Travel nursing is like leaping into the great unknown, a whirlwind of opportunities, challenges, and excitement all rolled into one. For many, it’s the ultimate way to combine a love of nursing with a passion for exploration. The idea of packing your bags, hitting the road, and stepping into a brand-new work environment is thrilling, but let’s face it: taking that first step can be daunting.
Whether it’s the fear of the unfamiliar, worries about navigating contracts, or concerns about how to adapt to new hospitals and teams, the uncertainties of travel nursing often weigh heavily on those considering it. You might hear a piece of advice here or there from a friend or family member, but their guidance can only go so far, especially if they’ve never lived the travel nursing life themselves.
That’s why we decided to dig deeper and bring you something truly special. We reached out to nurses with years of travel experience those who have worked across fluctuating markets, weathered industry ups and downs, and mastered the art of thriving in ever-changing environments. They’ve shared their hard-earned wisdom, tips, and stories to help you make a more informed decision about whether travel nursing is right for you.
In this blog post, we’ve compiled insights from seasoned travelers into a single, easy-to-navigate resource. From choosing the right agency and understanding your contract to settling into a new city and building relationships on the road, we’ve got you covered. This isn’t just a list of tips; it’s a treasure trove of real-world advice designed to prepare you for every twist and turn on your journey.
Imagine knowing what to pack before your first assignment, having the confidence to negotiate your pay, or even learning tricks to feel at home no matter where your contract takes you. Travel nursing is more than a career choice—it’s a lifestyle. And like any adventure, preparation is key.
So, whether you’re dreaming about your first travel contract or just dipping your toes into the idea, this blog is here to guide you. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of what to expect, how to succeed, and whether this exciting path is the best fit for you. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore the world of travel nursing together!
Tips for Travel Nurse Newbies
Leaving Your Current Facility
1. Do not serve notice to your employer until you’ve signed a contract.
2. Give your permanent employer at least two weeks' notice; it’s best to stay on good terms.
3. If interested, ask if you can stay on PRN status for when you return home between assignments.
Interview Questions
4. Confirm you will receive adequate orientation (most facilities provide 1-3 days).
5. Clarify the charting system the facility uses.
6. Ask about their floating policy.
7. Determine if the unit frequently uses travelers.
8. If they do, ask if those travelers often extend their contracts.
9. Check if overtime is available.
10. Ask if on-call shifts are required.
11. Confirm the shift details as you understand them.
12. If an offer is made based on your resume only with no interview, request to speak with a manager to clarify any questions before signing the contract if you do not feel comfortable.
Time Off and Contracts
13. Include your non-negotiable time off in your submission.
14. Discuss your requested time off during the interview.
15. Ensure all agreed-upon time off is written into your contract.
Hospital Research
16. Research the hospital before accepting the assignment.
17. Read multiple reviews and take overall trends into account rather than trusting one good or bad review.
Agency Research
18. Research agencies you are interested in working with.
19. Narrow down your list of preferred agencies.
20. Interview potential recruiters; trust your gut if something feels off.
21. Find a recruiter you can trust.
22. Lean on your recruiter for guidance and information.
23. Ask about benefits, including whether the agency offers day-one medical and dental coverage.
24. Inquire if your agency offers a 401(k) match.
Contract Review
25. Understand tax laws, including the minimum W-2 requirements to avoid audits.
26. Ask an experienced travel nurse to review your contract if possible.
27. Ensure everything discussed is written into the contract.
28. Review the clause for backing out in case of emergencies.
Housing
29. Confirm that housing is affordable for the stipend in the area of your assignment.
30. Avoid signing a lease sight unseen; consider staying in a hotel your first night to review the space before committing.
31. Be vigilant about housing scams.
32. Check with your agency for housing discounts or suggestions.
Before You Leave
33. Purchase scrubs in the required color for your unit.
34. Dress in business casual for orientation unless instructed otherwise, but bring scrubs in case you are required to visit the unit.
