Childcare While Traveling: Complete Guide 2026

Traveling with children doesn't mean giving up on adult time entirely. From resort kids' clubs to hotel babysitting services, childcare options exist at many destinations. Knowing what's available—and how to use these services safely—can help you enjoy your trip while ensuring your children are well cared for.

This guide covers your childcare options when traveling.

Types of Travel Childcare

Resort Kids' Clubs

What they offer:

• Structured programs for children
• Activities by age group
• Professional staff
• Often included in resort fees
• Hours vary (daytime, some evenings)

Common at:

• Family resorts
• Cruise ships
• All-inclusive resorts
• Disney and theme park hotels
• Beach resorts

Hotel Babysitting Services

What to expect:

• In-room sitters through hotel
• Vetted providers
• Often require advance booking
• Hourly rates
• May have minimums

Third-Party Services

Options include:

• Care.com travelers
• Local nanny agencies
• Destination childcare services
• Babysitting apps

Kids' Camps and Activities

Adventure options:

• Ski school programs
• Surf lessons
• Day camps at destinations
• Museum programs
• Nature programs

Hiring Local Sitters

Finding local help:

• Recommendations from hotel
• Local care agencies
• Online platforms
• Word of mouth
• Vacation rental contacts

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Resort and Cruise Kids' Clubs

What's Typically Offered

Programs usually include:

• Age-grouped activities
• Crafts and games
• Outdoor play
• Meals or snacks
• Sometimes swimming
• Entertainment

Age groups:

• Toddlers (2-4)
• Young children (5-8)
• Tweens (9-12)
• Teens (13-17)

Evaluating Programs

Look for:

• Staff ratios
• Qualifications of staff
• Facility quality
• Activities offered
• Hours of operation
• Cost structure

Ask about:

• Staff training
• Check-in/out procedures
• How children are supervised
• What happens if child is unhappy
• Communication with parents

Popular Resort Programs

Known for quality:

• Disney resort kids' clubs
• Club Med kids' programs
• Beaches resorts
• Four Seasons Kids for All Seasons
• Ritz-Carlton kids' programs

Cruise Ship Programs

What to expect:

• Age-specific clubs
• Usually included in cruise fare
• Evening babysitting (extra fee)
• Pagers for parents
• Open-door policy to check

Major lines:

• Disney Cruise Line (highly regarded)
• Royal Caribbean Adventure Ocean
• Carnival Camp Ocean
• Norwegian Cruise Line

Hotel Babysitting Services

How It Works

Typical process:

• Request through concierge
• Advance booking (24-48 hours)
• Sitter comes to your room
• Hourly rate + often gratuity
• May have minimum hours

What to Expect

Services usually include:

• Hotel-vetted providers
• Background checked
• CPR/First Aid trained
• Liability coverage
• Set rates

Costs:

• $20-40/hour typical
• Minimum hours often required
• Gratuity expected (15-20%)
• Higher for multiple children

Finding Hotel Babysitting

Ask about:

• Does the hotel offer babysitting?
• What agency do you use?
• How are sitters vetted?
• What's the booking process?
• What are the rates?

Third-Party Childcare Services

Destination Nanny Services

Options:

• Sitters specifically for tourists
• Local agencies with vacation focus
• On-demand apps
• Pre-booked vacation nannies

Popular Services

Consider:

• Care.com (check for destination)
• Local nanny agencies
• Vacation-specific services
• Hotel recommendations

Vetting Unknown Providers

Do your research:

• Read reviews
• Ask for references
• Verify credentials
• Video call beforehand
• Trust your instincts

Planning Ahead

Before You Book

Research:

• What childcare exists at destination?
• What's included vs. extra cost?
• What ages are accommodated?
• What are the hours?
• Do you need to pre-book?

