International Travel Safety Tips for High-Net-Worth Travelers From Global Security Experts

Convoy Group’s global security experts share essential safety tips for high- and ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families traveling abroad. 

The most important factor in a luxury travel experience is a sense of security. According to a recent study by Marriott International’s Luxury Group, 91% of respondents value a safe environment as the most critical factor over exceptional service (41%), engaging in an exclusive experience (36%), and having a genuinely personalized experience (33%). Discovering a new destination is another top mark of a luxury holiday, with 78% of respondents considering it important or very important.

Navigating evolving global travel safety concerns: the importance of researching your destination 

In recent years, civil unrest and terrorism have become major concerns for international travelers, surpassing accidents and illnesses. Protests and unrest escalate far more rapidly than in the past, and international travelers can find themselves involved in civil unrest without much notice if they are unaware of the local political landscape and do not receive actionable updates on potential dangers. Additionally, sophisticated and prolific surveillance technology has enabled states, opportunistic criminal groups, and anti-government political groups alike to control critical infrastructure in ways that can impact international travel and safety, including the degradation of power grids and cellular networks. 

A dispassionate pre-travel evaluation of the local socio-political landscape is invaluable for personal safety when traveling abroad. For example, historical precedents in countries such as Ecuador are related to protesting austerity measures and, in particular, protesting the reduction of decades-long petroleum subsidies designed to maintain low gas prices artificially. These protests can, and almost always do, entirely block significant thoroughfares in metropolitan areas and the already channelized infrastructure corridors leading from the coast – the country’s economic center – to the Andean region – the country’s political and cultural center.

Combining this pre-travel socio-political evaluation with a daily awareness of political events ensures a well-informed travel plan. It is one thing to know there is a historical precedent of protests and understand the ramifications of such activity; it is another thing to know when and where the infrastructure-blocking protests will occur and have a plan in place to mitigate the impacts those may have on your travel.

Make informed decisions that help you stay safe while abroad by researching your destination before you leave and adopting these international safety best practices: 

• Be aware of local laws, customs, and courtesies 
• Familiarize yourself with the language 
• Avoid high-risk areas and situations 
• Pack clothing and essential items that will help you blend in 
• Establish contact with local authorities or reputable security services 

Staying safe as a HNWI and UHNWI traveling abroad

While traveling offers unparalleled experiences and opportunities, it can also come with unique security challenges, especially for those with significant assets, including kidnapping and extortion, cybersecurity threats, privacy breaches, and risks to personal security.

Here are our top tips to help you stay safe as a HNW and UHNW international traveler:

• Be culturally aware and respectful of local customs and regulations 
• Rely on analytics-driven risk assessments to make comprehensive travel plans 
• Use professionally vetted secure transportation and accommodations 
• Take precautions to protect your privacy and digital security
• Employ experienced and reputable security personnel to provide close protection 

Cultural Awareness: Understand and respect local customs, laws, and regulations. Some countries have rules or norms that differ from those of the United States. Ensure you do not bring any items that your destination prohibits, such as medications, alcohol, contraceptives, religious items, and literature.

Analytically Driven Risk Assessment and Planning: Conduct thorough risk assessments of travel destinations and maintain up-to-date information on local security situations. Plan itineraries and accommodations accordingly, avoiding areas with high crime rates or volatile conditions.

Professionally Vetted Secure Transportation and Accommodations: The safety of public transportation varies from country to country.  Informal taxis or mini buses can be dangerous in many places. Arrange secure ground transportation with trusted providers and consider utilizing armored vehicles where necessary and stay in reputable hotels or accommodations with robust security measures.

Privacy and Digital Security: Maintain strict privacy protocols and use secure communication channels while traveling. Avoid connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks and utilize USB data blockers when using public USB ports. Be cautious about sharing any personal and financial information, as well as what you post on social media. Keep your trip itineraries and travel plans private. 

Close Protection and Security Personnel: Work with a specialized security consultant or travel security expert who can provide risk assessments, travel planning, and ongoing support to ensure safety and security while traveling. Employing reputable security personnel or close protection officers ensures personal security from pre-travel through your return. 

Whether it’s private jet charters that offer exclusive terminals and dedicated security screenings or secluded villas with high-level security systems, many affluent travelers now prefer utilizing personal security and travel experts. 

At Convoy Group, we understand the unique security challenges high- and ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families face. Our comprehensive personal security services ensure your protection and peace of mind while you explore the world, from helping with trip organization to mitigating risks and responding to potential threats while you’re traveling abroad. By partnering with a reputable private security firm, you’ll be able to enjoy a safer, more secure, and more enjoyable travel experience.