By TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

November 26, 2025

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Top Scrub Brands Travel Healthcare Professionals Love in 2025

What are the best scrub brands for healthcare travelers? As travel healthcare professionals, you spend a lot of time in your scrubs and a lot of money, especially when assignments require different scrub colors. You want scrubs that are going to be comfortable for your entire shift. 

We have put together a list of the top five best scrub brands for healthcare travelers.

What to Look for in a Scrub Brand

Durability and functionality are just as important. After all, when you’re spending money, you want to be sure you’re getting your money’s worth. Some brands hit all these points, and they tend to be the ones that healthcare professionals love and recommend in online communities, social media groups, and peer networks.

Best Scrub Brands for Healthcare Travelers

1. Mandala
New to the scrubs world, Travelers love Mandala scrubs for their soft fabrics, flattering fits, and many color options. They choose Mandala for long shifts because the material stays comfortable and breathable while holding up through frequent washes.

2. FIGS
FIGS has become a household name for travel nurses and allied health professionals. The brand is loved for its premium fabrics, modern fits, and practical features like hidden pockets and reinforced seams. Figs also offer a large range of colors and seasonal collections.

3. Cherokee
Cherokee has been a favorite scrub brand in the healthcare industry for years. Their scrubs are durable, machine-washable, and offer a wide variety of styles, making them a go-to choice for travelers who need reliable, no-fuss scrubs on every assignment.

4. Healing Hands
Healing Hands scrubs are known for their comfort and style. Healthcare travelers love this brand for their lightweight fabric, which allows flexibility during long shifts or physically demanding work.

5. Med Couture
Med Couture scrubs are known for their stylish yet durable designs. Travelers like the range of sizes and fits that accommodate different body types. Many travelers also find that the fabric holds color well and looks fresh after many washes.

These brands are constantly mentioned by fellow travelers on social media networks, forums, and peer groups, making them among the most popular choices in the travel healthcare community.

The Right Scrubs Can Make All the Difference

Choosing the right scrubs is an investment in both comfort and confidence. Mandala, FIGS, Cherokee, Healing Hands, and Med Couture are scrubs that healthcare travelers love for their durability, style, and functionality. Before starting a new assignment, make sure you have scrubs that fit your assignment, your body, and your lifestyle.

Ready to start your next travel healthcare assignment in comfort and style? Make sure you’ve got the scrubs you love, then browse The Gypsy Nurse job board to find your next adventure today!

By Nomad Health

October 24, 2025

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What Travel Clinicians Say Makes an Assignment Great

By Hourig Karalian, MSN, RN, DNP Scholar

travel clinician

What makes a travel clinician say, “I’d totally come back here”? 

Nomad Health, in partnership with the National Association of Travel Healthcare Organizations (NATHO), surveyed over 200 travel clinicians to find out what really earns a facility a glowing 5-star review.

The verdict? It all comes down to culture, communication, and support.

What Travel Clinicians Loved Most
Most travelers (67%) gave their facility 4 or 5 stars, and three things stood out as total game-changers:

  • A supportive and inclusive unit culture (78%)
  • Positive relationships with colleagues (89%)
  • Feeling heard by leadership (76%)

And let’s not forget orientation, 78% of you said solid orientation helped set the tone for success from the jump. When you’re properly introduced, have what you need, and know what’s expected, the whole assignment flows better.

Orientation contentment

travel clinician

Willingness to support fellow travel clinicians

travel clinician

Desire to extend or return to the facility

travel clinician

Where Things Can Go Wrong

The most common issues for clinicians were:

  • Poor communication from leadership
  • Weak patient safety culture
  • Lack of helpful feedback on performance
  • Unclear expectations around call, float, or patient mix

Here’s a stat that speaks volumes: 91% of travelers who rated a facility low said they didn’t feel heard by leadership. That’s not just frustrating; it affects morale, safety, and whether you’d ever come back

Culture isn’t a buzzword; it directly impacts retention. When a clinician feels like they belong, are supported, and are seen as part of the team, that’s when they are more likely to extend. Even better? Clinicians are ready to pay it forward. 70% of clinicians said they are open to mentoring fellow travelers. Travel clinicians are showing up and building community at the facilities they contract with. 

