Let’s be honest, making friends as an adult is already tough. Making friends as a travel nurse while moving every 13 weeks and trying to remember which day it is after three night shifts in a row? That’s next-level. But don’t worry, it’s totally doable. You might even end up with a nationwide group of friends who understand exactly what you’re going through—the long shifts, the new city nerves and the “what did I forget to pack?” moments.
Tips for making friends as a travel nurse:
Start Your Friend Search at Work
You’re already spending 12 hours with your coworkers, so you might as well make it count. Be friendly, ask questions, and show interest in the team’s routine. Ask your new coworkers about their favorite places to eat, shop and what to see in your new town. They’ll love sharing their experiences and expertise about where they live. Chances are they’ll also appreciate a new perspective on their town.
Pro tip: travelers often bond faster with other travelers, so keep an eye out for other travelers. Bonus, if you connect them with Triage, you can refer your new buddy and score a $750 referral bonus once they complete their first assignment.
Living La Vida Local
One of the best parts about traveling is getting to live like a local. Check out community events, trivia nights or weekend markets. Sign up for a fitness class, join a climbing gym or go to a dog park (even if you don’t have a dog, trust us, you’ll make friends anyway).
It sounds obvious, but you’re more likely to meet your people when you’re actually out doing the things you enjoy.
Use Social Media Strategically
Facebook and Reddit have huge travel nurse groups, and Instagram is full of travel nurse hashtags that lead to real friendships. Reach out, comment, or post that you’re headed to a new city and looking to connect. You’d be surprised how many travelers are nearby and down for a coffee or hiking buddy. You might even find a travel buddy for future assignments.
Apps like Bumble for Friends or Meetup are also great for finding people with similar interests, no awkward introductions required.
Use Your Recruiter as a Resource
Good recruiters are like part travel agent, part therapist, part bestie. They often know where other travelers are and can connect you with someone in the same area. Plus, they’ve probably heard every “I just moved here and know no one” story in existence, so don’t be afraid to ask for local recs or introductions.
Additionally, check if your travel nurse agency offers a community for its travelers. This can help you connect with others who are in your local area.
Keep the Old Friends Too
Travel life can feel a little disconnected at times, so staying in touch with your people from home is key. Schedule FaceTime hangouts, send postcards (seriously, everyone loves getting snail mail) or plan trips during breaks. Having that support system, even from afar, makes the constant change feel a little steadier.
Travel nursing comes with built-in adventure, but the people you meet along the way can make it unforgettable. Be open, say yes to new things, and don’t stress if every connection isn’t lifelong. You’ll end up with a collection of friends from all across the country, kind of like souvenirs but better.
And if you ever need help finding a new travel nurse job, Triage can help with that part.
Ready to meet new friends on your next assignment? Start by finding your perfect travel nurse job on the TGN Job Board today!
By Jenni Lundy, Nursing Recruiter at Titan Medical Group
Starting your journey as a travel nurse can feel both exciting and overwhelming! You’re chasing new experiences, new cities, and career growth—but there’s a lot to know before you pack your scrubs and hit the road. If you’re thinking about starting your journey as a healthcare traveler, here are 10 expert-backed tips to help you start strong and stay ahead.
Tips for Starting Your Journey as a Healthcare Traveler:
Before taking the leap, most hospitals want to see at least two years of recent experience in your specialty. This ensures your skills are sharp and that you’re ready to hit the ground running—especially in fast-paced or short-staffed units! Some specialties may even require more.
2. Keep Certifications Current
Your certs are your ticket to landing contracts! Stay on top of expiration dates for certifications like BLS, ACLS, PALS, NIHSS, or specialty-specific requirements (like TNCC for trauma or NRP for NICU). Having updated certs on hand can help your submission move faster.
A generic resume won’t cut it in the travel world. Make sure yours includes:
The trauma level of your facility (I, II, III, etc.)
Unit size (how many beds?)
Your typical patient ratios
Charting systems you’ve worked with (Epic, Cerner, Meditech, etc.)
Any unique skills, awards, or standout experience
These details help hiring managers understand your true scope of practice and make you stand out in a competitive market!
4. Be Patient
The travel job market moves fast, but that doesn’t mean your first contract will be instant. It’s normal to submit to several roles before landing one. Don’t get discouraged!!!! It’s a process, and persistence pays off.
