International travel concentrates risk. Devices leave controlled environments, networks are untrusted, and itineraries are often visible to more people than intended.

We recommend travel-specific devices provisioned with only the data needed for the trip, hardware security keys for every critical account, and encrypted connectivity that never relies on hotel or airport Wi-Fi.

Before departure, a destination briefing covers local threats, legal considerations for device inspection, and a clear escalation path. On return, devices are reviewed before rejoining the home network.

Done well, none of this is visible to the traveler. They simply work, move, and rest without carrying uncertainty.

Assessing the destination

Travel risk depends on destination, profile and purpose. Begin with official sources: the U.S. State Department's travel advisories and country information, and OSAC reports for business travelers. Consider local laws on encryption and device inspection, the likelihood of targeted surveillance, and the reliability of local medical and emergency services.

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program so the nearest embassy can reach you in an emergency, and share the itinerary only with those who need it.

Devices and data on the road

For elevated-risk destinations, use clean loaner devices carrying only the data and accounts needed for the trip. Enable full-disk encryption, strong passcodes and remote-wipe, and keep devices physically with you rather than in hotel rooms or safes. Avoid public USB charging; use your own charger and power bank.

Use a trusted encrypted connection instead of hotel or conference Wi-Fi, be cautious with Bluetooth, and decline unexpected software updates on unfamiliar networks. Be aware that some border agencies can inspect devices, which is another reason to travel with minimal data.

People and plans

Agree check-in times, emergency contacts and a simple duress signal before departure. Vet drivers and hosts through known providers, and verify any change of pick-up arrangements. Keep copies of passports and medical details accessible to a trusted contact at home. On return, review devices before reconnecting them and rotate credentials used during the trip.

After you return

Review travel devices before reconnecting them to home or office networks, change any passwords used abroad, and debrief on anything unusual during the trip.

Frequently asked questions

Should executives use burner phones when traveling?
For high-risk destinations, clean loaner devices with minimal data are a sensible precaution. They limit what can be lost, seized or compromised.
Is hotel Wi-Fi safe?
Treat it as untrusted. Use an encrypted connection and avoid sensitive work on shared networks.
What should I do before an international trip?
Check State Department advisories, enroll in STEP, prepare devices, limit itinerary sharing and agree emergency check-ins with family or your security team.

Sources and further reading

External resources are provided for general information. This article is not legal, financial or security advice for your specific situation.