Your Ultimate Urban Exploration Loadout: Tips for Success

Urban exploration, or urbex, is a unique way to discover hidden corners of the city. Whether you're exploring abandoned buildings, forgotten structures, or simply getting to know the details of the city you live in, the right gear can make all the difference. Over the years spent delving into the alleys and pockets of downtown Washington D.C., I've learned some valuable lessons on what to bring and what to leave behind.

Travel Light, Blend In

The original rule of thumb still holds true: travel light and blend in. This doesn't mean you should strip down your arsenal, but rather, be mindful of your equipment choices. I always carried a 2 GWU cloth backpack for books and a wallet. Lightness is key, as you don't want to attract unnecessary attention.

These days, I'd suggest a few additional items:

A concealed credit card and ID if you need to access something A Fanny pack for various small essentials Lipstick or other non-intrusive cosmetics A small but effective deterrent device like Mace pepper spray, a freight train sound whistle, or a taser (if you're experienced)

Mild or non-lethal deterrents are advisable to carry. These devices can be turned on you, so use them judiciously.

Adopt a Persona

As you explore, try to adopt a persona that blends in with the locals. Avoid flashy jewelry or clothing that might draw attention. Bring a camera, but be mindful of photographing people. Always seek their permission, and ideally, get their signature if you plan to use their photo.

Squandered Potential: Discovering Your Purpose in Urbex

Exploration doesn't have to be random. Setting a specific goal can enhance your experience. For instance, during grad school, we were assigned to photograph the results of noise pollution on older buildings in downtown Washington. This led to an exciting journey of discovery. Here are a few ideas:

Photograph pocket parks and their usage Document graffiti and art installations Capture the history of forgotten architecture

Setting a goal can help you explore more purposefully and engage more deeply with your surroundings.

Nighttime Exploring: Red Light Setup

If you're planning to explore at night, keep a few important factors in mind. Red light gear is crucial:

It's less visible than white light, making your light signature less obvious It preserves your night vision, a crucial skill when navigating dark environments Most annoying bugs are less attracted to red light, making your experience more comfortable

There are several ways to achieve red lighting:

A headlamp with IR or red settings Red tape over a flashlight A red photo flash gel wrapped around a torch with a rubber band

These modifications are particularly useful when exploring dilapidated structures or undertaking light painting and astrophotography.

The Power of Photography: Documenting Your Urban Adventures

Photography is a valuable tool for capturing your urbex adventures. I recall an old photograph I took in 1970 of noise pollution in downtown Washington:

Sloughing off of the old limestone in the center is caused by years of constant noise just below.

This photo demonstrates the lasting impact of noise pollution on buildings and serves as a reminder of the importance of urban exploration.