June 26, 2025

2622 Views

Top 10 Must-Have Apps for Travel Nurses in 2025

Posted on June 26, 2025June 24, 2025 by Titan Medical

Balancing hectic shifts, constant relocations, and new travel assignments demands reliable tech support. These 10 apps—clinically useful, logistically smart, and lifestyle-enhancing—can be game-changers for travel healthcare professionals in 2025!

Top 10 Must-Have Apps for Travel Nurses in 2025:

Medscape

Why it helps: Comprehensive drug references, interaction checker, medical news, and procedure images—perfect for quick clinical decisions.

Nursing Central

Why it helps: All-in-one clinical guide, with drug, disease, and procedure lookup, plus a medical dictionary—ideal for on-shift referencing.

CamScanner

Why it helps: Enables document scanning for credentials, orientation packets, and contract paperwork—great for staying organized on the go.

PackPoint

Why it helps: Smart packing lists tailored to assignment type, length, and destination climate—prevents over/under packing.

GasBuddy

Why it helps: Helps find the cheapest gas along your route—a money saver when driving between assignments.

Waze

Why it helps: Crowdsourced navigation with traffic alerts, hazards, and smart routing—essential for timely shift arrival.

AllTrails

Why it helps: Access local hikes, run trails, and outdoor escapes for downtime—supports mental & physical renewals between shifts.

YNAB (You Need A Budget)

Why it helps: Tailored budgeting that accounts for pay, stipends, travel costs, and housing—helps manage irregular income.

Titan Medical App

Why it helps: Designed with Travel Healthcare Professionals in mind, this app centralizes job tracking, timecard submittal, clocking in/out of shifts, credential uploads, compliance tracking, and 24/7 recruiter chat!

MyChart

Why it helps: Many hospitals and clinics across the U.S. use Epic or similar EMR systems that link with MyChart, allowing travel nurses to easily access their personal medical records, test results, immunizations, and appointment histories.

Whether you’re on your first travel assignment or your fifteenth, having the right tools (apps) in your pocket can make all the difference. From managing your health and finances to navigating new cities and staying connected with your recruiter, these apps help take the stress out of travel nursing—so you can focus on what matters most: delivering great care and enjoying the adventure. Download a few (or all) of these before your next assignment, and don’t forget to explore the Titan Medical App for an all-in-one experience designed specifically with travel nurses in mind. Happy travels!

TASK	APP(S)	TIP
Clinical Queries	Medscape, Nursing Central	Use during downtime for quick reference.
Health Management	MyChart	Track personal health, appointments, and test results across assignments.
Paperwork	CamScanner	Digitize contracts/credentials and back them up.
Packing	PackPoint	Integrate with your itinerary (TripIt, email).
Budget Tracking	YNAB, GasBuddy	Input real expenses to see true profitability.
Travel/navigation	Waze, AllTrails	Use offline maps when traveling to remote assignments.
Agency Support	Titan Medical App	Chat recruiters and upload compliance docs anytime.

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.

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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.

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By AB Staffing Solutions

June 25, 2025

1362 Views

Travel Nurse Housing Tips We Say on Repeat

Posted on June 25, 2025June 24, 2025 by AB Staffing Solutions

We’ve checked in with our housing specialists and asked what tips they’re saying on repeat to our travel medical professionals. From starting your search early to being a good tenant, we’ve got their feedback for you.

Travel Nurse Housing Tips We Say on Repeat

Start Your Search Early

As you start your search, think about what amenities you’d like in your home and neighborhood.

If you’re a city person who likes to stop at a coffee shop, browse a bookstore, or go to the gym, make those part of your search. It helps you know areas where you would like to work so that we can find contracts in those places. You can also start your search before you have a contract, just don’t sign anything or travel anywhere until your recruiter says it’s ok.

In our experience, housing moves fast, so it benefits you to be proactive. You will find more and better options.

Furnished Finder Is a Go-To, But Not the Only Option

There can be times when housing is hard to find. Often, that’s because you haven’t searched in the right places. Furnished Finder is a great resource, but it isn’t the only option. Facebook groups for travel nurses, Airbnb for longer stays, and travel nurse housing forums are also where our travelers find appropriate, safe housing. Extended stay hotels may offer medical professional rates or long-term stay rates, too.

As you’re searching, consider what you need to make temporary housing feel like home. Music, photos, a Bluetooth speaker, and cozy blankets and pajamas are all recommendations.

Always Ask About What’s Included

Fully furnished may mean you get a bed, coffee table, and couch, but no linens or cookware. Ask what is included before signing a lease.

