How to Use a Hotel Babysitter

Choose someone you trust

Where possible, choose a hotel employee. A large, family-friendly hotel should be able to share the sitter's experience and how long they've worked there. At a smaller villa, you may be able to request a staff member you've already met during the day, which helps build trust quickly. Ask for a copy of their ID so you have it on hand if needed.

Make sure you can communicate clearly

Ask for a sitter who speaks English, or another language your family speaks. Unclear communication makes misunderstandings more likely. If you prefer a female babysitter, say so upfront so expectations are clear from the start.

Meet the babysitter beforehand

If you can, meet the sitter before you leave. It's a chance to ask questions and get a feel for their personality, and trusting your instincts tells you a lot. Children have strong instincts too, so it helps for them to meet the sitter first and feel familiar when they arrive.

Prepare your children before you leave

Childcare standards vary, so prepare as much as you can before heading out. Get your children fed, bathed and ready for bed, which matters most for younger ones. Booking a later dinner so the kids are already settled keeps routines consistent and reduces stress.

Give clear instructions

Give clear, simple instructions and assume nothing. Explain your expectations calmly and warmly, for example: please don't leave the children alone at any time, or please don't allow anyone else into the room. This avoids confusion and makes sure everyone understands their role.

Leave contact details

Always leave clear contact details for emergencies: your mobile number, your location and the name of the venue you're at. If you're in a hotel, let the front desk know too, so they can assist if needed.

Set up the space before you go

Make sure everything the sitter might need is easy to find: snacks, drinks, milk or bottles, nappies and comfort items. That way they can focus on the children rather than searching the room.

Secure valuables

Remove or secure valuables before you leave. Use the hotel safe for important items like passports and cash. It avoids misunderstandings and gives you peace of mind.

Arrive early and build rapport

Ask the sitter to arrive 15 to 20 minutes early. That gives you time to chat and get comfortable, asking about their experience, background and how they usually care for children, so you feel more confident as you head out.

Manage expectations around bedtime

If the sitter is new to your family, bedtime may not go exactly to plan. Stay realistic. Children often respond differently to someone they don't know well, so keeping routines simple really helps.

Check in while you're out

Let the sitter know you may check in during the evening. It reassures you and helps maintain accountability. A quick call can give you real peace of mind while you're away.

Your hotel babysitting checklist

Screenshot this before you travel and run through it in the room before you head out.

Travelling soon? Bring a sitter you trust

We can organise a screened, experienced carer for your hotel or holiday stay. Tell us your dates and we'll do the rest.