5. Stay Flexible
Every traveler has a non-negotiable—pay, shift, location, start date, or time off. The key is choosing just one and staying flexible on the others. The more open you are, the more options your recruiter can present—and the faster you’ll get placed.
6. Prep Health Docs Early
Start gathering your standard immunization records (MMR, Hep B, Tdap, Varicella, Flu, COVID, etc.). Most agencies will help arrange TB tests, mask fits, and physicals—but having your core records ready will fast-track compliance!
7. Financial Cushion = Less Stress
Once you sign a contract, it might take 2–4 weeks before your start date—and another 1–2 weeks after that for your first paycheck to hit. Having a savings cushion (equal to 2–4 weeks of pay) can help cover travel, housing deposits, and expenses until that first check comes in.
8. Check Your License
Double-check that your state license (or compact license) is active and in good standing. If you’re applying in a non-compact state, you may need to apply by endorsement—and that can take time. Ask your recruiter about the process if you’re unsure.
9. Bring a Positive Attitude
Facilities hire travelers to fill a need, not create one. Being professional, flexible, and easy to work with goes a long way—not just in getting hired, but in getting invited back (or extended). A good attitude is your secret superpower on assignment!
10. Choose the Right Recruiter
Most agencies have access to similar jobs—but your recruiter is the game-changer! Work with someone who’s transparent, communicative, and truly listens to what you want. You don’t need ten recruiters—you need one or two you trust.
At Titan Medical, we believe in building real partnerships with our travelers. Our recruiters (like me!) work closely with each nurse to match the right contract, provide support every step of the way, and cheer you on while you chase this crazy, amazing lifestyle.
Becoming a travel nurse is one of the most exciting decisions you can make in your career. It’s not just about seeing new places. It’s about growing professionally, meeting incredible people, and learning to advocate for yourself in a whole new way. Start smart, stay flexible, and surround yourself with the right team. Your first travel assignment could be just the beginning of something life-changing.
Want help finding your first contract? Let’s chat. 👉 TitanMed.com | @TitanMedicalGroup | 866.332.9600
Travel nursing offers an exciting opportunity to explore new places, gain diverse clinical experience, and enjoy competitive pay. But before jumping into a new assignment, it’s crucial to take a thoughtful and strategic approach. Here are ten essential steps every travel nurse should take before accepting a new contract to ensure the experience is rewarding, safe, and professionally beneficial.
1. Understand the Contract Details Thoroughly
Before signing anything, read the contract carefully. Pay close attention to:
Start and end dates
Guaranteed hours
Cancellation policies
Overtime rates
Housing stipends
Travel reimbursements
If anything is unclear, ask your recruiter for clarification. Contracts are binding, so understanding every clause is critical.
2. Research the Facility and Unit
Not all hospitals or units are created equal. Look into:
Facility reputation (check reviews on sites like Glassdoor or Indeed)
Unit culture and staffing ratios
Technology and charting systems used
Patient population and acuity levels
Talking to other travel nurses who’ve worked there can provide invaluable insights.
3. Evaluate the Location
Location can make or break your experience. Consider:
Cost of living (especially if you’re taking a housing stipend)
Safety and accessibility
Weather and climate
Local attractions and lifestyle fit
Use tools like Numbeo or local Facebook groups to get a feel for the area.
4. Confirm Licensing Requirements
Each state has its own nursing license requirements. If you’re not already licensed in the state of your assignment:
Check if it’s part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
Apply for a temporary or permanent license if needed
Factor in processing time to avoid delays
Your agency may assist with this, but it’s ultimately your responsibility.
5. Assess Housing Options
Whether you choose agency-provided housing or take a stipend, make sure your living situation is secure and comfortable. Consider:
Proximity to the facility
Safety of the neighborhood
Lease flexibility
Furnished vs. unfurnished options
Short-term rental platforms like Furnished Finder or Airbnb can be helpful.
6. Clarify Pay and Benefits
Beyond the hourly rate, understand the full compensation package:
Taxable vs. non-taxable income
Bonuses (sign-on, completion, referral)
Health insurance and retirement plans
Reimbursements (scrubs, licensing, travel)
Ask for a pay breakdown to see exactly what you’ll be earning and spending.
