travel nursing 8 week assignments

Travel Nursing Jobs

Aya has the most travel nursing assignments in the country.

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Aya delivers:

• The most jobs in the industry. We have the largest and most reliable job database, which means the jobs you see are open, updated in real time and ready for you!
• Competitive advantage over other agencies. Front-of-the-line access through our direct facility relationships — many with quick (even same-day) offers, giving you the best chance of securing your ideal opportunity.
• Expedited licensing and streamlined compliance. An industry-leading on-time start rate and strong relationships with boards of nursing across the country to accelerate the process in all 50 states.
• Expert career guidance. A dedicated recruiter to help you achieve your dream career. Travel, per diem, permanent — we have the reach and access to get you the jobs you want, and the expertise to help you realize your long-term goals.
• A best-in-class support system and an exceptional experience. Enjoy accurate, weekly pay, and an entire team dedicated to your happiness on assignment, 24/7.

Plus, you get everything you expect from the largest healthcare staffing company in the industry:

• Exceptional benefits, including premium medical, dental, vision and life insurance beginning day one of your assignment. Want to take time off? Keep insurance coverage for up to 24 days between assignments.
• A generous 401(k) match.
• Paid company housing (we'll help you bring your pets along, too!) or a generous housing stipend.
• Paid sick time in accordance with all applicable state, federal, and local laws. Aya's general sick leave policy is that employees accrue one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. However, to the extent any provisions of the statement above conflict with any applicable paid sick leave laws, the applicable paid sick leave laws are controlling.
• The industry's only clinical ladder program for RNs on assignment.
• Access to unlimited continuing education units online.
• Licensure, relocation and other reimbursements, when applicable.
• Pay listed above includes taxable wages and tax-free expense reimbursements.

For all employees and employee applicants, Aya is an Equal Employment Opportunity ("EEO") Employer, including Disability/Vets, and welcomes all to apply. Please click here for our EEO policy.

• Bi-weekly weekend travel home.
• A rental car and paid housing.

With Aya Locums you get:

• Access to top hospitals and healthcare systems in diverse care settings.
• Highly competitive, transparent locum tenens pay.
• Dedicated application and assignment support.
• In-house credentialing and licensing teams.
• Full coverage of licensing costs.
• Travel and lodging coverage.
• Easy timekeeping and streamlined management of documents.
• Malpractice coverage and risk management support.
• Premium medical, dental, vision and life insurance beginning day one of your assignment.
• Paid sick time. Aya provides paid sick leave in accordance with all applicable state, federal, and local laws. Aya's general sick leave policy is that employees accrue one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. However, to the extent any provisions of the statement above conflict with any applicable paid sick leave laws, the applicable paid sick leave laws are controlling.
• Generous 401k match.
• Aya may provide other benefits where required by applicable law, including but not limited to reimbursements.
• Aya coordinates all travel and lodging accommodations.
• Travel information is received the evening prior to your scheduled departure.
• Airfare is covered and, if driving to the assignment, reimbursement is available.
• Once notice is received, communication from our team is sent via email and text to ensure you are kept in the loop as soon as information becomes available.
• Your safety is Aya's top priority. We work closely with the facility to ensure additional security measures are taken onsite so you can focus on what really matters: patient care.
• Licensure, relocation and other reimbursements.

Experience the Aya difference today

• A dedicated recruiter who advocates for you every step of the way.
• We'll ensure the hiring manager prioritizes your interest and schedules an interview quickly.
• A streamlined hiring process means offers are often presented within 24-48 hours after an interview with a hiring leader.
• Flexible start dates that work around your availability.
• We make it simple with one point of contact the entire time.
• University of Washington (UW) offers a wide range of benefits as part of your total compensation package. Choose from top medical and dental insurance programs; plan for your future with tax-deferred investing through the UW retirement options; enjoy generous vacation and sick leave policies; and protect yourself and your family with life and long-term disability insurance. For more information, follow the links shown below or explore the Benefits website at http://hr.uw.edu/benefits/

With Aya, you get:

• Higher compensation - we negotiate on your behalf.
• Work-life balance - contracts are up to 40 hours per week, with workdays ending mid-late afternoon and weekends off!
• An employee advocate - our team ensures you have the support needed to be successful in your role.
• Options post contract - extend, convert to a permanent employee or find a new job.
• Paid company housing (pets are welcome to tag along) or a generous housing stipend.
• If qualified, continued insurance coverage over the summer.
• A generous 401k match.
• A robust team to support you every step of the way.
• A credentialing specialist to streamline the entire compliance process.
• Freedom and flexibility around your current schedule.
• The easy-to-use Shifts app. Select shifts anytime, anywhere.
• Premium medical, dental, vision and life insurance.
• Front-of-the-line access to exclusive jobs at thousands of healthcare facilities nationwide.
• A robust team to support you every step of the way to ensure you start on time, have accurate payroll and an exceptional experience.
• Certification and other reimbursements, when applicable.

Privacy Overview

Everything you need to know before accepting a travel nursing assignment.

Travel nurses and allied professionals go where the wind takes them. Or rather, where there is a shortage or immediate need for their skills. Travel nursing was created to address shortages of registered nurses in various parts of the country. There is always demand for qualified nurses anywhere you go, but there’s not always enough personnel to meet the demand. This is even more true in times of a medical crisis. 

