A Beginner’s Guide to Packing

Bottom dysphoria, a common experience among transgender and gender-diverse individuals, refers to the distress or discomfort one might be feeling towards one’s genitalia or lower body. 

One of the ways that has helped trans and gender diverse people relieve this bottom dysphoria is – Packing.

The following article gets into the basics of packing, and different types of packers along with tips on how to wear them comfortably and care for them as well as information on where to find them

Packing is a technique using an object to create a bulge in your underwear to simulate the look or feel of having a penis – whether with socks or an accessory known as a packer designed for that purpose. 

Even though packers are mostly worn by transmasculine, nonbinary and gender diverse people as it helps them alleviate bottom dysphoria, it’s important to note that not all of them pack and ones that do may pack for different reasons.

For some, packing allows them to feel more safe, seen and confident in gendered spaces, or simply make them feel more comfortable in their bodies. For some folx, their packer isn’t just an object to be taken off and on but rather an extension of their own body. 

Packing is a personal decision, and it’s not something that every trans and gender diverse person has to do. People of all genders can pack, in fact some cisgender men might also pack to create a bigger bulge.

Packing doesn’t make anyone more masculine or manly than someone who doesn’t. It’s all about personal choice – it’s  totally up to you to decide whether it’s something that makes you feel good. 

What are Packers? 

Packers come in various forms, ranging from DIY options like rolled-up socks, fabric that just creates a bulge to extremely realistic fully functioning prosthetics worn inside packing underwear, offering a range of shapes, sizes, and materials. Some simply need to sit inside underwear while some require harness or prosthetic glue.  

Below is a quick overview of the types of packers:

• Soft Packers: Designed for everyday wear, these packers are soft, flexible, and mimic the appearance of a flaccid penis.
• STP Packers: STP or Stand-to-pee packers allow users to urinate while standing up. They include a built-in funnel system but may require practice to use effectively and its important to note that not all STP devices are packers
• 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 Packers: These multifunctional packers combine soft packing, STP functionality, and a firmer structure for sexual activity – 2 in 1’s’ (for packing and playing) or ‘3 in 1’s’ (for packing, playing and also peeing)

DIY Packing Solutions :

If purchasing a packer is out of your budget, or if you prefer to experiment before committing, there are several DIY options:

• Rolled-up Socks : Many beginners start by folding or rolling a sock and securing it in their underwear.
• Ankle Sock Method: Pin an ankle sock to the front of your underwear to create a makeshift pouch, preventing shifting.
• Sew-Your-Own Packers: Online tutorials, such as those from SewQueer, provide guides for making custom packers from fabric and padding.

You can also check this step by step tutorial on how to make a packer out of sheer tights here –  making your own DIY FTM Packer.

Another not exactly DIY but affordable option is Bulge-pads – they are made of soft fabrics and can be worn inside the underwear to give the appearance of a bulge.

Wearing and Securing Your Packer :

To keep your packer in place, you can use:

• Adhesives: Body-safe adhesives or silicone sheets can attach the packer to your body for a more connected feel.
• Packing Underwear: Specially designed underwear with built-in pouches.
• Harnesses or Jockstraps: Elastic or fabric straps that hold the packer securely.

So, you’ve got your packer and your securement method, but where exactly does it go? 

Finding the right position for your packer depends on comfort, personal preference, and the look you want to achieve. No matter what support you’re using – packing underwear, a harness, or a pouch – the base of your packer should sit snugly against your body ie. aligning the base of the packer with your own anatomy to prevent discomfort.

Here are common packing positions:

• Packing Down: The most natural position, where the shaft points downward. Lowering it between your legs creates a more discreet bulge, while placing it more forward increases visibility.
• Packing Up: The shaft points toward your belly button, sometimes resting under the waistband. This can be useful for securing the packer and reducing movement.
• Packing Left or Right: The shaft is angled toward either hip, which can create a more subtle appearance, especially for larger packers.

For STP (Stand-To-Pee) packers, positioning may require adjustments for functionality and comfort. Some STPs sit best when turned slightly to the side, while others work well packed down in a harness or STP-compatible underwear.

Ultimately, finding the best position is a matter of trial and error—experiment with different placements to see what feels most natural for you.

Regardless of whether you’re using a pouch, packing underwear, or a harness, the base of your packer should sit snugly against your body

Caring for Your Packer : 

Since packers are often right up against a pretty intimate part of the body, it’s important to make sure you keep them clean and hygienic.Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of your packer and ensures hygiene:

• Silicone Packers: Can be boiled or washed with soap and water.
• Softskin/Cyberskin Packers: Require gentle cleaning with mild soap and warm water, followed by a light dusting of cornstarch to maintain texture.
• Sock/other fabric : Make sure to replace the socks with a fresh one every day and for other fabrics used – wash it gently with soap and water.
• Storage: Keep your packer dry and store it in a clean pouch or sealable bag to prevent contamination.

Where to get Packers and related accessories? 

You can buy packers as well as its accompaniments online or as explained above DIY them.

International Stores That Ship to India:

• TransGuy Supply: Packers | Packing Underwear
• Sock Drawer Heroes: Visit Here
• Peacock Products: Visit Here
• Trans Essentials: Packers & STPs

These retailers often offer a wide selection of packers, packing underwear, harnesses, and other accessories (jockstraps, swim briefs).

Availability in India:

Currently, there aren’t any dedicated Indian brands for packers. While international brands (mentioned above) are an option,some buyers have faced customs clearance issues – so proceed with caution.

You can find packing underwear (such as Rodeoh) and bulge pads on Amazon India, but always check reviews before purchasing.

DIY Packers:

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, you can make a DIY packer using socks as explained above! Check out these tutorials:

• DIY Packer Tutorial
• DIY Packing Tips (Start at 8 mins)

Choose a packer as per your personal needs and preferences – it takes a bit of trial and error to figure out what works for you!

Remember, Packing is about personal comfort, confidence, and self-affirmation.

Whether you choose to pack occasionally, daily, or not at all, your gender and identity remain valid. Explore what works best for you, and know that you have options to make your experience safe and comfortable.

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References : 

https://www.transhub.org.au/prosthetics

https://www.folxhealth.com/library/transgender-packer-guide

https://sockdrawerheroes.com/pages/packing