Author: Amy Barron
Last updated: August 2025
Planning a holiday when someone needs care doesn't have to feel overwhelming. A companion carer can help you enjoy these special moments together, whether you're exploring locally or travelling further afield.
This guide covers the practical steps for arranging care support when you travel. We'll explain the different types of companion care available and help you plan a holiday that works for everyone.
What is travelling care?
Travelling care means taking a companion carer with you on holiday. Your carer provides the same support you're used to at home, helping you maintain your routines and feel comfortable in new surroundings.
A companion carer who travels with you understands how to adapt care away from home. They can help with medication schedules, settle into new accommodation, and ensure you feel confident exploring new places.
Types of travelling care available
At Guardian Carers, we can arrange different levels of support depending on what you need. Some families choose companionship and light assistance, while others require personal care or comprehensive support, including medication management.
Your companion carer adapts their support to match your holiday plans. They understand how to help, whether you prefer a quiet retreat or an active sightseeing trip.
Companion care for holidays
Ideal for individuals who need social support and light assistance but maintain relative independence. Companion carers provide emotional support, help with activities, assist with mobility, and ensure safety whilst allowing maximum independence during the holiday.
Personal care whilst travelling
For those requiring assistance with daily living activities such as washing, dressing, medication management, and meal preparation. This level of care ensures dignity and routine are maintained even when staying in hotels or unfamiliar accommodations.
Specialist medical support on holiday
Some people require more complex care due to conditions such as dementia, Parkinson's disease, or recovery from illness. Specialist travelling carers have additional training to manage these specific needs whilst travelling.
Live-in holiday care
For extended holidays or when comprehensive support is needed, live-in care provides 24-hour assistance. This option is particularly suitable for families wanting to enjoy extended breaks whilst ensuring continuous professional care.
Understanding care needs for travel
Assessing mobility requirements
Consider how mobility challenges might affect different aspects of travel, from navigating airports to accessing hotel facilities. This assessment helps determine the level of physical support needed and influences accommodation choices.
Medication management considerations
Travelling with medications requires careful planning, particularly for international trips. Consider time zone changes, storage requirements, and ensuring adequate supplies for the entire holiday period.
Cognitive support needs
For individuals with dementia or cognitive impairments, unfamiliar environments can increase confusion or anxiety. Understanding these needs helps in selecting appropriate care support and planning strategies to maintain comfort and security.
"When supporting someone with dementia during travel, maintaining familiar routines becomes even more important. Small things like keeping meal times consistent and bringing familiar objects can make a significant difference to their comfort levels." - Dimple Chandarana, Head of Clinical Governance at Hometouch
Social and emotional considerations
Holidays can be emotionally significant, and the presence of care support shouldn't diminish the joy of family time. Understanding the balance between necessary care and family interaction is crucial for successful holiday planning.
Planning a holiday with care support
Initial planning considerations
Start by clearly defining what type of holiday you want and what level of care support will be needed. Consider factors such as destination accessibility, duration of travel, and the specific care requirements of your family member.
Accommodation selection
Select accommodation that works well for you and your carer. Look for accessible facilities and room arrangements that suit your needs, with good access to local healthcare nearby.
Travel insurance and documentation
Make sure your travel insurance covers both you and your companion carer. If you're travelling abroad, check the rules for bringing medications and carry your medical documentation with you.
Healthcare planning
Research local healthcare facilities at your destination and understand how to access services if needed. For individuals with ongoing medical needs, consider whether advance arrangements with local providers are necessary.
According to NHS guidance on travelling with medical conditions, proper preparation significantly reduces travel-related health risks and improves overall holiday experiences.
Emergency preparedness
Develop clear emergency procedures that include contact information for local healthcare, family members, and care coordination support. Ensure all relevant parties understand these procedures before departure.
Benefits of professional travel care
For the person receiving care
A companion carer helps you maintain your usual routines and care standards while you're away. This consistency supports your physical health and emotional well-being, helping you feel confident in new places.
Your companion carer knows how to adapt their support to different settings while respecting your dignity and personal preferences. They also provide companionship that makes your holiday more enjoyable.
For family members
A companion carer means your family can relax and enjoy your holiday together. Instead of worrying about care responsibilities, you can focus on spending quality time and creating positive memories.
Your companion carer also gives you peace of mind. You'll know that medical needs, safety, and daily care are being handled expertly throughout your trip.
"Guardian Carers were so helpful. All of the required duties were no problem - they went out of their way to support the client, helping him achieve the perfect holiday." - Anne
For holiday enjoyment
A carer makes holiday activities more enjoyable by providing the practical support you need. Whether it's exploring new places, dining out, or joining in holiday activities, they help you participate safely and with confidence.