7. Prepare for Credentialing and Onboarding
Hospitals often require specific documentation before you start. Be ready to provide:
Immunization records
Certifications (BLS, ACLS, etc.)
Background checks and drug screens
Skills checklists and references
Start gathering these early to avoid delays in your start date.
8. Plan for Transportation and Logistics
Will you be driving, flying, or taking public transit? Make sure you:
Budget for travel costs
Understand parking availability and costs
Know your commute time
Have a backup plan for emergencies
If you’re bringing a car, check for insurance coverage across state lines.
9. Review Your Agency’s Support System
A good travel nursing agency should offer strong support. Ask about:
24/7 clinical support
Emergency contacts
Assignment extensions or early terminations
Help with housing or licensing issues
Knowing you have a reliable team behind you can make a big difference.
10. Reflect on Your Personal and Professional Goals
Finally, ask yourself:
Does this assignment align with my career goals?
Will I gain new skills or certifications?
Is the location somewhere I’ll enjoy living?
Am I mentally and physically prepared for the demands?
Taking time to reflect ensures you’re making a decision that supports both your well-being and your professional growth.
Final Thoughts
Travel nursing is a unique and rewarding career path, but it requires careful planning and consideration. By following these ten steps, you’ll be better equipped to choose assignments that are safe, fulfilling, and aligned with your goals. Remember, every assignment is a stepping stone—make sure it’s one that moves you forward.
Find Your Next Travel Healthcare Assignment with Our Job Board!
Are you on the hunt for your next travel healthcare gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities. We have opportunities for all travel healthcare professionals.
Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment
So, you are taking your first assignment and you aren’t sure what to expect, or you are looking for some advice. We frequently see posts in our Facebook group asking for advice and tips for new travel nurses. Veteran travel nurses are great about giving advice and being there to mentor new travel nurses as they start their assignments. In this article, we put together some of the best advice and tips we have seen in our Facebook group for new travel nurses.
Advice and Tips for New Travel Nurses
If you have questions, ask them
If you aren’t sure how something works or even where something is at your new assignment, just ask. There may be a few people who get annoyed answering your questions, but most will be happy to help you.
Protect your license
Just because you are a travel nurse doesn’t mean you should have to take a bigger patient load. If the floor tries to give you a patient load that you don’t feel is safe, speak up. If it continues to be an issue where you are constantly getting a bigger or harder patient load, speak to your recruiter to see what can be done.
Don’t talk about how things were done at other hospitals
While you may have learned other ways or methods of doing things at your staff hospital or even at different assignments. Others at your current facility are most likely not interested in hearing “well at this facility we did it this way or we did this another way at my staff hospital.” It may be hard, but just keep it to yourself.
Breathe
We know that sounds crazy but just breathe. You may feel overwhelmed at times during your first assignment, but you will get through it. Take deep breaths and just remember that you have the experience and expertise to do the job. Otherwise, you wouldn’t be there. Your nursing skills don’t change just because your job location does.
Remember it is only 13 weeks
Just keep reminding yourself that the assignment is only 13 weeks. You can do it. If the assignment gets tough or you are just having a hard time with it, remember you are moving on in 13 weeks and your next assignment will most likely be nothing like your previous one. You can get through it, you wouldn’t have signed on if you didn’t think you could make it.
We hope these advice and tips for your first travel assignment were helpful. Do you have any advice and/or tips for new travel nurses or first travel nurse assignments? Comment them below.
New travel nurses, just remember: You got this!
Are you looking for your first travel nurse assignment or your next adventure? Click here to view our job board. If you need to find housing for your next assignment click here to search our housing page.
Travel nursing is one of the most exciting and rewarding career paths in healthcare. It offers licensed nurses the opportunity to explore new places, gain diverse clinical experiences, and often earn higher pay than traditional staff nurses. But how do you become a travel nurse? What qualifications do you need, and what steps should you take to get started?
In this blog, we’ll break down the essential qualifications, certifications, and skills required to become a travel nurse, along with tips to help you thrive in this dynamic profession.
What Is a Travel Nurse?
A travel nurse is a nurse who takes temporary assignments in different locations, typically through a staffing agency. These assignments usually last between 8 to 26 weeks and can be in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities across the country—or even internationally.
