How Old Do You Have to Be to Buy Condoms?

When it comes to buying condoms, many people—especially teenagers—wonder if there’s a minimum age requirement. So, how old do you have to be to buy condoms? Fortunately, there’s no age requirement. But, embarrassment, misinformation, and social stigma can make buying condoms feel like a challenge. In this guide, we’ll explore the facts about condom availability, where to get them, and why safe sex should never be out of reach.

How Old Do You Have to Be to Buy Condoms?

Interested in purchasing condoms? If you’re planning on having sex, it’s a good idea. How effective are condoms? When used correctly, condoms are 98% effective at preventing accidental pregnancy and the spread of a number of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), some of the top reasons for using condoms. In order to have safe sex, you need to use a condom every time. 

You don’t need to be a certain age to buy condoms. People of all ages can legally buy them. Plus, cashiers are not allowed to prevent anyone from buying condoms. Per the law, they must sell condoms to you. 

Where Can You Get Condoms?

Condoms can be purchased at a range of places. Drugstores tend to be a great place to find a range of different condoms. Shop different sizes, materials, textures, and more. You can also find condoms at most grocery stores alongside menstrual products, diapers, and other necessities. Some convenience stores and gas stations even sell condoms. 

How Much Do Condoms Cost?

Condom prices range depending on the brand and type of condom. However, you can generally expect a 3-pack count of condoms to go for anywhere from $3 to $10 per pack, which breaks down to about $1 to $3 per condom. If you buy larger packages of condoms, you’ll typically find less expensive prices per condom. 

Which Condom Should You Buy

Finding the right condoms for your needs depends on a range of factors. First, it’s important to determine whether you have any allergies that condoms might trigger. About 4.3% of the general population has a latex allergy¹ and needs to stay away from latex condoms. Fortunately, there are a number of other materials out there, like polyisoprene, polyurethane, and more. 

It’s also important to determine the size of the condom you need. A condom should fit snugly without constricting blood flow to the penis. If it’s too loose, a condom may slide off while you’re having sex. 

From there, finding the right condom is a matter of personal preference. Some like condoms with added sensations like warming or cooling. Some condoms even have numbing agents to help you last longer. Try out a few different types of condoms and figure out what works best for your needs! 

Conclusion

No matter your age, you should always use a condom when having sex. People of any age can purchase condoms wherever they’re sold: online, in drugstores, grocery stores, convenience stores, and more. Before buying a condom, it’s important to consider the type of condom material you prefer, the right condom size, and whether you’d like any ribs or dotting for added sensation. 

If you’re not sure what condoms to choose, opt for a variety pack of Durex condoms. A single package contains a range of different options, so you can try them out and see what you like best.

References

1. Wu M, McIntosh J, Liu J. Current prevalence rate of latex allergy: Why it remains a problem? J Occup Health. 2016 May 25;58(2):138-44. doi: 10.1539/joh.15-0275-RA. Epub 2016 Mar 24. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5356959/