You can buy condoms in most stores without a problem. You may even be able to get them for free. Just be sure to use a water-based lubricant instead of an oily one, as they can cause condoms not to work properly.
Remember, there are no age restrictions for buying condoms. It’s a very normal and responsible thing to do!
Decide which condoms you’re going to buy beforehand.
There are a lot of different types of condoms on the market, from basic latex to sex toys with added features like lubrication and spermicide. Knowing what you need before you go shopping will help you avoid buying a pack that’s either too small or too big for you, or one that will end up falling off during sex or tearing if it gets stretched out of shape.
Most drugstores will sell a range of condoms, and they’re usually cheaper than adult stores (also known as ‘sex shops’). You can also shop online if you feel more comfortable not having to make the purchase face-to-face with a cashier and potentially being seen by nosy neighbors or coworkers.
Be aware that condoms can break down if they’re not stored properly, so keep them out of direct sunlight or in a cool place. Also, don’t put them in your wallet, as the friction can cause the wrapper to tear. Condoms are inexpensive and available for free at many places, including Planned Parenthood health centers, family planning clinics, community health centers, and college health centers.
Go into the store with a specific item in mind.
Whether it’s in the privacy of your own home or at a nearby clinic, having condoms on hand is one of the best ways to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies. But for many people, buying condoms feels awkward — and that’s totally normal.
To help make the process more comfortable, decide which type of condoms you’re going to buy beforehand. This will help you feel confident walking into a store knowing what you need. Plus, you’ll have a little bit of time to get familiar with the different options and choose which ones work for you best.
Also, remember that there’s no legal age requirement to buy condoms in the U.S. If a cashier asks for your ID, you can say that you’re older than 18, and they should leave it at that. Another trick is to use a different form of payment (cash or gift card) so that the charge doesn’t show up on your credit/debit card. You can also try buying condoms at a teen clinic or visiting a HIV/STD prevention center.
Use cash or a gift card to make your purchase.
There are about 7,453 types of condoms on the market, and it can feel like a scavenger hunt just to find the right ones. Depending on what type you choose, they might come in a variety of colors, textures and materials, so it can be easy to get overwhelmed and not know which one you need.
If you’re worried about buying them in a store, consider using cash or a gift card to make your purchase. This way, you can buy them without risking a snoopy cashier or nosy neighbor figuring out what’s in your cart. You can also try masking the purchase by buying a few other items with it. Many companies that sell condoms, such as Lovability, even offer tins that look like lip balm, so you can hide your purchases in plain sight.
Another option is to visit a nearby clinic and get your condoms for free. You can find them at teen clinics, HIV/STD prevention centers and Planned Parenthood health centers, among others. The staff at these locations will be able to help you find what’s best for your needs and provide you with information about birth control and STD prevention.
Relax and keep your cool.
We all know condoms are a lifesaver when it comes to preventing sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies. But there’s something about having to go up to a counter and ask for them that makes a lot of us feel awkward.
Some stores keep their condoms behind the counter or in a locked case, which means that you might need to ask a store clerk for them. This can add to your anxiety because you might not have a chance to look at the box up close and see exactly what type of condom you’re buying.
Also, many condoms now come with lubricants that claim to make them last longer or increase sensation. If you want to try these, it’s important that you choose a lubricant that is non-toxic and water-based, since using oil-based lubes can actually decrease the effectiveness of a condom.
If you can, try to relax and keep your cool when you’re purchasing condoms. Remember that most people don’t really pay attention to what you buy, and that they’re just doing their jobs.
Visit a nearby clinic to get your condoms for free.
There are many places you can visit to get free condoms, including Planned Parenthood health centers, family planning clinics, your local community center, and college health centers. Some may require an appointment, while others do not. Simply walk in, locate the condoms, and pick them up. Be sure to store them correctly until you’re ready to use them.
Alternatively, there are many online sites that sell condoms in discreet packaging. Some even have options for latex, non-latex, and lambskin condoms, as well as internal and novelty condoms. Most of these websites offer condoms for around the same price you would pay in a store, but with a lot less hassle.
No matter how you purchase your condoms, it is important to remember that they will protect you from STDs and unwanted pregnancies. They are also a great way to spice up your sexual experiences! With the wide variety of flavors, sensations, and effects available, it is easy to see why condoms are so popular. Just don’t forget to check the expiration dates and restock when needed!