Reservations

Book early for:

• Resort kids' clubs (popular times)
• Hotel babysitters (limited availability)
• Special activities or excursions
• Evening care

What to Bring

For any care situation:

• Emergency contact information
• Medical/allergy information
• Comfort items
• Snacks child likes
• Activities/entertainment
• Clear instructions

Preparing Your Child

Help them by:

• Talking about the kids' club
• Showing pictures if available
• Practicing separation if nervous
• Keeping attitude positive
• Not forcing participation

Safety Considerations

Before Using Any Service

Verify:

• Background checks conducted
• Staff training and qualifications
• Staff-to-child ratios
• Facility safety (for programs)
• Emergency procedures

Questions to Ask

Essential:

• How are staff vetted?
• What training do they have?
• What's the check-in/out process?
• How will you reach me if needed?
• What are your emergency procedures?

Red Flags

Avoid if:

• Reluctant to answer questions
• No clear vetting process
• Facility looks unsafe
• Poor supervision observed
• Your gut says no

Staying Connected

While your child is in care:

• Know how to be reached
• Understand the center's location
• Have backup contact number
• Know pickup procedures
• Check in if anxious

Tips by Destination Type

Beach Resorts

Childcare often includes:

• Kids' clubs with beach activities
• Pool supervision (sometimes)
• Age-appropriate programming
• Evening care options

Look for:

• Shaded areas
• Water safety protocols
• Sunscreen policies
• Hydration practices

Ski Resorts

Options:

• Ski school (ages 3+)
• Non-skiing kids' clubs
• Indoor play programs
• Full-day care options

Benefits:

• Parents can ski adult terrain
• Children learn with peers
• Professional instruction
• Appropriate progression

Theme Parks

Consider:

• On-site hotel kids' clubs
• In-park care services
• Height-requirement alternatives
• Rider swap programs
• Kid-friendly areas

Urban Destinations

Options:

• Hotel concierge services
• Local agencies
• Museum programs
• Local sitter apps
• Cultural programs

International Travel

Additional Considerations

Think about:

• Language barriers
• Different standards
• Cultural practices
• Vetting challenges
• Emergency communication

Finding Care Abroad

Strategies:

• Use international hotel chains
• Research before you go
• Connect with expat communities
• Use trusted agencies
• Get recommendations from travelers

Safety Abroad

Extra precautions:

• More thorough vetting
• Stick to reputable sources
• Have backup plans
• Stay close initially
• Know local emergency numbers

Making It Work

Managing Expectations

Be realistic:

• Some kids won't separate easily
• Adjustment time may be needed
• Not every child likes kids' clubs
• Be flexible with plans

Maximizing Value

Get the most from:

• Use kids' clubs for adult activities
• Schedule spa/dining for care times
• Alternate between family time and adult time
• Use evening care for date nights

When It's Not Working

If child is unhappy:

• Respect their limits
• Try shorter sessions
• Choose different times
• Explore alternatives
• Include them in plans

Special Situations

Traveling with Infants

Options:

• In-room babysitters
• Some kids' clubs accept 6+ months
• Bring your own sitter
• Take turns with partner

Children with Special Needs

Plan ahead:

• Contact programs in advance
• Explain specific needs
• Ask about accommodations
• Bring necessary supplies
• Have backup plans

Solo Parent Travel

Strategies:

• Choose family-friendly destinations
• Use kids' clubs strategically
• Pre-book reliable care
• Build in flexibility
• Connect with other families

Key Takeaways

Research options:

• Know what's available before booking
• Understand costs and hours
• Read reviews from other parents
• Book early for popular times

Prioritize safety:

• Vet all providers
• Ask about procedures
• Trust your instincts
• Stay accessible

Prepare your child:

• Talk about what to expect
• Bring comfort items
• Don't force participation
• Start with short sessions

Be flexible:

• Plans may need to change
• Kids' moods vary
• Have backup options
• Balance everyone's needs

Enjoy yourself:

• Adult time is valuable
• Quality childcare exists
• Your kids can have fun too
• Everyone benefits from variety

With planning and research, you can enjoy adult experiences during family travel while ensuring your children are safe, entertained, and well cared for. The right travel childcare creates positive experiences for everyone.

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