FTM Packing for Beginners: How to Choose Your First Packer
Whether you've been thinking about packing for years or are just starting to explore it, getting your first packer can feel like a big deal. It's also one of the most impactful things many trans masc people do for their day-to-day sense of gender affirmation. This guide covers everything you need to know to choose your first packer and actually enjoy wearing it.
What Is Packing?
Packing means wearing a prosthetic in your underwear to create a natural-looking bulge. For many FTM and trans masc people, packing is one of the most accessible ways to feel more comfortable in their body, especially before or instead of surgery. Some people pack every day; others pack for specific occasions. There's no right way to do it.
Types of Packers
There are three main categories of packers, each designed for different purposes:
- Everyday soft packers: Soft, flexible prosthetics designed for all-day wear. They look realistic in underwear and are comfortable enough to wear for hours. They're not designed for sex — they're designed for feeling right in your body throughout your day.
- Stand-to-pee (STP) packers: Designed to allow you to urinate while standing, in addition to providing a natural look. These require some practice but can be life-changing for trans masc people who find gendered bathrooms stressful.
- Pack-and-play dildos: Firm enough for penetration, soft enough for comfortable packing. You can wear them for a realistic look and use them for sex. The Shilo and Carter are NYTC's most popular pack-and-play options.
What Size Packer Should You Get?
For everyday packing, most people start with a smaller size — typically 3 to 4 inches. A smaller packer is more comfortable for all-day wear, stays in place more easily, and tends to look more realistic under clothing. For pack-and-play dildos, size depends more on personal preference and sexual use — the most popular starting sizes tend to be in the 5 to 6 inch range.
What Material Is Best?
High-quality packers are made from platinum-cured silicone — it's body-safe, non-porous, durable, and easy to clean. Avoid cheaper materials like TPR or PVC for anything you'll wear against your skin all day. Silicone can be sanitized by boiling, making it hygienic for long-term use.
How Do You Keep a Packer in Place?
There are several options: packing underwear with a built-in pouch (easiest for beginners), a separate packing harness that lets you wear any underwear, or medical-grade adhesive for more secure positioning. Most people start with packing underwear and adjust from there.
Caring for Your Packer
Silicone packers are easy to clean — warm water and mild soap, or a dedicated toy cleaner. For deep cleaning, silicone can be boiled. Store your packer in a clean cloth bag to keep it away from dust and lint.
Ready to find your first packer? Take our packer quiz for a personalized recommendation, or browse the full collection. Questions? Chelsea answers live every Wednesday at 9pm ET at office hours.
