Online dating is quickly becoming the preferred method of finding a quick hookup without all the small talk and worry involved in actual dating especially if you have XXXConnect.com in your corner. There are sex dating sites which cater to pretty much every preference, fetish and niche in the world. If you're into it, you can bet that somebody else is too – and that there is are ​hookup dating sites dedicated to helping you find each other! The sheer number of sex dating sites can seem almost overwhelming, especially to those new to the world of online hookups. However, you don't have to worry – you're already here, which means you have quick access to the best dating sites around!

If you're still reading, you may be feeling a bit hesitant toward free sex dating sites. No worries! That's exactly why we've put together the handy guide you're reading right now. Your first step in determining the right hookup dating sites for you is to figure out what you really want. Obviously, you're seeking a hookup. However, there are different levels, ranging from the virtually anonymous hotel variety to a slightly more involved date-like hookup. Figure out what you want – and communicate it clearly – to ensure a great experience for all involved.

That wasn't so hard, was it? Now that you've taken the first step, your next move is to figure out what specifics you want in a partner and/or experience. These dating sites offer something for everybody, so don't be afraid to be honest and specific.

Similar to but not exactly the same as your last step is your next one – determining your preferences and being upfront about them with everybody you meet online. The best sex dating sites are very open-minded places, so don't be afraid that you'll turn somebody off, offend them or make them think you're weird. Regardless of what you're into, you will find somebody who shares your desires. If you have a very specific preference, like gay military men who are into dressing up as ponies, guess what? You can find it! Niche sex dating sites are ideal for this type of focused experience. If, on the other hand, you just want a casual hookup, more mainstream sex dating sites will deliver loads of hot singles who want exactly the same thing.

In case you haven't figured it out by now, here's your bottom line – we're here to help you hook up. We just streamline the process by organizing all the best dating sites in one easy-to-use guide! Whether you want a bearded bear to share a cup of coffee with before sex or a centerfold stunner who wants to dive right into bed, you can find it via our comprehensive listings of the best dating sites.

What are you still doing here? Didn't any of those sites catch your eye? If none of those amazing sex dating sites grabbed your attention, you may still be feeling a bit hesitant. Which is fine – and perfectly normal, especially if you've never tried out these sites before.

The sections below have been put together for people just like you. They'll help you figure things out, create the best profile possible and set yourself up for some truly amazing hookups!

In order to create an awesome hookup, you have to choose your sex dating sites first. As intimidating as it might seem right now, this is actually quite easy. Remember that this is a website – not a real live person standing next to you at a bar. You can take all the time you need before "going live" and putting your profile out there for the world to see. Take your time and go through our list of the best dating sites carefully. If you keep an open mind, we're sure that at least several of our top picks will jump out at you.

We've carefully put together our list, which contains the best sex dating sites, hookup sites, free dating sites and so much more. They are mostly fairly general, meaning that anything goes. However, within many of these sites, you'll find chat rooms and groups geared toward more specific preferences. Gay, straight or bi is just the beginning – if you have a very specific fetish, don't shy away from general sex dating sites. There are people out there who share your fetish, and they aren't confined to sites dedicated to that very thing. They're everywhere, just like in the real world. If you aren't comfortable sharing your deepest desires just yet but still want a no-strings hookup, remember that there are very few hard-and-fast rules. You can indulge in a few "regular" hookups before adding your secret passions to your profile.

Yes, it's about that time – you really should sign up. There's no need to worry! Not only do many sites we recommend offer free sign-up, but signing up isn't a commitment. You still have full control over what you share online, so relax and take the first step toward some amazing nights!

Sign-up is usually as simple as choosing a username and password. Remember to keep your passwords secure – don't choose something that's easy to guess or obvious. Your username, on the other hand, will be the very first thing potential hookups will see, so make it count! You can use it to reflect your appearance, preferences or just about anything you want potential partners to know about you. You can also choose to keep it relatively neutral – but still attractive – if you're on the fence about publicly committing to your deepest secrets.

There are so many sex dating sites on our list, most people find it hard to pick just one. The good news is that you don't have to – in fact, you shouldn't even think about it! The more hookup dating sites you utilize, the higher your chances for finding amazing hookups with hot people who share your passions.