Are utilities included?
Do you need to pay for parking?
Where do you park?
Is Wi-Fi available, and is it included?

Request a complete list of what is included to know what to expect and what you need to pack.

Never Pay a Deposit Without a Lease or Video Tour

Scams can happen. Protect yourself by doing video walkthroughs and getting a written lease. Never wire money or pay via apps without verification. In our article Avoiding Scams in Travel Healthcare, we tell readers to trust their instincts. If a landlord is asking for Venmo payment without a tour, that’s a red flag.

Don’t sign a lease before you’ve signed a travel contract. We don’t want you to pay for housing and then have the work fall through.

Communicate with prospective landlords through phone calls, texts, and email. Someone using WhatsApp could be a scammer. And avoid Craigslist, as it is popular for scammers.

Be safe and make sure you know what you’re signing. If you’re not getting the information you need, find a different place.

Be Clear About the Contract End Date (and Flexibility)

Ensure your lease has flexible terms or a precise end date that aligns with your assignment. Extensions happen; ask if your landlord can accommodate that. Ideally, only look for rentals that offer month-to-month leases, so you have flexibility built into the lease.

Read more in our article Housing Advice for Travel Nurses.

Location Is Everything – Do Your Homework

Make use of the information on the internet. It’s easier than ever to look at maps, view apartments, and get video tours of housing, even if you’re doing it from afar. Start by mapping your facility and then finding the safest neighborhoods. No matter your schedule, we want you to be aware of your surroundings, feel safe, and have conveniences like a nearby grocery store and gym.

Join local Facebook groups and ask current travelers for insights about their experiences in neighborhoods. That will give you a better idea of where to search.

Have a Backup Plan Just in Case

The housing tip we say on repeat is to have a backup plan just in case something goes wrong. Keep a short list of other options in the area, even temporary ones. A week in a hotel is better than scrambling at the last minute.

Know the IRS Rules if You’re Taking a Housing Stipend

If you’re receiving a housing stipend instead of agency-placed housing, understand the IRS rules regarding duplicating expenses and maintaining a tax home. A tax home is the state you claim as your home state. This matters, along with compliance, during tax season. Depending on the laws and tax home, it could mean multiple tax forms in various states or a more straightforward process.

Short-Term Leases Often Cost More

Budgeting is important. Month-to-month or 13-week leases are convenient, but you will pay a premium, so you need to budget. Try to negotiate if you’re staying longer or rebooking.

Remember Your Pets

Another reason to start searching for housing early is if you have pets. If you’re traveling with a furry friend, you may have limited options depending on the location. Find out what the extra pet fees are and plan for them. We offer more tips in our article Travel Nursing with Your Dog.

Be a Great Tenant

We don’t like that we have to say this, but please be a great tenant. Leave your housing clean, communicate respectfully with management, and follow through on lease agreements. The travel nurse community is small, and word gets around quicker than you think. Building good relationships helps you and the community.

Thank you for being part of our travel nurse community!

If you’re looking for a new opportunity, check our job board and contact us today.

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

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel healthcare 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.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

“Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!”

—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

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By Fastaff Travel Nursing

June 24, 2025

1213 Views

Navigating Hospital Culture as a Travel Nurse

Posted on June 24, 2025June 23, 2025 by Fastaff Travel Nursing

Travel nurses often face the unique challenge of adapting to new hospital environments with each assignment. Every facility has its own culture—shaped by its leadership, staff dynamics, communication styles, and workflow expectations. Successfully navigating these differences is essential for delivering quality care and maintaining professional relationships. Here are key strategies for understanding and integrating into hospital culture as a travel nurse.

Navigating Hospital Culture as a Travel Nurse

1. Observe Before Acting

Upon arrival at a new facility, it’s important to take time to observe how the unit operates. Understanding the flow of communication, patient care routines, and team dynamics helps avoid missteps. Even if a nurse has experience with more efficient systems elsewhere, respecting the existing processes is crucial to building trust.

2. Ask Informed Questions

Asking questions is a vital part of the learning process, but the way questions are framed matters. Instead of questioning why something is done a certain way, it’s more effective to ask for a walkthrough of the process. This approach demonstrates a willingness to learn and adapt, rather than critique.

3. Build Rapport Through Kindness

Travel nurses are often entering close-knit teams. While some staff may be welcoming, others may be more reserved. A friendly, respectful attitude helps ease the transition. Learning names, expressing gratitude, and showing appreciation for assistance can go a long way in building positive relationships.

4. Adapt to Communication Norms

Each hospital has its own preferred methods of communication. Some units rely heavily on written documentation, while others prioritize verbal updates. Adapting to the local communication style helps reduce misunderstandings and fosters smoother collaboration with permanent staff.