Travel nurses are in high demand, especially in areas experiencing staffing shortages, seasonal surges, or specialized care needs.
Basic Qualifications to Become a Travel Nurse
To become a travel nurse, you must first meet the foundational requirements of being a registered nurse. Here’s what that entails:
1. Earn a Nursing Degree
You must complete an accredited nursing program. There are two main paths:
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – Typically a 2-year program.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – A 4-year degree that may offer more opportunities and higher pay.
While both degrees qualify you to become an RN, many hospitals and travel nursing agencies prefer or require a BSN due to the complexity of care and leadership skills it provides.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
After earning your degree, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain your RN license. This is a standardized exam that tests your knowledge and readiness to practice safely and effectively as a nurse.
3. Gain Clinical Experience
Most travel nursing agencies require at least 1 to 2 years of recent clinical experience in your specialty area. This ensures you’re prepared to jump into new environments with minimal orientation.
Common specialties in high demand include:
Emergency Room (ER)
Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
Labor and Delivery (L&D)
Operating Room (OR)
Medical-Surgical (Med-Surg)
Telemetry
Licensing and Certifications
1. State Licensure
You must be licensed to practice in the state where your assignment is located. Fortunately, many states participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses to practice in multiple states with one license. If your home state is part of the NLC, you can work in other compact states without obtaining additional licenses.
For non-compact states, you’ll need to apply for a temporary or permanent license in that state before starting your assignment.
2. Certifications
Depending on your specialty, you may need additional certifications. Common ones include:
Basic Life Support (BLS) – Required for all nurses.
Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) – Often required for ICU, ER, and telemetry nurses.
Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) – For nurses working with children.
Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) – For labor and delivery or NICU nurses.
These certifications must be current and from recognized providers like the American Heart Association.
Soft Skills and Personal Traits
In addition to clinical qualifications, successful travel nurses possess a unique set of soft skills and personality traits:
Adaptability – You’ll be working in new environments with different teams and protocols.
Strong Communication – Clear communication with patients, families, and staff is essential.
Problem-Solving – You may encounter unfamiliar situations and need to think on your feet.
Cultural Competence – Understanding and respecting diverse backgrounds is key in different regions.
Independence – Travel nurses often receive minimal orientation, so confidence and self-reliance are crucial.
Steps to Start Your Travel Nursing Career
Gain Experience – Work in your specialty for at least 1–2 years.
Research Agencies – Choose a reputable travel nursing agency that aligns with your goals.
Get Licensed – Ensure your RN license is active and apply for additional state licenses if needed.
Update Certifications – Make sure your BLS, ACLS, and other required certifications are current.
Build a Strong Resume – Highlight your clinical experience, specialties, and adaptability.
Apply and Interview – Work with your recruiter to find assignments that match your preferences.
Prepare for Travel – Organize housing, transportation, and documentation before your assignment begins.
Becoming a travel nurse is a fulfilling way to combine your passion for nursing with a love for adventure. While the path requires dedication, education, and experience, the rewards—both personal and professional—are well worth it.
Whether you’re drawn to the flexibility, the opportunity to explore new places, or the chance to make a difference where it’s needed most, travel nursing offers a unique and impactful career path.
Find Your Next Travel Healthcare Assignment with Our Job Board!
Are you on the hunt for your next travel healthcare gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities. We have opportunities for all travel healthcare professionals.
Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment
One of the best aspects of travel nursing is the potential it affords you. Pay rate, location, shift– all are negotiable and can be shopped out to best meet your needs at any given time!
What is the best way to make sure you have the most options available in your career as a travel nurse? Have multiple travel nurse recruiters!
Why you should work with multiple travel nurse recruiters:
This is important for one main reason: exclusive contracts. Every company will have access to certain jobs based on their relationship with hospitals and vendor companies. Therefore, to have the best access to jobs, you need to have a travel nurse recruiter from a few different companies who have different relationships with different hospitals or systems.
It may sound like a lot at first, but it is totally normal and a good travel nurse recruiter will expect you to have other recruiters as well. The key to balancing all of this is to be open about it with your recruiter(s). Be up front and say something like “I just wanted to let you know I have another recruiter looking for contracts right now as well. I will let you know as soon as I sign a contract if I choose to go with them based on what we find.”
