Chemsex during travel
Page last reviewed 9.6.2026
Chemsex is a culture of drug use and sex associated primarily with men who have sex with men. In chemsex, drugs are used when having sex. The goal of using drugs can be to boost the pleasure of sex or to lengthen the duration of sex. Chemsex culture can be found in Finland but it is more common abroad, especially in larger cities.
Chemsex in different countries
Other countries have different cultures related to drug use than in Finland. The narcotics available may be different, there may be significantly more of them available, and the methods for their use may be different. Furthermore, communication between drug users and dealers varies by region and culture. Language barriers may also be an issue.
Using, buying and/or selling drugs is illegal in nearly all countries and is associated with a strong stigma. Because of this, there is a lot of indirect communication related to drugs: for example, the use of emojis and euphemisms is common in these interactions.
Especially for young and inexperienced travellers, it may come as a surprise how often drugs are being offered for free through dating apps, for example. By offering drugs, people try to attract young people in particular to sexual encounters and parties, and a free hit is a tactic to get people to buy more drugs. The interest in and pressure to use drugs can surprise travellers who considered themselves to be non-users before their trip.
When travelling, people usually prepare for various risks such as heat and traffic jams. It is best to also prepare for the local drug culture in the same way. Chemsex can be safer in many ways if you learn about the local chemsex culture at your travel destination.
Tips on harm reduction and safer use
- It is best to consider your drug use in advance: where, when, what and how much to use, and with whom.
- It’s important to consider your own limits in advance and ensure proper consent.
- It is important to know the substances you use and their interactions.
- Be careful with dosing and remember to use sterile equipment!
- Condoms and dental dams protect against STIs.
- Using lubricant in anal sex is vitally important – it protects the mucous membranes and increases pleasure.
- When fisting, consider using gloves in addition to lubricants.
- PrEP medication prevents HIV transmission during sex without a condom.
- Proper hydration, food and rest are important – make sure to allow enough time for recovery.
- Please note that tap water may not be safe to drink, and hygiene standards may differ from those in Finland.
- In another country, communication may be more difficult than in Finland.
- Make sure to also take care of your friends!
- Remember to get tested for STIs regularly.