Planning a spring break trip — with or without the family — comes with a lengthy to-do list. Triple-check passports. Book flights. Make reservations for Bark Twain at the doggy motel. Make sure your neighbor still has a spare key.

There’s one step many families overlook before heading out on a big trip: making sure their estate plans are updated. Just like choosing travel insurance or confirming flight details, this is a smart, practical part of traveling well-prepared so you can fully focus on the next museum or beach on your itinerary.

Because this planning takes more than a few days, it’s important to start making those arrangements now so you’re ready to pack that suitcase in March or April.

Why Travel Is the Perfect Time to Plan

Travel naturally brings a few uncontrollable variables into play: you may be far from home, harder to reach, or leaving children with Grandma or a trusted babysitter. That’s why many families find that travel is the perfect “nudge” to get their estate documents in order.

Think of it like this:

● You check passports so you’re not panicking when the Uber drops you off at the airport.

● You pack high-protein snacks so nobody (including you!) has an epic meltdown at Gate 12.

● You set your estate planning in place so your loved ones are protected and informed, just in case.

You’re not planning for disaster; you’re just promising yourself some peace of mind.

Key Documents to Review Before You Travel

You don’t need to overhaul your entire estate plan before every trip, but a quick review of a few core items can make a real difference.

Will & Guardianship Designations
If you have minor children, your will should clearly name guardians. That way, if something unexpected happens, you — not a stranger in a courthouse — get to decide who’s looking after your kids.
Healthcare Agent & Advance Directives
Naming a healthcare agent means someone you trust can step in for health-related decisions without delays or confusion.
Powers of Attorney
A trusted person can handle matters like paying bills, accessing accounts, or making time-sensitive decisions while you’re away. Think of this as leaving a spare key, but for your finances.
Temporary Guardianship or Travel Authorization
If your children are staying with a relative or friend, this allows caregivers to make medical decisions or handle emergencies on your behalf. For example, if your flight’s stuck in London and your child needs to see the pediatrician, instead of a 3 a.m. call across time zones, a simple designation form clarifies who can make decisions for schools or doctors during the parents' absence.

A Simple Step for a Stress-Free Trip

Once your documents are in order, make them easy to find by tucking the originals somewhere safe and sharing copies — or at least locations and access instructions — with trusted family or friends and your estate planning attorney.

Estate planning doesn’t have to be a heavy lift or a somber conversation. Most of the time, it’s simpler than trying to figure out which bag you packed the sunscreen in. Whether it’s a short weekend getaway or a big family trip abroad, a few proactive steps now can free you to focus on what really matters: making memories.

Final Thought

So before your next trip, take a little time to make sure your estate plan is up to date. If it’s been years since you reviewed it — or if you don’t have one yet — now is a perfect moment.

A conversation with Melissa at Miroslavich Law can help ensure everything is in place, so when you board that plane, you can relax and enjoy the adventure ahead. Get started with your free consultation today!

Estate Planning