Travel nursing is an exciting career path that combines a passion for healthcare with a love for adventure. With the demand for travel nurses continuing to see growth, it’s no wonder that many nurses are considering this career switch.
But how do you get started? In this SnapCare blog, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide to help you embark on this rewarding journey.
What is Travel Nursing?
Travel nursing involves taking short-term nursing assignments in various locations, often for 8 to 26 weeks at a time. These assignments are designed to fill staffing gaps in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Travel nurses are in high demand for specialties like ICU, labor and delivery, and emergency care, often receiving higher pay and additional perks such as housing stipends and travel reimbursements.
Why Choose Travel Nursing?
The nursing profession has always been dynamic, but travel nursing takes it a step further by offering unparalleled opportunities for exploration, professional growth, and financial rewards. With the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 6% growth in nursing employment from 2021 to 2031, the demand for nurses remains high, especially in underserved areas or during seasonal surges.
Here are some notable reasons why you should become a travel nurse:
- Adventure and Exploration: Travel nursing allows you to work in diverse locations, from bustling cities to serene rural areas. You get to explore new places while making a meaningful impact on healthcare.
- Higher Earning Potential: Travel nurses typically earn higher wages than permanent staff nurses. Many assignments also come with housing stipends, travel reimbursements, and bonuses, boosting overall compensation.
- Flexibility in Scheduling: You have the freedom to choose when and where you work, allowing you to balance your professional and personal life more effectively.
- Professional Growth: Working in various healthcare settings exposes you to different medical practices, technologies, and patient populations, enhancing your skills and versatility.
- Job Security: With the ongoing nursing shortage, travel nurses are in high demand, ensuring steady opportunities across the country.
Things to Consider Before Becoming a Travel Nurse
Taking on a travel nursing career is exciting, but it requires careful planning and consideration. Before you jump in, take time to evaluate whether this career path aligns with your goals, lifestyle, and professional aspirations.
Personal Flexibility
Travel nursing demands adaptability. Assignments typically last 8 to 26 weeks, meaning you’ll need to relocate frequently and settle into new environments quickly. This constant change can be thrilling for those who love adventure but may feel overwhelming if you prefer routine or long-term stability. You’ll also be working with new teams and learning different workflows, which requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to thrive under varying circumstances.
Licensure Requirements
One of the logistical hurdles in travel nursing is obtaining the necessary licenses to work in different states. If you live in one of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) states, you’re in luck—this multi-state license allows you to practice in other compact states without the need for additional paperwork.
However, if your home state isn’t part of the NLC or your assignments include non-compact states like California or New York, you’ll need to secure individual state licenses. This process can take weeks or months, depending on the state’s requirements, so planning ahead is key.
Specialty Demand
Certain areas, such as ICU, OR, ER, and labor and delivery, are consistently in high demand, offering better pay, more flexibility, and a greater variety of assignments.
If your experience lies in a less sought-after specialty, you may face fewer opportunities or lower pay rates. Consider whether expanding your skill set or pursuing additional certifications (e.g., Advanced Cardiac Life Support [ACLS] or Pediatric Advanced Life Support [PALS]) could make you more marketable.
You can find several online courses that can help you get these additional certifications through the AHA Course Catalog or AHA eLearning & Blended Learning Courses.
Financial Considerations
While travel nursing offers lucrative pay packages, it’s essential to plan your finances carefully. Travel nurses often earn more than permanent staff, with pay typically including housing stipends, travel reimbursements, and completion bonuses. However, gaps between assignments can impact your income.
You’ll also need to account for costs not covered by agencies, such as meals, gas, and personal expenses. Some assignments may even require you to front costs for housing and utilities, with reimbursement provided later.
How to Get into Travel Nursing
Step 1: Gain Clinical Experience
Most travel nursing agencies require 1–2 years of clinical experience in your specialty before offering assignments. This experience ensures you’re prepared to hit the ground running in new environments.
Pro Tip: Focus on gaining experience in high-demand specialties such as ICU, OR, ER, or labor and delivery, as these areas often have the most opportunities and higher pay.
Step 2: Obtain Additional Certifications
Advanced certifications can make you a more competitive candidate and open the door to a wider range of assignments. Depending on your specialty, here are some advanced certifications to consider:
Step 3: Apply for Licenses in Target States
If your desired assignment is in a non-NLC state, start the licensing process early, as it can take weeks or months. Agencies often assist with this process.
For example, SnapCare offers the Oregon Licensure Program, designed to make it easier for clinicians from select states to obtain their Oregon nursing license. This program provides financial reimbursement for application fees, fingerprinting, and other requirements, ensuring a smoother licensing experience for those looking to work in Oregon.
