optional)
A related discussion on Reddit offers valuable insights and tips for minimising embarrassment when carrying sex toys through airport security.
The Reddit thread started with a user seeking advice on discreetly carrying a strap-on while backpacking across Europe. The responses provide practical suggestions and personal anecdotes, all aimed at helping travellers easily navigate these potentially awkward situations.
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Many Reddit users emphasised that airport security personnel are accustomed to seeing sex toys and generally handle such discoveries with professionalism and discretion.
Several users shared their own experiences of security checks involving sex toys, noting that the staff typically remain unphased and professional.
One person was asked about an item that vibrated. They simply said it was personal, and the security staff accepted this without any trouble.
Putting the toy in checked luggage was recommended to minimise the chances of embarrassment, as this decreases the likelihood of it being inspected during security screening.
If you prefer to carry it in your hand luggage, remember to remove any batteries to prevent accidental activation. This simple step can help you avoid unwanted attention from unexpected vibrations.
When travelling with the toy, it’s recommended to use a see-through plastic bag. This makes it easier for security staff to identify the item and reduces their need to handle it. It’s essential to be honest and composed during this process.
If asked about the toy, being honest and calm usually results in a professional and prompt solution. Security staff are trained to handle these situations, and travellers should remember that they are dealing with strangers they are unlikely to see again.
Some Reddit users also offered witty suggestions to lighten the mood and practical advice.
Some users had lighthearted suggestions for using the toy. One person joked about wearing it as a necklace to show dominance. At the same time, another suggested adding googly eyes to make the situation less severe. These funny remarks emphasise the importance of keeping a sense of humour in potentially awkward situations.
