What are the steps required to get a job working as a travel companion for the elderly or young children? Is there even such a job out there?
I would like to make a career out of flying with young children or the elderly. Would I work with a specific airport or an airline? How old do I have to be to apply? What are the requirements? This question was posted by a CareerVillage administrator on behalf of the students of CareerVillage. #aviation #airline-industry #customer-service #flight-companion
4 answers
M. Lavern’s Answer
Hi Kate,
Jobs with travel companion service companies are highly competitive. Therefore, candidates should be sure their experience and credentials give them a competitive edge.
Depending on the needs of the traveler, a companion may need previous experience as an airline professional or have a background in healthcare, experience in childcare, experience caring for disabled persons or simply experience traveling worldwide. As a travel companion, one must be comfortable with assisting those with disabilities, the elderly, those with travel anxiety or juveniles. The companion must be able to meet the specific needs each individual requires. Travel companions have the opportunity to travel nationwide or internationally and must be comfortable with all that traveling entails. There are Internship programs you can get involve in to get your feet wet. Check jobs board, travel agency to help guide you in the right directions.
Jyoti’s Answer
Because you'll also need a seat on the plane with the flyer, you most likely will not find this job through the airline company as that would mean the company loses business because their money not only goes to your salary but also goes toward the flight fee which they'd rather have coming in (income) than going out (expense.) What comes to mind for me in these roles are support or aide positions- which will not include just traveling, but also regular support and care throughout the day. Careers such as: nanny, babysitter, au pair, or personal health care aide where it's the family of these persons who will pay for your seat on the plane. Perhaps there may be a position with a specialized healthcare company, like a cancer treatment center for example, that provides a staff member (you) to come and get a sick patient from their home airport to the airport where the center is- but it is rare and unlikely. If it's travel that motivates you, then consider a career as a flight attendant, a pilot, a cruise ship employee, a hotel chain that's nationwide or global- basically careers in transportation, travel, or tourism. Good luck in your future endeavors!
Amber’s Answer
As was mentioned before, you may need to get a background in CPR & First Aid to be able to do something like this, as well as how to handle people with anxiety, medical issues & children.
Danielle’s Answer
I am not 100% certain, but your best bet would be to check with airports or specific Airlines. There are jobs where you accompany those that need an escort. If not, you could always start your own business offering those types of services! Good luck in your journey!