School is out and with summer here, many families are planning vacations, trips to summer homes, or weekend excursions. Summer trips create special memories, and a change of scenery is often a great way to mix things up.
If you’re a nanny who will be traveling for the first time with your employer and the children, here are some important tips to keep under consideration.
Tips for Your Summer Travel
Talk about details.
If you’ve been asked to travel with the family during the summer, it’s important to discuss the details before you leave. Don’t leave anything for guessing! Ask what their expectations are of your time with them:
- Will your duties be the same as at home?
- Will you be working the same hours or expected to put in extra time?
- What kind of activities will you be responsible for?
Make sure you ask questions right away to clarify what type of care you’re providing, so when you get there, there’s no confusion or frustration.
Expect routines to fluctuate.
Whether you’re planning a summer-long adventure to another country, a weekend trip to another property, or a short-term trip to a special destination, traveling requires some flexibility in routine. Bedtimes or mealtimes may need to be adjusted and there might be time zone changes that could throw things off.
Discuss with the family what ways you can minimize any troubles that come with changes in routine and ask if there are any rules or things they want in place. Be patient, too – everyone will be in a new space, and it will take a little bit of time to get acclimated.
Discuss compensation and lodging details.
Before the trip, talk about compensation expectations with your employer:
- Will you be paid your regular hourly rate?
- Are travel, meals and hotel expenses fully covered and where will you stay?
- Is there a separate room or guest house for you?
If you are expected to take on additional childcare duties while traveling, discuss how they will compensate accordingly for that – whether that be with overtime pay, an adjusted hourly rate, etc. Some employers and nannies choose to create a separate work agreement or contract for each trip.
This might include details on extra payment/overtime, the temporary schedule, information on travel expenses and what’s covered, and any other key particulars about the trip.
Build in some downtime.
Remember, even though you’re there to work, you’re still entitled to time off. So, make sure you discuss in advance how many days off you will get and what they’ll be. This will allow you to relax, recharge, and maybe even find a little bit of time to go see and experience some new things that you’re interested in.
Pack well.
Ensure you have all the necessary documents like your passport or visa and discuss any other additional medical information documentation or emergency contact documentation that you need to take.
Are there specific things that you or the children you’re caring for can’t live without while en route to your summer destination? Pack these things in your luggage ahead of time.
Examples include some of their favorite snacks, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, a change of clothing, extra tissues, games, coloring books, or other no-screen entertainment ideas.
Research the destination ahead of time.
Whether it’s getting a handle on public transportation, or researching museums, theaters, zoos, or other kid-friendly activities, it’s a great idea to do some planning so you can breathe a little easier once you and the family arrive. If you make a list of places you might want to visit ahead of time, this could save time once you’re there so you can get out and explore more!
Embrace the Journey!
Traveling for the summer with your employer and family can often be a great time for bonding. Not to mention, it is a special and enriching time that allows for cherished memories to be made. So, go with the flow as much as you can, embrace the journey with confidence and a sense of adventure, and get ready to have fun! Safe travels!
