Rising geopolitical tensions, ongoing crime, and new digital scams are pushing wealthy families to rethink how they travel and protect themselves when abroad. Experts say that places once seen as safe for affluent travelers are becoming more unpredictable and risky.
The US State Department has flagged many parts of Mexico as high-risk due to crime and kidnapping threats. Security professionals note that criminal groups are increasingly focused on foreigners believed to have money. Political unrest and conflict in several areas add to the challenges facing international travelers.
Private wealth advisors report a surge in families asking for help with travel safety, crisis planning, and specialized insurance like kidnap-and-ransom (K&R) coverage. Patti Clement, executive vice president at HUB Private Client, highlights the urgency. She says families need to be proactive now more than ever, not just buying policies but learning how to act if something happens.
Kidnapping remains a major concern worldwide. Thousands of incidents happen each year, especially in Latin America, though many go unreported over safety or privacy fears. Wealthy individuals can be targets because of their digital footprints. Social media photos or posts about travel, homes, and possessions can alert criminals to opportunities.
To address these dangers, some insurers and advisors review travel plans with security experts. This helps spot risks related to healthcare, transportation, and local conditions. These reviews can also reveal that regular travel insurance often doesn’t cover emergencies in high-risk zones.
K&R insurance, once mainly for companies with staff in dangerous places, is now in high demand among private families. Clement said she used to see just a few policies sold each year, but lately she’s arranging one every other day. These policies don’t just pay out money; they give access to crisis teams made up of former law enforcement or military specialists who handle negotiations and safety.
Modern K&R coverage goes beyond kidnappings. It can protect against threats like digital extortion, political evacuation, emergency medical help, and “express kidnappings” where criminals quickly force victims to withdraw cash. Digital threats are growing too, with scammers using fake stories that sound real to trick families.
Experts encourage families to plan ahead. This might mean not posting travel details online, checking the backgrounds of household staff, and setting up emergency communication plans. Some use secret code words to signal danger or hire private security for added help.
The key message is that everyone needs some kind of plan. Whether it’s insurance or a security network, having resources ready before a crisis is what makes the difference. Clement says K&R insurance should be talked about as openly as cyber insurance. Ultimately, helping families understand risks and prepare early is the best way to stay safe while traveling.