What is a common characteristic of a drug smuggler, according to the flashcards?

A common characteristic of a drug smuggler is often seen through extended travel without luggage. This behavior can raise suspicion among law enforcement because it suggests that an individual may be attempting to transport illicit substances without the burden of typical travel items. Smugglers might choose to travel light to avoid attracting attention that could accompany carrying excessive belongings, which could include indications of their criminal activities. Their strategy generally hinges on minimizing items that law enforcement could inspect, therefore making the lack of luggage a distinctive red flag in identifying potential smugglers.

The other options, while possibly relevant in some contexts, do not align as closely with recognized behaviors of drug smugglers. For example, carrying large amounts of luggage may indicate an excessive amount of personal items rather than the nonchalance expected of a smuggler, who would typically want to avoid scrutiny. Being calm upon contact with officers could be a tactic used by various individuals and not specific to smugglers. Traveling in a group might also not be a definitive trait, as smugglers may sometimes prefer to operate alone to reduce the chance of being detected.