5. Respect Hierarchies and Protocols

Understanding the chain of command is essential. Knowing who to report to, how to escalate issues, and when to involve other departments ensures smoother operations and avoids unnecessary conflict. If unclear, these details should be clarified during orientation or early in the assignment.

6. Maintain Professionalism

Not every assignment will be ideal. Travel nurses may encounter staffing shortages, outdated systems, or interpersonal challenges. Maintaining professionalism, focusing on patient care, and avoiding involvement in unit politics helps preserve a strong professional reputation.

7. Identify Key Resources

Every unit has individuals who are especially knowledgeable or helpful—whether it’s the person who knows how to fix the equipment or the one who understands the quirks of the electronic health record system. Identifying and connecting with these individuals can make the transition smoother and more efficient.

8. Celebrate Progress

Adapting to a new hospital culture is an achievement in itself. Recognizing small wins—such as mastering a new charting system or receiving positive feedback—can boost morale and reinforce confidence in one’s ability to thrive in diverse environments.

9. Reflect on Each Experience

After each assignment, taking time to reflect on what worked well and what could be improved helps build a stronger foundation for future roles. Keeping a journal or log of experiences can provide valuable insights and support continuous professional growth.

10. Stay Grounded in Purpose

When challenges arise, it’s helpful to reconnect with the reasons for choosing travel nursing—whether it’s the opportunity to explore new places, the desire to support understaffed facilities, or the pursuit of professional variety. Staying focused on these motivations can provide clarity and resilience.

Final Thoughts

Navigating hospital culture as a travel nurse requires adaptability, emotional intelligence, and a proactive mindset. By observing, asking thoughtful questions, and building respectful relationships, travel nurses can integrate effectively into any healthcare setting. Each assignment offers a chance to grow professionally and contribute meaningfully to patient care—no matter the location.

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.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

“Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!”

—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

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By TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

June 20, 2025

1575 Views

What Agency Mergers Mean for Healthcare Travelers

Posted on June 20, 2025June 16, 2025 by TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

When you hear that two agencies are merging—like the recent announcement that TNAA and TotalMed are coming together—it’s easy to feel unsure about what that actually means for you as a traveler. Does it affect your next assignment? Will your recruiter still be there? Is this a good thing, or something to worry about?

Here’s the truth: agency mergers aren’t something to panic about. In fact, decisions to merge are made with travelers in mind, to make your travel journey even better.

Think of it like two people deciding to move in together. They each bring their own strengths and resources to the table: one might be great at cooking, the other has an amazing collection of cooking pans and accessories. Now they get to share costs, pool resources, and make life easier for both of them. That’s what a merger is at its best—two well-established agencies choosing to combine forces to better support the people they serve.

Plus, when the merger is between two agencies like TNAA and TotalMed—both known for their strong reputations, dedicated recruiters, and traveler-first approach—it’s a partnership that’s built to benefit travel nurses.

Here’s how:

More Job Opportunities & Flexibility

Have you ever had a travel destination or specific facility in mind, but your current agency can’t place you on assignment there? A merger like this means travel nurses and allied travelers gain access to a wider range of assignments—more facilities, more specialties, and more locations across the country. You’ll see options you may not have had before, without needing to work with a new agency.

Smoother, More Streamlined Processes

Every agency has strengths in how they do things—from onboarding to compliance. This merger creates an opportunity to refine those processes and bring together the best of both worlds, all with the goal of helping travelers find jobs that fit their lifestyles and secure assignments faster.

Access to Additional Technology

With shared resources and combined investments, this partnership opens the door to upgraded platforms and technology. Think better job search systems, cleaner communication channels, and tools that help keep your assignment on track—not hold it up.

More Experts in Your Corner

Now there’s a larger, more experienced team working behind the scenes to support you—recruiters, clinical support, licensing experts, housing pros, and problem-solvers ready to help when you need them.

A Stronger Understanding of Travelers’ Needs

It’s no secret that the healthcare traveler industry has grown significantly in recent years. More travelers mean more perspectives—and each traveler has a unique story that brought them to travel nursing. In addition to the increased number of travelers, there have also been changes in the way we travel, communicate, work, and live.

By bringing together the insights, experience, and perspectives of two high-performing agencies, this merger provides both agencies with a clearer picture of what travelers want and what they prioritize in their travel assignments. That leads to smarter support, more personalized recruiter relationships, and a better overall experience.

