Tools for urban exploration

Self defense tools may also provide an extra layer of protection when urbexing in an unfamiliar area. Listed below are five of our favorite self defense tools while urban exploring and why we like them.

With the growing popularity of urbexing, you may likely encounter other explorers on your excursion. Sometimes you may also find a homeless person living in an abandoned building or just some kids hanging out. This usually lessens the tension and can often to the experience into a very memorable one.

And if you do come across someone living in an abandoned building be kind and give them some space. This is there home and you were not invited. But, you never know what kind of situation you may find yourself in. Sometimes gangs use abandoned buildings to meet or sell drugs. Always trust your gut and always use common sense when exploring. If you see something that looks odd — leave. We prefer to play it safe and bring along a small self-defense tool or two just in case.

That being said, we do not recommend carrying a firearm while urban exploring. If you get caught while urban exploring you may get let off with a warning. Always check your local laws to make sure your self defense tools are acceptable. Pepper spray is a safe, non-lethal self-defense tool to bring along during urban exploration. This Sabre Red compact pepper spray has a ten-foot or three-meter range and can be clipped onto your belt or backpack for convenience.

It comes in a lightweight canister so it is easy to bring along while urbexing. Pepper spray can help chase away drunks or a person that becomes violent during your exploration. This particular spray also contains a UV colored marking making it easy for the police to find the attacker if need be. While pepper spray is effective on most people, some people are not affected by it.

It can also take a while for pepper spray to kick. Make sure you are familiar with how to operate the spray. Each canister of pepper spray is a little different and it is a good idea to take your spray outside and try it out before you take it with you while exploring. Never spray pepper spray upwind of the attacker and be careful when spraying in an enclosed area or you may end up getting the spray into your eyes as well. The Sabre Red spray features a twist-lock to prevent accidents and also comes with free training materials.

The packaging contains links to training videos so you can feel extra protected on your next exploration. If you do get stopped by the police while urban exploring pepper spray is usually considered a self-defense tool and not a dangerous weapon.

This can help keep your interaction with the police to a friendly one. The Sabre Red pepper spray is a professional grade maximum strength spray.

This is the same type that is used by the police. It can dispense approximately thirty-five separate bursts of spray so you can use one can to protect your group of explorers from multiple incidents. This is important when using your camera. Light is one of your top considerations. Disused factories and ruinous cold war bunkers are dark places. Many urbexers like to explore at night, but even during the day, natural light can be limited. A handheld torch is a must-have.

You can take as much care as you like, but accidents can still happen. The Surviveware First Aid Kit is perfect for exploring locations.

It has everything you need in a compact and waterproof case. A first aid kit might sound over the top for a photography shoot. But it could be a life-saving piece of equipment. Thankfully, no one will be around to see you. You might think goggles are a bit extreme. But abandoned buildings are full of nasty surprises. Things can fall or fly out at you. You could get dripped on or splashed by god knows what. Again, a safety mask might seem extreme. Old factories might have toxic gases and liquids.

But even something like a small filter mask, like the Huheta KN95 , can provide a lot of protection. The legs are telescopic, so it fits into your backpack and is easy to carry. You can also try the Joby Gorillapod. Mosquito Repellent is another good thing to have in your pack.

A water bottle and snacks are vital on urbex expeditions. Wear robust clothing and shoes. You need to protect your skin and keep warm if it gets cold. A pack waterproof is another handy item to include in your urbex gear.

Abandoned places are amazing locations for exploration and photography. But never head out on an urbex expedition unprepared. I personally love the Gerber Dime multi-tool. The most useful features that I use are the flat head driver, wire-cutter, and pliers. If asked, you use it to make repairs and adjustments to your tripod and camera.

The Gerber Dime multi tool is available on Amazon if you want to check it out yourself. This carabiner is great for securing your key to your belt loop, or can easily attach to your backpack for easy access. This can also make a decent last minute defense tool albeit possibly not the greatest option. The multitool has 10 tools in one and comes with a ruler, bottle opener, seat belt cutter, hex wrench, screwdriver, bike spoke wrench, key ring, Phillips screwdriver, and of course the carabiner itself.

You can pick one up at this link here.