Childcare on Vacation Isn't Impossible

Getting away as a family can be an amazing opportunity to bond. There are certainly few things better than seeing how different countries can excite young and older children. However, childcare on vacation may concern you, and we have ideas to help.

Unfortunately, when you have kids to take care of for the entirety of your trip, you’re at risk of burning out and missing vacation activities that aren’t suitable for the whole family, like visits to posh restaurants or tasting trips to local vineyards. You shouldn’t miss out on these essential experiences just because you’ve got children. So, what can you do?

Vacation-based childcare might not be the easiest solution, but it is the only way to get away and enjoy adult experiences in the area. We provide a few tips for simplifying finding reliable childcare while you’re away.

Tip # 1 – Choose your hotel wisely

While you could easily pick a sleek and snazzy hotel complete with a spa and on-site golf course during your pre-child days, it isn’t possible when traveling with children. Your kids will get bored without fun activities, and you won’t get to embrace the pampering sessions.

By comparison, family or child-friendly hotels will typically offer at least some level of destination childcare, whether that takes the form of day clubs, or even hotel-specific babysitters in the evening. It is a great option because it provides peace of mind that your kids are in safe, reputable hands. You can easily plan your date nights or days off without worrying about childcare availability. Family-friendly hotels also offer the best entertainment, pool spaces, and general child-based fun, and you’ll likely be glad you found an option like this for more than just the childcare benefit.

Tip # 2 – Speak to your hotel about local babysitters

If you couldn’t book at a family-friendly hotel, it’s still worth talking to your hotel concierge about potential local babysitters. While you could always head online and find someone local yourself, the risk of language barriers or picking someone untrustworthy is high when you’re in an unfamiliar location.

By comparison, your hotel concierge is likely experienced in the best English-speaking local babysitting service. They may even work in tandem with a service that can take the stress out of this process. At the very least, your concierge can research and book the best option for you. Simply let them know the day or night you wish to have free at the start of your stay.

Tip # 3 – Consider affiliate daycare for Childcare on Vacation

Affiliate daycare is a less common option, but it’s worth looking into if you’re taking a trip somewhere not far from. Oftentimes, daycares will be part of a group, which may include multiple locations or sister companies. These daycares have affiliations with your trusted daycare, potentially easing your worry. It may be possible to schedule your kids for a one-time visit or a few days of your vacation.

The main benefit of this option is that daycares can typically fax your child’s paperwork easily between locations, so you can rest easy knowing this daycare knows everything possible about any medical conditions, preferences, and contact details. However, it isn’t always a possibility, so be sure to check this out in advance.

Tip # 4 – Make it a whole family affair

Taking your extended family on vacation with you might not sound like the best way to relax, but don’t knock the benefit of having on-tap childcare at your disposal. Without leaving your kids anywhere you aren’t comfortable with, this option allows you to plan for anything local that you fancy doing without the kids.

Even when you have the children in tow, having grandparents or other relatives around can ease stress on vacation. It allows you to share the load and spend more time enjoying yourself.