10 Things you need to keep in mind when traveling to hostile areas

Due to terrorism and hostilities between countries – or even civil violence – traveling to some countries may be inadvisable. Before even considering visiting these places, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of everything. However, in case traveling to such countries is a matter of life and death, being well-prepared for whatever may happen could mean your survival.

Here are 10 important things you need when going to hostile regions. ((h/t to PreppersWill.com)

1. Well-trained companion – The first smart thing to do when traveling to a hostile place is to a have a travel buddy who can protect you. A trained companion reduces the risk of getting kidnapped and may come in handy during emergencies. He/she must know the area well, has local connections, has access to basic necessities, and knows how to protect himself/herself and others as well. You’ll find that there are companies who offer this kind of service to foreigners traveling to dangerous countries. Furthermore, companies who send their employees to such places are often sent out together with a trained travel buddy.
2. Knowledge in self-defense – The element of surprise is what makes a kidnap attempt successful. It’s important to carry a small hand-to-hand weapon when traveling, or learn how to defend yourself in close combat. There are self-defense tools that are small enough to pass undetected in most security checkpoints. For example, self-defense rings were designed to look harmless but built to make serious piercing and tearing damage.
3. Your very own firearm/s – Yes, it’s hard to obtain guns legally in most countries, but if you can, do so. However, in case you have a hard time getting approved through the legal process, it’s best to befriend locals who can supply you with weapons. You never really know when the worst-case scenario will come, but in countries where violence is prevalent, you always have to be ready to protect yourself.
4. Satellite phone – In some underdeveloped countries, phone signals may not be the best. At the very least, you can get basic cell coverage in the city, but once you go a bit farther, chances are your phone is of no use in terms of being a communication device. Invest in a good satellite phone. It may set you back a few thousand dollars, but it will be your saving grace in case of an emergency.
5. Built-to-last phone – Fancy phones have no place in dangerous countries. So if you’re traveling to one, replace your smartphone with a sturdy, water- and dust-proof cellphone. More importantly, bring a phone that has a long battery life.
6. Fake wallet – Instead of putting your real wallet inside your jeans pocket, replace it with a decoy. So in case you get robbed, you can surrender your fake wallet and be able to save your money, IDs, and cards.
7. Decoy safe – There’s nothing more dangerous than keeping your valuables in obvious places. In hostile places, even hotel rooms can be very susceptible to theft, so it’s wise to create a covert safe. For instance, instead of putting your money in your wallet, place it on a pouch strap that you can attach to your legs.
8. Solar panel – It’s not guaranteed that you’ll always have access to electricity, which is unfortunate since many of our things need to be recharged. That’s why it advisable to bring portable solar panels for your gadgets.
9. Money alternatives – You’ll never know when dollars, credits cards, and checks will no longer save you. Make sure to bring valuables like jewels or gadgets which you can use as a payment alternative in some countries.
10. Enough local knowledge – Always do your research before traveling to a different country, even more so, to hostile ones. Learn some of their behaviors and at least try to blend in by knowing what the locals usually wear. Having enough knowledge can later save you from possible embarrassment or risk.

Learn which countries are not safe to visit by going to Terrorism.news today.

Sources included:

PreppersWill.com

KevinCoffey.com