In the world of healthcare staffing, two roles often come up in conversations about temporary assignments and travel opportunities: travel nurses and allied travelers. While both play critical roles in supporting healthcare systems across the country, their responsibilities, qualifications, and career paths differ in meaningful ways.
Licensure: Must hold an active RN license, often in multiple states or through the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
Specialties: Includes ICU, ER, OR, Med-Surg, Labor & Delivery, etc.
Demand: High demand due to nursing shortages, seasonal needs, or crisis response
Compensation: Often includes higher pay, housing stipends, travel reimbursements, and bonuses
What Is an Allied Traveler?
An allied traveler refers to a healthcare professional in an allied health role who takes temporary assignments similar to travel nurses. Allied health includes a wide range of professions outside of nursing and medicine.
Common Allied Roles:
Radiologic Technologists
Physical Therapists
Occupational Therapists
Respiratory Therapists
Medical Laboratory Technicians
Speech-Language Pathologists
Surgical Technologists
Key Characteristics:
Licensure/Certification: Varies by profession and state, may require national certification (e.g., ARRT, ASCP, NBRC)
Scope of Practice: Focuses on diagnostics, rehabilitation, therapy, and technical support
Demand: Driven by staffing shortages, specialized skill needs, and facility expansions
Compensation: Competitive pay, housing/travel stipends, and benefits similar to travel nurses
Major Differences Between Travel Nurses and Allied Travelers
Feature
Travel Nurse
Allied Traveler
Education
RN degree (ADN or BSN)
Varies by role (Associate, Bachelor’s, or Master’s)
Licensure
RN license (often multi-state)
Profession-specific certification/licensure
Scope of Work
Direct patient care, medication administration, care planning
Direct patient care, medication administration, and care planning
Specialties
Nursing-focused (ICU, ER, etc.)
Allied health-focused (PT, RT, Lab Tech, etc.)
Assignment Length
8 to 13 weeks (typical)
8 to 13 weeks (typical)
Work Settings
Hospitals, clinics, long-term care
Hospitals, outpatient centers, rehab facilities
Similarities Between the Two Roles
Despite their differences, travel nurses and allied travelers share several similarities:
Flexibility: Both enjoy the freedom to choose assignments and locations
Adventure and travel: opportunities allow professionals to explore new cities and cultures
Professional Growth: Exposure to diverse healthcare settings enhances skills and experience
Support: Agencies often provide housing, travel reimbursement, and credentialing assistance
Which Path Is Right for You?
Choosing between becoming a travel nurse or an allied traveler depends on your education, career goals, and personal interests. If you’re passionate about direct patient care and have an RN license, travel nursing might be your calling. If you’re drawn to therapy, diagnostics, or technical roles, allied travel offers a wide array of opportunities.
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
The Evolution of Travel Nursing Post-COVID Shifts and Future Outlook
The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped nearly every aspect of healthcare, and travel nursing was no exception. Once a niche career path for adventurous nurses seeking flexibility and variety, travel nursing became a frontline solution during a global crisis. As the dust settles, the landscape of travel nursing continues to evolve, marked by new expectations, challenges, and opportunities.
A Surge in Demand During the Pandemic
Before COVID-19, travel nursing was primarily used to fill staffing gaps due to seasonal fluctuations, regional shortages, or temporary leaves. But the pandemic created an unprecedented demand for healthcare professionals, especially in critical care, emergency medicine, and respiratory therapy. Hospitals across the country turned to travel nurses to meet surging patient volumes, often offering premium pay and rapid onboarding.
This surge brought travel nursing into the spotlight. Nurses who had never considered travel roles were drawn by the opportunity to help in high-need areas, earn competitive compensation, and gain unique experience. Agencies expanded their networks, and many nurses found themselves moving from one COVID hotspot to another.