Takeaways for Hospital Leaders

Here’s what makes the biggest impact:

  • Build a strong first impression. Orientation should be clear, personalized, and efficient.
  • Prioritize communication. Check in mid-assignment and provide structured feedback.
  • Create a welcoming environment. A buddy system, team intros, and inclusion in huddles go a long way.
  • Be transparent. Clear job postings and expectations = less stress and confusion.

These small steps build trust and repeat travelers.

Bottom Line

Facilities that deliver on the basics — inclusion, communication, support — earn loyalty from travel clinicians. And that loyalty translates to smoother staffing, better patient care, and fewer last-minute gaps. Because in the world of healthcare, culture isn’t extra — it’s everything.

travel clinician

Want to go deeper? Read the full report here.
Check out our free HIPAA course for clinicians: 👉 Understanding HIPAA for Licensed Professionals. Or join the Nomad community: Join Nomad

By The Gypsy Nurse

October 19, 2025

1111 Views

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9 Healthcare Influencers Every Healthcare Traveler Should Follow

Whether you’re on assignment across the country or taking a well-deserved vacation, staying connected with inspiring voices in healthcare can make all the difference. From practical travel tips to mental health guidance, these 9 influencers provide insight, motivation, and a little humor along the way.

9 Healthcare Influencers Every Healthcare Traveler Should Follow

1. Brandy Pinkerton: @travnurse101 (Instagram) 👩‍⚕️✈️

As a travel nurse mentor for Travel Nurse 101, Brandy gives real-world advice for travel nurses and healthcare travelers. She is passionate about guiding new and experienced travelers through every step of their journey, from landing assignments to finding housing and navigating contracts. Recently named Best Nurse Mentor by nurse.org, Brandy offers practical tips, motivational advice, and resources that are designed to help travelers be successful.

2. Nurse John @nurse.johnn (Instagram & TikTok) 😂🩺

With over 4 million followers, Nurse Johnn is one of the most recognizable voices in the nursing social media world. His content blends humor, relatable stories, and some behind-the-scenes glimpses of healthcare life. For travelers, his posts are a refreshing reminder that laughter really can be the best medicine. And that no matter where you work, every nurse shares the same experiences.

3.Bianca Soffer @biancasoffer (Instagram) 🌟📖

Bianca has become one of the most followed travel nurses on Instagram. All thanks to her polished, aspirational feed. She shares everything from lifestyle content to travel nurse advice. Inspiring her followers to embrace their careers and their passions. Bianca’s account is an amazing mix of beauty, motivation, and practical insights.

4. Sophie @thetravelingsopha (Instagram) 🌎🩺

Now an international travel nurse and blogger, Sophie documents her global nursing adventures with beautiful and practical advice. Sophie is a must-follow for nurses looking at international travel nursing in the future.

5. Off The Clock Nurse @offtheclocknurse (Instagram) 🌟

Leah Helmbrect is more than a nurse; she’s a storyteller, advocate, and explorer. With experience in forensic nursing and acute care discharge, Leah uses her platform to inspire others to set boundaries, prioritize wellness, and embrace the adventures that come along! She also co-hosts the Nurse Converse Podcast and organizes group trips for fellow travelers. Her Instagram feed is filled with honest nursing insights, lifestyle balance tips, and travel inspiration. Leah is a must-follow for any healthcare professional looking to thrive both on and off the clock.

6. That Magical Nurse @thatmagicalnurse (TikTok)🪄

Known for her creativity and upbeat personality, Britt, or That Magical Nurse, shares funny, relatable, and uplifting content about nursing life. Her TikToks bring a bit of magic to everyday realities of healthcare, making her account a favorite among nurses who need a dose of positivity.

7. Nurse Kelv @nurse.kelv (TikTok) 🎬

Nurse Kelvin combines humor, real talk, and motivational content to highlight the realities of nursing and healthcare culture. His videos touch on everything from patient interactions to work-life balance, making him a go-to for nurses looking to laugh and reflect.

8. The Dude Nurse @thedudenurse (Instagram) 💪

Nate (The Dude Nurse) is all about advocacy, humor, and breaking stereotypes in nursing. With a growing Instagram presence, he brings a fresh perspective to the profession, tackling serious topics while also keeping things lighthearted and relatable.

9. Nurse Nico @nurse.nico (Instagram) 😎

Nico shares his journey as a nurse with a mix of humor, motivation, and behind-the-scenes looks at the profession. His engaging content resonates with both new and veteran nurses, making him a strong voice in the online nursing community.