Another helpful thing is to let your recruiter know what is most important to you as they look for jobs. This can help them be more successful in their search, and you with your overall satisfaction. Don’t say you are open to night shift if you really are not, for example. If you really, really need a specific location at a certain time, tell them that!
A good travel nurse recruiter will also let you know if they simply don’t have what you need at that moment. They won’t try to draw you into jobs that don’t fit your needs if you have done a good job at communicating what those are. A good travel nurse recruiter should say something like “I’m sorry I don’t have that right now, but I’ll be here whenever your contract finishes up and we can try and find the right fit for the next one!”
If a travel nurse recruiter tries to tell you that it is abnormal or bad to have more than one recruiter–they are not looking out for your best interest. While a good recruiter might be able to do some digging or reach out to try and “find” a position that will fit your needs, they ultimately can recognize that they simply might not have the job that you need right now. However, if they are smart and courteous they will realize that building a good relationship and leaving the door open for you to circle back is more valuable than being a hard sell or discouraging you from doing what is best for you.
At the end of the day, your relationship with your travel nurse recruiters should be treated as a business relationship. The respect should be mutual, and communication should be direct and open without causing the other person to take things personally.
Remember that this goes both ways. While your travel nurse recruiter needs to be respectful and communicative to you, it helps them do their job better if you can reciprocate these actions. Don’t ghost them if you find another assignment, or if you are upset with something they are doing. Instead–communicate! Let them know why you are frustrated. Tell them you took another assignment but will be done on a specific date. A good travel nurse recruiter will not be offended, they will be appreciative that you have enough respect for them to communicate.
Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!
Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.
Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment
Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.
For travel nurses, the allure of adventure, professional growth, and adapting to new environments is a major draw. One of the most significant developments making this lifestyle even more appealing is the rise of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The Nurse Licensure Compact allows travel nurses to streamline their practice across state lines, turning a once-complex licensing process into a much smoother experience.
Understanding the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
Nurse Licensure Compact
The NLC offers a solution for nurses seeking greater flexibility in their careers. It allows both Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses (LPN/VNs) to hold a single, multi-state license. This enables them to practice in any of the participating compact states without the need to obtain individual licenses for each state.
The Nurse Licensure Compact enhances opportunities for nurses seeking flexibility in their careers and offers significant advantages in travel nursing.
Here’s a breakdown of how it works:
Eligibility: If your primary state of residence is a compact state and you meet the specific requirements, you can apply for a multi-state license.
Reciprocity: Once approved, you gain the privilege to practice in other compact states without navigating the often-lengthy process of acquiring additional licenses.
Growth: Since its creation, the NLC has expanded to include 42 states and territories (as of May 2024), and continues to grow. This expansion is reshaping the travel nursing landscape, providing nurses with increased mobility and career opportunities.
Key Facts About the NLC:
Broad Reach: Currently includes 42 states and territories, with ongoing expansion.
Primary Residence: Requires nurses to declare a “home state” as their primary residence for licensure.
Relocation Protocol: If you move to a different compact state, you are required to transfer your primary license to your new state of residence.
Stay Informed: For the most current list of participating compact states, refer to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) website.
This growth of the Nurse Licensure Compact is reshaping the travel nursing landscape, providing nurses with increased mobility and career opportunities.
Why Compact Licenses are a Major Advantage for Travel Nurses
Compact licenses offer a multitude of benefits, particularly for travel nurses. The very nature of travel nursing demands flexibility, efficiency, and adaptability – qualities perfectly aligned with the advantages of compact licenses.
1. Eliminating Licensing Roadblocks
In the past, travel nurses were often burdened with applying for individual licenses for each new state where they intended to work. This involved application fees and considerable time spent on paperwork. These delays could lead to missed opportunities. Compact licenses remove these obstacles, empowering nurses to readily accept assignments in compact states.
2. Expanding Career Horizons
A compact license broadens your potential job opportunities beyond your home state or neighboring regions. This increased range allows travel nurses to negotiate better compensation, select assignments that align with their passions, and gain experience in diverse healthcare settings.
Understanding how the Nurse Licensure Compact works can help you fully leverage its benefits for your travel nursing career.
