Travel nursing offers a unique and exciting opportunity to explore the country while getting paid to do so. As a travel nurse, you’ll take on short-term or long-term contracts based on the needs of different healthcare facilities. The best part? You’re never tied down to a single location. After one contract ends, you can pack up and head to your next destination. Whether you prefer to stay close to home or explore new coastal states, the choice is yours! If you’re wondering how to become a travel nurse or whether this career path is right for you, we’re here to guide you through the decision-making process.
What Is Travel Nursing Like?
If you value freedom and flexibility, travel nursing could be the perfect fit. You get to choose when and where you want to work throughout the year. Holding a compact nursing license opens up even more opportunities, increasing your chances of landing exciting assignments. Travel nurses are expected to hit the ground running, so confidence and adaptability are key. Agencies typically require at least one year of experience in your specialty within the past two years. Gaining that experience beforehand is essential for success. Travel nursing may not be for everyone, but if the signs below resonate with you, it might be time to take the plunge!
1. You’re Tired of Workplace Drama
Every facility has its drama, and it’s easy to get caught up in it when you’re in one place for too long. As a travel nurse, you can avoid long-term office politics. You can focus on patient care and facility protocols, and when any drama comes up, just remind yourself that you’ll only be there for a limited time—13-week contracts can be a real blessing.
2. You Want to Earn More Money
Travel nurses typically earn more than full-time RNs, according to data from Indeed. Higher base pay is one reason for this pay bump, as short assignments and high demand make these positions more lucrative. Travel nurses may also qualify for tax-free stipends to cover housing, meals, and other living expenses. Tax benefits at the end of the year can further add to the financial advantages. Keep in mind that pay varies based on location, experience, and facility, but overall, travel nursing offers significant earning potential.
3. You Love Meeting New People
If you thrive on meeting new people and making connections, travel nursing will be a fulfilling experience for you. While you’ll typically travel alone, there are plenty of ways to stay connected, especially on your days off. You can connect with like-minded individuals through social media groups or local events, such as coffee meetups or hiking. It’s a great way to make the most of your time in new locations!
4. You Get Bored Easily
Are you someone who gets restless if you’re in one place for too long? Travel nursing is the cure for boredom! Starting at new facilities, adapting to different work environments, and meeting fresh faces will keep you constantly engaged. If you hate the feeling of stagnation, this career will keep things exciting and varied.
5. You Adapt Well to Change
From coworkers to patients to different healthcare settings, travel nurses need to adjust quickly to new environments. If you’re flexible and able to take on new challenges without hesitation, you’ll thrive in this career. Embrace change, and you’ll find success in the dynamic world of travel nursing.
6. You’re Adventurous
Do you crave adventure? Travel nursing offers the ultimate opportunity to experience new places every 13 weeks. Whether you’re exploring cities, mountains, or coastlines, you’ll be living a truly adventurous lifestyle, all while getting paid to do so! The world is your oyster, and travel nursing allows you to pursue that sense of wanderlust.
7. You Want to Test Different Locations Before Committing
Many nurses, especially those early in their careers, aren’t sure which cities or types of facilities they prefer. Travel nursing allows you to explore various locations and settings through 13-week assignments, helping you find the perfect match. This flexibility is great for nurses who want to “test the waters” before committing to a specific place or job.
8. You Want to Choose When You Work
One of the biggest perks of travel nursing is the ability to schedule your time off. Unlike traditional nursing jobs with limited vacation days, your time off is entirely up to you. Need time off for a family event or vacation? You can work that into your contract. Many travel nurses even take short breaks between assignments to explore their current or new locations. The flexibility is yours to shape.
9. You Want to Build Your Resume
Travel nursing is an excellent way to expand your resume and gain diverse nursing experience. Working at smaller facilities offers a chance to get involved in a variety of roles, while larger hospitals allow you to specialize further. Future employers will appreciate the breadth of your experience, as it shows you can adapt to different environments and bring a wide range of skills to the table.
10. You’ve Got Wanderlust
Do you feel the urge to travel and explore the world around you? Travel nursing offers the best way to satisfy your wanderlust while getting paid. With 419 national parks, nearly 95,500 miles of coastline, and thousands of cultural experiences across the U.S., there’s so much to see. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures or trying out local delicacies, travel nursing lets you live the dream of exploring new places—and getting paid for it!
Not sure where your next adventure should be? Check out our travel guides!
If you’ve ever found yourself dreaming about hitting the open road or exploring a new city while advancing your nursing career, then travel nursing might be exactly what you’re looking for. It takes a bold, adventurous spirit to embrace this lifestyle, but if you think you’ve got what it takes, reach out to us today. A recruiter can provide helpful guidance and share exciting job opportunities with you!
Convinced travel nursing is perfect for you? Apply here!