Let’s go back to the spring of 2019. I had recently become obsessed with travel and I was eager to continue traveling the world. I started watching videos of other people traveling to see what they were doing and if it would be possible for me. I stumbled upon a video from a young American girl that had spent a summer a few years back in France as an au pair. She didn’t use an agency as she just happened to have a friend who knew a friend, who knew a friend (you get the idea) that connected her with a family. Fortunately for me, I instantly fell in love with the idea of being an au pair abroad. Unfortunately for me, I didn’t know a friend that knew a friend that needed an au pair. Instead of accepting defeat, I browsed the internet for more information on this magical term, “au pair.” I found a few online sources that provided information on doing it alone (essentially, finding a family, creating your own contract, booking your own flights, etc.). 

Although it seemed manageable, this was my first experience and I knew I needed some security. I was grateful to find RomeAbroad, which helped me with all the complicated things I needed to do before I arrived in Italy. So now, as someone that has both looked into doing it alone (I likely would have had the pandemic not occurred) and used a program, I would love to share why I think you should use a program instead of doing it alone.

Security: I get it, you’re excited. Thinking that a family may not pay you when you agreed to receive pocket money may not even be on your radar. But it happens and it happens often. Using a program, such as RomeAbroad, means you have a clean and clear contract that specifies what you provide the family and what the family provides you. You are guaranteed a safe experience, and your host family is guaranteed an experience as well. A program protects both parties, so both can focus on enjoying their time together!

Networking: Traveling the world alone can be an incredible thing, but it is nice to make friends along the way! When you work with a program, such as RomeAbroad, you’re connected to a network of other au pairs who have traveled abroad before or are currently abroad. You gain friends before you even touch down in the country. When I went abroad, I made friends with another au pair and we traveled extensively throughout Italy and Europe together. We went to over 15 Italian cities together, because we both wanted to see everything! It was amazing to share the experiences with someone like-minded.

Consistency: Using a program, such as RomeAbroad, gives you peace of mind. You can relax and bond with the family that is hosting you. You can make friends, travel around, and share experiences with your new network of like-minded peers. As a result of this, when you decide you want to do it again, which I know you will (I did!), you know what you’re getting next time. It eliminates stress because you already know what you’re going to get. Many programs or agencies also offer referral codes or discounts for travelers that use their program again. This is a great benefit that you can take advantage of. From booking flights to choosing a family to have specific days off, agencies provide consistent results.

There are certainly ways you can become an au pair on your own. Some people have successfully done it. It is not a bad idea by any means. Utilizing a program or agency will alleviate the stress of moving abroad. You know that you have someone in your corner if something were to go wrong, but you also know that the family you choose is secure and committed to hosting you. Being an au pair is a beautiful, unique, and unforgettable experience. You’re moving into someone’s home, connecting with them, bonding with their children. You should be able to dedicate your energy to enjoying the experience and getting the most out of it, not stressing. If you’re looking into becoming an au pair for the first time, do your research and do what is best for you. I used a program and I’m glad I did. When I look back on those four months, all I remember are the good times and none of the “behind-the-scenes” stress. Using a program will help you with your future plans, find friends, and feel secure. It is 100% worth it.