Travel Nursing Post-Covid: Shifts in the Industry
As the immediate crisis waned, the travel nursing industry began to recalibrate. Several key changes emerged:
1. Compensation Adjustments
During the height of the pandemic, travel nurses were offered record-high pay rates. While those rates have since normalized, they remain higher than pre-pandemic levels in many regions. Nurses now expect more transparency and consistency in compensation, and agencies are adapting to meet those expectations.
2. Greater Awareness and Respect
Travel nurses earned widespread recognition for their role during the pandemic. Hospitals and healthcare systems now better understand the value of flexible staffing models and are more open to integrating travel nurses into their workforce planning.
3. Expanded Specialties
While ICU and ER nurses were in the highest demand during COVID, the post-pandemic era has seen increased need across a broader range of specialties such as behavioral health, med-surg, and labor and delivery. This diversification has opened doors for more nurses to explore travel opportunities.
The emotional toll of the pandemic was significant. Many travel nurses faced long hours, high-stress environments, and frequent relocations. As a result, agencies and healthcare systems are placing greater emphasis on mental health resources, support networks, and sustainable work-life balance.
Technology and Flexibility: The New Norm
Technology has played a major role in reshaping travel nursing. From virtual onboarding and credentialing to telehealth integration and mobile scheduling apps, nurses now expect a streamlined experience. Agencies are investing in platforms that make it easier to find assignments, manage paperwork, and stay connected.
Flexibility is also key. Nurses want more control over where, when, and how they work. Shorter contracts, local travel option,s and hybrid roles are becoming more common, allowing nurses to tailor their careers to their personal and professional goals.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Travel Nursing?
The future of travel nursing is bright, but it will require continued adaptation. Here are a few trends to watch:
1. Permanent Integration into Staffing Models
Hospitals are increasingly viewing travel nurses not just as emergency fill-ins, but as strategic partners. Expect to see more long-term planning that includes travel nurses as part of core staffing strategies.
2. Rise of “Local Travel” Nursing
Some nurses prefer to stay closer to home while still enjoying the benefits of travel contracts. Local travel nursing, where nurses take short-term assignments within their own state or region, is gaining popularity and offers a middle ground between traditional staff roles and national travel.
3. Increased Credentialing Portability
Efforts to streamline licensing across states, such as the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), are gaining traction. This will make it easier for nurses to move between states and take on assignments without delays.
4. Focus on Retention and Support
Agencies and healthcare systems are investing more in retention strategies, including mentorship programs, continuing education, and wellness initiatives. The goal is to create a more sustainable and supportive environment for travel nurses.
Conclusion
Travel nursing has undergone a dramatic transformation since the onset of COVID-19. What was once a flexible career option has become a vital component of the healthcare system. As the industry continues to evolve, nurses can expect more opportunities, better support, and greater flexibility.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or considering your first assignment, the future of travel nursing offers a dynamic and rewarding path. With the right resources and mindset, nurses can thrive in this ever-changing landscape, making a difference wherever they go.
If you’ve been wondering when the “perfect” moment is to become a travel nurse, here’s the simple truth: the best time is right now.
There’s always a demand for travel nurses and healthcare travelers. Facilities across the country rely on travelers to fill staffing gaps, cover seasonal surges, and keep patients cared for when teams are stretched thin. That means whether you’re considering your first travel contract or returning to the road after a break, opportunities are waiting.
The key to knowing when it’s time to start is preparation.
How to Prepare to Become a Travel Nurse:
Set Yourself Up for Success as a Travel Nurse
Everyone’s journey looks a little different, but the most successful travelers often share the same foundation. Here’s how you can be prepared to hit the road, no matter when you choose to take the leap:
Choose the Right Agency: Not all agencies are created equal. The right agency will offer strong recruiter support, transparency, benefits, and resources to guide you through every step of your journey.
Research Locations: Think about where you’d like to travel—urban hospitals, rural communities, coastlines, or mountain towns. Your lifestyle preferences matter just as much as the clinical side.
