Why travel changes the role
Travelling with a nanny can be enormously helpful, particularly for families with young children, multiple destinations or demanding schedules. It also changes the usual working environment. A nanny may be supporting children through airports, jet lag, unfamiliar accommodation, disrupted routines and long days away from home.
For that reason, travel should never be treated as an informal extension of the normal week. The expectations, responsibilities and rest arrangements need to be discussed properly.
Agree responsibilities before departure
Clarify what the nanny will manage during travel days, flights, transfers, meals, naps, excursions and evenings. Will they pack for the children? Hold passports? Supervise swimming? Provide proxy parenting while parents attend events? Help with laundry? Work overnight?
The more specific the conversation, the smoother the trip. Good candidates are flexible, but flexibility should not mean uncertainty.
Contracts, pay and time off
Travel can affect working hours, overtime, accommodation, food, expenses and rest days. Families should review the nanny’s contract and agree how travel time, additional duties and personal time will be handled.
A nanny who is travelling for work is still working, even if the destination is beautiful. Respecting rest time is essential for performance, fairness and long-term goodwill.
Documentation and legal considerations
International travel requires preparation. Check passports, visas, work permissions, letters of consent, medical insurance and emergency contacts. Some destinations may have specific rules around working while travelling, and assumptions can create unnecessary risk.
If the nanny may travel alone with the children, written parental consent and clear documentation are particularly important.
Protecting the children’s routine
The best travel nannies combine flexibility with consistency. Share the itinerary early and discuss sleep, meals, activities, screen time, medical needs and comfort items. Maintaining familiar anchors helps children feel secure, even when the setting changes.
Pre-travel checklist
- Confirm duties for travel days, evenings, excursions and overnight care.
- Agree pay, overtime, expenses, accommodation and time off.
- Check passports, visas, consent letters and travel insurance.
- Share routines, medical details, packing lists and emergency contacts.
- Discuss privacy, social media, photographs and confidentiality while away.
Frequently asked questions
Should a nanny be paid extra for travel?
Often, yes, depending on the contract, hours and additional responsibilities. Families should agree travel pay and overtime before departure.
Can a nanny travel on a tourist visa?
This depends on the destination and the nature of the work. Families should check visa and work permission requirements before travelling.
What makes a good travel nanny?
A good travel nanny is organised, calm, discreet, flexible and confident managing children in unfamiliar environments while maintaining safe, consistent routines.
Related guidance from Leaman Consulting
- Childcare and Education recruitmentFor nannies, maternity nurses, governesses, tutors and private education appointments.
- Margaux LemoineHead of Childcare and Education at Leaman Consulting.
- Onboarding a new nannyPrepare the relationship before travel becomes part of the role.
Useful external resources
- ACAS employment adviceHelpful context for contracts, working time and employment practice.