A Merger Built With Travelers in Mind

Mergers might sound big and complicated—and sometimes even a little uncertain—but here’s the bottom line: when two strong, traveler-focused agencies like TNAA and TotalMed join forces, it’s a win for travel nurses and allied healthcare travelers. You get more job options, smarter support, better tools, and a bigger team in your corner, meaning you can spend less time worrying about the details and more time enjoying your assignment, exploring new cities, and making a difference in patients’ lives.

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.

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—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

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By Fastaff Travel Nursing

June 19, 2025

1308 Views

Tackling Loneliness as a Travel Nurse: How to Stay Connected on the Road

Posted on June 19, 2025June 12, 2025 by Fastaff Travel Nursing

Travel nursing is an exciting career path filled with adventure, flexibility, and the chance to make a difference in healthcare across the country. But behind the Instagram-worthy sunsets and new cityscapes, many travel nurses face a quiet challenge: loneliness.

Being away from family, friends, and familiar routines can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. The good news? You’re not alone in feeling this way—and there are practical, powerful ways to stay connected and build community wherever you go.

Tackling Loneliness as a Travel Nurse:

Acknowledge the Feeling

First things first: it’s okay to feel lonely. It doesn’t mean you’re weak or ungrateful. Loneliness is a natural response to change and disconnection. Recognizing it is the first step toward managing it.

Try journaling your feelings or talking to a trusted friend or therapist. Sometimes, just naming the emotion can help reduce its power.

Build Micro-Connections at Work

You may not be in one place long enough to build deep friendships, but small, consistent interactions can still make a big difference.

Introduce yourself to coworkers early and often.
Join unit potlucks or after-shift hangouts if invited.
Ask questions and show interest in your colleagues’ lives.

Even a few friendly faces on your shift can help you feel more grounded and less isolated.

Stay Connected to Your Support System

Technology makes it easier than ever to stay close to loved ones, even from thousands of miles away.

Schedule regular video calls with family or friends.
Send voice notes or quick texts during breaks.
Share photos or updates from your travels to keep others in the loop.

Creating a routine around communication—like a Sunday night FaceTime—can give you something to look forward to each week.

Prioritize Self-Care

Loneliness can be amplified when you’re physically or emotionally drained. Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine:

Exercise regularly—even a 20-minute walk can boost your mood.
Eat nourishing meals and stay hydrated.
Practice mindfulness or meditation to stay present and reduce anxiety.
Get enough sleep to support emotional resilience.

When you take care of your body and mind, you’re better equipped to handle emotional ups and downs.

Get Involved in the Local Community

Even if you’re only in town for 13 weeks, you can still find ways to connect locally:

Join a fitness class, book club, or hobby group.
Volunteer at a local shelter or food bank.
Attend community events, farmers markets, or festivals.

Apps like Meetup, Bumble BFF, or Facebook Events can help you find activities and people with similar interests.

Travel With a Buddy (or Pet!)

If you’re open to it, consider traveling with a fellow nurse or bringing a pet along for companionship. Many travel nurses find comfort in having a furry friend or a roommate to share the journey with.

Just make sure your housing and assignments are pet-friendly or suitable for shared living.

Seek Professional Support

If loneliness starts to feel overwhelming or persistent, don’t hesitate to seek help. Many travel nurse agencies offer mental health resources, and there are plenty of virtual therapy platforms that cater to mobile lifestyles.

Talking to a professional can provide tools and perspective to help you navigate emotional challenges more effectively.

Join Online Travel Nurse Communities

There’s a whole world of travel nurses out there who understand exactly what you’re going through. Online communities can be a lifeline:

Facebook groups like “The Gypsy Nurse” or “Travel Nurse Network”
Reddit threads like r/TravelNursing
Instagram and TikTok creators who share travel nurse content

These spaces offer advice, humor, and solidarity—and sometimes even real-life meetups.

Create a Routine

One of the hardest parts of travel nursing is the lack of routine. Establishing a few daily or weekly rituals can help you feel more stable and connected:

Morning coffee walks
Weekly grocery runs
Sunday meal prep
Evening journaling or reading

These small habits create a sense of normalcy, no matter where you are.

Loneliness is a real and valid part of the travel nurse experience—but it doesn’t have to define it. With intention, effort, and a little creativity, you can build meaningful connections, nurture your well-being, and thrive on the road.

Remember: you’re not just a nurse—you’re a brave, adaptable, and resilient human being. And you deserve connection, joy, and support wherever your journey takes you.

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.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

“Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!”

—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

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By Nadine Westwood

June 17, 2025

3614 Views

Top 7 Tips for Travel Nurses Starting a New Assignment

Posted on June 17, 2025June 17, 2025 by Nadine Westwood

For those who are traveling nurses, it allows them to explore new places. At the same time, they will get diverse experiences and the chance to advance their careers.

