Packing for Travel to Higher-Risk Destinations

A few useful tips to help you prepare for travel to higher-risk locations.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been focused on securing information in higher-risk environments. I’ve written about securing satellite communications and mobile routers, and about device hardening. I’ve also written about the importance of avoiding unwanted attention and keeping a low profile. All useful things to know and apply in dangerous places.

This week, I’m going to take a break from information security and focus on something a little more fundamental to travel: packing. Specifically, some of the things you should be thinking about when packing for a higher-risk destination.

I’ll start with clothing, footwear and bags. I’ll then get into some key items of equipment. I’ll wrap up with a few principles you can apply when packing for your own travels.

Clothing

In higher-risk locations, what you wear will have a significant impact on whether you’re easily noticed by threat groups. Specific items of clothing and accessories can also make it easier for anyone surveilling you to keep you …