Dying on Vacation: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Introduction to Dying on Vacation
Many of us dream of exotic locales and adventure during our vacations. However, fear of unexpected events can often hinder our travel plans. One of the biggest fears for many travelers is the possibility of dying while on vacation, a scenario that can result in a complex and distressing situation for the deceased's family and loved ones.
Consequences of Dying on Vacation
According to legal and diplomatic procedures, if you die on vacation, the local authority of where you die and your next of kin, whether legally or illegally registered, will be involved. Additionally, your national embassy in the country where you passed away will have a role to play, particularly if you are traveling in a different country. This can include contacting your family and friends and making arrangements for transportation.
US Embassy and Travel Insurance
The responsibility falls on the US Embassy to manage the situation, including contacting family members and organizing the return of remains. If you are traveling abroad and unfortunately pass away, your family will face a significant challenge. Ensure you have travel insurance to cover any unexpected expenses, as repatriating a deceased person's remains by air can be quite costly, often around $200 per kilogram for freight.
Legal and Bureaucratic Procedures
Your death abroad may require a death certificate to be issued by the country where it occurred. If there is no foul play involved, this process will generally be rapid. However, if your family is not present, the laws of the country where you died will apply. This could mean waiting for your family to arrive, or in certain cases, disposal of your remains according to local laws.
Repatriation of Remains
The process of repatriating remains back to your home country can be complex and requires a funeral director to assist. Repatriation is officially considered an import and an export, and customs clearance is necessary at both ends. Some countries may require an import permit to transport remains home.
Challenges During Repatriation
Your family will need to navigate extensive bureaucratic procedures, including obtaining a death certificate endorsed by your embassy and invalidating your passport. Ensuring that the death certificate is in a recognized language and possibly translating it may also be necessary.
Preparation and Practical Advice
To minimize potential complications, it is advisable to find the nearest hospital while on vacation, especially if in an exotic location. Ensure your family and you are fully aware of the nearest medical facilities. You can also plan your vacation around an island with a hospital, making it easier for your family to handle any unexpected situations.
Another important step is to communicate any specific wishes you have regarding the disposition of your remains. This can be particularly helpful if your spouse or partner does not want to cut the vacation short, as was the case with the couple on the cruise where the deceased was temporarily stored in a morgue.
Conclusion
The prospect of dying abroad is a daunting one, but being prepared can significantly alleviate the stress on your loved ones. Ensure you have travel insurance, research the nearest medical facilities, and communicate your wishes clearly to your family. While it is comforting to think that 'dying happily' is a sufficient reason to travel, being proactive about potential scenarios can make your journey more peaceful and less distressing.