Understand Your Why: Are you traveling for adventure, higher pay, career growth, or flexibility? Knowing your “why” will help you choose the right contracts.
Stay Flexible: Being open can help you land contracts faster and open doors you might not have considered.
Keep Your Documents Ready: Have your licenses, certifications, references, and immunization records organized and up to date. A traveler “binder” (digital or physical) makes applying for assignments faster and smoother.
Stay Financially Prepared: Save up a small cushion before your first assignment to cover travel costs, temporary housing deposits, or gaps between contracts.
Build Your Support Network: Connect with other travelers through online groups, mentorship programs, or professional organizations. A community of people who “get it” can be invaluable.
Getting those dream assignments isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy. Working closely with your recruiter, staying organized, and acting quickly when the right job comes up are all part of the equation.
Want insider tips? Check out our on-demand webinar with Brandy Pinkerton, seasoned travel nurse and mentor at Travel Nurse 101. She shares how to stand out, secure top contracts, and set yourself up for success—even if you’re brand new to travel nursing.
The truth is, there’s never a bad time to become a travel nurse—but starting out with the right mindset, support, and preparation makes all the difference. If you’re waiting for the perfect time to start, you might miss out on some amazing opportunities. Think through your goals, plan ahead, and find the right agency to make your travel career successful—and then get ready to embark on your first travel adventure!
Embarking on a career in travel nursing can be a uniquely rewarding experience. Unlike traditional nursing positions, travel nursing offers a multitude of benefits and opportunities that can significantly enhance both your professional and personal life. As a leading provider in the industry, AMN Healthcare is dedicated to offering exceptional support and resources for those interested in this exciting career path. Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider a career in travel nursing.
Why You Should Consider a Career in Travel Nursing
Flexibility and Diversity
One of the main attractions of travel nursing is the remarkable flexibility it provides. Travel nurses have the autonomy to select assignments that match their interests, schedules, and career aspirations. Whether you’re aiming to work in different healthcare settings, travel extensively, or explore various geographic regions, travel nursing offers the diversity that keeps your career dynamic and stimulating.
Key Benefits:
Tailored Schedules: Choose assignments that suit your personal lifestyle.
Varied Experiences: Engage in multiple specialties and healthcare environments.
Career Discovery: Uncover new opportunities and pathways within the nursing field.
Attractive Compensation
Travel nursing roles often come with pay rates that are significantly higher than those of traditional nursing jobs. Additionally, travel nurses typically benefit from comprehensive benefits packages that include health insurance, 401(k) plans, and various bonuses.
Key Benefits:
Increased Pay Rates: Earn more compared to permanent nursing positions.
Extensive Benefits: Receive health insurance, retirement plans, and more.
Financial Incentives: Benefit from additional bonuses and perks.
Professional Development Opportunities
Travel nursing offers unique opportunities for professional growth. By working in various clinical settings and with diverse patient populations, you can greatly enhance your clinical skills and become a more versatile and marketable nurse.
Key Benefits:
Skill Development: Expand your expertise across multiple specialties.
Networking: Build connections with healthcare professionals nationwide.
Career Progression: Improve your marketability and career prospects.
Adventure and Exploration
If you have a passion for travel and adventure, travel nursing perfectly blends work with exploration. Choose assignments in exciting cities, rural communities, or even resort areas, allowing you to experience new cultures, activities, and lifestyles while advancing your nursing career.
Key Benefits:
Travel Options: Work in a variety of locations across the country.
Cultural Immersion: Experience different communities and ways of life.
Balanced Life: Enjoy a fulfilling career while exploring new places.
We hope you found this article on why you should consider a career in travel nursing helpful. Are there any other reasons to consider a career in travel nursing that we missed? Comment them below.
Support from AMN Healthcare
Travel nursing combines flexibility, competitive compensation, professional development, and adventure, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling career. AMN Healthcare is dedicated to supporting you throughout this journey by providing the necessary resources and opportunities to help you thrive. Ready to embark on this exciting path? Explore the world of travel nursing with AMN Healthcare.
