Au Pair Way
An innovative way to find travel companions
Context:
This project was developed within the UX course at Universidad del Aconcagua, under the guidance of Inés Masera. The goal was to design a mobile application using the principles of Design Thinking.
Role:
UX Researcher & Designer — responsible for all stages from discovery to prototyping. I designed a digital solution to help au pairs in the U.S. travel more frequently, safely, and affordably by finding reliable travel companions with aligned schedules and interests.
Getting to Know the Problem
Context:
This project was developed within the UX course at Universidad del Aconcagua, under the guidance of Inés Masera. The goal was to design a mobile application using the principles of Design Thinking.
Role:
UX Researcher & Designer — responsible for all stages from discovery to prototyping. I designed a digital solution to help au pairs in the U.S. travel more frequently, safely, and affordably by finding reliable travel companions with aligned schedules and interests.
Exploring the U.S.
Travel is key for au pairs, offering culture, freedom, and growth, but limited time, money, and connection restrict experiences.
Who are Au Pairs?
- Young individuals (mostly women) ages 18–26.
- They live with U.S. host families providing childcare services.
- They receive housing, meals, and a weekly stipend (200USD).
- They work up to 45 hours weekly.
- J-1 VISA holders, making it possible to stay in the U.S. for up to 2 years.
Au pairs do not have a dedicated, reliable platform to find and coordinate with travel companions who share their availability and interests.
Imagine wanting to explore the U.S. during your limited time off, but finding that solo travel is too expensive and group travel is hard to organize. Most au pairs rely on chaotic WhatsApp or Facebook groups where information gets buried, profiles aren’t verified, and plans often fall through. As a result, many miss the chance to travel affordably, safely, and in good company during their stay abroad.