Because travel nursing and allied pro assignments are run as-needed, the length of time and the kind of work you can expect to do as a travel nurse will vary from post to post. You might find yourself filling in for a nurse on parental leave for 6 months on one job. Then turn around and help an overloaded ER for a week on your next assignment. What you need to take with you and how you prepare for each job will change with each assignment. In this article, we’ll go over need-to-know information to help you prepare for your next adventure as a travel nurse.

How Does Travel Nursing Work?

Before we jump in, let’s talk about what it takes to be a travel nurse. The basic qualifications to become a travel nurse are the same as standard nursing. Travel nurses must hold an associates or bachelor’s degree in nursing, be certified in BLS and ACLS, and hold an LVN or RN certification. Here at Medely we also require a minimum of one to two years working in the specialty of the specific assignment. Find out more about being a travel nurse with Medely here . 

The most common length of travel nursing and allied pro assignments is around 13 weeks, although shifts can vary from 1 week to upwards of 26, depending on the need and your preferences. Many agencies, including Medely, allow travel nurses to search for assignments with specific time parameters. Getting travel assignments with Medely works essentially the same as any other job-hunting platform. Positions are posted by the facilities, allowing you to browse potential assignments. Urgent needs may be highlighted or promoted. Nurses and allied pros can apply for your ideal position with the click of a button, which will kick off an interview and approval process. Once the facility approves your application and you sign your contract, you’re off on your adventure!

But before you hop on a plane, there are a few things to get in order: 

• Housing – Staying in a hotel gets old fast. The good news is, there’s better options.
• Pet/Plant Sitting – Do you have plants or animals that will need care, either with you or while you’re away?
• License – Travel nurses have to be licensed in the state they are working in. Make sure your license and other credentials are up-to-date for the state your assignment is in.?
• Travel – How are you getting to your new assignment? Does your agency offer reimbursement? (Medely does)
• Expenses – What is the cost of living in the new city? How much does your agency cover? (again, Medely has you covered with the maximum tax-free stipends available for your assignment)

In the next section, we’ll talk more about specific needs and top tips to follow, no matter the length of your assignment. 

Nursing and Allied Pro Assignments by Length

1 week travel nursing assignment.

Shorter assignments, including week-long jobs, typically fall under the “rapid-response” category. This means nurses working these fast-turnaround positions will need to be ready to go in as little as two days. 

These assignments are easy to pack for but the planning and financial aspect can be rough. Last-minute plane tickets get expensive fast. However most agencies reimburse travel costs, especially for rapid-response assignments. 

Housing can also be a little tricky, but you might be able to get away with staying in a hotel for such a short duration. 

If you have children or pets that need to stay home, longer assignments might be a better fit for you. 

As with all short-term assignments, be prepared for a potential extension.

2 Week Travel Nursing Assignment

These assignments are rare. But if you’ve been bit by the travel bug and only have a small window of availability, you ask your agency to keep an eye out for these short assignments. 

As with 1 week assignments, you might need to be ready to move fast as facilities will typically need you to start right away. We recommend finding housing through a travel-nursing specific website, for a more affordable and more amenity-filled home away from home during your stay.

3 Week Travel Nursing Assignment

The biggest considerations as nursing assignments lengthen are housing-related. It’s easy enough to pack everything you need for short-term assignments, but you want to start thinking about practical concerns as your job extends. Look for affordable, comfortable housing with proximity to your place of work, laundry facilities, and grocery stores or restaurants. 

4-6 Week Travel Nursing Assignment

One month is the magic number for many nursing assignments. In fact, it’s the minimum length of assignment  Medely offers. Additionally, many travel nurse housing sites also have a four week minimum. 

Four week and longer assignments typically have time between application and orientation, giving you some breathing room when it comes to planning housing and travel. We recommend looking for locations you think you’ll enjoy when considering these longer assignments.

8+ Week Travel Nursing Assignment

Nurses on tour! Home and home-away-from-home begin to blend together when you’re working in a new location for this long. But they are often easier to budget and plan for and you can take your time in figuring out next steps. Longer assignments are often a good bet for travel nurses with families and animals.  The assignment length means you have the time to make the necessary arrangements for your loved ones. 

Last Thoughts: Travel Nurse Assignments

What you need for your next travel assignment will vary by length. There’s a world of difference between a 1-week stay and a 2 month job. But by planning and preparing ahead of time, you’ll be ready to go no matter what. 

Not sure what to pack? Medely has the answers. Check out our post: The Nomad’s Packing Guide for Travel Nurses .

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Flexible Travel Nurse Contract Lengths

Freedom to do you, unlike some travel nurse agencies, we offer contracts ranging from as little as 4 weeks to the standard 8 to 13-week travel assignments. in some cases, our clients may even request an extension of the contract, which you are free to accept or decline., just let your recruiter know the contracts you want, and they’ll get to work on your behalf..

