For many, the holidays are a time to relax, reconnect, and recharge. But if you’re a travel healthcare professional on assignment during this time, you may be facing a different reality: working when others are off, being away from home, juggling shifts with travel, and still giving your all to your patients!
It’s a unique experience, and with a careful mindset and smart preparation, it can also be a deeply rewarding one. Below are some of the most important things to consider if you’re working through the holidays while also making the most of them.
1. Recognize the Dynamics of Holiday Healthcare
The holidays bring increased patient volume (think: seasonal illnesses, accidents, family visitors, holiday travel) and often decreased staffing or more pressure on units. As a travel nurse, your role becomes even more critical in filling these gaps.
- Tip: Remember that your contribution is especially meaningful during this season. Being on assignment when many are off is a kind service and it matters!!!
2. Plan Ahead (Both Professionally and Personally)
Before you accept or begin a contract that covers the holidays:
- Ask about the holiday schedule: days off, shift changes, and how floating is handled.
- Clarify start and end dates so you know where you’ll be over key holiday dates.
- On the personal side: schedule calls with loved ones, plan for how you’ll celebrate (or modify your celebration) given your assignment.
3. Create Your Own Traditions, Wherever You Are
Being away from home doesn’t mean skipping the holiday vibe. Consider:
- Light a small tree or hang decorations in your housing.
- Find local holiday events such as community tree lighting, local markets, and festive concerts.
- Work with your unit to participate in holiday potlucks or staff celebrations. It helps build connection and eases the “away from home” feeling.
4. Set Boundaries & Commit to Self‑Care
Working through the holidays can blur lines between home and work. Be intentional:
- Block calendar time for rest, for calling home, for doing something that recharges you.
- If you’ll be working a shift on a major holiday, decide ahead of time how you’ll celebrate or mark the occasion (even in small ways).
- Prioritize sleep, nutrition, hydration!! Especially when shift demands escalate.
Self‑care isn’t optional; it’s essential for maintaining your best performance and mental health.
5. Leverage the Travel Advantage
There are unique perks for travel nurses during the holidays:
- You may qualify for premium pay or holiday differentials depending on the contract.
- You get to spend a holiday season in a different city or state, which can mean fresh local experiences and memories!!
- The bonds you form with fellow travelers on assignment can become meaningful support systems during times when friends/family are far.
6. Communicate With Your Recruiter & Facility
Clear communication is key:
- Let your recruiter know your preferences (time off during specific holiday days, rotating shifts you’re willing/unwilling to take, etc.).
- At the facility: ask about holiday staffing plans, on‑call expectations, policies for floating. You’re stepping into a setting already tracking heightened demands—clarity helps you arrive prepared.
If you and your recruiter are aligned on expectations, your holiday assignment has a higher chance of being a positive experience!
7. When You’re Not Working the Big Days — Make Them Yours
If your assignment skips major holiday dates (e.g., you have those days off), you still can make them special:
- Travel locally nearby for a day trip or experience you otherwise may not have time for.
- Host a virtual call with family/friends and plan to open gifts or share a meal “together” from afar.
- Reflect on what you’re grateful for: the flexibility of travel nursing, the opportunities you’ve had, and being part of patient care when it matters.
The holidays as a travel healthcare worker can be challenging, but they don’t have to feel like a sacrifice. With the right preparation, clear communication, and self‑care mindset, your assignment can be a unique chapter filled with new friendships, meaningful care, and personal growth!
And if you’re not looking to work through the holidays this year, maybe you need a break or want to wait for a post‑holiday contract — we’ve got something special for you!! At Titan Medical Group, we’re offering a referral bonus of up to $1,500 if you refer a friend or a colleague who starts a contract with us. So even if you’re choosing rest now, you can still stay connected, earn, and support fellow travel healthcare professionals!!
Whatever your plan this season, working or waiting, we salute your dedication. Here’s to meaningful care, new experiences, and finding your place (even if it’s away from home for a moment).
Whether you’re working through the holidays or planning your next break, the perfect travel assignment is waiting. See what’s available now. View Open Travel Jobs
By Phoebe Lyman, for Titan Medical Group