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.
The travel nursing industry has gone through significant transformations in the past few years, and as we get further into 2024, we thought it was important to explore the current state of this dynamic career path.
Rising demand for travel nurses
Despite the end of “the travel nurses’ gold rush,” the travel nursing industry is still going strong and continues to be a viable option for skilled nurses, says TravelNursing.org.
In the past several years, the travel nursing industry has grown by more than 600%, according to Supplemental Health Care. This is due to various factors, including the ongoing strain on healthcare facilities and the need for specialized skills in different regions, especially more rural areas. This has led hospitals and healthcare facilities to fill staffing gaps with travel assignments and book travel nurses to maintain quality patient care.
Changing demographics of travel nurses
The demographics of travel nurses are evolving, reflecting a diverse and dynamic workforce. Many younger professionals are entering the field, drawn to the flexibility, professional growth, and unique experiences that travel nursing offers. Additionally, more experienced nurses looking for a change or seeking adventure contribute to the growing diversity within the travel nursing community.
However, there is a projected nursing shortage in the U.S., according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, due to more and more baby boomer-generation nurses retiring, adding to the many RNs who left the profession due to pandemic burnout. This is a good opportunity for travel nurses to make the most of the situation as hospitals and facilities look to them to fill those staffing gaps.
Technological advancements in travel nursing
More and more, the travel nursing industry has embraced technological advancements to streamline processes and enhance communication. Mobile apps and online platforms like Medely connect healthcare facilities with travel nurses, making it easier for professionals to find assignments and for facilities to secure qualified staff quickly. These innovations have contributed to the efficiency and accessibility of the travel nursing marketplace and made it easier for travel nurses to not only find the travel assignments they’re looking for but also pick up local shifts in between. Check out this travel nurse’s story here on how she became a travel nurse to see the world and uses Medely to find the shifts she needs.
Salary trends and perks
Compensation for travel nurses has seen ebbs and flows over the past few years, especially when it peaked during the pandemic, but pay still remains high and competitive, according to Health eCareers. Plus, all the perks of travel nursing are still available and enticing to RNs considering this career path, like flexible schedules, benefits, stipends, higher pay, flexibility, exploration, and career growth.
Challenges and opportunities
As the healthcare landscape continues to shift and evolve in 2024, travel nurses continue to play a critical role in healthcare across the U.S. The demand for highly skilled professionals, technological advancements, and the changing demographic landscape show that this resilient and adaptable workforce can grasp many opportunities this year. Navigating the challenges and embracing opportunities will be key to ensuring the continued success and growth of travel nursing in the years to come.
Want to use Medely to sign up for your next travel assignment? We’ve got you covered. Medely works with thousands of the best facility partners across the U.S.
During the COVID pandemic, travel nursing experienced a significant increase in demand as healthcare facilities urgently sought more nurses to fill critical needs. This led to a surplus of high-paying contracts that attracted many nurses who may not have previously considered travel nursing. Now, as the travel pay begins to find a new baseline, some nurses are now questioning whether travel nursing will remain a favorable option in the future.
Post-pandemic travel nursing remains one of the most rewarding and fulfilling career moves you can make, and we’re going to break down exactly why that is! While the pandemic presented unique challenges and opportunities, the pulse of travel nursing remains strong. The essence of this career choice—higher pay, flexibility, new connections, adventure, a politics-free environment, and professional growth—continues to thrive.
In the past several years, the travel nursing industry has grown by more than 600%, and some estimates expect that around 10% of working nurses will remain in contract roles long-term. The foundational shifts driving both the support and demand for healthcare professionals won’t be settled any time soon.
