Travelling with Household Staff: A Guide to a Seamless Experience 

Bringing household staff along when you travel—whether it’s your nanny, housekeeper, chef, or personal assistant—can enhance your trip significantly. With the right preparation and communication, your staff can provide vital support that allows you to relax and enjoy your time away. Here are some tips to make travelling with your household team a smooth and successful experience. 

1. Hire with Travel in Mind 

If you anticipate needing staff to travel with you—whether occasionally or frequently—this should be clearly communicated during the hiring process and outlined in the employment agreement. Not every candidate is open or available to travel, and it’s important to set expectations from the outset. A two-week annual vacation is very different from spending every summer weekend at the cottage or being asked to join a last-minute international trip. 

2. Plan Ahead 

All household staff have responsibilities, routines, and sometimes families of their own. Providing advance notice of travel plans demonstrates respect and allows them to prepare both personally and professionally. Early planning also ensures proper scheduling and avoids last-minute conflicts. 

3. Set Clear Expectations 

Before you depart, take time to review the details of the trip with your staff. Clarify: 

• Work hours and duties during travel 

• Time off or personal time 

• Sleeping arrangements 

• Dress code, if applicable 

• Any changes to daily routines 

This proactive communication ensures everyone is aligned and can help prevent misunderstandings during your trip. 

4. Compensate Fairly 

All travel-related expenses should be fully covered, including transportation, accommodation, and meals. Additionally, staff should be compensated for any overtime or extended hours worked while travelling. Many employers also offer a travel per diem or overnight fee. These discussions should happen in advance to avoid confusion or resentment. 

5. Check Documentation 

or international travel, ensure your staff have all required documents: 

• Valid passport 

• Necessary visas or travel permits 

• Emergency medical insurance 

• Copies of important documents, kept securely in case of emergencies 

6. Respect Boundaries and Downtime 

Even while travelling, your household staff deserve personal space and designated time off. Providing them with a private bedroom (not shared with children or guests) and time to rest, explore, or recharge shows respect for their well-being and contributes to a more positive working relationship. 

Done Right, Travel Becomes Seamless 

When managed thoughtfully, travelling with household staff can enhance your overall experience—ensuring your family’s needs are met while also maintaining a professional and respectful dynamic. 

Need help hiring travel-ready household staff? Call us at 1 (888) 886 8209 or fill out our client inquiry form to get started with a consultation.