Travel will: what is it, and should you take it with you on a trip or while backpacking?
What is a travel will?
- A travel will is a document in which you record what should happen if something happens to you during your trip.
- It states what should happen to your belongings and finances, who should contact your family or authorities and what your wishes are in the event of a medical emergency or death.
- A travel will is recommended for destinations where you run a high risk of dying.
- When you leave a short or long travel will with the most important information and instructions, you can inform one or more confidants (family or friend).
- Also make sure that someone knows where to find your passwords for example for social media so that these accounts can be easily closed.
What can you use a travel will for when traveling and backpacking?
- If something goes seriously wrong during your travel, despite good preparation, it is good to know that relatives or those left behind know what to do.
- A travel will provides clarity in the event of an emergency, disappearance, a serious accident or death. It is also nicer for your family, when they have to make decisions on your behalf.
- In addition, it prevents confusion or arguments regarding your possessions, your social media or what should happen to, for example, your beloved pet.
- A travel will is also used as a medical proxy to determine who can speak on your behalf in serious situations.
- When traveling solo or for long periods of time, it can be an important backup.
When do you take a travel will with you on a trip or while backpacking?
- A travel will is recommended, especially when you:
- Travel alone, certainly when you cross between continents.
- Stay away for a long time or do not have a permanent place of residence.
- Travel to countries with increased risk (for example remote areas, politically unstable).
- Have chronic conditions, or are planning a risky activity (for example climbing high mountains, deep-sea diving).
Where else in the world can you buy a travel will locally?
- No. You arrange this before departure, in your home country.
- You can make it available digitally (e.g. via your cloud storage or with a trusted person).
- Some countries do not officially accept foreign documents, but they do help in practice.