This guide will look at the top seven tips you can follow when starting a new assignment as a traveling nurse. Although it may be a challenge, you can quickly adapt to your new healthcare facilities wherever you may be, get to know your new team members, and manage your well-being as you move from one place to another.

Top 7 Tips for Travel Nurses Starting a New Assignment:

Make Plans To Pursue Continuing Education

As part of your career, it is vital to make sure that you focus on continuing education. Your nursing skills and the chances of advancing your career depend on this, especially when looking to develop yourself professionally through accredited healthcare training programs like The Praxis Institute. You’ll be able to learn courses that will help you stay updated regarding the latest medical advancements and techniques. Investing in your continuing education will allow you to advance your career at your own pace.

What is the goal for you when it comes to achieving a successful nursing career? In addition, what continuing education program will be best suited for you? That’s up to you whether you are spending your next summer assignment in Washington State or elsewhere.

Perform Research On Your New Facility

Before starting a new assignment, it’s essential to research the new healthcare facility that you will be working in. It will allow you to familiarize yourself with the policies, procedures, and the electronic medical records or EMR system.

You should also know the key departments, the general workflow, and even the layout of your new facility so the transition is a lot easier. Finally, the facility’s patient population should also help you plan for the cases you may encounter during your tenure there.

Embrace Flexibility and Adaptability

If you want to be a travel nurse, it’s essential to make sure that you can be flexible and adaptable. This is because each assignment will come with unique challenges of practice. From there, you want to ensure that you are always learning new techniques and methods. You will also notice the differences in management styles and workflow, so expect to embrace those whenever they differ. These are excellent opportunities to expand and sharpen your skills and knowledge.

Quick adaptability will benefit your patients and your reputation as a reliable and resourceful nurse. This can be a huge advantage if you are looking to take on new assignments and want former co-workers or supervisors to say positive things about you.

Prioritize Your Self-Care and Well-Being

One of the challenges of being a travel nurse is the frequent relocation. Yes, it can be stressful and overwhelming. For this reason, you want to prioritize your self-care and well-being regularly, including maintaining good physical and mental health. That’s where you can establish your routine, including regular exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep.

You also want to find times when you can do activities that will help you relax and recharge regularly. These include your favorite hobbies, exploring new surroundings, or meditating in a quiet space.

It also helps to build a support network of fellow travelers. Not only will they provide you with camaraderie, but they will also provide you with plenty of emotional support and other self-care strategies that you can implement yourself.

Stay Organized

Organization will be a priority when navigating the challenges of being a travel nurse. This includes keeping track of your assignments, contracts, and other essential documents so that you’re systematically tracking it all. Be sure to use apps and tools that will allow you to manage your schedule, track expenses, and store any critical information. Be sure to stay organized and maintain your regular responsibilities while reducing the stress linked to frequent relocations.

Plan Your Finances

Planning your finances will be necessary, especially when frequent relocations are typical in your travel nurse career. You want to regularly create a budget for your expenses, such as housing, transportation, and daily living costs.

Take the opportunity of stipends for reimbursements offered by the travel nurse agency you are a part of. You must set aside money in an emergency fund in case future assignments pop up so you can have the financial security and peace of mind that you need so you can stress less financially.

Build Strong Professional Relationships

Finally, if you want to further your travel nurse career to new heights, it is crucial to make sure that you build strong professional relationships. They will be great for a supportive work environment and make every transition smoother from one assignment to the next.

Feel free to introduce yourself to the staff, attend regular team meetings, and participate in social activities. Being proactive in communication will also give you a chance to build a reputation as a hard worker who works well with others and is enjoyable to be around.

Final Thoughts

These top seven tips for travel nurses when starting a new assignment will be crucial, so you need to bookmark this guide to use it as a reference every single time. We are happy to provide these tips and wish you all the best in a fruitful and prosperous travel nurse career. Feel free to share this with aspiring travel nurses as they begin their careers.

We hope you found this article on 7 tips for travel nurses starting a new assignment helpful. Do you have any tips for fellow travel nurses starting a new assignment? Comment them below.

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.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

“Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!”

—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

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By Amber Pickler

June 14, 2025

9482 Views

Healthy and Easy Road Trip Snacks

Posted on June 14, 2025June 14, 2025 by Amber Pickler

Many travel nurses and travel healthcare professionals choose to drive to and from their assignments. Some only a few hours, while others can take days. Buying snacks from gas stations or convenience stores along the way can get expensive and unhealthy. We have put together a list of great easy, and healthy road trip snacks.

