Over 6,000 Americans died abroad last year, according to the State Department – some tourists, some business travelers and others, expatriates. According to the statistics, more than half of those deaths were due to unforeseen events such as illness or accidents.
Taking a little time before your trip to prepare a few important documents could help ease the handling of your remains and even help survivors cope with the devastating loss, and subsequent decisions, so far away from home, should the unthinkable happen.
Most important are identification documents, like your passport. Experts suggest putting a list of emergency contacts and next of kin right in your passport, and carrying a Power of Attorney or an Advance Health Care Directive (Living Will) is a good idea.
Travel Insurance is also recommended – usually the moderate cost is way worth the potential benefits to those left behind – “bundled” policies often include covering emergency transportation costs.
One important thing to remember: a person is subject to the local laws of the country in which they die, so in the event of a death, contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate immediately. A multitude of forms, such as “repatriation of remains” documents, will need to be filed upon the death of a U.S. citizen abroad before remains can be shipped back to the U.S.
Experts strongly suggest, before traveling abroad, that you register your itinerary and emergency contact information with the State Department. Contact information for medical doctors and your dentist are also a good idea – sometimes medical/dental records are the only way to identify remains. A brief description of final wishes is also a good idea – transporting cremains is much less expensive than the costs associated with embalming and shipping a body.
A death on a cruise ship is a particularly challenging scenario. Generally, the ship is required to report a death at the next port of call, and, depending on local law, decisions will have to be made as to whether or not the remains will be processed locally or remain on board for the duration of the cruise.
So, before your next trip, take a few moments to discuss the topic with your traveling companion or next of kin – just in case.