From laughter to career advice, these influencers are shaping the way healthcare professionals connect online. Whether you’re a nurse, a healthcare traveler, or just someone who loves authentic content, following these creators will keep your feed full of inspiration, humor, and real talk.

By The Gypsy Nurse

October 6, 2025

716 Views

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Pumpkin Spice & Shift Life: Quick Fall Recipes for Healthcare Travelers

Between long shifts, unpredictable schedules, and life on the road, healthcare travelers don’t always have time for time-consuming, elaborate meals. That’s why these fall recipes for healthcare travelers are a game-changer. Quick, comforting, and pumpkin spice-inspired 🎃, they bring the warmth of fall straight to your kitchen, even if that’s a hotel kitchenette, without taking hours to prepare!

Quick Fall Recipes for Healthcare Travelers:

1. Pumpkin Spice Overnight Oats

Why it works: Prep it the night before and grab it on your way to your shift. Fuel up with a fall-flavored breakfast that’s both filling and portable.

Quick How-To:

  • Mix rolled oats, milk (or dairy-free alternative), pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
  • Refrigerate overnight.
  • Top with pumpkin seeds or granola in the morning.

Traveler tip: Prep multiple jars at once for a full week of grab-and-go breakfasts.

2. 5-Minute Pumpkin Spice Latte Smoothie

Why it works: It’s your portable PSL without the coffee shop stop—ideal before early mornings or night shifts.

Quick How-To:

  • Blend 1 cup milk, ½ cup pumpkin puree, 1 frozen banana, ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice, and a shot of espresso (or instant coffee).
  • Sweeten to taste.

Traveler tip: Keep frozen bananas on hand for quick blending.

3. Sheet Pan Chicken & Autumn Veggies

Why it works: One pan, minimal cleanup, and hearty comfort food after a long shift.

Quick How-To:

  • Cut sweet potatoes, carrots, and brussels sprouts; toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  • Add chicken breast or thighs seasoned with pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and garlic powder.
  • Bake at 400°F for 25–30 minutes.

Traveler tip: Cook extra to reheat for lunch the next day.

4. Pumpkin Mac & Cheese Mug

Why it works: A fast, cozy dish perfect for limited kitchen setups in traveler housing.

Quick How-To:

  • Mix ½ cup cooked pasta, 2 tbsp pumpkin puree, ¼ cup shredded cheese, pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper in a microwave-safe mug.
  • Heat for 1–2 minutes until creamy.

Traveler tip: Pre-cook pasta in bulk to make this recipe even quicker.

5. Cinnamon Apple Snack Packs

Why it works: A sweet, energizing snack that travels well in your bag.

Quick How-To:

  • Slice apples, sprinkle with cinnamon, and pair with walnuts or almond butter.
  • Pack in small containers for shifts.

Traveler tip: Add lemon juice to keep apples fresh longer.

We hope these fall recipes for healthcare travelers make your busy schedule a little more cozy this fall! Whether you’re whipping up a quick breakfast to get out the door before your shift or enjoying a comforting dinner after a long shift, a little pumpkin spice can go a long way.

We’d love to hear from you! Do you have any simple fall recipes that help you power through your assignments? Share them in the comments! And if you’re looking for your next travel healthcare adventure, visit our job board!

By The Gypsy Nurse

September 14, 2025

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Spooky Season in Flip-Flops: 30 Movies, Books, and TV Shows to Celebrate Summerween

Who says you have to wait until October for thrills and chills? Welcome to Summerween—that perfectly eerie mix of sunshine, sand, and spookiness. Whether you’re on assignment by the coast or cooling off in the mountains, this list of Summerween-inspired movies, books, and binge-worthy shows is here to keep your heart racing (and your sunscreen handy).

🎬 10 Must-Watch Summerween Movies

Cue the creepy music and get ready for some scary-good cinema:

  • Jaws– Classic beach horror. You’ll never look at ocean waves the same way again.
  • The Lost Boys – Vampires and SoCal boardwalks? Peak spooky summer.
  • I Know What You Did Last Summer – Teen slasher meets coastal town drama.
  • Midsommar – Daylight horror in flower crowns and cultish rituals.
  • The Cabin in the Woods – A satirical, twisty take on your typical cabin getaway.
  • Us – Family vacation gone horrifyingly wrong. Jordan Peele does it again.
  • Sleepaway Camp – Retro summer camp horror with a shocking twist.
  • Friday the 13th – The ultimate summer slasher set at Camp Crystal Lake.
  • The Wicker Man (1973) – Folk horror in a sun-soaked pagan village.
  • The Shallows – A solo survival thriller with a shark and serious tension.

