We all look forward to vacations — a time to unplug, reset, and spend time with the people we love. Whether you’re heading to the mountains, catching a flight to the beach, or just planning a quiet staycation, there’s something about stepping away from everyday life that feels so good.
But before you zip up your suitcase and set that “out of office,” there’s one more thing you might want to pack… peace of mind.
Why Legal Planning Should Be Part of Your Vacation Checklist
We double-check our packing lists, schedule pet sitters, and confirm hotel reservations. But rarely do we think about the legal side of leaving town — especially when it comes to family care and emergencies.
If you’re a parent, a business owner, or caring for loved ones, vacation prep should also include a few practical legal steps. They’re not scary or overwhelming — just thoughtful ways to make sure your people are protected if you’re unavailable for any reason.
Name a Short-Term Guardian for Your Children
This is especially important if you’re traveling without your kids. Many parents assume that if something were to happen, a grandparent, sibling, or close friend could easily step in. But the truth is, without legal documentation, those people may not have the authority to make medical or emergency decisions for your child.
A Short-Term Guardianship document allows someone you trust to immediately care for your child in your absence — even temporarily. It avoids confusion, delays, and in some cases, prevents law enforcement or social services from being required to intervene.
This simple step brings so much peace of mind and takes less time to complete than packing your suitcase!
Review and Update Your Estate Plan
sometimes your documents should too.
Take a few minutes before your trip to review:
- Who you’ve listed as guardians
- Your healthcare and financial decision-makers
- Beneficiaries and emergency instructions
Even small updates can help your plan better reflect your current wishes. And if you haven’t started your estate planning yet, no worries — this is a great time to take that first step.
Leave Instructions for Caregivers and Loved Ones
If someone’s caring for your child, pet, or home while you’re away, make sure they’re set up for success. Create a folder (physical or digital) with:
- Emergency contacts
- Medical info and insurance
- Daily routines or important notes
- Your travel itinerary and contact info
- Any relevant legal documents (especially guardianship or POA)
This isn’t about over-preparing. It’s about making life easier for the people who love you — and ensuring your family stays protected while you enjoy your time away.
Peace of Mind Is the Real Goal
Planning your vacation should be fun. Legal prep doesn’t have to take away from that — in fact, it adds to your peace of mind.
Knowing that your children, your assets, and your wishes are all protected allows you to actually rest. Whether you’re flying to a faraway island or just taking a much-needed break, you deserve to enjoy every moment without second-guessing what might go wrong.
And remember: you don’t have to figure this out alone. We’re here to guide you with warmth, clarity, and care — making the process simple, approachable, and tailored to your family’s needs.
Let’s Make Sure You’re Covered Before You Go
If you’d like help creating a short-term guardianship document, reviewing your estate plan, or getting started from scratch, we’re here for you. No stress. No pressure. Just good planning, from one family to another. Because the best part of any vacation is knowing everything — and everyone — is taken care of.
We’re here when you’re ready. Book a complimentary 15-minute call and let’s talk through what you need.
