Imagine a career where you can explore new places, meet diverse people, and make a significant impact on patients’ lives—all while doing what you love. Welcome to the world of travel nursing! This profession offers nurses the opportunity to work in various healthcare settings across the country, or even internationally, on assignments of varying lengths.
In this SnapCare article, we’ll dive into what makes travel nursing such an appealing career choice. Let’s get right to it!
What is a Travel Nurse?
A travel nurse is a licensed clinician who takes on short term assignments in different locations, typically lasting 8 to 26 weeks. In many cases, if the clinician is a good fit, contract extensions can be offered, allowing for longer-term opportunities.
These assignments can be in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, rehabilitation facilities, surgery centers, or other healthcare facilities that need additional staff due to shortages, seasonal demands, or special projects.
Travel nurses fill critical gaps in healthcare, stepping in when the internal resource pool (or local staff) is overwhelmed or there’s a sudden spike in patient care needs. Whether it’s providing relief during flu season, covering nurses on leave, or responding to an emergency, travel nurses play a key role in keeping healthcare systems running smoothly.
How to Become a Travel Nurse
Step 1: Apply for State Licenses
Make sure to obtain the required nursing licenses for the states where you want to work. Nurses working in states that are part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) can practice in multiple states with one license. For non-NLC states, you’ll need to apply for individual state licenses.
If you’re unsure which states require a separate license, you can check out our blog on NLC for more information.
Step 2: Earn Additional Certifications (if required)
Depending on your specialty, you may need additional certifications like Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) or Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). Make sure to complete any necessary certifications before applying for travel nursing positions.
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.
Step 3: Find a Reputable Staffing Agency
They will help you find assignments, negotiate contracts, and provide support throughout your journey. One such agency is SnapCare, known for its excellent service and support. SnapCare specializes in connecting clinicians, including travel nurses, with top healthcare facilities nationwide.
Here are a few key reasons why you should join SnapCare:
- Tech-Driven Platform: Our platform empowers you to take control of your career with user-friendly, self-service tools. You can easily access job listings, manage your credentials, submit your timecards, and even receive same-day payments through the SnapCare Mobile App.
- Career Growth Opportunities: We offer reskilling and upskilling opportunities to help you advance your career. We also have the SnapCare Rewards and Referral Program that provides cash incentives, exclusive freebies, and other exciting perks.
- Variety of Flexible Work Options: You can choose from a wide variety of roles, including PRN shifts, short and long-term contracts, and permanent positions. This variety allows you to choose assignments that best fit your lifestyle and career goals.
- 24/7 Support: We provide round-the-clock support to assist with job placements, app support, and any other needs you might have during your assignments.
- Comprehensive Healthcare Benefits: SnapCare offers a range of healthcare benefits to support the well-being of you and your family. These include medical coverage, vision and dental plans, life and disability insurance, employee assistance programs, and more.
Step 4: Prepare for Your Assignment
Once you’ve secured an assignment, complete any required paperwork, including background checks and health screenings. Arrange for housing (if not provided by the agency) and familiarize yourself with the healthcare facility where you’ll be working.
Feeling a bit unsure about how to get everything in place for your travel assignment? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Below is a detailed travel guide to help you navigate every aspect of your assignment and make it a truly rewarding experience.
Travel Guide for Travel Nurses
1. Choosing Your Destination
One of the best parts of travel nursing is the freedom to choose where you want to go!
- Research Locations: Take some time to explore potential destinations. Whether you’re drawn to the mountains, the beach, or a vibrant city, make sure to research what each location offers in terms of lifestyle, climate, and activities. Picking the right destination can make all the difference in enjoying your assignment.
- Understand the Cost of Living: Some locations offer higher pay, but the cost of living can vary greatly. Use tools like cost-of-living calculators to compare areas. A higher salary in one city might not go as far as a slightly lower salary in another.
2. Planning Your Travel
Once you’ve chosen your destination, it’s time to get your travel plans in order.
- Booking Flights: Look out for flight deals! Websites like Skyscanner and Google Flights can help you find great prices, and if you travel frequently, consider signing up for travel rewards programs. These points add up and can make future trips even cheaper (or free!).
- Packing Smart: Packing for an assignment is all about versatility. Bring clothing that can handle different climates and some professional attire for work. Don’t forget your nursing essentials, licenses, and any personal items that give you a sense of home—whether it’s your favorite coffee mug or a cozy blanket.
3. Finding Accommodation
Where you stay is just as important as where you work!
- Agency-Provided Housing: Many staffing agencies provide housing, which can take a lot of the guesswork out of the equation. If you’re new to travel nursing, this might be the easiest option.
- Independent Housing: If you prefer to find your own place, short-term rentals through Airbnb, Vrbo, or Furnished Finder are great options. Look for furnished apartments or extended-stay hotels that offer flexibility. It’s always nice to feel like you’re coming home, even in a new city.
4. Exploring Your New City
Settling into a new city is part of the fun!
