Since it is, once again, “Post on your social media what gear you are carrying”, or “Bodyguards unite! Empty your pockets” season, we thought it might be the right time to address the important issue of how much gear is too much and clarify some misconceptions about what EP agents should carry on duty. Just like your attire, your gear is a part of your professional image.
As an executive protection agent, one of the most important decisions you will have to make (among others) is how much gear (and what gear) to carry. Striking the right balance between being prepared and being overburdened is crucial. Too much gear can either slow you down or make it difficult for you to blend in, while too little can leave you unprepared. While many will revert back to the phrase, “Two is one, one is none”, this can get tragically out of hand.
- Misconception number ONE, and this comes mostly from EP agents who have transitioned from governmental roles into the private sector. The majority can’t seem to grasp that even the most public or high-profile clients do not use large teams. Most of them will employ 2–4-men at any one time. This along with the fact that they dislike anything that draws unneeded attention or strikes them as “tacticool,” means you will be restricted on what you will be able to carry with you.
- Misconception number TWO, tactical bags (backpacks, sling bags, funny packs, etc.) are preferable options for carrying your gear. No, they are not! It might be if your operational environment was in high threat countries. However, working for a celebrity, a C-Suite executive or a UHNW family, how you dress and what you carry has an immediate effect on your client. Can you see yourself blending in and not attracting attention to yourself, and therefore to your client, if you were to show up with a tactical sling bag in a five-star hotel or a fancy restaurant? It’s a fact that in most countries who are not American friendly, all you have to do is wait at the airport arrivals area and you can easily spot the “bodyguards” who cannot seem to understand how to adapt themselves, their attire and gear, to the environment. For those who know, they will tell you that it is easy to spot the PSD operators in many different airports by the 5.11 slacks, tactical bags with “tacticool”, or even inappropriate patches etc. If your colleagues can spot you, so can the bad guys! It’s desirable to find a bag that doesn’t scream “bodyguard” and fill it up with whatever you will need.
- Misconception number THREE, your gear load out must include whatever you think will make you look cool in the eyes of your client, and basically, all EP bags must have the same things. No! Whatever you are carrying has to take care of two people, your client first, and you second, and must be time, place, and need specific.
- Misconception number FOUR, you get to always have a bag with you. NO! There will be clients who won’t want you to carry anything, or environments when you won’t be able to carry any bag with you. Think again…Can you be at a suit and tie event and bring that gear bag with you…?
So, what you should carry (if at all) depends on your client, your team’s size, and the operational environment. Use this simple guide below to help get you on the correct path to tailor your gear loadout properly.
Team Size
Solo Operatives: When working alone, your gear selection must be minimal yet versatile. Always consider client’s needs (health issues, communication needs-carry extra charges and power banks).
Essentials might include:
- A second communication device.
- A good amount in cash.
- If legally permitted and you carry a firearm, then add extra magazines.
- First Aid Kit: Compact but comprehensive, including trauma supplies. This should be tailored based on the client’s medical needs.
- Multi-tool: For various unexpected situations.
- Maps and GPS
- Mints and gum.
- If you are working for a female client, consider carrying feminine products (you will be amazed how many times this can save their day…).
- Charging cords and power banks.
- Hand sanitizing wipes.
Small Teams (2-4 Agents): With a small team, gear distribution can be optimized. Since each member will have specific roles, this will allow for more specialized equipment:
Lead Agent: Similar gear to a solo operative but with additional communication gear for team coordination.
Advance Agent: Maps, GPS, and surveillance equipment.
Medical Specialist: A more extensive first aid kit and possibly advanced medical gear.
Larger Teams (5+ Agents): Larger teams can afford to be more specialized, with designated roles for each member. However, you won’t see many big teams in the private sector.
Operational Environment
Operational environment is very important when deciding what kind of gear you will be carrying with you. Again, your advance work will come in handy here and help you decide what to add to your bag, or your pockets…
- Urban Environments: In cities, your goal is to blend in and move quickly so you should focus on discretion and mobility.
- Rural/Remote Areas: In less populated areas, you should focus more on survival and communication tools.
- Foreign Environments: For international assignments you must prioritize adaptability and resilience. Carry copies of passports, visas, and local emergency contacts. Add any items that might be necessary for blending in and respecting local customs. Multiple communication backups, including satellite phones and encrypted devices can be helpful, if feasible.
The key to deciding how much gear is too much is to balance preparedness with practicality and client’s profile with operational environment. Tailor your gear to the size of your team, the specific needs of your client, and the operational environment. Always prioritize versatility, mobility, and efficiency. By doing so, you’ll ensure you’re ready for anything without being weighed down by unnecessary equipment or being spotted like a model from the next tactical gear magazine.
