What advisors need to tell clients traveling abroad this summer

investmentnews.com:

Stop the mail. Check. Pull out the plug on the toaster oven. Check. Set the burglar alarm and timers on the sprinkler system. Check, check.

Call financial advisor to review estate plan, document location and travel insurance?

Better make sure your client checks those boxes too.

The post-pandemic surge in international travel has continued this summer with no shortage of families — especially high-net-worth ones — taking to the airports and taking off to foreign locations. Financial advisors nationwide are steadily fielding calls from clients inquiring about what they should have in place prior to leaving home. And while the spike in conflicts abroad hasn’t stopped them from leaving, advisors say their clients are more concerned about safety and security than in prior years.

“We advise our clients to not let their children post pictures of their travels, as this will catch the attention of a potential thief — who can either rob their house while they’re gone or plan a kidnap or robbery event while traveling,” said Patti Clement, executive vice president at HUB Private Client.

Clement added that she advises clients to avoid using public Wi-Fi and charging stations as this is a way for cybercriminals to access personal information. She also recommends that they avoid wearing high-value items including pricey clothing and jewelry, or anything flashy that will attract attention. Better off leaving it home if possible.

As for what to bring on the trip, the more virtual, the better.

“Whether domestic or international travel, our clients have an organized virtual vault they can access their personal documents when traveling. Specifically with international travel, our clients have an electronic copy of their passport available