Welcome To The Blog

Hi, I’m Gillian, but you can call me G! My au pair journey started right after high school, when I took a leap of faith on a one-way ticket to Italy. For ten months, I navigated life overseas as an au pair in both Italy and England. It was a journey of a lifetime that taught me how to turn travel into a lifestyle. But it wasn’t always easy. I often felt lost and wished I had a guide to help me through the tough questions. That’s why I’m here now—to share everything I’ve learned as an au pair and give you the inside scoop on how to become a successful au pair. Let’s dive in!

First, Let’s Understand Work Exchanges:

• Before learning what an au pair is, we need to understand what a work exchange is. It’s an arrangement where travelers exchange their time, work, and abilities for accommodation. In many cases, these workers also receive food and pocket money. Many types of work exchanges exist, ranging from hostel work, farming, and social projects to au pairing. All work exchanges are different, and job tasks vary based on the host.

So, What Exactly is an Au Pair?

• An au pair is a foreigner who travels and provides childcare in exchange for lodging, food, and pocket money. Families in need of childcare benefit from hosting an au pair. Most host families look for a cultural exchange, such as learning a new language, as a reason to invite an au pair to stay with them.

What Does an Au Pair Actually Do?

• Now that we have a basic understanding of work exchanges and what an au pair is, let’s talk about the job. Since every family is different, all au pair positions and the tasks involved are different. However, a typical au pair job is Monday through Friday, with hours dependent on the family’s schedule but generally ranging from 20 to 30 hours per week.

• The job may include school drop-offs and pick-ups, creative play, preparing meals for the children, and one night of babysitting each week. Au pairs will have set hours, tasks, and rules based on the family and their expectations. Additionally, an au pair supports the family with light housework, such as unloading and loading the dishwasher, folding the children’s laundry, and tidying up after the children.

Where to Find Au Pair Jobs Online:

• The search for a host family can feel a bit overwhelming, but reliable jobs are out there on au pair agencies and in specialized Facebook groups. All you have to do is start searching!

• When you connect with a family, don’t just wait for them to interview you—this is your opportunity to set yourself up for success! Discuss their expectations, negotiate a fair arrangement for your hours and pocket money, and always check the visa rules. Most importantly, insist on a signed contract. It’s the best way to start your new life with clarity and confidence. Once the contract is signed, book your flight, pack your bags, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
  

• TIP: In my e-book, “The Ultimate Guide to Au Pairing,” I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to find the perfect job, from the exact questions to ask during interviews to how you can confidently advocate for yourself and know exactly what to expect in your new role. Grab a copy here.

Tips from an Experienced Au Pair:

• You can always leave your family. If you arrive at your host family, and the situation isn’t what you expected, you have the right to leave. It’s important to communicate with the family if things aren’t working out, and they should understand.

• You must arrive with the mindset that this is a job, not a way to live for free. You are indeed working for your room and board, and you need to act like it. 

• Always, always, always sign a contract. If there are issues with hours, payments, or anything else, you should always be able to fall back on the contract to reference what you agreed upon.

Need more Information? Still have Questions?

• I’ve shared the basics of au pairing and my top tips, but there’s so much more to know. From landing a job step by step, handling complex logistics, to signing the right contract, the details can make all the difference between a good experience and a great one. If you’re serious about becoming an au pair, my new ebook, “The Ultimate Guide to Au Pairing,” is your essential resource.

• I’ve packed it with everything I wish I’d known before my first trip—including in-depth steps to finding the right job for you, securing visas, drafting contracts, and a list of crucial interview questions to ask your potential host family. This ebook goes beyond the basics to set you up for a successful and memorable journey. Don’t leave your travel dreams to chance. “The Ultimate Guide to Au Pairing,” is available for purchase here. Grab your copy today and start your adventure with confidence!

• Want to dive deeper? I offer personalized 1-on-1 calls where we can cover everything you need to know, from logistics to specific questions about your unique situation. Let’s get you ready for success! Book a call here!

Good Luck

Becoming an au pair is a rewarding experience that offers a unique opportunity to see the world without breaking the bank. Good luck with your journey as an au pair and do one thing that makes you say “I love my life” each and everyday!

– G