35. Obtain your first-day instructions from your recruiter in advance; if you start on a Monday, expect details by Friday afternoon. Follow up as needed.
36. Ensure all onboarding documents are completed before your first day.
37. Double-check the facility’s parking situation (maybe even drive by a day early) and bring any required badges or documents.
Financial Planning
38. Start an emergency fund for unexpected expenses during assignments.
39. Track all travel-related expenses for tax deductions.
40. Understand per diem and stipend tax rules.
41. Maintain a budget to account for fluctuations between assignments.
Networking
42. Join travel nurse forums and social media groups for support.
43. Connect with fellow travel nurses at your assignment for tips and advice.
44. Build relationships with permanent staff and management.
Continuing Education
45. Keep all certifications (e.g., BLS, ACLS) up to date.
46. Take advantage of continuing education opportunities provided by your agency or facility.
47. Ask your agency if they reimburse for certifications.
Travel Logistics
48. Plan to arrive at your new assignment 2-3 days early to prepare for any potential travel issues.
49. Keep your car well-maintained if driving to assignments.
50. Make sure your insurance is up to date and consider travel insurance for peace of mind.
51. Research public transportation options in your assignment area.
52. Pack essentials (check our packing list out here) but avoid overpacking; remember, you can buy items locally if needed.
Self-Care
53. Prioritize sleep and self-care routines.
54. Explore your new location to prevent burnout and enjoy your assignment.
55. Join local groups or activities to build connections.
Assignment Extensions
56. If you enjoy your assignment, inquire about extending your contract early.
57. Discuss extension bonuses with your recruiter.
58. Evaluate your workload and the facility culture before deciding to extend.
Miscellaneous
59. Keep a folder with all important documents (licenses, certifications, contracts).
60. Carry a compact medical supply kit for emergencies.
61. Be flexible and adaptable to new environments.
62. Learn about the local culture and healthcare practices, working in Hawaii is different than working in L.A.
63. Use apps to help organize your schedule and track shifts.
64. Stay professional and polite, even in challenging situations.
Adding More Tips
65. Set up a reliable mailing address for important documents.
66. Research state licensing requirements before applying.
67. Keep copies of all important communications with your recruiter and agency.
68. Learn basic phrases in the local language if working in bilingual areas.
69. Ensure you have reliable phone service and GPS for exploring your new area.
70. Check weather conditions and pack accordingly.
71. Invest in comfortable shoes for long shifts.
72. Keep a journal to track your experiences and learnings.
73. Join loyalty programs for airlines and hotels to maximize travel benefits.
74. Always have a backup plan for housing or transportation.
75. Establish a routine to stay grounded in new environments.
76. Check your pay stubs regularly for accuracy.
77. Familiarize yourself with local attractions for downtime.
78. Keep a digital copy of all licenses and certifications on your phone.
79. Know your agency’s cancellation policy.
80. Avoid office politics; stay focused on your work. This is a major benefit of travel nursing!
81. Stay updated on healthcare trends and innovations.
82. Familiarize yourself with the chain of command at your facility.
83. Always carry your ID badge and facility contact information.
84. Be proactive about reporting concerns or unsafe practices.
85. Develop a system for keeping track of your shifts and hours.
86. Take breaks when needed to avoid burnout.
87. Communicate openly with your recruiter about any issues.
88. Keep a list of goals to achieve during each assignment.
89. Be patient and understanding with permanent staff.
90. Stay humble and willing to learn from others.
91. Always leave assignments on good terms to maintain references.
92. Keep up-to-date with facility policies and protocols.
93. Seek feedback from colleagues to improve your skills.
94. Know when to advocate for yourself and when to seek compromise.
95. Avoid overcommitting to too many extra shifts.
96. Make time to call friends and family regularly.
97. Celebrate your successes and milestones to stay motivated.
98. Use downtime between assignments to recharge and reflect on your experiences.
99. Keep a list of facilities you’ve worked at and maintain good relationships for future opportunities.
100 .Consider creating a blog or journal to share your travel nursing experiences and tips with others.
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