Travel Job Options If there are specific destinations you want to visit, whether for family or fun, our recruiters will keep a close eye out for relevant travel postings. But most of our nurses opt for our direct rapid response assignments. Although the destinations may not seem as attractive as Hawaii, these hidden gems are higher-paying, shorter commitments, and still offer a rich and rewarding experience.

Avoid Burnout We recognize how mentally, physically and emotionally exhausting nursing can be, and traveling adds other challenges to the equation. The last thing we want is for our nurses to burn out, so take as much time as you need between assignments to recover and stay healthy. There is no commitment to take on a new travel job until you’re ready.

For travel nursing tips, check out our travel nurse resources .

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How Does Travel Nursing Work? | Salary and FAQ

Travel nursing is a great way to advance your career and earn great pay while traveling the country. Plus, travel nursing can provide advantages to nurses who value flexibility in their careers and don’t want to be locked into one facility or specialty. Travel nursing can also help nurses who are looking for variety in the nursing profession to learn new skills and gain valuable experience.

And while providing excellent patient care is one part of the job that won’t change, there are some differences between being a travel nurse versus a staff nurse that you should be aware of before you make the switch.

Below you’ll learn the travel nurse basics as we answer 15 of the most frequently asked questions about travel nursing.

Discover available travel nursing assignments in the area of your choice!

Table of Contents

• How Does Travel Nursing Work?
• Who Can Become a Travel Nurse?
• What is The Salary Like as a Travel Nurse?
• How Long are Travel Nursing Assignments?
• Where Can Travel Nurses Go?
• Can I Take a Travel Assignment Close to My Home?
• Am I Eligible for Benefits Like Health Insurance and Vacation?
• Does the Staffing Agency Pay For My Living Expenses?
• Can I Travel With My Family and/or Pets?
• Can I Travel With Another Travel Nurse?
• Will I Get the Worst Assignments?
• If An Assignment is Cut Short Due to Low Census, Do I Get Full Pay?
• Is Travel Nursing Good for Career Advancement?
• How Long Will There Be Demand for Travel Nurses?
• How Do I Become a Travel Nurse?

1. How Does Travel Nursing Work?

Travel nurses are hired to bridge staffing shortages, which may be caused by a variety of factors:

• A lack of qualified nurses in the area
• Seasonal patient population increases
• Natural disasters or pandemics
• Staff nurses taking expected leaves of absence like maternity leave or vacations

To find skilled nurses to fill these often short-term assignments, these facilities work with recruitment agencies.

Most travel nursing assignments are around 13-14 weeks long, so as the travel nurse, you sign a contract with a travel nursing agency to work that length of time at a designated facility. While 13-14 weeks is an average length of time, there may be other assignments that are shorter or longer.

Every facility will have different policies, but most will also have clearly explained policies about what will happen if you feel unsafe, are unable to complete your assignment, or if the hospital decides to cancel your contract before the length of time is up.

Your travel nurse recruitment agency will work with you to place you at a facility and help you arrange things like housing, meals, and other practical things you might need during your stay, like internet or utilities.

You also have the option to receive retirement benefits and insurance for the duration of your assignment, although those benefits usually end when your assignment does, so some travel nurses opt to pay out-of-pocket for the benefits they need so they last between assignments.

There are travel nurse assignments available in nearly every specialty, from ICU to labor and delivery to advanced nurse practitioner positions like CRNAs and NPs. In general, the more specialty experience you have, the higher pay you may earn as a travel nurse. If you have specialty training or would like to gain it, be sure to talk to your nurse recruiter.

2. Who Can Become a Travel Nurse?

Travel nurses are Registered Nurses with typically 12-18 months of hospital-based RN experience in their field. Depending on the specialty or the specific requirements of the facility, the required work experience may be longer. Travel nursing assignments are available for multiple specialties, but some specialties like ICU and oncology are more in demand. Nurses with advanced certification, such as NPs, CNMs, and CRNAs can also take travel positions.

See other high-demand travel nurse specialties.

3. What is The Salary Like as a Travel Nurse?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a Registered Nurse in 2021 was $77,600 per year, while travel nurses can make on average approximately $131,807 per year.

However, you may want to keep in mind that the 2021 average for travel nurses may be a bit higher than you should expect to make in 2022-2023, because that rate takes into account some higher-than-normal travel nurse wages that occurred during the pandemic. While high-rate travel nursing positions are still available, they are not as high as they were reaching at the peak of the pandemic.

Total travel nurse compensation depends on multiple factors such as your specialty, the contract details, and the location of the hospital. In general, travel nurses are often paid well, because they’re filling a high demand for nurses.

In addition to your hourly rate, you’ll often be eligible for these perks:

• Medical and dental benefits
• Stipends for housing
• Travel expenses

Keep in mind, that when working as a travel nurse, you’re employed by the travel nursing agency and not the facility. It’s also important to remember that travel nurses are paid (and taxed) differently than staff nurses . Travel nurses are paid through agencies, not the hospital, you have to look at your total pay, which includes your hourly base pay + your non-taxable stipends, which is what things like housing and meals are considered.

Your hourly base pay may look lower than you expect, but when you factor the stipends in, you can get a more accurate picture of what your total pay looks like. You’ll also need to be sure you have a “tax home” to avoid paying taxes on the stipends as well.

