Relationships have their perks, but unattached people need to get lucky too. If you’re fond of the single life but enjoy the occasional one-night fling, you probably know that these sexual adventures are either fantastic and orgasmic or embarrassing and awkward. There are a few ingredients necessary for a successful fling, so here are some tips to keep in mind:

Choosing your partner

The other half of your one-night experience will play a big role in how well things go. You’ll want to make sure that the person you choose is well aware of the circumstances – it’s very painful to find out the morning after that the person you were hoping was down for “just some fun” wants more. That being said, you don’t want to go home with someone you don’t trust. If at all possible, have a conversation with the person you’re considering before meeting – preferably more than one. This will make it less awkward when it’s time to turn the lights down low and get naked, and it will also make sure you’re on the same page about where things are headed.

Lay off the booze

You may find that bars are the ideal hunting grounds for a quick and frisky partner, but overdoing it on booze can send your night into a nosedive. Too much alcohol can make it difficult to perform in the bedroom, and it lowers your inhibitions, meaning you could end up making a big mistake. One or two drinks to help give you a bit of confidence and break the tension is fine, but too much alcohol and it’s probably best to take a taxi home – alone.

Be prepared

Sleeping with someone you’ve only recently met can be fun, but it can also be dangerous. Even if the person has sworn up and down that he or she is clean, you can never be certain. Your best form of STD prevention is to wear condoms every time. If you aren’t certain whether you’ll end up back at your place or go home with someone else, bring a few pleasure condoms with you when you head out at night, and make sure you have plenty in the bedside drawer at home. While you’re at it, stock up on personal lubricant, or else you could find yourself stuck in a bind.

Keep an open mind

You might set out in hunt of a one-night stand, but it never hurts to keep an open mind. After you’ve gotten busy in the sack, you may find that the person you brought home is a great conversationalist. If you feel a spark, don’t ignore it. Give your phone number to your partner and let him or her know that you’d be down for a drink or dinner some time. If the other party isn’t interested, you’ll probably never hear from him or her again. But if your horizontal mambo partner is feeling the same way, you may find that you have found a new boyfriend or girlfriend.

If the sex is really good

Sometimes, casual sex can be mind-blowing, and if that’s the case, there’s no reason you can’t turn your one-night experience into a regular thing. Having a friend with benefits can make life easier – you won’t have to go out hunting for that perfect one-night stand anymore. If your partner doesn’t feel the same way, don’t sweat it. Everyone has different preferences, and you shouldn’t let his or her rejection take away from the fact that you had a rockin’ good time.