Travel Nurse Pay Remains High
From March 2020 to July 2022, Trusted Health saw travel nurses across all specialties and states making an average gross weekly income of $3,668! Though the average gross weekly income has decreased slightly since then, Trusted is still seeing an impressive average gross weekly of $3,206. This amount is leaps and bounds beyond the national average of $1,711 earned by staff nurses and is still higher than the pre-pandemic average of $2,273 gross weekly for travel nurses.
Healthcare Worker Shortages
First and foremost, there are not enough RNs and other healthcare workers to meet the needs of patients. That goes back, in part, to a shortage of nursing school programs and educators to prepare incoming nursing students.
So, the RN workforce is growing in leaps and bounds, but the tools aren’t always available to train them. When healthcare facilities can’t find local candidates to fill RN positions, they turn to travel nurses to fill those spots.
According to Becker’s Hospital Review, the highest-paying jobs for travel nurses have been in intensive care units, emergency departments, medical surgery, and home health. Contract labor rates are expected to stabilize at 15% over pre-pandemic levels in 2023.
NBC News announced last fall that “the travel nurses’ gold rush” is over. Hospitals are now negotiating down contract rates with travel nurse agencies by as much as 50%. Though not what it once was, travel nursing is far from dead, and the pay is still above average. The mean travel nurse income has stabilized at around $3k per week in 2023. Given that compensation has fallen since the unprecedented pandemic pay, so have the number of travel nurses, making jobs less competitive.
Still, a number of factors, such as whether a hospital is dealing with a natural disaster or strike, as well as market demand in that region, can cause assignments to attract higher prices. According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual travel nurse salary in the United States is $105,021 or $50/hr as of May 2023. This is much higher than the national average for registered nurses, which is $77,600 per year or $37.31 per hour, according to the BLS.
Travel Nursing Is Still A Viable Option For Nurses
Another common attitude expressed by travel nurses is that contract work allows them to focus on patient care. They can avoid the bureaucracy of dealing with management and leadership that some face in staff roles. Travelers also choose which hospitals they will work in. They can refuse facilities that they’ve heard have dangerous conditions or too many patients per nurse. California is the only state to regulate nurse-to-patient ratios. It requires one nurse for every five patients in most departments and intensive care units to have a 1:2 ratio.
Travel nursing is perfect for those who want the freedom to choose the assignment and department that fits their lifestyle and interests. It allows nurses to obtain experience in a variety of settings while having the freedom to travel. Despite the current economic downturn, travel nursing remains a feasible employment option for healthcare workers with the right mindset and skills.
Industry analysis suggests that the US may face a shortage of up to 450,000 registered nurses by 2025. According to one nationwide assessment of the nursing workforce, nurses are retiring in greater numbers, with the typical nurse’s age rising from roughly 43 in 2000 to 52 in 2020. This reality, combined with the impending influx of elderly Baby Boomers who will require more care, is expected to exacerbate the situation. These facts suggest that there will always be choices for experienced nurses in all specialties who want to travel.
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.
If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:
Are you a nurse who may be getting burnt out dealing with the same-old, same-old at your current job? Do you have the desire to go out into the world to make a real difference and truly help those in need but are worried you may fall behind in your career? Fortunately, there are many ways to advance your career as a travel nurse. Below, we’ll discuss a few benefits of why travel nursing may be the right decision for you in the long run.
9 Ways Travel Nursing Can Advance Your Career
As a travel nurse, you have the chance to learn various different skills, work with a diverse group of people, and unlock the door to future opportunities. Not only do you need to be knowledgeable about the medical professional, but you should be willing to learn about yourself, be curious about the people you are treating, and be comfortable in stressful situations. Developing all of these skills can give you the tools that you need to advance your career as a nurse.
Boosts Your Resume
Employers love candidates who have diverse backgrounds in their fields of focus. You have the potential to cultivate several different specialties all over the country, making you a more holistic medical professional. Whether you are a CNA, X-Ray tech, or ER nurse, there is a chance for you to help others while also helping yourself. Showing that you are uprooting your life and moving to a different city to help other people is the level of empathy and passion that employers hope to see in their candidates.