Step 4: Choose a Reputable Travel Nursing Agency
Once you’ve met the prerequisites, the next step is finding the right staffing agency to match you with assignments. Agencies not only connect you with travel nursing opportunities but also provide support with housing, credentialing, and negotiating contracts.
SnapCare is an excellent choice for travel nurses, offering a comprehensive approach to supporting clinicians at every step of their journey. Here’s what sets SnapCare apart:
- Tech-Driven Platform: Our platform is designed with ease and efficiency in mind. From browsing job opportunities and managing credentials to submitting timecards and receiving same-day payments, the SnapCare Mobile App puts control of your career right at your fingertips.
- Career Growth Opportunities: We’re committed to your professional growth. SnapCare offers reskilling and upskilling programs to expand your expertise, along with the SnapCare Rewards and Referral Program, which provides cash incentives, exclusive perks, and exciting rewards for your hard work.
- Variety of Flexible Work Options: Whether you’re looking for PRN shifts, short-term contracts, long-term assignments, or permanent roles, SnapCare provides a variety of opportunities tailored to fit your lifestyle and career aspirations.
- 24/7 Support: Our team is available around the clock to help with job placements, resolve issues, and provide support whenever you need it—ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience during your assignments.
- Comprehensive Healthcare Benefits: SnapCare takes care of its clinicians with comprehensive healthcare benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, employee assistance programs, and more. Your well-being and that of your family are our priorities.
Tips for Nurses Interested in Travel Nursing
Stay Organized
Agencies and employers require proof of licensure, certifications, immunizations, and other important records. Here are some tips to stay organized:
- Store all your credentials, licenses, and certifications in an easily accessible digital format, like a secure cloud folder.
- Use calendar alerts to remind you of expiration dates for licenses and certifications, so you renew them on time.
Read Contracts Carefully
Contracts outline everything from your pay and hours to housing arrangements and job expectations. Here’s how to make sure your contract is crystal clear:
- Ensure the pay rate is clearly stated, along with any additional stipends (such as for housing, meals, or travel expenses). Verify whether you’ll be receiving health benefits and if there are any bonuses or incentives you might qualify for.
- Be clear on the duration of the assignment, including start and end dates. Additionally, check if there’s an option for extension, which can be ideal if you find the facility to be a good fit, or early termination in case the assignment doesn’t meet your expectations.
- If anything in the contract isn’t clear or if you’re unsure about any terms, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Clear communication upfront can prevent misunderstandings later on.
Prioritize Self-Care
Travel nursing can be physically and emotionally demanding, so taking care of yourself is very important. Here are some self-care tips to help maintain a healthy balance:
- Assignments can be intense, so be sure to schedule personal time between shifts to rest, recharge, and explore the new area. A little downtime between assignments can prevent burnout and help you stay motivated throughout your career.
- Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are essential for staying healthy and focused during long shifts. Exercise can also help reduce stress and increase energy levels.
- Travel nursing can feel isolating at times, especially if you’re away from family and friends. Stay connected with loved ones through phone calls, video chats, or even social media groups.
Find Comfortable Accommodations
When it comes to your living arrangements, travel nurses have several options depending on the assignment and the support offered by the agency. Here’s how to ensure a smooth experience:
- Before accepting an assignment, clarify whether you’ll have housing provided or if you’ll need to find your own. If housing is provided, ensure the details—such as location, amenities, and distance from your assignment—are clearly outlined in the contract.
- If housing is not provided, you can search for temporary rentals on websites like Airbnb, Furnished Finder, or Vrbo. Be sure to consider the location in relation to your facility to avoid long commutes.
- Before finalizing any rental agreement, look at reviews from other travel nurses or temporary residents.
Get Familiar with Local Amenities
Before arriving at a new assignment, do a little research to understand the local amenities available to you. This includes healthcare, grocery stores, fitness centers, and entertainment options. Here are some tips:
- In case of an emergency or routine check-ups, it’s good to know where the nearest doctor, urgent care center, or pharmacy is located.
- Knowing where you can get groceries and have a meal out will make your stay more comfortable. Apps like Yelp or Google Maps can be useful for discovering local food spots or supermarkets.
- One of the perks of travel nursing is the chance to explore new places. Look for local parks, museums, hiking spots, and entertainment options in your area to make your time between shifts enjoyable.
Take the First Step Toward an Exciting Career
Travel nursing offers an incredible opportunity to expand your career while exploring new places and meeting diverse people. By understanding the steps involved and preparing thoroughly, you can embark on a rewarding journey that combines professional growth with personal fulfillment.
If you’re ready to start your travel nursing adventure, visit our job board today.
