Travelers Need These Estate Planning Documents

Whether you fly frequently for business or occasionally for pleasure, before your next flight takes off, you should have your estate planning and healthcare documents completed. A recent article from Fast Company, “Healthcare docs are the unsung hero of travel season: An estate planning expert and seasoned traveler weighs in,” explains what to do and why.

When most people think about their estate plans, they typically consider a last will and testament, funeral arrangements, or trusts. However, healthcare documents are just as critical, even for younger adults. This group of documents includes a Medical Power of Attorney, HIPAA Authorization, Living Will (also referred to as an Advance Healthcare Directive) and any state-specific healthcare documents, such as an MOLST (Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) or a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) order.

These documents serve as a playbook for your care, to be used by loved ones in the event of an unexpected occurrence. You don’t need to be on an airplane to suffer a sudden health event or accident. However, there’s nothing like a turbulent flight to make people wonder if they’ve completed their estate planning.

Everyone has heard the stories from friends and family about someone on a hiking trip who suffers an injury and needs to be airlifted, a college student who becomes seriously ill and has not named a legal guardian. If the right documents are in place, these documents will allow a loved one to act on your behalf, quickly and decisively.

Here’s what you need to do:

• Consult with an estate planning attorney and get the process of creating an estate plan, including healthcare documents, started.
• Name a healthcare proxy who can speak on your behalf if you’re unconscious or not able to communicate your wishes. Everyone over 18 should have this document.
• Protect your documents, whether they are digital or paper. Ideally, you have both. Digital copies of your estate planning and health documents should be stored in a secure location, allowing you or your representatives to access and share them with treating doctors or health insurance companies.
• Talk with your travelling companions and your family members. Let them know where your documents are stored and what your wishes are, in case of an emergency.

You’d never travel without a passport. Your estate plan, including healthcare documents, deserves the same consideration. You plan your trips well in advance, your planning should include making sure you and your family are prepared for any emergency.

Traveling safely isn’t just about packing your passport or checking your bags—it’s also about making sure your legal and healthcare documents are in order. By taking the time to complete and protect these essential estate planning documents, you ensure that, no matter where life or travel takes you, your wishes are known and your loved ones are empowered to act on your behalf. At The Werner Law Firm, our experienced probate attorneys can help you prepare the right documents so you can travel with peace of mind.

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Reference: Fast Company (Aug. 19, 2025) “Healthcare docs are the unsung hero of travel season: An estate planning expert and seasoned traveler weighs in”