📚 10 Spine-Tingling Summerween Reads

From haunted mansions to summer flings with a dark side, these reads are perfect for poolside chills:

  • Don’t Let the Forest In by CG Drews – A chilling tale of remote woods and eerie mysteries—perfect for an unsupervised shift break.
  • Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno‑Garcia – A lush, atmospheric horror novel set in a haunted Mexican mansion—gorgeously creepy and thrilling.
  • Survive the Night by Riley Sager – A tense, gripping ride through a fateful night—nothing says Summerween like a road trip thriller.
  • Night Shift by Stephen King – Classic short stories—quick scares ideal for those late-night, short‑on‑time reads.
  • Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury – A carnival of nightmares and dark magic—timeless Summerween material.
  • Hatchet Girls by Diana Rodriguez Wallach – Think Lizzie Borden meets Supernatural with a beachside twist—goosebumps guaranteed
  • In Nightfall by Suzanne Young – Set in an eerie coastal town with a curfew before dark—perfectly Summerween
  • The Whisperwood Legacy by Jo Schulte – A sinister theme‑park mystery—darkness hiding right behind the lights!
  • When We Go Missing by April Henry – A summer investigation that turns chilling fast—secrets, suspense, and Summerween vibes
  • Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Schwartz – Campfire folklore and creepy illustrations—excellent for a quick fright, any time

📺 10 TV Shows to Binge for Chilling Summer Vibes

These shows range from nostalgic to downright disturbing—perfect for late-night streaming on assignment:

🎃 Bonus Summerween Fun for Travel Nurses:

  • Host a Summerween-themed potluck with spooky treats (gummy worms, anyone?).
  • Swap horror book recs in your nurse group chat.
  • Have a haunted movie night under the stars with fellow travelers.
  • Explore a local ghost tour—many cities have them year-round!
  • Carve a watermelon like a jack-o’-lantern. Trust us—it’s a vibe.

Whether you’re curled up post-shift or exploring your spooky side on assignment, Summerween is the perfect way to add a little boo to your sunshine.

Ready to find an assignment that’s just the right mix of work and weird?

Apply now and discover opportunities in hauntingly beautiful locations across the country.

By Amber Pickler

September 13, 2025

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7 Reasons Travel Healthcare Still Wins in 2025 (And 2 Times It Doesn’t)

Let’s be real, not everything’s perfect, but it’s still pretty awesome!

Thinking about switching to a staff role in 2025?

Maybe. But before you hang up your travel badge and suitcase, let’s talk.

The world of travel healthcare in 2025 looks a lot different than it did just a few years ago. Rates have changed. Demand seems to have stabilized. And yes, the idea of long-term stability can sound tempting after back-to-back contracts. But, for many healthcare travelers, the benefits of life on the road remain strong… and in some ways, stronger than ever.

So…should you hit pause on the travel life?

Let’s break it down:

Travel Healthcare in 2025: 7 Reasons It Still Wins

✅1. Cha-Ching: The Pay Still Hits

We’re not pretending it’s just about the money… but also, let’s not ignore that paycheck.

Travel healthcare jobs continue to offer higher earnings than many staff positions. Between housing stipends, per diems, and reimbursements, travelers are still coming out ahead financially.

🗨️“Your paycheck shouldn’t need CPR… travel keeps it alive and well.”

☑️2. You Control the Schedule

Where you go, when you go, how long you stay…it’s your call.

Want sunshine in January? Head to Florida or Arizona. Want to relive your youth and take the summer off? Just don’t book your next assignment yet! Travel gives you the flexibility for the ultimate work-life balance. Plan life first, and fit work around it.

🗨️“No more begging for PTO…you are the PTO.”

✅3. No Unit Drama, No Problem

You’re there to help…not get looped into politics or drama.

Travelers skip the group chats and hospital committees. You show up, do great work, and move on.

🗨️“No committees. No cliques. Just clean slates and new starts.”

☑️4. You Grow Faster…Clinically and Personally

Every contract is a fresh new opportunity. You adapt, evolve, and expand your skill set faster than most staff counterparts.

Different hospitals, patient populations, workflows, and specialties all add up to amazing resume-boosting power.

