Using a Hotel Babysitter: How to Plan a Safe & Smooth Experience

Using a Hotel Babysitter: How to Plan a Safe & Smooth Experience

Travel is full of new experiences for kids — which can be exciting, but also a little overwhelming. A hotel babysitter can be a lifesaver for weddings, date nights, or conferences. TLC for Kids provides local, vetted caregivers who are used to working in unfamiliar environments and helping children feel at home, even far from home.

Arrange the Babysitter in Advance

• Book early: Holidays and peak tourist seasons can mean limited availability. 
• Check credentials: Confirm CPR/first aid training, childcare experience with your child’s age, and ID verification. 
• Ask about references: A quick check can give you added peace of mind. 

Prepare a Comfort Kit

In an unfamiliar space, familiar items make all the difference:

• Favorite toys, stuffed animals, or bedtime books. 
• Snacks or small treats your child enjoys. 
• A blanket or pillow from home that smells familiar. 
• A playlist of songs they like to listen to during playtime or bedtime. 

Leave Detailed Instructions

• Your phone number and hotel room number. 
• Any allergies, medications, or health concerns. 
• Your child’s routine — when to have dinner, when to start winding down, and exact bedtime rituals. 
• Areas of the hotel that are okay for play (and which are off-limits). 

TLC Tip: Spend the first 10–15 minutes together before leaving so your child sees you trust the sitter. This “warm handoff” can make all the difference in how quickly they settle in.