Emergency Contact List
During an emergency situation, it is best to call the parents or 911, but perhaps you aren't able to connect with them. Have the parents supply you with a list of at least two alternative phone numbers (such as their work numbers and a neighbour’s cell) in case they can't be reached.

List of Medications and Allergies
As the au pair or babysitter, you need to know if the kids have any allergies or take any medication. Keep this info in your nanny notebook, and if there are food allergies, place reminders in the kitchen. Having the crucial information can help the child receive the best medicine with the least amount of side effects.

A First-aid Kit
First-aid kits can be found almost anywhere. Be sure to pack yours with extra band-aids, Benadryl, an EpiPen if there's a known allergy, Neosporin and, of course, hand sanitizer.

Tissues and Wet Wipes
Children and messes tend to go hand-in-hand. Keep pocket tissue packets on you, as well as wet-wipes, so that you are equipped to clean-up any mess.

Money
Keep 5 GBP in cash and 2GBP in change in your wallet or car. Small trips may include parking at a nearby meter, so keeping a roll of quarters in your bag will allow you to park without worrying where to get change or where to find to the nearest ATM. A dollar or two for a convenience store trip is helpful as well.

Sunscreen
Even on a cloudy day, apply sunscreen on the children to protect them while they are outdoors. Most manufacturers have smaller, travel-sized bottles as well. Having lip balm for the children can protect their lips from the sun as well.

Diapers, Wipes and Mat
If needed. But if kids are potty trained, you may still want to keep a spare pair of underwear and pants in your bag as well.

Healthy Snacks
Make-up small bags of pretzels, Cheerio’s, or apple slices before you head out for the day. These are great, healthy snack for the kids that will boost their energy when they get tired.

Bottle of Water
Smaller bottles are now being made and can fit in your bag without taking up too much room or weighing it down. Keep refilling these or use sippy cups to provide lots of water breaks throughout the day.

Educational Games and Favourite Toys or Books
Keeping fun trivia-type games, flash cards, books or scavenger hunt lists for the children is a great way for them to have fun -- especially if there's traffic or a long wait. And, as any parent knows, just the sight of seeing their favourite toy can help a child be more.

As an au pair, you don't need to pack everything every time you leave the home. Knowing the essentials to bring can help you feel prepared for any situation!