4. How Long are Travel Nursing Assignments?

The standard travel nursing assignment lasts 13 weeks, but anything between 8 and 26 weeks is common. Hospitals will often offer to renew your contract, too, if you agree — called extension assignments.

Extension offers usually occur during the last 3 to 5 weeks of your assignment, but if you’re interested in staying on longer, you should talk to your recruiter. You don’t have to wait to be approached by the facility.

Standard travel nurse hours are five 8s, four 10s, or three 12s, though this will vary by facility. Your shift and hours should be written in your contract.

The beauty of being a travel nurse is that you can work as long or as little as you would like — you can choose to extend an assignment, take on a new one as soon as one contract ends, or take an extended break between assignments.

5. Where Can Travel Nurses Go?

Travel nursing jobs are available across the country, but available assignment locations will depend on current staffing needs. While vacation destinations like Hawaii or California might be the dream for many travel nurses starting out, they’re also high in demand and as such, may not come with as high of pay.

On the flip side, choosing less in-demand areas may garner you higher pay and help you build your resume and experience. You can also sign up to be on a list for crisis travel nursing positions so that when something pops up last minute, like a hurricane in Puerto Rico, you can take a crisis pay travel nurse position.

Ultimately, you decide where you want to go — chances are if your dream location isn’t available now, it will be in the future.

Read more: Best Cities for Travel Nurses

It’s also very important to remember that in order to legally work as a travel nurse, you’ll need an RN license for that state. Some states are part of the Compact State licensure, which means that if you have a compact state license and want to work in any of the states under that license, you’re covered. Otherwise, you’ll have to apply for each individual state you want to work in. Ask your recruiter about Compact State licenses , which allow you to work in many states with one license.

6. Can I Take a Travel Assignment Close to My Home?

A common myth is your assignment must be at least 50 miles away from your permanent residence — often called the “50-mile rule.”

The truth is, you can work a contract assignment at a hospital close to your home if you choose. In fact, some nurses even choose to quit their staff positions and take on travel nursing roles at the hospitals they work at. (Keep in mind that your hospital may frown upon that or even ban nurses from doing that, so be sure to tread carefully if that’s your plan). Additionally, if you do choose a location close to home, you can’t collect the non-taxed housing stipend, which can reduce your overall pay.

To collect the housing stipend, you must be duplicating expenses — rent or own a home in your home area AND rent a place in the area you’re working. Basically, you can’t work a contract and go home to your main residence at the end of your shift and receive a non-taxed stipend.

7. Am I Eligible for Benefits Like Health Insurance and Vacation?

Most travel agencies offer medical and dental benefits as well as other benefits like a 401K that you can collect directly through the agency— some even offer matching 401K plans!

To maintain health insurance, though, you cannot take off more than 30 days. If your plan is to take extended time off between assignments, it would be better to get your own health insurance. You can purchase your own benefits through Marketplace.gov or go through an insurance agency that offers health insurance. You can also open your retirement accounts and contribute directly to them as you please.

Also, most travel nurse companies do not offer paid time off (PTO) or short-term disability. You’ll need to get your own insurance policy if you’re concerned with the possibility of getting hurt and not being able to work.

Bottom line: In the world of travel nursing, if you don’t work, you don’t get paid. But some nurses still find that thanks to the high wages travel nursing offers, that they can actually earn more money by working fewer hours and still reap all the benefits of a staff position.

8. Does the Staffing Agency Pay For My Living Expenses?

There are two housing options available to travel nurses:

• Agency-placed housing
• Taking a housing stipend

If you choose agency-placed housing, the agency arranges your living situation, but it isn’t free. The housing fees come out of the bill rate and ultimately reduces your take-home pay. Housing is deducted from the travel nurse’s “cut” of the bill rate. Agencies will coordinate and set up housing, which is helpful if you’re new to travel nursing.

However, if you want to bring home the most money, we recommend taking the stipend and finding your own housing. In that scenario, you can still collect the housing stipend, but you have the freedom to choose your own living quarters, so if you find a place that’s lower than the stipend allows, you get to keep the difference. Many travel nurses choose to do this to keep their housing costs low and take home more pay.

When you get housing through an agency, it’s also important to know that things like a television, washer and dryer, or a vacuum are often not included, but you have the option of renting these items from the company that furnished the apartment. Let your recruiter know what you’ll need, so they can help arrange the rentals.

If you opt for the housing stipend, you’ll be responsible for finding your own housing as well as all of the living expenses.

See available housing listings by state.

9. Can I Travel With My Family and/or Pets?

Yes! You can travel on assignment with your family and/or pets — though finding housing may become a bit trickier. Most travel nurse companies provide a one-bedroom apartment (some just a studio or an extended-stay hotel), which probably isn’t doable if you’re bringing your children. To get housing with additional bedrooms and space, you may be required to pay for part of your housing (if using agency-placed housing). Or, you’ll have to find your own housing (using the housing stipend).

Let your recruiter know if you’d like to travel with your pet, so they can find pet-friendly housing. Keep in mind, that some housing has breed or weight restrictions, which can limit your options. You’ll also likely have to pay an additional security deposit.

Learn more about how to find travel nurse housing with your pets.

