In this timely conversation, Cresset Security & Intelligence Advisor Kara Rossello welcomed Eric Turasz, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at Global Guardian, to discuss the evolving travel landscape and practical considerations families may want to evaluate as they plan. Drawing on experience in military operations, security, and crisis response, Turasz shared perspectives on emerging geopolitical, medical, digital, and personal security risks that can affect travelers. From international vacations and study abroad programs to major global events and multigenerational travel, the discussion emphasized that preparation and clear communication can be important parts of planning for travel. Together, they explored strategies that may help travelers think through personal information protection, contingency planning, and decision-making before and during a trip.
Key Themes
Preparedness can support safer travel planning: Thoughtful planning before departure may help reduce avoidable issues and improve readiness. Examples included establishing family communication plans, identifying meeting points, organizing key documents, and reviewing local conditions so travelers have a plan if disruptions occur.
Digital security is an increasing travel consideration: Travelers may face threats that begin online and later translate into real-world impacts. Data exposure, social media sharing, public Wi-Fi use, and AI-enabled scams can create vulnerabilities—highlighting the value of practical “digital hygiene.”
Family travel benefits from a multigenerational lens: Different family members can face different risks. From study-abroad students and young adults to older family members and caregivers, travel planning may be stronger when expectations around safety, communication, and emergency steps are discussed in advance and tailored to each traveler.
Situational awareness remains important: Whether attending major events, visiting unfamiliar destinations, or traveling domestically, staying alert to surroundings, avoiding overly predictable routines, and understanding local dynamics may help travelers make more informed choices.
Trusted local resources can matter during disruptions: In certain situations, access to reliable local support—such as vetted transportation, medical resources, and on-the-ground assistance—may help travelers adapt more quickly when plans change.
Resilience through planning, not fear: While today’s travel environment can feel more complex, the discussion reinforced that informed preparation may help families travel with greater flexibility—and approach decisions with a clear-eyed view of risks and tradeoffs—while continuing to pursue meaningful experiences.