3. Simplifying Agency Credentialing
Many travel nursing agencies require nurses to hold a valid state license before they can be considered for assignments. Obtaining these licenses can add complications to the credentialing process. Compact licenses streamline this process, accelerating the completion of paperwork for travel nursing positions, especially those requiring immediate or short-term coverage.
With a Nurse Licensure Compact license, you can accept assignments in multiple states without the hassle of acquiring separate licenses.
4. Enabling Rapid Response to Emergencies
A compact license under the Nurse Licensure Compact broadens your potential job opportunities beyond your home state or neighboring regions.
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical role of nurses in responding swiftly to crises. Compact licenses enhance the agility of travel nurses, enabling them to deploy to different states during emergencies without delays.
First, verify that your primary state of residence is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. If not, you will need to pursue individual state licenses until your state joins the Nurse Licensure Compact.
The expense of applying for and renewing multiple state licenses can accumulate significantly over time. A compact license reduces these costs, helping travel nurses optimize their finances.
How to Obtain a Compact License: A Step-by-Step Guide
Obtaining a compact license is a relatively straightforward process, but requires attention to detail to ensure eligibility and compliance. Follow these steps to secure your compact nursing license:
The Nurse Licensure Compact allows for quicker deployment, especially in emergency situations where travel nurses are needed immediately.
Step 1: Confirm State Participation
The application process for a compact license is designed to be efficient, keeping in mind the fast-paced nature of travel nursing roles.
First, verify that your primary state of residence is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. If not, you will need to pursue individual state licenses until your state joins the compact.
Step 2: Meet Eligibility Criteria
Each compact state adheres to the same NLC standards for issuing licenses. To be eligible, you must:
Possess an active and unencumbered RN or LPN/VN license.
Declare a compact state as your primary state of residence.
Have passed the NCLEX exam or fulfilled initial licensure requirements in your home state.
Successfully complete a federal criminal background check.
Step 3: Apply Through Your State Board of Nursing
Once you have confirmed your eligibility, submit your application for a compact license through your State Board of Nursing. This typically involves providing necessary documentation and paying the required fee.
Step 4: Explore Opportunities
Once your application is approved, you can begin exploring assignments in compact states.
Addressing Common Questions
While compact licenses offer numerous advantages, it’s normal to have questions. Here are some common concerns:
Working in Non-Compact States: If you wish to work in a state that is not part of the NLC, you will need to apply for a single-state license in that specific jurisdiction.
Loss of Compact License: Certain circumstances can lead to the loss of your compact license, such as moving to a non-compact state or violating nursing regulations.
Adherence to State Laws: Even with a compact license, you are obligated to follow the nursing laws and regulations of the state where you are currently practicing.
Embrace the Freedom of a Compact License
Compact state licenses are transforming the travel nursing profession, providing increased freedom, reduced administrative burdens, and greater job mobility. Whether you are an experienced travel nurse or just starting your career, a compact license can significantly enhance your professional journey.
Travel nurses can stay informed about the Nurse Licensure Compact’s expansion to ensure they maximize their career opportunities. The benefits of the Nurse Licensure Compact are numerous, helping to facilitate a smoother transition for travel nurses. Embracing the Nurse Licensure Compact means embracing a new level of freedom in the travel nursing profession.
Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!
Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.
Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment
Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.
How do you know a good fit for traveling? What makes us traveler nurses “travel” depends on so many different pain points. Some states don’t pay enough; I know of two RNs from Alabama who frequently pair up, leave their spouse and kids behind, and set out for financially greener pastures. Some of us, like me, are tired of the mundane of our hometown and want to see something new and exciting. I found the cultures of metro Phoenix and Anchorage to be a great contrast to southern Ohio. Others are avid outdoor adventure enthusiasts and seek out great skiing or rock-climbing areas. Or perhaps you still love nursing, but you just can’t stand to be asked to take on committees anymore (corporate commitments that yield no money and rare change), and you need to start anew. Whichever of these apply to you, I find that landing that perfect assignment takes a little personal work outside of what your recruiter provides. Below are steps I take to sort out a good fit for a travel assignment.
