With patient volume surging and core staff taking PTO, the holidays are a busy time for most healthcare facilities — and that usually means they’re hiring more travel nurses. That means more travel nurse opportunities — and more reasons to brush up on some essential holiday travel tips. So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler seeking a new assignment or a first-time traveler looking to try a new type of nursing lifestyle, this season is a good time to hit the road to help a community in need.
But traveling during Thanksgiving, the holiday season, or cold-weather months can also come with some challenges. Stay on top of them and make sure your travels are safe, happy, productive, and memorable with these 10 holiday travel tips for travel nurses.
Top 10 Holiday Travel Tips to Stay Safe & Beat the Holiday Blues this Winter
1. Plan ahead! An essential travel tip for any time of year, planning ahead is absolutely critical during the winter months, when airports and roads are busier than ever and the best accommodations are booked well in advance. That means booking your flight, figuring out your route, and lining up your lodging as early as you can to avoid delays and unpleasant surprises.
2. Keep an eye on that flight. You can expect air travel to be busier and more unpredictable than ever this season. Stay on top of any potential flight delays or cancellations well in advance by watching your airline’s flight tracker at least 24 hours ahead of time. And even if everything’s on schedule, give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport before takeoff.
3. … or your vehicle’s bill of health. If you’re driving, don’t forget to schedule a full vehicle check-up before you set out. Even if you’re not going somewhere cold, seasonal maintenance is a must — not just for comfort and convenience but also for your safety. While you’re at it, pack an emergency kit, too!
4. Layer up! Winter weather can be unpredictable pretty much anywhere you travel these days. Be ready for snow, sun, wind, and rain all at once by stocking up on some smart layers before you travel. And remember, as a nurse, you’re eligible for deals and discounts on some of your favorite brands.
5. Stay connected with loved ones. In the age of video calling, staying connected with loved ones back home is easier than ever. Whether it’s your spouse, kids, parents, besties, or all of the above, all it takes is some planning ahead to set up time to talk, on a holiday, winter weekend, or anytime you feel like connecting.
6. Spruce up your living space with coziness and cheer. No matter if you’re staying in a hotel, shared living space, weekly rental, or anywhere else, there’s no reason why you can’t spruce up your temporary housing with some festive cheer. You can find plenty of holiday lights and decorations at local discount stores. Or, if you’re feeling creative, make some yourself! Crafting some homemade décor before you leave can be a fun way to make your space even cozier.
7. Lock down your living space. The holiday season can bring increased activity in many neighborhoods, so it’s a good idea to take extra steps to keep your temporary home secure. You can help keep your living space safe by buying extra padlocks for your doors, or even timers that turn on music, lights, or your TV while you’re at work.
8. Find friendship away from home. If you crave companionship during the holidays, you can try meeting new folks on Facebook nursing groups, by volunteering at a shelter, toy drive, or food bank, or by checking out the bulletin boards at coffee shops and music stores. You can also consider hitting up holiday light displays — or if you’re single, search Google for singles nights at places like libraries, wineries, museums, pubs, or taprooms.
9. See the sights. With fewer crowds and cheaper prices, the colder months can be the best times to visit local attractions or just get out into nature. Take advantage of your nurse discounts on hotels and other travel perks to take an extended weekend somewhere fun that you might not otherwise have the chance to visit — think nearby villages, event venues, or national parks.
10. Bring a friend! It’s relatively easy to bring a pet with you on assignment — all it takes is a little planning. Even better, some travel agencies offer referral bonuses when you recommend someone for a travel job. If the stars align, you could refer a friend to the same facility you’re working at and spend some quality time with a buddy during your next travel assignment!
Ready to travel? You’ll find plenty of great assignments with HealthTrust! Visit healthtrustjobs.com to search openings now. And have a safe and happy holiday season!
Ready to find your next winter assignment?
Explore current travel nurse jobs on The Gypsy Nurse Job Board and make your next adventure one to remember.
