The last time I was in Kabul for the first round of the elections in April, the security on election day was surprisingly calm. Still, I had to wear a security vest and helmet in accordance with DW's rules. Ironically, the helmet and vest also make you more of a target because wearing them makes you stand out. I normally try to choose appropriate clothes and make me look more Afghan. Of course, I also have to make sure my head scarf matches my clothes and that my shirts are long enough. You can never go wrong with scarves that cover your mouth - to protect you from the dust in Kabul. The smog has also been known to make breathing difficult.