There's only one general "rule" when using several sites – be open about it. Unfortunately, some people abuse the anonymous nature of sex dating sites by creating fake profiles on tons of sites. They pretend to be several different people, which is unfair to potential partners. If you're using several sites, just be upfront about it and keep your photos and general information the same. This will avoid even a hint of sneakiness and let potential hookups know that you are being yourself, regardless of where you meet.

Now that you're creating profiles, it's a great time to review some pro tips and tricks for putting together the best ones possible. Sex dating sites are loaded with profiles that, honestly, aren't going to light a fire in anybody. They have drab (or no) photos, boring information and zero personality. Don't let that be you! Read on for our best tips on creating a profile that will dazzle even the most seasoned sex dating site user.

Pick Your Photos Carefully – This may be obvious, but it's an area far too many people overlook. A quick glance at some profile pictures will prove this! Username aside, your profile picture will allow potential hookups to get their first glimpse of you, so make sure it's a good one.

If you're a fan of taking selfies, a quick flip through your phone should turn up some great options. If the idea of using sex dating sites is still a bit intimidating, you can use a photo which only shows part of your face, keeping in mind that this may narrow your pool of potential hookups. If the site allows it, you can also be extremely up-front and obvious about your intentions by including a nude or partially nude shot, with or without your face. Remember to trust your instincts and only post what you're comfortable with the world seeing.

Your next step will entail following along with each site's sign-up or profile questionnaire. Some of these questions are very easy to answer – sexual preference, gender and so on. Others require a bit of creativity in order to let your true personality shine through. Don't pretend to be somebody else – just amplify yourself in order to let potential hookups know who you truly are! List anything about you that you would want a partner – however short-term – to know about. This is a great way to include some specific fetishes, if you have any. Some sites allow you to choose whether you're looking for dates, no-strings hookups or something in between. If you don't see this option, include it in the self-written portion of your profile so everybody knows exactly what you want and what you don't.

This is another factor of sex dating sites which may seem obvious, but is sadly often abused. Sure, you could tell the world that you're 6'7 and pick up spare cash through fitness modelling. And yes, you would get loads of messages from sexy users looking to hook up. However, if you're actually a 5'4 accountant with thinning hair and a bit of a belly, those messages aren't going to turn into real hookups. The good news? There are tons of people who will want to hook up with you just as you are! Don't fall into the trap of "padding" your profile like a work resume. Be yourself, perceived flaws and all. There's somebody for everybody in this world, and that includes the world of sex dating sites. You are awesome just as you are – don't be afraid to let it show!

Now that you've taken some blazingly hot profile pictures, told the world who you are and what you want, what's next? Fortunately, a lot. Read on for some of the most common features on sex dating sites and how to utilize each of them to kindle the hottest hookups and best all-around experience.

Chat Rooms

This time-tested feature is common on sex dating sites, and a great way to meet people in a no-pressure setting. Think of it like a real-world bar – you're just there, hanging out. If you happen to meet somebody, great! If not, no big deal. Some sites have rooms dedicated to cyber sex, while others have "clean" rooms where explicit sex is not allowed. Jump into the ones which feel right for you. If you want to watch others cyber, go for it. If you'd prefer a slightly less extreme experience, make small talk in a clean room and see what develops.

Private Messaging

A typical next step after chat rooms, private messages allow you to communicate with other users in real time but without an audience. They offer a much more intimate experience, which is why many users prefer them for cyber sex or explicit talk. However, if you're just starting out, they're also a great way to simply communicate, get to know each other better and share your intentions. As with chat rooms, go with your instincts – ​sex dating sites are not tests, and as long as you're honest, there are no absolute right or wrong choices!

Video Chat or Camming

Live video chat – often called camming – involves watching or being watched via your webcam. This can be explicitly sexual or very tame – remember that it's all up to you and the person you're chatting with. Many casual conversations end up with clothes coming off, but there's no rule that says just because you're camming you have to go there. However, a video tryst can be a great stepping stone if you're brand-new to the world of casual hookups and sex dating sites! Dip a toe in the water and see if it feels right.

The ​vast majority of sex dating sites offer an upgrade from their standard free membership. These memberships cost more but offer more benefits. For example, a standard membership may allow you to chat with other users but only those with standard memberships. In this scenario, an upgrade would give you access to other members who have upgraded. In most cases, members who are serious about hooking up in real life opt for the premium membership – it's a good indicator that they're seeking the same thing you are. As always, go with your instincts, but check out what a premium membership has to offer – you'll probably want to go for it fairly soon!