- Local Transportation: Research the best way to get around. Some cities have excellent public transportation, while others might require a car. Apps like Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze are your best friends when navigating new areas.
- Navigating the Area: Make the most of your free time by exploring! Whether it’s a local café, museum, or park, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in your new environment. Apps like TripAdvisor and Yelp can help you find the top spots. And don’t forget to ask locals for their favorite hidden gems!
5. Staying Connected
No matter where you are, staying connected with your loved ones can help you feel grounded.
- Join Local Groups: Connect with other travel nurses or healthcare professionals through social media groups like #GetSnapped. Sharing your experiences with people who understand can be incredibly supportive.
- Stay in Touch with Loved Ones: Use video calls, social media, and messaging apps to keep your family and friends updated. These connections are key to maintaining a sense of home, even when you’re far away.
- Balancing Work and Leisure
It’s easy to get caught up in your assignments, but don’t forget to take care of yourself!
- Manage Your Schedule: Be mindful of your work-life balance. Schedule shifts in a way that allows you to enjoy your days off. After all, part of the joy of travel nursing is having the flexibility to explore new places!
- Self-Care: Prioritize your well-being by incorporating physical activity, relaxation, and fun into your routine. Whether it’s finding a nearby gym, going for a hike, or visiting a local spa, taking care of your mental and physical health is essential.
Travel Nurse Salary
Travel nursing can be quite lucrative. On average, travel nurses in the United States earn around $105,021 per year or $50 per hour. This is significantly higher than the average salary for registered nurses overall, which is about $81,220 per year or $39.05 per hour.
The salary can vary widely depending on factors such as location, specialty, and experience. For instance, travel nurses in high-demand areas or those with specialized skills can earn even more. Some travel nurses report annual earnings ranging from $82,850 to $180,290.
Here’s a breakdown of the average travel nurse salaries:
Annual Salary | $105,021 |
Hourly Rate | $50 |
Range of Annual Earnings | $82,850 – $180,290 |
Salary by Type
Travel nurses have varying responsibilities, which impacts their salary. For example, a travel nurse practitioner earns the highest, with an average annual salary of $174,730, while an LPN travel nurse typically makes about $77,950 per year.
Type | Hourly Rate | Monthly Wage | Annual Salary |
Critical Care Travel Nurse | $59.71 | $10,350 | $124,190 |
ER Travel Nurse | $57.95 | $10,040 | $120,530 |
Home Health Travel Nurse | $54.54 | $9,450 | $113,450 |
Hospice Travel Nurse | $58.22 | $10,090 | $121,090 |
ICU Travel Nurse | $56.80 | $9,850 | $118,140 |
Labor and Delivery Travel Nurse | $53.93 | $9,350 | $112,180 |
LPN/LVN Travel Nurse | $37.48 | $6,500 | $77,950 |
OR Travel Nurse | $61.76 | $10,710 | $128,460 |
Pediatric Travel Nurse | $52.86 | $9,160 | $109,950 |
Psychiatric Travel Nurse | $54.59 | $9,460 | $113,540 |
RN Travel Nurse | $59.66 | $10,340 | $124,100 |
Travel Nurse Practioner | $84.00 | $14,560 | $174,730 |
Benefits of Travel Nursing
Adventure and Exploration
Imagine having the opportunity to live and work in new places across the country! Travel nursing allows you to experience different cities, cultures, and lifestyles while doing what you love. Whether you want to enjoy the hustle and bustle of New York City or the laid-back beach life of California, travel nursing lets you explore the places you’ve always dreamed of visiting. Each assignment is a new adventure, offering you the chance to see the world while making a difference in patients’ lives.
Professional Growth
Working in different healthcare environments exposes you to a variety of medical practices, technologies, and patient populations. This diversity sharpens your skills and makes you a more well-rounded and experienced nurse. Each new facility brings unique challenges and learning opportunities, helping you grow professionally.
Financial Benefits
Travel nurses typically earn competitive pay, making it a lucrative career choice. Additionally, many travel nursing agencies offer generous benefit packages that include housing stipends, travel reimbursements, health care insurance, and even bonuses for completing assignments. With these financial incentives, travel nursing not only allows you to pursue your passion but also provides a way to save money, pay off student loans, or fund future adventures.
Flexibility and Control
Travel nursing offers unmatched flexibility in your career. You have the power to decide when and where you want to work. Need a break between assignments to recharge or pursue personal interests? You can take time off as needed without being tied to a fixed schedule. This flexibility gives you greater control over your work-life balance, allowing you to enjoy your personal time while still advancing your career. Whether you want to work in a fast-paced city hospital or a serene rural clinic, the choice is yours!
Make a Difference on the Go
Travel nursing is a rewarding career that combines the passion for nursing with the thrill of travel. It offers unique opportunities for personal and professional growth, financial benefits, and the flexibility to design your own career path. If you’re an adventurous spirit with a heart for helping others, travel nursing might just be the perfect fit for you!
Ready to get started? Check out exciting and rewarding travel nursing jobs on our job board.