🗨️“Every contract is a masterclass in adaptability.”

✅5. You Can Actually Get Rest

Burnout is REAL. So is the freedom to pause between contracts.

Travelers can take PTO-free breaks… whether that’s two weeks in Europe or a month at home catching up with family or on sleep!

🗨️“Your PTO request doesn’t need a signature…just a suitcase.”

☑️6. Tax-Free Perks? Still Here

Qualified travelers still get tax-free stipends for housing, meals, and other expenses, which can make your income stretch. While these vary by location, they still add to your pay.

That extra cash? Fuel your financial goals, whether that’s paying down loans or saving for a big move.

✅7. Built-In Life Flexibility

Thinking of relocating? Want to try a new specialty? Or just test out a new city?

Travel contracts let you experiment without the long-term commitment. Staff jobs can feel like cement…travel feels like soft beach sand.

🗨️“Healthcare travelers don’t settle…they explore.”

🚧And 2 Times It Doesn’t…

Let’s be honest. Travel isn’t for every season of life. Here’s when it might make sense to hang the travel badge up and step away (temporarily or for good):

❌1. You’re Ready to Settle Down

If you’re dreaming of a house, dog, or being home with family and friends for special events, the constant moving and relocating may wear you down. And that’s valid!

A staff role might better align with your lifestyle… for now 😉

❌Being “The New Person” is Getting Old

New EHRs, new charting rules, new coworkers… over and over again. If you’re craving some consistency and community, a staff role could give you the mental break you need.

🗨️“If learning another version of Epic makes you want to scream, we see you 👀”

🛬Final Thoughts: Travel Healthcare in 2025 Still Wins (At Least Most of the Time)

There’s never a one-size-fits-all answer in healthcare. But in 2025, the travel life still checks a lot of boxes! Flexibility, pay, freedom, and on top of it all, growth… more than most staff roles do.

If you’re feeling burned out, restless, or just ready for something new, don’t count it out.

👉Ready to hit the road again? Explore our job board and start planning your next adventure!

By Ario Healthcare

August 25, 2025

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Travel Nurse Guide: Why Texas Could Be the Ideal Destination for Your Next Assignment

Close your eyes and picture this: it’s your day off after a busy week on assignment. You’re standing in a stadium surrounded by 80,000 cheering fans as the Dallas Cowboys take the field. Or maybe you’re lounging on the River Walk in San Antonio, sipping an iced coffee as mariachi music drifts through the air. You could be exploring Houston’s bustling food scene, two-stepping in an Austin honky-tonk, or watching the sun set over the wide-open Texas Hill Country.

This is the beauty of travel nursing in Texas – you’re not just taking a job; you’re stepping into an adventure. Here, every shift is paired with new experiences, every weekend offers a chance to discover something unforgettable, and every corner of the state feels alive with energy, history, and heart.

Texas isn’t just big on the map; it’s also big on opportunity, culture, and community. From top-ranked hospitals, world-famous BBQ joints, watching Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders performing, to enjoying shows in the “Live Music Capital of the World,” your assignment here can be as fast-paced or as laid-back as you want it to be.

And the best part? You won’t be doing it alone. With the right staffing agency by your side, you’ll have support from the moment you accept your contract until your very last shift – so you can focus on what matters most: caring for patients and living your Texas adventure to the fullest.

travel nursing in texas

Travel Nursing in Texas: Big Opportunities, Big Rewards

Texas is home to some of the nation’s leading healthcare facilities. Cities like Dallas, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio all have top-tier hospitals with high demand for skilled nurses across specialties.

Assignments here often come with highly competitive pay packages, diverse clinical experiences, and the chance to work with some of the best teams in healthcare. You’re not just building your resume, you’re growing your confidence, skills, and career.

A Guide to Texas’ Hotspots for Travel Nurses

One of the best parts of travel nursing in Texas is that each city has its own personality. Wherever you land, you’ll have plenty to explore:

Dallas / Fort Worth

  • Why nurses love it: A major healthcare hub with a mix of large academic centers and community hospitals.
  • Don’t miss: A Dallas Cowboys game at AT&T Stadium (the atmosphere is unforgettable), the Dallas Arboretum, and the Fort Worth Stockyards for a true cowboy experience.
  • Food to try: Tex-Mex classics and some of the best brisket BBQ in the state.

