Family vacations are some of the most precious times we have together. Whether you’re escaping to the beach, visiting relatives, or exploring new cities, these shared experiences create the stories your children will remember for years to come.

But if we’re being honest, the idea of traveling with kids can be overwhelming. From unpredictable schedules to endless packing lists, even the most organized parents can feel stretched thin. That’s why having the right support makes all the difference.

At Choose The Right Nanny, we believe that travel doesn’t have to be stressful. It can be smooth, joyful, and truly fulfilling when you have a loving nanny by your side. Here are some thoughtful, tried-and-true tips to help make your next trip a little easier and a lot more meaningful.

1. Plan the Trip as a Team

The best trips start with teamwork. Including your nanny in the planning process can relieve a huge amount of pressure. They’ll know exactly what your children need to feel safe, rested, and engaged during travel. Together, you can coordinate travel schedules around nap times, choose child-friendly accommodations, and brainstorm fun, age-appropriate activities at your destination.

Some nannies even create shared packing lists with the family to ensure nothing is forgotten, from favorite bedtime stories to extra essentials.

2. Pack with Heart

Traveling light with kids may sound impossible, but it’s all about intentional packing. Your nanny can help choose essentials that offer comfort and calm, such as a well-loved blanket, a familiar bedtime book, or a favorite snack.

Consider preparing separate travel kits for each child with:

  • Art supplies or coloring books
  • Quiet toys or fidget items
  • Reusable water bottles
  • A small surprise gift for travel day
  • Noise-canceling headphones for older children

By anticipating their needs and bringing along items that offer familiarity, you’re helping your child feel secure in a new environment.

3. Keep Routines (Even on the Road)

Children thrive on routine, and travel can easily disrupt their sense of structure. A nanny can help bridge the gap by gently maintaining regular routines such as mealtimes, nap schedules, bath time, and bedtime rituals, even while on the move.

These consistent moments of normalcy help children feel grounded and safe, no matter where they wake up.

4. Turn Travel Time into Bonding Time

Traveling doesn’t have to mean boredom or tantrums. With your nanny’s creativity, long car rides and airport layovers can turn into quality bonding time.

Think of storytelling games, travel bingo, scavenger hunts, or gentle movement exercises to keep little bodies and minds engaged. Let your nanny lead the way with play and patience as they adjust in real time to your child’s needs.

5. Be Flexible, Together

Even the best-planned trips come with surprises such as missed connections, weather delays, or unexpected mood swings. Having a nanny by your side helps buffer those stressors. Their calming presence can ease transitions and help keep everyone regulated and reassured.

Their role is not just to care for the children but to support the entire family.

6. Include Children in the Journey

With the support of your nanny, even toddlers can feel like part of the adventure. Give them small, meaningful tasks like choosing their outfit for the day or helping count luggage. This boosts their confidence and makes them feel like important members of the team.

It’s also a great way to create teachable moments. Learning about new cultures, trying new foods, and exploring nature all become part of the travel experience.

7. Make Space for Everyone to Recharge

Traveling as a family can be a wonderful adventure—but it can also be tiring for both parents and nannies. While family trips are often centered around creating special memories for the children, they’re also an opportunity for everyone to rest and recharge.

When bringing your nanny along on vacation, it’s important to remember that while it may be a break for your family, your nanny is still working. She’s there to support you, but that support will be stronger if she has time to rest as well. Be thoughtful about building in breaks or quiet moments so your nanny has space to recharge—whether it’s enjoying a peaceful cup of coffee in the morning, reading by the pool, or simply having some solitude.

Compensation should reflect any additional hours worked beyond her regular schedule, including overnight responsibilities. Planning ahead for a fair overnight stipend or additional pay ensures your nanny feels appreciated and cared for too.

When everyone has a chance to rest, your trip becomes more enjoyable for all. A well-rested nanny is able to provide attentive, loving care—helping your children feel safe, happy, and supported, while you enjoy quality time together as a family.

A Gentle Reminder Before You Go

Traveling with kids isn’t always easy, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right planning, the right support, and the right nanny by your side, your family adventures can be filled with peace, connection, and joy.

At Choose The Right Nanny, we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way, whether you’re heading out for a weekend road trip or flying across the country.

Need a little guidance or curious about how a nanny can support your next trip? Let’s connect. We’d love to hear your story and explore how we can help.

To learn more about us and what we offer, visit www.ctrnanny.com.

You’ve got this and we’ve got you.