What to expect from travelling care
Planning your trip
We start by understanding exactly what support you need and discussing your destination. Your carer will be fully prepared before you travel, with all practical arrangements confirmed in advance.
Care during your holiday
Your travel carer will maintain your usual routines while adapting to your holiday setting. They'll help with personal care, medication management, meals, and activities as you need them.
Enjoy family time
Your companion carer understands that family time is precious. They provide the support you need while respecting your family dynamics and ensuring everyone enjoys the holiday.
Adapting to your plans
Your companion carer adjusts their approach based on your daily activities and any changing needs during your trip. This flexibility means your care support enhances your holiday rather than limiting it.
Understanding travelling care costs
What's included in the cost
Travelling care costs include your companion carer's daily rate, their travel expenses, accommodation, and any additional care-related expenses during your holiday.
What affects the price
Several factors influence the cost, including the level of support you require, the duration of your absence, your destination, and any specialist skills needed. International travel may involve additional costs for visas or insurance.
Planning your budget
When budgeting for travelling care, consider both the care costs and the value of being able to take a family holiday together. Many families find the investment worthwhile for the quality time and peace of mind gained.
Different types of support
Companion care typically costs less than comprehensive personal care. Specialist medical support may involve higher daily rates because of the additional qualifications required.
How to arrange travel care
Finding the right provider
Look for care providers with specific experience in travelling care. Check their qualifications, insurance coverage, and speak to other families who have used their services.
Assessment and matching
At Guardian Carers, we conduct thorough assessments to understand your specific needs and preferences before suggesting suitable companion carers. This matching process ensures compatibility and successful arrangements.
Meeting your carer
We arrange for you to meet potential carers before making a decision. This is to make sure you're comfortable with each other before your departure.
Finalising details
Once you've chosen your companion carer, we'll help finalise all practical arrangements including travel bookings, insurance, emergency procedures, and detailed care plans.
Common concerns answered
Will having a carer spoil our family holiday?
Your companion carer is there to enhance your family time, not interrupt it. They understand their role is to provide necessary support while helping everyone enjoy the holiday.
What if something goes wrong while we're away?
We provide emergency support systems and clear procedures for handling unexpected situations. This gives you additional security and peace of mind.
Is travelling care only for people with complex needs?
We offer different levels of support, from light companionship to comprehensive care. Many families choose travelling care simply for extra help and professional oversight during holidays.
How do we maintain privacy and dignity?
Your companion carer is trained to provide support while respecting your privacy and maintaining dignity. We discuss your preferences and boundaries to ensure everyone feels comfortable.
Frequently asked questions
What qualifications should travelling carers have?
Companion carers have relevant care qualifications, enhanced DBS checks, first aid certification, and experience providing care away from home. We ensure they have any specialist training needed for specific conditions.
Can companion carers travel abroad with us?
Yes, many of our companion carers can accompany families on international holidays. This requires additional documentation, insurance, and planning for factors like medication transport.
How far in advance should we book?
We recommend starting arrangements 4-6 weeks before your departure. This allows time for proper assessment, matching, and travel preparation.
What if the arrangement doesn't work during the holiday?
We have contingency plans for addressing any issues, including access to replacement carers or emergency support services.
Do companion carers need separate rooms?
Accommodation depends on your care needs and preferences. Some families prefer shared accommodation, while others arrange separate rooms for their companion carer.
Can you arrange care for short breaks?
Yes, we can arrange companion care for day trips, short breaks, or extended holidays, depending on your needs and preferences.
Making your decision
Evaluating your needs
Consider your family member's care requirements, your own capacity to provide care on holiday, and what type of experience you want. This helps determine if travelling care would benefit you.
Discussing with family
Include all family members in discussions about travel care options. Understanding everyone's perspectives helps ensure the best decision for your situation.
Starting gradually
If you're unsure about travelling care, consider starting with a shorter trip or lighter support to see how it works before planning longer holidays.
Getting professional advice
Our care experts can help you understand whether travelling care is right for your situation and what type of support would be most helpful.
Next steps
Care assessment
If you're considering travelling care, we start with an assessment of your needs and a discussion of your holiday plans. This provides the foundation for appropriate care arrangements.
Travel planning support
We can connect you with resources for accessible travel and guidance for travelling with medical conditions to complement your care planning.
Learning from others
We can put you in touch with other families who have experience with travelling care. They can provide valuable insights and practical advice.
About Guardian Carers travelling care
Guardian Carers, part of Hometouch, specialises in matching families with qualified companion carers for travel. Our approach ensures families can enjoy holidays together while maintaining excellent care standards. Speak to one of our care experts about finding the right support for your family.