Houston

  • Why nurses love it: Home to the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical complex in the world, Houston is full of opportunities across every specialty.
  • Don’t miss: NASA’s Johnson Space Center, the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, and the Museum District.
  • Food to try: Houston is one of the most diverse food cities in the U.S., with everything from authentic Vietnamese pho to award-winning tacos.

Austin

  • Why nurses love it: A thriving city with a “work hard, play hard” vibe – perfect for balancing tough shifts with plenty of fun.
  • Don’t miss: Live music on Sixth Street, swimming at Barton Springs, and the colorful murals all over the city.
  • Food to try: Breakfast tacos (don’t leave without trying them!) and world-famous Franklin Barbecue.

San Antonio

  • Why nurses love it: A slower pace with rich history and a family-friendly feel.
  • Don’t miss: The Alamo, a boat ride on the River Walk, and the San Antonio Missions (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).
  • Food to try: Puffy tacos and chili con carne.

The Gulf Coast (Galveston & Corpus Christi)

  • Why nurses love it: Smaller communities, a strong sense of local pride, and the chance to be near the beach.
  • Don’t miss: Moody Gardens in Galveston, Padre Island National Seashore near Corpus Christi, and days off spent on the sand.
  • Food to try: Fresh Gulf seafood and shrimp boils.

More Than a Job: A Texas-Sized Lifestyle

As you can see, when you’re off the clock, Texas opens its arms with something for everyone:

  • Great Outdoors: From Big Bend National Park to Hill Country hikes and kayaking the San Marcos River, there’s certainly no shortage of fresh-air escapes.
  • Culture & Music: Texas is alive with art, music, and history, in fact did you know – Austin alone has more live music venues per capita than anywhere else in the U.S.
  • Foodie Heaven: BBQ, Tex-Mex, kolaches, and sweet tea – we can guarantee you’ll never go hungry!
  • Sports & Spirit: Football is more than a game – it’s a way of life in Texas. Experiencing a Cowboys game is a must, but Friday night high school lights in small towns are just as unforgettable.

How Staffing Agencies like Ario Healthcare Support You Along the Way

Being away from home on assignment isn’t always easy, even in amazing places like Texas, but remember you’ll never be on your own. Staffing agencies support Travel Nurses from start to finish:

  • Placement Guidance: Helping match you with the right facility, city, and role.
  • Relocation Support: From housing to travel stipends, agencies help you feel settled quickly.
  • 24/7 Support: On assignment, things can come up, but agencies are just a call away.
  • Career Growth: Every assignment is a stepping stone. Agencies line up your next opportunity so you can focus on what matters most – your patients and your adventure.

Why Travel Nurses Love Texas

Ask any Nurse who’s experienced travel nursing in Texas, and you’ll hear about the warmth of the people, the unforgettable food, and the way Texas becomes a part of you, giving you stories and friendships that last a lifetime.

So, if you’re ready for a new adventure, consider making Texas your next destination. With rewarding clinical experiences, endless things to explore, and a lifestyle that’s as bold as the Lone Star State itself, you’ll feel right at home. Embark on an enriching assignment in Texas with Ario Healthcare, guiding your journey the entire way. To find out more, text us on +1 347 943 3443, or drop us a message via WhatsApp.

By Triage Healthcare Staffing

August 22, 2025

1910 Views

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Why Facilities Partner with Travel Nurse Agencies

We get this question a lot—why would a hospital use travel nurse staffing instead of hiring allied and nursing staff directly? At first glance, it can seem like more hassle and expense to hire travelers. There’s compliance to manage, onboarding modules to complete, orientation sessions, facility tours, and what appears to be a higher hourly cost for the nurse’s time.

But behind the scenes, there are plenty of reasons why using a travel nurse agency just makes sense. Here’s why hospitals turn to them.

Less Work for HR Teams

Hiring is time-consuming. Posting jobs, reviewing resumes, scheduling interviews, confirming licenses, checking references, and onboarding all eat up hours a facility’s HR team may not have.

A travel nurse agency takes most of that off the table. A travel nurse staffing agency maintains a pool of vetted, experienced healthcare professionals who can step into a role with little notice. And because those travelers are employees of the agency, the facility doesn’t have to handle drug testing, tax paperwork, benefits enrollment, or other HR-heavy tasks tied to permanent staff. And because the facility relies on the agency to handle these tasks, it can have a smaller HR team, which means even fewer full-time employees employed by the hospital.