10. Can I Travel With Another Travel Nurse?

Yes! It’s not uncommon for RNs to select travel nursing assignments together. You can even request to work in the same hospital or city and to share an apartment or apartment complex. Traveling with another nurse gives you someone to explore with and often saves on housing costs. It’s also possible to do travel nursing as a couple — learn how one couple does it and their advice for other nurse couples .

11. Will I Get the Worst Assignments?

Some travel nurses have reported that many facilities tend to give travel nurses the “easier” patients and leave the sickest to the staff nurses, especially for acute patients. Why? It takes time for a charge nurse to get to know you and learn what you can handle.

However, this may not be the case for you, especially if you are taking on a specialty assignment, like working in a COVID or ICU unit. Additionally, in critical staffing positions, there may not be an option to delegate “easier” patients, as every patient may be critically ill.

As a travel nurse, however, you’ll usually be the first to float. If you dislike that, then you may not enjoy being a travel nurse.

Read more: Are Travel Nurses Treated Unfairly?

12. If An Assignment is Cut Short Due to Low Census, Do I Get Full Pay?

No — typically you will not be paid if your assignment is cut short due to low patient counts. However, your recruiter will attempt to find you a replacement assignment quickly. Also, the number of shifts allowed to be canceled is written in your contract. Some contracts may also have policies about what will happen if the entire assignment is canceled. As a side note, you may also want to confirm that you can get out of your housing contract should your contract be canceled.

13. Is Travel Nursing Good for Career Advancement?

Traveling as a nurse increases your skill level and makes you a more eligible candidate for future nursing jobs. Why?

• It exposes you to different regional nursing procedures and patient populations
• You may have the opportunity to work in a wider variety of specialties
• You have experience learning a new clinical environment quickly
• Some agencies may also help you get more specialty training or certifications—if you’re interested in this, be sure to talk to your recruiter about what your agency might offer for continuing education!

14. How Long Will There Be Demand for Travel Nurses?

While the pressing need for travel nurses through the pandemic may have slowed, there will always be a demand for travel nurses. Not only do nursing shortages nationwide continue to be a problem, but the rate of new nurses replacing nurses leaving and retiring from the workforce is not an adequate number. Additionally, there will always be things like natural disasters and emergencies that crop up, which will require an influx of travel nurses who can work on short notice.

Nurses comprise the largest section of the healthcare profession, and continuing shortages are still a real problem. The US Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects that over 1.2 million nurses are required to meet the current need and that employment opportunities for nurses are growing at a 15% rate through 2026 when compared to all other occupations (an average of 6% growth).

15. How Do I Become a Travel Nurse?

We’ve compiled a complete step-by-step guide on how to become a travel nurse . You can also fill out this short form to get connected with up to four travel nursing agencies. We work with the top staffing companies whose recruiters work hard to connect you with the best opportunities available.

Start your travel nursing adventure today!

Make all the right career moves!

Don't miss out on your adventure., learn more about travel nursing.

Highest-Paying Travel Nurse Assignments | Salary & Location

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20 Tips for a First Time Travel Nurse

Table of Contents

#1: strategize to get organized.

When you begin your travel nurse adventure, you must first make a plan. Before you say adieu to your staff job, there are a few key things to consider.

First, get all your paperwork together. This includes immunization records, physicals, and nursing licenses. Have your certifications, like Basic Life Support, up to date. Bring copies of necessary documents with you on your first day. You’ll want an updated list of references, and can earn bonus points for letters of recommendation, which speak to your nursing capabilities of why you’d make a great travel nurse. These letters can be from previous employers or from professors you had as a nursing student.

Health Insurance

Think about health insurance. Will you carry your own policy, be a dependent on your spouse’s, or take the travel company’s insurance? Ask your travel nursing agency for a summary of benefits offered. Health Carousel Travel Nursing offers premier benefits to travel nurses to support your health, wealth, career and life. The upside of carrying your own insurance is that you don’t have to work consistently to maintain coverage. Some companies allow you to keep insurance for weeks after an assignment ends or if you take another assignment with them. Some companies revoke it the moment you fall below the required number of working hours.At Health Carousel Travel Nursing you need to have your next travel nurse assignment booked before you end your current assignment in order to keep benefits between assignments. Your new travel nurse assignment also has to start within 28 days of when you end your last assignment. 

Additionally, make sure any prescription medications are filled, and your doctor’s appointments are up to date. This is helpful to do before your insurance changes.

When it’s time to interview with the facility, ask questions! You can inquire about patient ratios, scheduling requirements, floating policies, and communicate any days off you’ll need.

Sign your contract before taking off to your assignment. Make sure it clearly states the following:

• How many hours per week and what shifts you will work.
• The length of the contract, with specific start and end dates.
• Specific days off (if requested).
• Holiday, overtime, and shift differential rates.
• What happens if the contract falls through? Will you be reimbursed if the hospital unexpectedly cancels your contract?
• Travel stipends and gas/mileage reimbursement.
• Benefits offered and requirements to maintain them.
• Base pay rate.
• Meals and incidentals/lodging stipend.

Ask your recruiter for any clarifications before signing the contract.