Steps for sorting out a good fit for a travel assignment:
1. Read up on the company
Before I get the interview, I try to learn about the hospital or healthcare system that I am applying to. General search engine sleuthing usually yields a decent amount of information, especially with sites like Glassdoor, where one can read up on employee complaints/concerns. Also, I personally go in and review their mission statement to see if it aligns with my personal values or see how vague it is, and measure if publicized behaviors contradict what they proclaim. For instance, if they say “ they are committed to the improvement of human life” but then have also shut down critical access health sites during a takeover, this lends information to the question of what the corporate atmosphere is—not an absolute deal breaker for a short term assignment but will be highly relative to things like social services and continuity of care into the community.
Insider resources are also important. This includes asking my recruiter to talk with other travelers who have worked with that facility. Sometimes, the recruiter will tell you this is their first time working with the facility. Other times, they may be hesitant to discuss things as a “tough assignment, but the pay is good.” Insider resources also include online chat boards—I never completely discount gossip. These things allow me to weigh out whether certain company behaviors are tolerable to achieve my goals and if it will be a good fit for me as a travel assignment.
2. To Thine Own Self Be True
After my longevity in the nursing field, I am aware of my skill set, what it was, and what I can brush up on to be sufficient. For instance, I used to be a high-risk Labor and Delivery nurse with a lactation certification; that was fifteen years ago, and I no longer possess that acumen in relation to the liability of that arena of nursing. I currently am a CVICU nurse, and my skillset is managing complicated heart failure, among other things, but I communicate what machinery and therapies I am familiar with and what is different from the facility that I am applying to. Sometimes, when jumping between two levels of acuity( sometimes you have a mismatch of ideal place and exact area of expertise), I need to refresh my mind on certain steps for procedures. Luckily, we all live in the Age of Information, and there are literally thousands of professionally backed and collegiate-affiliated YouTube videos out there on every medical and nursing topic for free. They also have teaching videos available for every flavor of electronic health record if the assignment seems golden. However, managing the software platform to chart on seems like a herculean task.
3. Things to ask During the Telephone Interview
In times past, I felt awkward asking specifics about the unit’s operations. I don’t know why; maybe I thought it was a corporate secret, or I was violating the boundaries of good hospitality. Whichever it was, I woke up and realized that this is a business relationship, and I needed to know what kind of environment I was doing business in.
I usually start with general questions like how many beds are in the unit and then how many nurses are staffed each shift. I then ask about support staff, such as unit clerks, monitor techs, and nurses’ aides; this gives me a better idea of my full responsibilities, as I might not have been expecting that I would field phone calls from outside the hospital, etc.
This is usually followed by things like what is the staff mix and staff support. If the nurse educator has just been let go and the staff are mainly new grads, the hospital may be looking at me to be a support structure and knowledge base for those staff. This can end up being difficult if staff are resistant to the presence of travelers—so I weigh this into my equation of acceptance. I also like knowing how many other travelers are currently employed with that particular unit. From personal experience, I know that a unit staffed almost exclusively with travelers can be chaotic and sometimes adversarial, as each person has their way of doing things. Still, no one is immersed in the company’s way of doing things.
4. Shift Requirements and Scheduling Policies
If I start an assignment for the adventure potential that the location promised, I am going to be sad if block scheduling isn’t an option. I find it wise to talk out needed time off with my recruiter ahead of time. Usually, I know when a family vacation is coming up or a major milestone like my parent’s wedding anniversary (mom has been planning for months, so missing it is an act of heresy); then I have put it into the written contract so that there aren’t questions later.
When it comes to the question-and-answer portion of the telephone interview, I tend to discuss the required weekends and holidays. Some places are staunch on “every other” policies; other’s pain points are Mondays and Fridays, and they could care less about weekends. Still, others refuse to pay for travelers on holidays, so you can have that all to yourself. Clarity in this area lends itself to greater satisfaction on both sides. Making a potential good fit for a travel assignment.
5. Asking about the Primary Care Providers
This is an interesting area of conversation. Knowing what type of primary providers I am working with, plus the legal and political hierarchy, and how I can easily contact them is very important to how my patient will receive care. I feel this is even more necessary when I take night shift assignments, as there are fewer providers to contact when issues surface. Firstly, I ask if this is a teaching facility and if are there resident physicians who will be practicing in my unit. The presence of first- and second-year residents requires a certain level of personal confidence, negotiation tactics, and strong skills by the nurse. If things ever sound questionable, I run things up the chain to the chief resident because the purpose of doctors’ residency is learning.