Along with broadening your resume, having an impressive background and unique skills will give you the chance to negotiate a higher salary at your next position, especially since pay rate predictions remain strong in the coming year.
Gives You New Skills and Experience
While it is possible to explore an abundance of career opportunities as a travel nurse, you also have the possibility of working with advanced technology, practices, and procedures that may not be accessible anywhere else! Technology is becoming relied on more and more every day, and hospitals need people who can easily use these devices. By having the knowledge and experience that other nurses may not have, you stand out from the crowd.
Proving you care and have an eagerness to learn is a great way to advance your nursing career. With a great background and limitless passion, your experience can make you vulnerable to jobs at Magnet hospitals, which are known for their high retention ratings and satisfaction from nurse employees.
Allows You to Learn from the Experts
When you work all over the county, you will learn from medical professionals who have also trained and practiced in different locations. You will want to be a sponge and absorb as much information and practice as possible so that you can move forward with confidence and a unique set of skills.
By learning from a multitude of people that approach problems in different ways, you give yourself the ability to provide your patients with personalized care.
The Possibility of Reimbursement for Professional Licenses
When on a new job, you have an excuse to focus on different areas in the medical field. Employers often encourage their nurses to explore education opportunities and strive for new licenses. In many cases, you can receive reimbursement for the cost of class tuition up to thousands of dollars! By broadening your horizons and being open to developing new skills, you are creating different ways for you to advance your career as a nurse.
Exposes You to Different People and Cultures
You get out what you put in. Not only will you learn from the doctors or nurses that you work side-by-side with, but you will also gain knowledge from the people that you are treating.
When you speak to your patients and study their medical history, you can discover new and important things that you may not have known about your profession or field of focus. This level of understanding, curiosity, and empathy gives you a quality that other rival candidates down the line may not possess.
Not only will you be able to meet with and treat all kinds of people with different backgrounds, but you will also be able to treat patients with unique ailments, illnesses, or injuries. By having a diverse work background, you are showing future employers that you have the willingness to learn and adapt, which is how you will be able to advance your nursing career.
Teaches You Flexibility, Adaptability, and Teamwork
Working as a travel nurse can help you advance your career by not only giving you the chance to hone your medical skills but also your interpersonal ones. Employers and patients alike desire nurses who are ready to go with no hesitation. That means you need to be ready for whatever comes your way. By working all over the country, you will be forced to get to know many different people–people that you need to trust and be able to work as a team with. Along with being book-smart, you need to be willing to grow as a person.
In addition to being adaptable and flexible, you are also given the privilege of being able to create your own working schedule. After a travel nursing contract has ended and you want to take a vacation or much-needed break, you have no one telling you you can’t. Having this freedom can give you the time that you need to recharge and prepare for your next assignment.
Improves Your Communication Skills
Another interpersonal skill that can help you advance your career as a travel nurse is communication. When high-stress situations occur, you need to be able to express your needs and wants perfectly for the betterment of the patient and your co-workers.
Being able to compassionately and transparently describe diagnoses, procedures, or anything else that may be difficult to understand is very important, especially in a setting where the stakes are high. Gaining that experience in both stress management and authoritarianism shows that you are growing as a nurse and human.
Expands Your Professional Network
Many people may think that the only way to advance your nursing career is by being loyal to one hospital or place of employment and then being promoted. However, working all over the United States means that you meet and work with dozens of people. Down the line, those relationships can turn into job opportunities that you may be attracted to. It is important to nurture these relationships and to be open about what you are looking for over the course of your career.
Challenges You and Gives You the Confidence You Need to Move Forward
Lastly and most importantly, working as a travel nurse can give you the confidence you need when moving forward in your career. Some people do not like change, and that is okay; however, as a travel nurse, you may be forced to adapt to new situations quickly. When advancing your career, being able to show that you are quick on your feet and willing to make changes means that you are easy to work with, which is something that most employers look for.