Road Trip Snacks:

1. Snack/Trail Mixes

Snack/trail mixes are great road trip snacks as they are easy to eat, and the sky is the limit on what you can include. You do not have to buy snack mixes as they can be pricey depending on what you want. Making your own mix can be cheaper, and you will get more for your money. Below you will find a couple of easy recipes from Chelsea’s Messy Apron. She has other great recipes as well. You can also put together your favorite ingredients.

Tropical Trail Mix

Tropical Trail Mix combines banana chips, coconut chips, dried mango, cashews, and almonds. To ensure crunchy nuts, this mix is best eaten soon after being made; sometimes, the dried fruit still has enough moisture to make the rest of the ingredients soft.

Other additional ideas: Try dried pineapple, dried papaya, yogurt-covered raisins, golden raisins, dried cranberries, walnuts, dried kiwi, dried apricots, or chopped dates.

Indulgent Trail Mix

Indulgent Trail Mix combines milk chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, peanut butter baking chips, dried cranberries, peanuts, and cashews. This mix is meant to be more of a treat and is a great mix to bring to a party!

Other additional ideas: Try some dark chocolate chips or chunks, chocolate-covered pretzels, chocolate-covered almonds, popcorn, golden raisins, mini peanut butter cups, or dried cherries.

2. Beef Jerky

Whether you make it yourself your buy it, beef jerky is a great source of protein and will keep you full longer, making it another great road trip snack option. We have included a recipe from SHTF Preparedness if you want to make it yourself.

Ingredients

¾ cup Worcestershire sauce
¾ cup soy sauce
1 tbsp of paprika
1 tbsp of honey
2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp of red pepper
1¼ tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
2 pounds of thin-sliced beef top round

Instructions

To put it all together, you need to whisk the sauces and the spices together in a big bowl. Once you have mixed it all thoroughly, add the beef to the bowl and flip it over to fully coat all sides of the beef. Then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate in the fridge for at least 3 hours.

Next, preheat your oven to 175 degrees. While doing so, you can line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack over this.

Then you will take out the beef and transfer it over to paper towels to dry out from the marinade. Discard what is left in the bowl (do not reuse). Arrange the beef slices on the wire rack that is on the baking sheet.

Line them a single layer in a row. Do not double or overlap the beef strips. They will not get properly dried out if you do, and you won’t have jerky-like planned.

Lastly, put this in the oven on the low heat setting and dry out until it feels leathery. It usually takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete. You can then take it out to cool and cut into smaller pieces with sizes if you prefer.

Some people like to store all of this in plastic Ziplock storage bags to keep it fresh. Beef jerky will keep for a long time, which is why it is popular for survival situations. It’s a good idea to learn the right survival foods to carry with you.

If you aren’t already knowledgeable, it’s a good idea to brush up on long term food storage tips and techniques.

Beef Jerky Recipe in a Dehydrator

If you’re looking to know how to make beef jerky with a dehydrator, then you can use pretty much any flavor recipe you want. All you have to do is prep the meat strips with the flavor combinations you like, then put them in the dehydrator.

3. Boiled Eggs

Boiled eggs are a great source of protein to help you stay full longer because of this, and they are great road trip snacks. You can buy premade boiled eggs in the store or make them at home. If you have an Instant Pot, they are super simple to make, and the shells come off with ease. To boil eggs in an instant pot, place the desired eggs in the Instant Pot and add 1 cup of water.

Choose the steam method for 6 minutes. After the 6 minutes is up, allow the eggs to stay in the Instant Pot (do not release the steam). After 6 minutes, remove the eggs from the Instant Pot and place them in an ice bath for 6 minutes. Once that is up, your eggs are done, and the shells should come off with ease!

4. String Cheese

Cheese, in general, is a great snack and source of protein. But the convenience of string cheese makes it a great option for a road trip snack. There are now many different flavors/varieties you can get, so you are no longer just stuck with the typical string cheese flavors.

5. Fruits & Veggies

This is a great way to sneak in your fruits and veggies. Some of our favorites include grapes, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, cherries, carrots, broccoli, peppers, cauliflower, and snap peas. You can make fruit mixes and veggie mixes and place them in Ziplock bags to make them easier to access and travel with.

6. Nuts/Nut Mixes/Seeds

Buying nut mixes can get expensive, and they tend to have more peanuts than any other nuts. Like snack mixes and trail mixes, you can really create your own mix. There are many options for flavors and varieties at the store. You can also include sunflower seeds in your mix if they are something you enjoy.

These are just a few healthy and easy options for road trip snacks. When looking for options just remember to choose things that are easy to eat without the need of utensils and are typically not messy.