#2: Be Flexible

Of course you have dreams of where you see yourself, and your skills likely prove it! However, it’s advised that new travel nurses be flexible on their very first assignment. Travel nursing is a career all on its own, and comes with certain soft skills such as quick turn around times and adaptability. The more practice you have adjusting to new facilities and tackling onboarding requirements, the more outstanding your resume will become. Many hospitals require that travelers have prior travel nurse experience. After you get your foot in the door you can be more selective.

#3: Choose a Comfortable Housing Option 

Do not go for the cramped under-the-stairs cupboard room or hideously tiny in-law suite in lieu of a comfortable residence. Creature comforts are vital when you’re far away from home. It’s easier to feel refreshed after a hard shift when you can sleep in a comfortable bed with A/C or heat (depending on the season). It helps travel nurses maintain the mental stamina needed for sticking out any assignment, especially the tough ones. Do what makes sense for your finances, while also considering how much your living environment will affect you both mentally and physically.

#4: Take a Test Drive Before Starting Your First Assignment

Whether you’re biking, driving, or taking public transportation, it’s advisable to always make a test run to work before your first day. Ideally, you will want to arrive at your new location a few days ahead of time or earlier to settle in. Then calculate how far the facility is from your residence, and plan to wake up early to practice the commute. 

Be sure to make a test drive later for night shift because rush hour traffic can significantly alter travel times. It’s helpful to know where the parking lot or transit station is, and how long it takes to walk to your unit or facility. 

It might seem “extra,” but it’s a travel nurse tip many swear by.

#5: Prepare for Your Pets

Traveling and housing a pet is possible as a travel nurse. You’ll want to take care of a few extra things before you leave with your furry bff.

If driving, make a trial run with your pet. Perhaps a weekend or overnight getaway, either to a pet friendly hotel or a campsite (depending on your pet’s preference). 

Lots of travelers adventure with their furry friends. Dogs and cats alike are great companions on the road. Talk to your vet about how to travel with your pet. Make sure your pet is equipped to handle a long car ride. If you’re flying, look up pet friendly airlines.

A Note on Cats in Cars:

Many cats enjoy lounging and gazing out the car window. Get a soft and/or hard carrier to easily transport your cat. It’s important to stop at least every 3 hours to offer food, water, and the litterbox, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Use a small box for a makeshift litter box and set it up with water/food in a larger hard plastic crate. However, some pets may be too stressed to use the litter box or eat in transit. Just be sure to set up your cat’s essentials immediately at your hotel or wherever you stop for the night.

#6: Take Care of Your Home Logistics

With a little organization and planning, this task can be done efficiently.

Enlist a family member, friend, or roommate you can trust to check and store your mail. If you are leaving a roommate with an empty room, you can use that as storage so you have less to take on the road.

Many travel nurses invest in a storage unit in their home city or state. You can also sell your big items on Facebook Marketplace, Offer Up, and Craigslist in a fairly short time period. Keep the bare minimum, and travel for longer.

Consider if you will rent out your current place. If you rent it out, make sure to plan for how long you want to be away from home. Furnished Finders is a good place to find other travel nurses, who can rent your home for a few months. Then you will still have a place to return to after your assignment is complete. 

If you continue to pay rent, think about the utilities, internet, and other monthly costs. You will have to call your providers to suspend or cancel services if you live alone. Have a friend or family check on your place every couple of weeks.

#7: Pack Smart

Don’t let your belongings own you. It’s better to rent a surfboard when you’re living near the ocean than lugging one halfway across the country. Renting large recreation items is more ideal than lugging a ton of suitcases and boxes. With places like REI nationwide, you can rent things like camping gear and recreation equipment anywhere.

Consider the length of your travel assignment, and pack accordingly. Make a list of what you use regularly and what you don’t. Think about your daily routine, on work days and non-work days. You can also try a packing-list generator to help organize your mind. There are also apps available, like Pack Point, which help travel nurses pack for their next assignment.

Think about your typical work week. Bringing two week’s worth of work clothing is a great idea in case you get exhausted from rotating shifts or miss laundry day. 

Make do with less. Don’t let your belongings make it harder to get to your destination. Remember: you can always buy something you forgot, or get it shipped.

Pack important documents, a laptop, your favorite non-work clothes, a watch, and prescription medications. You may want to bring a printer. It’s not necessary, but some facilities require certifications printed out, and it’s easier to have your own than find a UPS store at times.

#8: Plan Your Housing

Great options for travel nurse housing include Airbnb, Furnished Finders, Landing, and even Craigslist. Another option is extended-stay hotels. Make sure where you live has everything you need (especially if you’re bringing pets). Confirm with your housing provider what appliances are provided, so you’ll know what to bring. Following these helpful travel nurse housing tips will provide valuable insights when searching for safe and convenient accommodations during your nursing assignment.

If you aren’t comfortable finding your own housing, your travel recruiter is there to help you. Most travel agencies provide housing, including Health Carousel Travel Nursing. In rural locations, it can be a challenge to find something suitable to your needs with less options available. Utilize your company’s provided housing to make it easier, especially as a first-time travel nurse.

A nice way to find a place that has internet and utilities already set up is with Airbnb, Furnished Finders, and Landing. When your agency provides housing, you’ll usually need to at least set up the internet. This is reimbursable as long as it’s listed in your contract.

