Packing your suitcase for a year abroad as an au pair can be tricky — it's hard to know what to bring and what to leave behind. Here are our best tips on the necessary (and unnecessary) items for the year ahead.
Do pack
- Comfy clothes for working with kids. Expect lots of time on the floor, outdoor play and being on the go — activewear and trainers are ideal.
- Prescription medicine in your carry-on. See your doctor before you leave and ask for a year's supply. Your cover in Australia may be limited and won't include many daily medications.
- A journal. Documenting your journey is wonderful to look back on — the growth you'll experience is incredible, especially if you write regularly.
- An adaptor for dual-voltage electronics like your phone or laptop.
Don't pack
- Too many clothes. You'll want to shop while you're here, so leave room — and remember you'll fly home with the same suitcases.
- Sheets or towels. Your host family provides these, so don't waste the space.
- Heavy bottles of shampoo or conditioner. Buy them once you arrive.
- Lots of heavy books. You'll likely have a local library nearby if reading is your thing.
- Bulky appliances like hair dryers or straighteners — they may not work on Australian voltage, and a replacement is cheap here.