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Figured Out Your Au Pair Packing List?
Embarking on your Au Pair journey is one of the most exciting adventures you’ll ever take! Along with the excitement often comes one big question: What do I need to pack?
It’s totally normal to worry about forgetting something important, or about overpacking your suitcase. The good news? You don’t need to bring everything with you. Many items can be purchased once you arrive in the U.S. To help you feel prepared we have put together this packing guide just for Au Pairs.
Essential Documents
One of the most important things you need to pack is your travel and Au Pair documents. These items you must pack in your carry-on so they are always accessible. Forgetting these documents could result in you not being able to travel to the U.S.
Must Pack Documents include:
- Passport (with your visa)
- All copies of your DS-2019 form
- Driver’s license and International Driver’s Permit (if applicable)
- Emergency contact information (have both digital and printed copies)
- Prescriptions
- Travel ticket if not digital
- Your Host Family contact information (written down and digital copy)
Digital Documents to have just in case:
- Au Pair program contracts and agreements
- DS-2019
- Insurance information
Pro tip: Take photos or scan all important documents and save them securely on your phone or laptop. Give copies to your parents or trusted person at home too.
Clothing: Pack Smart, Not Heavy
When considering clothes to pack think versatile and comfortable. You will want outfits that work for your daily life as an Au Pair, downtime, and outings.
Pro tip: Before you begin packing, research the typical weather in the U.S. location where you will be living. Let that guide you in your clothing choices.
Everyday Wear
- Jeans, leggings, and casual short sleeve and long sleeve tops
- Comfortable shoes
- Pajamas and loungewear
Work Clothes
- Practical outfits for playing with children (durable, comfortable, and modest)
- Clothes you don’t mind getting a little messy
- A few nicer outfits for outings or special events
Seasonal Considerations
Pack for the season you will arrive in but keep layering in mind since weather can vary by region. Some seasonal items may be expensive or hard to find in your home country so consider waiting to purchase those items once you arrive in the U.S. Also consider the weight of heavier seasonal items that would be best purchased when you arrive.
- Winter: Coat, scarf, gloves, boots
- Summer: shorts, swimsuits, sandals
- Spring and Fall: lightweight rain jacket
Extras
- Gym or workout clothes
- One or two “going out” outfits
Personal Care Items
When considering what personal care items and toiletries to bring with you make sure you check liquid regulations for airline travel. Many personal care items can make your suitcase heavy and you can purchase them once you arrive in the U.S.
Here are the essentials you may need in your first few days that you should bring with you:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Small containers of shampoo and conditioner
- Hairbrush
- Bodywash or body soap
- Makeup and skincare products
- Any specific brands you love that may be hard to find in the U.S.
Medications
Prescription medication can be expensive in the U.S. and your Au Pair insurance may not cover the price of must have prescription medications. Make sure you research costs so you can bring prescription or must have medications with you.
Make sure any medications you bring are in their original packaging and confirm how much you are allowed to bring with you.
Electronics
These days electronics are essential to every day life. They help you stay connected, navigate new surroundings, and manage your every day Au Pair responsibilities.
Phone and charger
Your phone will be essential for not only your travel day but also for staying connected to your Host Family and support network. Discuss with your Host Family prior to arrival what their plans are for a phone during your Au Pair stay. Don’t forget a charger or two and a battery pack to keep your phone charged during your travel day.
Laptop or tablet (if needed)
Many Au Pairs bring their own laptop or tablet to use in their down time or for your required education classes. Make sure you have your charger and any accessories with you.
Plug adapter
The U.S. uses 110V outlets with Type A/B plugs, which could be different from what you use at home. A plug adapter and voltage converter, if necessary, will keep your devices safe and usable.
Headphones or earbuds
These are a must have for your travel day so you can watch movies on the plane or listen to music. They are also essential for relaxing in your free time and calls.
Pro tip: label your electronics and chargers and pack them in your carry-on to keep them safe and easily accessible for travel.
Comfort Items
Bringing a few comforting items from home can make your new home feel more familiar and help you overcome homesickness, especially during your first few weeks in the U.S.
Here are some great items to consider bringing with you:
- Photos of family and friends
- Journal or notebook
- Favorite book
- Small mementos of home
- Favorite snack from home
Gifts for Your Host Family
While gifts are not a requirement they are a great way to connect right away with your Host Family, especially with the kids. Gifts from our home country are a great way to introduce your culture and start creating a bond.
Gifts to consider:
- Souvenirs from your home country
- Small toys or books for your Host Kids
- Snacks or sweets from home (check U.S. customs regulations before packing food items)
What NOT to Pack
It’s important to know what you shouldn’t pack when coming to the U.S. as an Au Pair to save yourself headaches later on. Keep these do not pack items in mind when preparing your suitcase.
Large amounts of cash
Traveling with a lot of cash isn’t necessary and can be risky. Au Pairs can open a bank account after arrival and get a debit card.
Restricted foods
As mentioned earlier when packing foods you have to be aware of customs restrictions. These items will be confiscated when you go through U.S. customs and can cause delays at customs.
Do not pack:
- Fresh fruits or vegetables
- Meat or dairy products
- Homemade foods
Too many clothes and shoes
This is a big one! Too many clothing and shoe items gets bulky and heavy. Make sure your suitcase follows your airline’s suitcase allotment and weight restrictions. Remember, you can always shop for heavier and bulky items of clothing and shoes when you arrive.
Excessive personal care items
Packing large bottles of personal care or toiletry items takes up valuable luggage space and may exceed airline liquid limits. You can always purchase these items once you arrive to the U.S.
Restricted items
If you are worried that an item could be restricted you should check this link from the U.S. Transportation Security Administration for the most up to date list of restricted items.
Packing Tips
It can be tempting to overpack when you know you will be away from home for an extended amount of time. You may feel like you need to bring everything “just in case”. Remember that most everyday items are easy to purchase once you arrive in the U.S. Packing thoughtfully will make travel easier and help you settle in more comfortably.
Au Pair packing tips
- You will likely buy things once you arrive, so no need to overpack.
- Space saver bags are a lifesaver for bulky clothing.
- Double check your airline’s baggage allowance before flying.
- Check the weather for the day you are traveling and dress appropriately.
- Pack a small bag or purse you will use in your daily Au Pair life.
- Don’t forget to bring your wallet and payment essentials like credit or debit cards.
- Bring a reusable water bottle for your travel day.
Don't worry: You've got this!
Packing for your Au Pair journey doesn’t have to be stressful. Focus on the essentials and trust that you will figure things out as you go. Your adventure is just beginning and you’re more prepared than you think!
Check out our Become an Au Pair page for all the information you need about arriving to the U.S.