Have you come up with any easy or healthy road trip snacks and want to share them? Comment them below. Safe travels!

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By Medical Solutions

June 10, 2025

1633 Views

How a Travel Nursing Agency Can Help You Build Financial Freedom

Posted on June 10, 2025June 3, 2025 by Medical Solutions

Let’s talk about something that impacts almost every nurse at some point: money. Not in a “chase the cash” kind of way, but in a real, practical, how-do-I-find-financial-freedom way.

Nursing is a calling, yes. But it’s also a profession that requires time, energy, skill, and a lot of emotional labor. And yet, for many clinicians, financial stress is part of the package, whether from student loan debt, cost of living, or just trying to save for the future while staying afloat today.

That’s where working with travel nurse agencies can make a difference.

How Travel Nurse Agencies Support Hospitals and Nurses

Hospitals don’t always have the staff they need. Patient volumes fluctuate, leaves happen, and some specialties are hard to staff, especially in certain regions. So, healthcare facilities turn to travel nurse agencies to help fill those gaps with experienced clinicians who are willing and ready to step in.

That’s the functional side of it. But for many travel nurses, these roles are also a way to gain more flexibility in their careers, travel the U.S., and improve financial stability.

The Need for Travel Nurses is Still High

Traveling may look slightly different than it did a few years ago, but the path forward is still wide open. The demand for travel clinicians hasn’t dropped; it’s just shifted. There’s still a strong need in certain specialties, regions, and roles that aren’t always easy to fill. For nurses open to new experiences, that means there’s still real opportunity out there.

Ways Working With Travel Nursing Agencies Can Support Your Financial Goals

Here are a few ways travel nursing can help you get ahead:

Higher Pay for In-Demand Work

Travel assignments often come with higher hourly rates than permanent staff roles, especially in high-need areas or hard-to-staff specialties. That bump adds up fast over 13-week contracts. And when you work with a recruiter who understands your goals and negotiates on your behalf, it can mean the difference between good and great pay.

Non-Taxable Stipends

Housing and meal stipends aren’t taxed, which means more take-home pay. Instead of losing a chunk of your income to taxes, that money goes directly to your everyday needs or whatever else you choose to do. For many travelers, this makes a big difference in monthly budgeting, especially when paired with agency-provided housing or affordable short-term rentals.

Bonuses and Incentives

Sign-on bonuses, completion bonuses, extension incentives, and referral rewards are not always guaranteed, but when they’re offered, they can give you a big financial boost. We’ve seen nurses use bonuses to pay off credit cards, take a post-assignment vacation, or stash extra savings without touching their regular income.

License and Travel Reimbursements

Many agencies often cover the cost of new state licenses, specialty certifications, and travel to your next assignment. That’s money you’re not spending out of pocket, which means more of your paycheck stays with you. And over several contracts, those savings can add up to thousands.

Retirement Planning Support

Access to 401(k) plans and agency matches helps you plan beyond the next assignment. Even if you’re between contracts, those contributions can keep growing. For nurses who want to stay mobile but still prepare for the long term, this is a quiet but powerful way to build toward financial security.

Room to Breathe

Travel nursing lets you take intentional breaks between assignments without pausing your career or benefit coverage. Voluntary benefits stay with you up to 30 days between contracts. If you’ve been pushing off a mental reset, a family visit, or a breather, this flexibility makes it doable without panic.

Debt Reduction and Savings Opportunities

With higher pay, fewer deductions, and less money going toward work-related costs (like commuting or scrubs you’re expected to buy yourself), many travelers find they have more left over at the end of each week. That makes it easier to pay down loans faster, build an emergency fund, or start saving for something big, like a house, a degree, or an early retirement plan.

It’s Not About Chasing the Highest Offer

To be clear, travel nursing isn’t a quick fix for financial freedom. It takes planning, flexibility, and the willingness to adapt to new environments. But for many nurses, it’s a way to find some forward motion in a career that often feels stuck, especially financially.

We’ve heard from plenty of clinicians who’ve used travel assignments to pay off loans, build emergency savings, or even take a break between contracts without added financial stress.

That’s why partnering with the right travel nurse agencies can make all the difference. A supportive recruiter who knows your goals can help you navigate assignments, prioritize what matters to you, and make choices that move your life and finances in the right direction.

If You’re Considering It

If your current setup doesn’t support the future you want, working with travel nurse agencies gives you access to jobs that might pay more, offer better support, or simply allow you more flexibility in your life.

You take care of everyone else, so it’s okay to make choices that take care of you, too.

Quickly apply with Medical Solutions or start exploring open jobs today—we’re here to help take your career wherever you want it to go.

