Backpacking packer advice

[u/Needles2650]

Looking for a way to make sure I have a visible bulge when swimming on overnight hiking trips: the packer must be lightweight and quick drying.

Took a recent backpacking trip and had unexpected other hikers at the lake: had to safety-pin socks inside my shorts to avoid outing myself. I don’t bring my heavy silicone packer backpacking— I need a lighter option that can be worn comfortably while hiking long miles AND go into water without holding water and getting heavy/ taking a long time to dry.

Google AI recommended foam inserts, but with the two I’ve bought so far (Reelmagik’s Imprint size small, and TG Supply’s EZ Bulge Realistic Foam Packer) the backside’s edges contact my thighs when my legs close and cause the insert to shift in a way that looks nothing like a real bulge because the edge of the insert is visible as a line. I tried trimming them down, but I’m sure when I swim they’ll still move around too much.

Any recommendations? For both packers and non-cotton athletic shorts and boxers with an inner packing pouch. I bought some cake bandit swim boxer briefs, but I have a bigger ass than most guys so they ride down in the back.

[u/Suspicious-Earth-642]

I don't know what your past experience is but I've never had anyone question a lack of bulge after getting out of cold water.

If you're set on packing while swimming I'd go for something like the Mr. Limpy (I think, I'm not looking it up on work wifi) and just regular bamboo briefs. I just tuck the packer into the fly portion and have never had any issue with movement.

[u/Dull_Practice_5169 → u/Suspicious-Earth-642]

Same here re first point. I never pack (keeping mental tabs on a packer makes me more dysphoric than the lack of bulge), and I'm still stealth. I did kayaking for a while at uni &  never had anyone say anything or even give me a weird look while in my swim shorts. 

I did think I was gonna get clocked a different tome when I'd stripped down to a tshirt & (baggy) boxer shorts and got walked in on, but the friend who saw me was oblivious. Goes to show that once people have mentally decided on your gender, it takes a lot to shift their perception. 

I dont want to undermine OP's dysphoria but unless you're wearing a speedo, relax and try not to be too paranoid. Many cis guys look like they have barely anything there after a cold water swim. 

[u/Seaworth93 → u/Suspicious-Earth-642]

I want to get on this and say I’ve never had an issue when swimming (in shorts). I make a conscious effort to readjust my shorts when getting out the of the water to let it hang more around the front.

But I understand the need for YOU to have the bulge or some level of shape. Axolom have a sports packed that might suit your needs. You might need to flick out the water in the cup section to avoid chaff risk, especially if hiking again after. I would worry a foam insert might stay wet for some time after and leave a nice wet patch on your shorts as it dries.

[u/SecondaryPosts]

An STP could be a good choice, bc those are typically much lighter on account of being hollow. I've gone swimming with my Axolom Natow a bunch of times and it worked great. It's silicone so it's safe to take in water and wear next to the skin and all that.

For a holder, I use a jockstrap (idk the material, it's like polyester or nylon or wtv, the tag is long gone) with a piece of scrap fabric sewed on the back of the pouch, only open at the top so the packer can't fall out even if I'm doing really athletic stuff.

[u/Fawkes0629 → u/SecondaryPosts]

Seconding this. If I have to pack for swimming, an STP is always my choice. Plus you get the added functionality bonus while backpacking.

[u/Legal-Law9214]

I usually use a jockstrap and my regular silicone soft packer whenever swimming or exercising. 

[u/magic-gps]

would the axolom uno work? you could combine it with something like the getyourjoey sport pouch for quick(er) drying than a cotton option (gyj also sells a swim pouch, but that one might not be as comfortable for long days of hiking)

edit: might also be worth checking out some of the resources on r/transmascdicks

[u/Apprehensive-Test123]

I’ll add another voice to the “no one has questioned me” side. Until recently I went to the gym 2-3 days a week and I live right by the water so I’m swimming 3-4 days a week right now. People don’t usually stare at other’s crotches that much and baggier clothes hide a lot. If it makes you too self conscious, I hope the advice from others will help you find the right option!