Additionally, what is provider overnight coverage in the hospital, as I sometimes work the night shift? I have encountered tough situations in which patients were intubated. Still, the
In summary, taking these steps to sort out a good fit for a travel assignment and addressing these topics has led me to better satisfaction going into a contract. I feel more at peace knowing the potential of the interdependence of staff going into the contract.
We hope you found these steps I take to sort out a good fit for a travel assignment helpful. Are there any steps you take to make sure a travel assignment will be a good fit for you? Are there tell-tale signs that an assignment may not be a good fit that you have found? Tell us about them in the comments below.
And knowing when I can schedule time off to have adventures and see the landscape makes me even happier.
Interested in a travel nursing job? Our job board is a great place to search for assignments, and if housing is an issue, our housing page can help. It’s time to make a difference!
If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:
One of the greatest advantages of travel nursing is the opportunity to develop specialized skills by working at top-tier facilities across the country. Each hospital, clinic, or specialty unit offers unique learning experiences that allow travel nurses to deepen their expertise and expand their knowledge in ways that a single permanent position might not provide. By choosing travel assignments strategically, every stop along the way can serve as a stepping stone toward advancing your career.
4 strategic travel assignments to build your nursing expertise:
Neuro-Heavy ICU Travel Assignments
For instance, working in a neuro-heavy ICU can sharpen your understanding of stroke care, neurotrauma, and advanced brain monitoring systems. This can give you an edge when applying for future roles. Facilities with comprehensive stroke centers or brain and spine institutes provide hands-on experience with critical neurological conditions, offering significant opportunities to grow in this area.
Similarly, if cardiac care is your passion, targeting cardiology-focused units can take your skills to the next level. Nurses in these environments gain exposure to advanced procedures like heart transplants, post-op cardiac care, and technologies such as LVADs. For example, at Titan Medical, we often refer travelers with strong cardiac backgrounds to the University of Louisville. They are a leading cardiac center with a variety of opportunities for nurses to work alongside top specialists and deepen their expertise.
Level I trauma center assignments
Travel assignments at Level I trauma centers are another excellent way to build skills, especially for nurses who thrive in high-pressure environments! These facilities expose nurses to critical situations, from gunshot wounds to severe motor vehicle accidents, refining their ability to make quick decisions and apply trauma protocols effectively. On the other hand, rural hospital travel assignments may seem less glamorous but provide unparalleled experience in autonomy and critical thinking. With fewer resources and staff, rural nurses manage a wide range of cases independently, often juggling multiple specialties within a single shift. This type of experience builds confidence and clinical versatility, making it a valuable addition to any nurse’s resume.
Academic medical centers offer yet another path for growth!
These institutions are often on the cutting edge of medical research and innovation. Travel nurses assigned to these hospitals benefit from access to ongoing education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentorship opportunities. Many academic hospitals, such as Mayo Clinic or Johns Hopkins, encourage nurses to attend lectures, participate in medical rounds, and engage with complex cases. This allows for both learning and leadership development. For those interested in family-centered care, travel assignments at pediatric hospitals or maternal health units offer experience in areas like neonatal care, labor and delivery, and pediatric intensive care. Facilities such as Cincinnati Children’s Hospital or Texas Children’s Hospital are ideal for nurses looking to specialize in these fields!
Travel assignments at magnet-designated hospitals
Working at Magnet-designated hospitals can also be a game-changer for travel nurses, as these facilities prioritize excellence and evidence-based practices. Magnet hospitals not only foster professional growth but also provide leadership opportunities. Nurses working at institutions like Cleveland Clinic or New York Presbyterian gain exposure to innovative practices and benefit from a collaborative environment that emphasizes professional development.
At Titan Medical, we understand that every travel assignment is more than just a paycheck—it’s an opportunity to grow and learn. That’s why we guide our travelers toward travel assignments that align with their goals, whether they want to develop neuro expertise, build cardiac skills, or gain trauma experience. With our knowledge of the industry and strong relationships with top facilities, we help nurses find the right travel assignments to match their ambitions. No matter where you want your career to go, there’s a travel assignment that can help you get there. At Titan Medical, we’re here to help you strategically build your skillset, one travel assignment at a time.
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