Estate Planning Before Traveling Abroad
Although estate planning may be the last thing on your mind when preparing for an international vacation, it is an important consideration. Before you pack your bags, take a moment to think about these two essential questions:
Question #1: What planning should I do if I am going to leave my minor child in the United States while I vacation abroad?
When leaving your minor child with a trusted person, it’s crucial that they have the authority to fully care for your child while you are away — including seeking medical treatment and signing school permission slips.
Choosing someone to watch over your child does not automatically give them the legal authority to make these decisions. Most states provide a legal document that allows you to name someone as a temporary guardian of your minor child.
Keep in mind:
- This document is only valid for a specific period (typically six months to one year, depending on state law).
- You may need to sign a new one before the current document expires.
- Naming a temporary guardian doesn’t remove your parental rights — it simply provides a backup while you’re away.
If you’ll be traveling without your minor child, make sure your estate planning documents are up to date. A Last Will and Testament is particularly important because it allows you to nominate a guardian for your child in the event of your death, if the other parent is unable to care for them.
Question #2: What items might I have missed that I should add to my to-do list in preparation for my trip?
Beyond the usual pre-travel checklist — like stopping mail delivery or adjusting your thermostat — consider adding these important estate and safety steps:
- Meet with an experienced estate planning attorney to create or update your plan.
- Legally appoint someone to handle financial matters while you’re away.
- Research how to name a medical decision-maker in the country you’ll visit if you’ll be staying long-term.
- Contact your health insurance provider to confirm international coverage.
- Review whether travel insurance is advisable for your trip.
- Check your life insurance policies to ensure beneficiaries are correct and that your planned activities won’t void coverage.
- Apply for or renew your passport (and your child’s, if applicable).
- Prepare the necessary legal documentation to authorize someone to make decisions for your child during your absence.
Ready to Travel with Peace of Mind?
If you’re planning an international excursion and want professional advice on these matters, we’re here to help.