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By Whitney Gingerich

June 9, 2025

10697 Views

5 Tips for Healthy Summer RVing for Travel Nurses

Posted on June 9, 2025June 9, 2025 by Whitney Gingerich

RVing during your travel nurse assignments is a great way to save money and still have your own space while traveling. However, cramped quarters and a serious lack of pantry space can send you to the drive-thru for dinner night after night and leave you feeling exhausted and crappy heading into another long shift.

When you’re on your feet for 12 + hours running from one room to the next, it’s important to fuel your body with something nutritious (i.e., something more than the cookies your former patients brought in last night) and incorporate a few habits to maintain your sanity.

So, if you’re chilling in an RV this summer, here are a few tips that will help you enjoy the camping life while nourishing your body.

Tips for Healthy Summer RVing for Travel Nurses

1. Keep shelf-stable snacks on hand –

Fruit and nut trail mix, protein bars, and beef jerky are favorites for trail hikers for a reason. No refrigeration! Keep these in your car, camper, or locker at work for a quick bite between the endless charting.

RD tip #1: For protein bars, try to choose products with a 1:1 protein to carbohydrate ratio. This will keep you satisfied longer since protein takes longer to digest than carbohydrates.
RD tip #2: Most trail mix options have a ton of sugar in them with all the dried fruits and chocolate. One trick is to buy a fruit and nut trail mix bag and add in a bag of raw or roasted mixed nuts. This will give you a better nut to fruit ratio and keep you full longer.

2. Go ahead and splurge for the cut veggies –

Just grab a tray of pre-cut carrots, celery, peppers, etc., at the grocery store and throw it all in a gallon-sized plastic freezer bag to keep in your college-sized fridge or cooler. Yes, you’ll be spending a little more money upfront, but you’ll be more likely to actually eat the veggies instead of throwing away yet another head of broccoli.

The same goes for the spiralized veggies. Chances are you probably don’t have space in your travel trailer to take your fancy spiralizer, so grab the pre-spiralized ones and throw them in place of the pasta or rice in your favorite dishes.

3. Cold salads on a hot day –

Making large batches of chicken or tuna salad could be a great option for the days where even turning on the microwave makes you sweat. And don’t worry if you don’t have an oven to cook the chicken in. Just pick up a rotisserie chicken at the grocery store and save yourself some time. If you make a larger batch, you’ll have lunches set for the whole week. Check out my favorite tuna salad recipe below!

RD tip: Instead of crackers, try using celery or sliced cucumbers to scoop your bites. It’ll give you the crunch you’re looking for with a boost of fiber and vitamins/minerals.

4. Get out and walk –

Yes, healthy foods are an important piece of the puzzle, but we can’t ignore the power of movement. On those really long workdays, exercise might be the last thing on your mind, but research shows that walking helps reduce stress, boost “happy” neurotransmitters, and improve insulin sensitivity.

Think about what time of the day would be best for you to get out in nature for a stroll. Figure out if you’re a “before shift” or “after shift” exerciser and make it happen. Even if it’s just 10 minutes, it’s better than nothing!

5. Make a comfy bed –

Ever feel like you’re starving the day after a sleepless night? It’s not just in your head! Lack of sleep can cause a spike in your insulin levels the next day, which drives up hunger and cravings for high sugar foods.

While you sleep, your body processes and eliminates toxins from the body, adequate rest also gives the digestive tract and hormonal system (in particular, your insulin levels) a break and a chance to reset throughout the night.

Try to aim for at least 7-8 hours of consecutive sleep a night so that you can run the show at the hospital without falling asleep at the nurses’ station.

We hope these tips for healthy summer RVing for travel nurses are helpful. If you are an RVing travel nurse and have other tips for RVing travel nurses, please comment on them below!

Happy camping, everyone!!

Avocado & Tomato Tuna Salad
Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

2 cans (5 oz each) water-packed tuna
2 tablespoons coarse-grain mustard
½-1 tablespoon olive oil
2 stalks celery, finely chopped
1 small ripe avocado, pitted, peeled, and chopped
1/2 cup sliced cherry or grape tomatoes
Juice from 1/2 of a lime
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Combine all the above ingredients.

Stir until well combined.

Season to taste with salt and pepper.

If you’re making a large batch, hold the avocado until you’re ready to eat it so that it stays fresh!

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

“Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!”

—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

Join Now

Top 10 Must-Have Apps for Travel Nurses in 2025:

Medscape

Nursing Central

CamScanner

PackPoint

Waze

AllTrails

YNAB (You Need A Budget)

Titan Medical App

MyChart

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