As international travel becomes more accessible, it also requires a new level of preparation. From cybersecurity threats and medical emergencies to geopolitical uncertainty and everyday travel disruptions, today’s travelers benefit from thinking beyond itineraries and packing lists.
In a recent virtual conversation, Kara Rossello, former CIA Security Professional, sat down with Erick Turasz, Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at Global Guardian, to discuss how families can travel more confidently in an increasingly complex global environment.
Drawing on more than two decades as a U.S. Air Force Colonel and Special Operations pilot, along with his experience advising families, executives, and organizations around the world, Erick shared a practical framework for preparing before departure, reducing unnecessary risk, and responding effectively when the unexpected occurs.
“Our goal,” Erick explained, “is to give some actionable takeaways that you can implement today… in your preparation, and then during the execution of your trip.”
The conversation underscored an important message: while travel risks continue to evolve, thoughtful preparation remains one of the most effective forms of protection.
Preparation Is the Best Travel Companion
Whether traveling internationally or domestically, Erick emphasized that preparation should begin well before arriving at the airport.
Today’s travelers face a broader range of challenges than ever before, from medical emergencies and transportation disruptions to cyber threats and geopolitical instability. While these risks cannot always be prevented, many can be mitigated through careful planning.
“Thoughtful preparation can help families travel with greater confidence and peace of mind,” Kara noted in opening the discussion.
For Erick, preparation means understanding both the destination and the realities of modern travel, while ensuring that every member of the family knows what to do if plans change unexpectedly.
Understanding Today’s Risk Landscape
The discussion highlighted several trends shaping today’s travel environment.
Erick shared data showing increases in wrongful detentions, kidnappings in parts of Latin America, medical evacuations, and transportation-related incidents, reminding participants that many travel emergencies have little to do with crime alone.
“The most prominent cause is car accidents,” he explained, noting that language barriers, unfamiliar medical systems, and insurance complications often compound what begins as a routine emergency.
He also cautioned against assuming that any destination is entirely risk-free.
“There’s a misperception that traveling to Europe is safe — it’s considered a low-risk region. Unfortunately, we continue to see where violence is on the rise there.”
Rather than discouraging travel, Erick encouraged attendees to understand the specific risks associated with each destination and prepare accordingly.
Digital Security Is Now Travel Security
One of the strongest themes throughout the conversation centered on protecting personal information while traveling.
As cybercriminals become increasingly sophisticated, travelers should think about digital security with the same level of attention they give physical safety.
“If you’re going to be doing any type of financial planning or interacting with your banking institution,” Erick advised, “I would not travel with any personal devices” containing sensitive information.
Instead, he recommended traveling with dedicated devices when possible, limiting stored personal information, and keeping only essential contacts available.
Families should also maintain secure digital copies of important travel documents.
“Keep a copy of your passport and your travel documents,” Erick said. “Should your hotel room get broken into, or those items are stolen, you’ll still have access to what you need.”
Families Should Plan Together
Preparation becomes even more important when traveling with children or across multiple generations.
Erick encouraged parents to think beyond logistics and consider the digital habits and security awareness of younger travelers.
“What are they posting?” he asked. “What’s the security level of their phones? Are they on lockdown?”
He also recommended establishing a clearly identifiable family rally point outside the hotel in case members become separated during an emergency.
Simple habits like keeping phones charged, carrying essential medications, and discussing contingency plans before departure can dramatically improve a family’s ability to respond calmly if circumstances change.
Small Habits Can Reduce Big Risks
Many of Erick’s recommendations focused on practical steps that require little effort but can make a meaningful difference.
Among them:
- Use vetted transportation providers rather than relying solely on rideshare services or taxis.
- Avoid posting your location or travel plans on social media in real time.
- Vary routes and routines when possible.
- Keep emergency supplies, chargers, medications, and first-aid essentials readily accessible.
- Review travel insurance carefully to understand what is and is not covered before leaving home.
“As far as travel insurance goes,” Erick said, “I highly recommend you review your terms and conditions.”
He noted that many travelers misunderstand what traditional travel insurance actually provides, emphasizing that support often comes after an incident rather than during one.
Awareness Over Anxiety
While the conversation addressed serious risks, its central message was not one of fear. Instead, Erick encouraged families to adopt a mindset of awareness rather than anxiety.
Most travel experiences are positive, but preparation allows travelers to respond more effectively when disruptions occur.
“There is something to trusting your gut instinct,” he said, encouraging travelers to remain aware of their surroundings and avoid becoming easy targets.
Criminals, he noted, generally seek opportunities, not obstacles. Demonstrating awareness and preparation can often discourage opportunistic threats before they materialize.
Confidence Comes from Preparation
As the discussion concluded, one theme remained consistent: confidence in travel is built long before the journey begins.
Preparation is more than packing luggage or booking flights. It includes understanding destination-specific risks, protecting personal information, creating contingency plans, and equipping every family member with the knowledge to respond if plans change.
For today’s travelers, security is no longer simply about avoiding danger, but also about making informed decisions. Taking the right security precautions can help families focus on the connection, discovery, and shared experiences that travel is meant to provide.
When preparation becomes part of the journey, peace of mind can travel alongside it.