Anonymous wrote:It's not a 'fun'trip. We won't be at a resort but very nice hotel in NH. I don't think there is much to do in the area so I will probably just hot tub or read when they don't need me.

Is it rude to tag along to 1/2 of the activities and then graciously decline things that don't interest me? My employers are so so nice, but I want to make sure they can have some family time to enjoy the kids without me awkwardly being there lol

Not rude at all to attend half of the activities! I'd find out the itinerary ahead of time so that I didn't make them wait while I got ready, and so that I could help get the kids ready.
Jealous that you get to relax and read and hot tub. I'd look and see if the hotel has a spa and get a massage. And I'd probably spend some of that down time working out.

If you don't have an ereader, now might be a good time to get one. Easier to pack and lighter to carry than a lot of books.

It's not a 'fun'trip. We won't be at a resort but very nice hotel in NH. I don't think there is much to do in the area so I will probably just hot tub or read when they don't need me.

Is it rude to tag along to 1/2 of the activities and then graciously decline things that don't interest me? My employers are so so nice, but I want to make sure they can have some family time to enjoy the kids without me awkwardly being there lol

For charges that are 1 and 2, I'd make sure MB/DB pack empty sippy cups in the carry on. Once you get through security, you can then buy bottled water if they get thirsty. Drinking during take off and landing will also help their ears to pop less (the swallowing helps).

Since there is only one car, how will you get around when you aren't needed? Or is it a resort type place where you can walk to different things? Not trying to pry, just trying to get a better idea so I can be more helpful.

If the flights are not direct, make sure you have a few extra diapers/wipes/snacks. Just in case the layover takes longer than anticipated.

Op here: these are awesome responses and very helpful!!! Especially the surprises! My charges at 1&2. I will not have my own vehicle - we are renting one car.

Any more advice would be awesome!

Start planning some fun activities!
Hope it's a nice destination.

I'm surprised they're only using you for 1.5 out of four days! They don't want a date night?

Will travel time be included in your pay? You said they're paying you for your time, but I wasn't sure if that meant you're getting your normal weekly rate because you have guaranteed hours, or if you're getting paid for the hours you work.

When I went to Disney with a family, the mom and I each had a diaper bag because there were four kids. That way we could have diapers/wipes/snacks/changes of clothes (two in diapers, one recently potty trained). That was helpful because we were at the parks most of the day.

Make sure you check the weather for your destination! Once for a trip I was planning on cooler weather, and at the last minute they had a bit of a heat wave and I had to change what I was packing.

Communication and relaxation is key. On vacation, rules might change. Maybe the kids get extra dessert. Stay up later. Skip naps. My better experiences were when I changed my roll from nanny to parent's helper. Made things go smoothly.

How fun! Almost all of my experience traveling with families has been a lot of fun.

Since you're flying:
Make sure you know if you can check a bag, or if you're expected to only do carry on.
I don't know how many kids they have, but I'd use a back pack or something for my carry on if I can check my main suitcase. Hands free!
I'd pack a few surprises for the kids for the flight just in case. Stickers or some dollar store board books? Depends on age.
Don't forget an extra shirt if any of the kids are infants. (Spit up)

Will you have access to a car when you're off duty? If so, I'd do research now to see what's in the area that you'd be interested in doing.

My charge just woke up, but I'll come back later and post more

Following, FYI.

Sounds like a great deal. Have fun!

It depends on the family.
From my experience, I had a good time and just made myself available when they asked me to. I joined in on a few activities to be friendly but mostly I went where I wanted to go.
They're probably just trying to give both you and them a little vacation.

I am taking my first trip with my NF. We are flying and staying in a hotel. I have my own room adjoined to their suite.
They paid for everything plus paying me for my time.
They have also mentioned I am welcome to join in all activities..
I will only have the kids 1.5 days out of the 4 day trip. So I'm just curious why should I expect? How does this usually go? Is there any special ediquitte I should be fallowing?

Thanks