Are you looking for ways to advance your career as a travel nurse? OneStaff Medical is one of the fastest-growing travel nursing placement agencies in the United States and has helped hundreds of nurses advance their careers. We are here to help you make your dreams come true and help you grow in your career. Contact us today, and let’s put your skills to good use and find your next destination.
2023 is weeks away, and a new year brings new opportunities. Many nurses use the fresh start of a new year as the perfect time to leap into a travel nursing career. If you’re considering starting 2023 as a travel nurse, the time to prepare is, well, now.
There are hundreds of agencies and thousands of recruiters. What’s the best way to narrow down this pool of possibilities? Look for what makes an agency or recruiter stand out from the crowd.
A quick way to make a top-five list is to consult reputable review sites, such as The Gypsy Nurse, to see which agencies travelers voted as the best of the best. Narrow that down to the agencies that have certification by The Joint Commission, which requires agencies to undergo an extensive evaluation process every few years and demonstrate the ability to offer high-quality and competent nursing services.
With that list, it’s time to explore each agency’s benefits, support, and perks. You’ll want an agency that steps forward to support you on the road with traveler-focused benefits, like day-one insurance and paid sick leave, mental wellness resources that meet you wherever you are, and a 401(k) plan to invest in your future.
Additionally, you’ll want to be able to rely on an agency’s well-structured, experienced support teams. Look for agencies with a QA team that ensures you’re meeting all compliance requirements, a housing team helping you find the best accommodations within your budget, and a clinical support team available to coach you when you need it.
Last but not least, you’ll want the agency you work with to have various travel nurse jobs available so it’s easier for you to get your first assignment to start your travel nursing career.
Pick a Travel Nurse Recruiter
Once your top few agencies are sorted out, you’ll want to connect with a great recruiter. Use social media networks, like The Gypsy Nurse’s Facebook group, to ask other experienced travelers which recruiters they recommend. Your recruiter should know what the agency offers and the current state of the travel nurse market, listen to your career goals and put you on a path to reaching them. You should feel like a priority to your recruiter, not just another traveler on their list.
Your recruiter is responsible for submitting your travel nurse profile to a job; you’ll work with them to get it prepped. Your travel nurse profile will consist of your resume, licenses & certifications, immunizations & titer records, references, and more. If you need to update specific certifications or obtain another state’s license, now is the time to get it done!
Meanwhile, your recruiter is hunting for a few contracts that match your requirements – whether you want to work specific shifts, go for a particular pay, or try for a certain state.
When you and your recruiter have found a few that meet your needs, and your profile is ready, it’s time to apply! You’ll begin applying to open jobs about three to four weeks before the start of the assignment. (Tip: One essential thing to consider before applying for any job is the housing market in the area. You don’t want to accept a job only to discover that you can’t find reasonable housing nearby.)
3. Interview and Land a Job
Once your application is submitted, this next step could move quickly. It takes approximately 72 hours to hear from hospitals about profile submissions. Suppose a hospital wants you for an assignment. You could have a phone interview with a nurse manager, a voice-automated interview, or an auto-offer without a formal interview. Once you agree to a contract, you can put in a two-week notice at your staff job.
4. Compliance and Housing
Congrats, you’ve secured your first travel nurse job! Now, you’ll have to think about assignment compliance and housing. If your agency has a QA department, they’ll contact you to ensure you get all assignment compliance items out of the way. Your agency might even be able to set up any appointments you need and pay for it all. At the same time, you’ll want to find accommodations near your assignment. If your agency has a housing department, they can relieve stress by finding a safe, affordable place for you to stay.
5. Now, The Fun Begins
You’re officially ready to take off for your first assignment! The good news is a lot of the hard part is over. You’ve picked a great agency, established a relationship with a recruiter who is getting to know you and your lifestyle needs, and you’ve got everything together for your travel nurse profile. With all this work behind you and one assignment on your resume, it will likely be much easier to apply for your next travel nurse position or to start your travel nursing career!
