Getting started with urban exploration
Whether you want to capture original footage, explore mesmerizing architecture or experience the thrill of being somewhere that remains hidden from the public, urban exploration may be the adventure you’re looking for.
If you’re interested in urban exploration and want to know how to get started, keep reading to discover everything you need to amplify your next adventure. From understanding the dangers and legality to ensuring you have everything you need, this article has you covered.
What is urban exploration?
Urban exploration, often known as urbexing, is a popular adrenaline-filled activity that involves discovering abandoned sites that aren’t frequently accessed — if at all.
Many people have become fascinated with the beauty that comes with decaying buildings, watching nature take over and discovering old architecture. Most urban explorers are those interested in photography, local history and the thrill of exploring unseen places.
You can find exhilarating locations online or by simply getting out and exploring. Popular abandonments include:
Warehouses
Hospitals
Amusement parks
Railway stations
Power plants
Schools
Manors
Churches
Other urbexing locations, such as sewers, storm drains, mines and tunnels are extremely dangerous and mostly illegal — and definitely not recommended for newbies.
Urbexing dangers
Exploring abandoned buildings comes with dangers that vary depending on the site’s condition, age and how long it’s been out of use. Dangers you need to consider include:
Violent people — gangs hanging out or homeless people
Toxins — asbestos, mold, chemicals and radiation
Poor construction — unstable floors, stairs and structures
Animals — both alive and carcasses
Electricity — stray electrical cables
Be sure to plan ahead, take note of potential dangers and go equipped with protective clothing and accessories. Additionally, if something doesn’t feel or look right, listen to your instincts.
Is urban exploring illegal?
While trespassing is clearly against the law, doing so on abandoned properties is still debated.
Generally, if there is a clear sign stating no trespassing, or if you have to break anything to enter — it’s illegal. If there’s no signage posted or gates anywhere to stop anyone from entering, most urbexers view this as an open invitation.
Additionally, if you want to explore somewhere that is clearly forbidden, consider tracking down the owner and requesting permission to enter for research or photography.
What to consider before you go urbexing
Urban exploration is filled with adrenaline and excitement, but it can also end in disaster. You don’t want an exhilarating adventure to turn into a devastating injury — or worse. Keep these tips at the top of your mind:
When urban exploring, start easy
Some locations require more experience regarding safety measures and knowledge of the site itself. To get started, keep it easy with places that showcase a reduced risk of danger, such as warehouses as opposed to sewers.
Research your urbex target
Extend your research once you’ve decided where you’re going to explore. Not only to gather interesting facts, but also to discover how to enter, what to look out for and the local laws regarding whether or not you’re allowed to be there.
Furthermore, be sure to scan the premises before entering to make sure it’s vacant and to judge whether it’s safe to enter.
Apply caution to everything as you explore
Be extra cautious with every step and movement, tread lightly, avoid fast movements and keep the volume to a low. This is mostly to ensure safety, but also to avoid raising alarms to people passing by.
When urbexing, take nothing but photos
You can admire graffiti behind the camera lens, but there’s no part of urban exploration that involves vandalism. That goes for removing anything that entices you, too. Take nothing and leave nothing.
Never go urbexing alone
Exploring alone isn’t worth the risk. When it comes to urban exploration, it’s always worth bringing someone along; not only to keep each other safe, but to share the adrenaline kick, too.
Always go urbexing well-equipped
Be sure to go with a well-equipped backpack to keep you safe and amplify the fun. Urban exploration essentials include:
Protective clothing that includes long pants, solid shoes and gloves
Flashlights — including backups and head straps
Mini first-aid kit
Water
Phone
Face mask — a dust mask or a respirator (sometimes necessary)
Maps
Camera
Self-defense tools (although this is debated due to the potential of being seen as a threatening weapon)
Everything you need for urban exploration
Lowepro ProTactic 350 AW II Modular Backpack: available at Amazon
Whether you’re heading out with a full kit of camera equipment or general urbexing essentials, this ultra-protective backpack is key, with its dividers to organize equipment and tools while also keeping them safe. It offers a built-in cover for waterproof protection, too.
WTACTFUL Touch Screen Motorcycle Full Finger Gloves: available at Amazon
These wear-resistant gloves provide the ultimate protection needed for urban exploration, with their microfiber material and convenient touch-screen-friendly function. They’re designed with protection, comfort and flexibility in mind.
Kitgo Small First Aid Kit: available at Amazon
Be prepared for anything with this compact first aid kit that’ll take up minimal storage space on the go. It contains 170 first aid essentials, including must-have bandages and wound-cleaning tools, all in a waterproof case.
BioLite Rechargeable Headlamp: available at Dick’s Sporting Goods and Amazon
This 200-lumen water-resistant headlamp will leave you confidently hands-free, choosing from various lighting modes with an 8-meter beam distance. It features an adjustable band, an optional lock button and a rechargeable battery that lasts 40 hours.
Fujifilm X-Pro3 Mirrorless Digital Camera: available at Amazon
This compact 26.1MP camera features a weather-sealed and scratch-resistant frame that’s perfect for urbex expeditions. Alongside a tilting LCD screen, it boasts a professional-quality range of modes and controls, essential for low lighting.
HUHETA KN95 Face Mask: available at Amazon
Stay safe and protected with this 20-pack of face masks, each made up of five filtering layers to protect you from dust and other nasty things in the air. They’re super lightweight, foldable and feature comfortable, adjustable ear loops and nose clips.
Courtney Love is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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