Find a place that is furnished, with desired amenities, and in a location that is near enough to your travel nurse assignment. Do your own research for housing prices in the area. The benefit of finding your own housing is that you can select a spot suited to your tastes, and pocket any extra housing stipend. It’s also perfectly alright to take your company’s free housing.

#9: Do Your Research

When selecting a travel nurse company, set aside a few hours to look up reputable travel agencies. Check reviews. Places to look include glassdoor, travel nurse websites, or the travel nurse community on nurse.org. Ask friends who are planning to travel or who are already traveling which agencies they like. 

Don’t forget to research some hospitals and locations. If you have your heart set on a city, state, or hospital, look up information that’s relevant. It’s important to know what to expect. You can also find blogs or Reddit discussions about different states and cities, and get the insider scoop on lifestyle.

#10: Ask Questions to Other Travel Nurses

Are there other travel nurses at your current facility? Ask them out for a coffee after your shift, and pepper them with questions! It’s fun to know where they enjoyed working, which cities were their favorites, and why.

Some questions to ask include:

• How did you find housing? 
• Which travel company are you using? 
• Did you bring your car? 
• What did you wish you didn’t bring?
• How much time off did you plan in between assignments? 

Having a veteran traveler’s input is similar to a doctor’s expert opinion. It puts your research into a real-life perspective, and can help you visualize realities of a travel nurse experience. You can also make note of what pitfalls to avoid.

You can find other travel nurses on social media. Facebook groups and Tik Tok have loads of travel nurses willing to talk shop.

#11: Arrive Early on Day One

Arrive early to make a great first impression. Fifteen minutes early is a good amount of leeway for any unforeseen delays. Give yourself extra time to navigate a new hospital, find the break room, and show up prepared.

Pro tip: If you’re up for it, bring a jar of pens for the unit. Nurses love pens. Attach a note, introducing yourself as a new travel nurse. It’s a great way to stand out–and make coworkers familiar with your name.

#12: Understand Your New Work Environment

As you enter a brand new work culture, avoid making assumptions. Ask a lot of questions. 

It’s helpful to bring a small notebook you can tuck into your scrub pocket, to jot down the break room codes or important extensions. Observe the flow of how nurses structure their day. Some units emphasize certain tasks, and it’s important to make note of this.

Tips for navigating your new work environment:

• Never feel bad for asking questions. 
• Be willing to help when you can. 
• Introduce yourself to new work colleagues.

It may be daunting, but have confidence in your abilities.

#13: Be Ready to Show Off Your Skills

Before you start your new travel assignment, you’ll have a (sometimes lengthy) onboarding checklist. It’s important to be realistic but confident when answering questions on skills checklists.

When you’re on the floor, you may feel the exacting eyes of other coworkers watching you. This can be stressful and might shake your confidence.

There is sometimes a hesitation to show your skills in a new place. Once you are off orientation and trained on processes, don’t be afraid to jump in and help. Your coworkers will see your strengths and welcome you as a member of the team.

#14: Don’t Take Things Personally

Don’t take things personally. Try to set your ego aside. Think about your tasks at hand, the patients and families you are helping, and how you’re great at your job. That’s why you got this travel nurse position!

#15: Have a Positive Attitude

Inevitably something will go wrong–it’s hospital nursing, after all. However, having a positive attitude attracts others to help you in challenging situations. You’ll appear more confident, which will make you more friends in the long run.

#16: Ask Questions

Almost every nurse will tell you they appreciate the nurses who ask questions more than those who think they know everything. This is crucial as a traveler. Of course, you know how to be a nurse, but if something seems off or you have a question about the way a procedure is done at that facility, definitely reach out. 

Print out the facility’s policy first. Then ask another nurse, the charge nurse, or resource nurse, for guidance. This shows initiative, which will build trust with your coworkers. It’s a great way to build a good rapport with your coworkers quickly, which is essential as a travel nurse.

#17: Keep In Contact With Your Recruiter

Whether it's about your contract or the facility, don’t hesitate to connect with your recruiter. Recruiters help you prep for interviews, obtain new state licenses, and will provide the information for your first day instructions. They have valuable insight on what other travelers did for housing in your location.

Your travel nurse recruiter wants to help you succeed on your first travel assignment. And even if it’s your second, third, or tenth travel contract–there are always questions in a new workplace setting.

It may seem awkward at first. However, know that your recruiter is there for you and it’s important to be in contact. They may have updates about your contract or licenses, and want to make sure your assignment is going great. Some of them have even worked in healthcare before, sometimes as travel nurses themselves.

#18: Don’t Forget to Make Friends!

Connect with other travel nurses or coworkers in your unit. Join the conversation when nurses are talking about something that interests you. Seek out similarities.

A few tips for making friends fast : 

• Learn people’s names, and use them! 
• Make it a point to say good morning and goodbye. 
• Ask if anyone else needs anything–when you go to the cafeteria to get food or drinks, or when you’re in the supply room.
• Suggest after-work drinks or coffee.
• Bring food to work.
• Join an event the hospital is planning. For example, if you like to stay active, hospitals often have charity runs or triathlons. Check the company’s webpage for upcoming events.
• Start conversations at lunch and ask coworkers about themselves.