A Faster Hiring Process

A recent survey taken by more than 450 facilities found that it takes about three months for facilities to hire a nurse. Specific specialties like PCU, med-surg, and OR are the most difficult positions to fill, and a position can be vacant for months. Then add in a facility’s onboarding. Onboarding for new staff is often much more involved than a traveler’s orientation, especially for brand-new nurses. This can add another few weeks or even months before the nurse can be fully ready to take patients alone on the floor.

The same survey found that 22% of newly hired RNs left within the first year, which starts the process over again. For busy HR pros and patient floors that rely on nursing staff, this can be an unwelcome reality.

Staying Compliant with IRS Rules

Some travelers wonder why hospitals don’t just hire them directly as 1099 contractors. After all, wouldn’t that save all the agency overhead? Not so fast. IRS regulations say no.

The IRS has strict criteria for who qualifies as an independent contractor, and misclassifying someone can create big legal and tax problems for the facility and traveler. The last thing a traveler wants is to get audited and find out that they owe more in taxes on that 1099 income. Agencies solve this by acting as the employer of record, ensuring IRS compliance and saving administrators the headache.

Covering Short-Term Gaps

Not every staffing shortage calls for a permanent hire. A harsh flu season, a tourist surge, an unexpected leave of absence, or a hiring gap between full-time staff can all strain resources. That’s where travel nurse staffing shines—bringing in adaptable, experienced professionals ready to hit the ground running. Travel nurses and allied healthcare professionals are built for these situations. They’re adaptable, fast learners, and can jump into new environments without missing a beat. And when the facility no longer needs the traveler, they’re on their way to a new destination, ready to step in elsewhere.

Cost-Effective in the Long Run

While travel nurses typically have higher hourly rates, the true cost of a full-time hire goes far beyond the paycheck. Benefits, employer taxes, retirement contributions, paid leave, training, recruitment expenses, and turnover costs all add up. By filling short-term needs quickly and avoiding long-term commitments, agencies can actually save facilities money over time.

Now that you understand the many reasons a facility might turn to travel nurse staffing instead of hiring full-time staff, let Triage get to work finding you a job.

Looking for allied or travel nurse jobs? Triage Staffing listens to what you want and then shoots you straight so you can make the decision that’s right for you.

By Vibra Travels

August 20, 2025

1629 Views

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Back-to-School, Back-to-You: Planning Your Next Chapter & Travel Nurse Fall Assignments

The end of summer can feel like a fresh start; new routines, cooler mornings, maybe even a little extra breathing room in your schedule. It’s also prime time to start planning travel nurse fall assignments. Whether your current contract is wrapping up or you’re simply looking for a change, thinking ahead now can help you secure the right travel nurse fall assignments and set yourself up for success in the months ahead.

Whether your current contract is wrapping up or you’re simply looking to make a change, thinking ahead now can make your next move smoother (and less stressful).

🍁Simple ways to make the most of the “back-to-school” season for your travel nurse fall assignments:

1. Check in with your recruiter

Your recruiter is your best resource when it comes to finding the right fit. Whether you want to extend your current contract or explore a new location, having that conversation early means more options for you—and less last-minute scrambling.

2. Get a head start on fall assignments

High-demand positions get booked quickly. By planning now, you can secure assignments that match your preferred location, specialty, and schedule. Bonus: you’ll have more time to coordinate licensing or credentialing if needed.

3. Lock in housing early

The earlier you start looking, the better your chances of finding safe, comfortable housing that fits your budget. Many nurses opt for short-term rentals or traveler-friendly extended stays, but your recruiter may also have housing resources to share.


🏋️Health Corner: Staying Active on the Go

Between patient care, charting, and adjusting to a new environment, it’s easy for movement to fall to the bottom of the list. But even short bursts of activity can boost your energy, improve focus, and help you feel your best on the job.

Here are a few quick, travel-friendly ways to stay active no matter where your assignment takes you:

  • Morning stretch sessions: Just 10 minutes can increase circulation and improve flexibility.
  • Walk whenever you can: Do a lap around your building or take the long route to grab lunch.
  • Bodyweight workouts: Squats, lunges, planks—no equipment required.
  • Resistance bands: Lightweight and portable, they’re perfect for strength training in small spaces.

Pro tip: Create a “go-to” playlist that makes you want to move. Music can make even a short workout feel like fun instead of a chore.