The travel nurse industry is booming as pandemic burnout has pushed RNs to look for ways to enhance their careers and lives. Nursing school students have aspirations of traveling, no longer envisioning their career spent in one spot. Staff nurses have learned traveling is viable for many lifestyles and situations, and hospitals are advised to better fit travelers in their units, treating them as partners instead of seeing them as temporary staff.
How can you set yourself up for a successful travel nurse career if you’re interested in traveling? It comes down to three things: your agency, your recruiter, and you.
How Travel Nurse Agencies Can Help You Navigate the Industry
Some travel nurse agencies have been overwhelmed with the amount of nurses wanting to travel and don’t have the resources available to keep up with the growth. That’s one reason why you’ll want to be picky about the agency you partner with on your travel nurse journey.
Picking a Travel Nurse Agency With Industry Knowledge
There are dozens of travel nurse agencies out there, but you want an agency and recruiter that can serve as your trusted advisors to help you navigate the growing and changing industry. Your agency should have high credibility in the industry, and your recruiter should be highly knowledgeable about the healthcare facility you are interested in and the facility’s requirements.
Picking a Travel Nurse Agency That Values Relationships
Along with industry knowledge, you’ll want an agency and recruiter that focus on building their relationship with you. That starts with having a recruiter who is available to talk to you instead of leaving you abandoned with your questions. Your recruiter should listen to your personal and career goals, ask important questions to understand your goals better, and seek out the assignments that align with those goals. Your recruiter should also be transparent and honest about situations in the industry or at a certain facility. They should always be looking out for your best interests.
This one is really important. Not all agencies offer the same level of benefits and support that you had while you were a staff nurse or that you want when adapting to your new life as a traveler. We’re talking housing assistance, licensing assistance, mental health resources, insurance options, and more. Take the agencies you are interested in working with and research their benefits. Make sure they have the benefits that you want to fall back on when you take your life on the road.
How to Set Yourself Apart and Have the Best Travel Experience
If you’re a new travel nurse or even a seasoned traveler among the influx, here’s how you can set yourself apart from the crowd.
Engage With a Facility’s Core Staff
You may be at one hospital for a limited time, but you can still leave a lasting impression. Don’t settle for just being ‘the traveler’ on your unit – make yourself known to the director. Let them know you are here to be a partner in promoting excellent patient care and best practices. While getting to know people, find your core staff buddy and invite them out or over for dinner. It will make the travel life a little less lonely for you and give you friends across the nation.
Be the Best Guest
Be the best guest on the unit. You are there to fill a hospital’s needs. That doesn’t mean you should allow yourself to be disrespected, but it means you might be tasked with doing the less-than-glamorous duties from time to time. Being willing to help in this manner is actually to your benefit. In the event of a low census, you will have proven your worth and desire to be a teammate on the unit, meaning you’ll likely be the traveler they want to keep.
Know When and How to Share your Expertise
You’ve learned several techniques while supporting facilities across the nation. It makes sense that you would want to share your expertise, but do so tactfully. Avoid telling a staff nurse how they could do their job better. Instead, write a letter to the nurse manager or director about what you saw that worked best for you in a previous assignment. As you share your expertise, remember always to be willing to learn and try new techniques yourself.
Before the pandemic, travel nurses were hired when staff nurses took leave during busy seasons and to fill gaps as hospital managers worked to build their core staff. Now, it seems like a chapter as a travel nurse is almost expected in your career as an RN. So, if you see travel fitting in your life, follow these tips to give yourself a successful career as a travel nurse.
Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page.
If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:
Happy Nurses Week 2025! We’re so grateful for all that nurses do—every single day. This week is all about you, and we’re excited to celebrate with a giveaway! Need more details? Visit our Facebook page.