#19: Explore Your New Town

There is likely a ton to explore in your new travel nurse locale. Most cities, big and small, have great coffee shops, bookstores, and restaurants. Look up a local cultural event and attend! Ask other nurses what they like to do in the area. Then invite them to an outing together.

Better yet, explore on your own! It’s exciting to uncover hidden gems of a new place by yourself. Take yourself out to dinner and enjoy the ambiance, or head out for a hike and embrace the beauty of nature.

#20: Think About Your Next Assignment

It’s really never too early to think about your next assignment . One thing to keep in mind is extending your current one! Most contracts are about 13 weeks. After about 4-8 weeks, think about if you’d like to stay longer. Are you vibing with your coworkers? Do you absolutely love the patient population? If so, talk to your recruiter about extending.

Write down a budget. You may be able to take time off to visit loved ones or exotic places. It’s easy to go a little crazy and splurge on expensive sunglasses or luxury dining, especially when you suddenly have an influx of cash. Yet, if you budget well during your first travel assignment, you can set yourself up for financial freedom down the line.

If you want to explore a new city or facility, then talk to your recruiter about your next travel nurse assignment. They will update you on available roles that you qualify for, so you can get all the appropriate documentation. Fortunately, the NLC (Nurse Licensure Compact) has made 37 states compact, with a couple states pending. You can practice in any of those states with a single license, as long as you have permanent residency in one of those states.

Talk with a recruiter who is helpful, reliable, and transparent at Health Carousel Travel Nursing . Recruiters at Health Carousel Travel Nursing value your flexibility, preferences, and time. It’s the best way to begin your travel nursing career.

How Do I Know If I’m Ready For My First Travel Assignment?

Make sure to have at least two years experience of nursing under your belt. Do you feel like you can navigate your health care facility effectively? When you feel comfortable and confident in your role, you’re likely ready to embark on your first travel nurse assignment.

Katie Taibl (pronouns: she/they) is a registered nurse and freelance nurse writer. She has adventured from coast to coast as a travel nurse. Currently, she resides in Boston with her partner and three cats. In her free time, she enjoys time outdoors and teaching kids therapeutic surfing as a surf instructor.

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Many travel nurses opt for temporary assignments because of the autonomy and opportunities − not just the big boost in pay

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Travel nurses take short-term contracts that can require long commutes or temporarily living away from home. Time and again, they have to get used to new co-workers, new protocols and new workplaces.

So why would staff nurses quit their stable jobs to become travel nurses?

Well, for one, they get bigger paychecks . But U.S. nurses have other rationales besides making more money, according to a study I conducted .

To do this research, I interviewed 27 registered nurses based in different places.

Many of the people I interviewed disclosed that they left permanent positions to combat burnout. Although they welcomed the bump in pay, travel nursing also gave them the autonomy to decide when and where to work. That autonomy allowed them to pursue personal and professional interests that were meaningful to them, and it made some of the other hassles, such as long commutes, worth it.

On top of earning more money, travel nursing “gives you an opportunity to explore different areas,” said a nurse I’ll call Cynthia, because research rules require anonymity. “When you actually live there for three months, it gives you a chance to really immerse yourself in the area and really get to know not just the touristy stuff, but really hang out with the locals and really be exposed to that area.”

Other study participants said they enjoyed the novelty and educational opportunities.

“You don’t get bored or stuck in a routine,” Michelle said. “You’re always trying to learn new policies at the new hospital that you’re in, learning about the new doctors, nursing staff, new ways of doing things, where things are located. That helps keep me from feeling burned out so quickly.”

Said Patricia: “I want to see how other operating rooms across the country do things and how they do things differently. I do learn a lot of things going from place to place.”

Why it matters

A growing number of U.S. nurses were obtaining temporary assignments before the COVID-19 pandemic began.

But travel nursing became much more widespread in 2020, when hospitals were scrambling to keep their staffing levels high enough as millions of Americans were becoming infected with the coronavirus, straining capacity in many communities.

While compensation varies widely, the median pay of registered nurses in 2022 was US$81,220 , about 35% less than the $110,000 that registered nurses who traveled earned .

At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, travel nurses could earn an even bigger premium . Many were paid twice as much as staff nurses.

Once the number of Americans with severe symptoms fell, that premium declined too . But there are still over 1.7 million travel nurses in the U.S. Hiring them is one of the main ways that hospitals cope with a long-term shortage of nurses .

But nurses with permanent jobs can get aggravated by this arrangement when they learn how much more travel nurses earn for doing the same work, as I found through another research project .

What other research is being done

Research supports a widely reported trend: More Americans have temporary jobs and freelance employment than in the past.

While travel nurses can help hospitals, nursing homes and doctors’ offices meet staffing needs, there are signs that patients don’t always fare as well with their care.

And a Canadian study found that when hospitals let staff nurses work part time and offer other alternative arrangements, their retention rates may rise .

The Research Brief is a short take about interesting academic work.

• Gig economy
• Quick reads
• Labor rights
• New research
• Research Brief
• temporary workers

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