Personal security travel guide — concise version

Authored by:

matta

The Red Guild | SEAL

🔑 Key Takeaway: Protect assets while traveling by minimizing sensitive data, using encrypted devices, avoiding public networks, securing wallets, controlling devices physically, and sanitizing after return.

Before traveling

• Remove or securely store any data, devices, or documents not essential for the trip. Less sensitive material reduces risk if lost or stolen.
• Perform a quick threat model: list what you carry, who may target you, and how. Plan mitigations accordingly.
• Enable full-disk encryption on all devices; update OS, firmware, and apps before departure.
• Back up devices, record serial numbers and IMEI, and verify Mobile Device Management (MDM) enrollment and "Find My" functionality.
• Print or securely store backup 2FA codes; disable SMS-based 2FA if possible. Use eSIM or secondary numbers for authentication.
• Use password manager travel modes to hide sensitive vaults while away.
• Update and test hardware wallets; never travel with written seed phrases.
• Carry hardware wallets and 2FA tokens on your person; keep spares securely at home.
• Use strong phone passcodes; disable biometrics in risky scenarios; enable Lockdown Mode if available.
• Minimize your digital footprint: avoid public travel announcements and crypto branding.
• Prepare an emergency plan: who to notify if devices are lost or compromised, and how to revoke access quickly.
• Research local laws on encryption and tech; carry travel letters or sanitized devices if needed for border crossings.

While traveling

• Prefer cellular data or personal hotspots over public Wi-Fi; disable automatic Wi-Fi connections.
• Use a trusted VPN and consider a portable router to encrypt traffic on public networks.
• Turn off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirDrop, and Nearby Share when not in use to reduce attack surface.
• Keep devices on you or locked; use cable locks and hotel safes (though note they can be easily opened by experienced thieves).
• Be cognizant of what you are posting on Social Media in real time. Delay posting a location by 1-2 days to avoid anyone tracking you.
• Avoid public USB charging stations ("juice jacking"); use your own charger or a USB data blocker.
• Use privacy screens on laptops and phones; be mindful of shoulder surfing and phishing attempts.
• Don't discuss sensitive information publicly; be alert for hidden cameras or microphones in accommodations.
• Use passphrases on wallets and multisig setups for large crypto holdings.
• Separate hardware wallets and keys from the devices they authenticate.
• Consider portable door locks and tamper-evident bags to secure your room and devices overnight.
• When presenting or doing public appearances, prepare a clean, isolated environment and verify no confidential data or open ports are accessible before connecting to unfamiliar networks.

Returning home

• Change passwords and verify 2FA on accounts accessed during travel, preferably from trusted devices and networks.
• Scan devices for malware and unusual behavior; factory reset if you suspect compromise.
• Inspect hardware wallets for tampering; transfer funds if compromised or suspicious.
• Remove travel-specific SIMs, accounts, or apps no longer needed.
• Report incidents to your security or IT team; share lessons learned to improve future security.

High-risk traveler extras

• Use burner or loaner devices with minimal data; assume they may be compromised and plan to wipe them post-trip.
• Power down and encrypt devices before border crossings to limit data exposure.
• Disable biometrics completely pre-travel to avoid compelled unlocks.
• Enable Lockdown Mode and use end-to-end encrypted messaging apps (e.g., Signal).
• Use Faraday bags and tamper-evident seals to prevent tracking and unauthorized device access.
• Physically inspect devices before and after travel for signs of tampering or implants.
• Increase multisig signer requirements while traveling; geographically split key custody.
• Use duress codes if supported by hardware wallets.
• Establish secure emergency check-ins and code words with your team for rapid response.

Further reading

• Travel overview: how the travel pages fit together
• Travel Guide: the reasoning behind each item
• Secure Workspace and Travel: the control-domain treatment
• Seed Phrase Management: why key material stays home