December 8, 2023

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Packing for Cold Weather: 30 Travel Nursing Essentials

Posted on December 8, 2023November 16, 2023 by CareerStaff Unlimited

CareerStaff Unlimited provided this article.

White blankets of snow, cozying up after a long shift, magical holiday events warmed by the fire, hot chocolate, and long-standing traditions – there are endless reasons to choose a cold weather destination for your next travel nursing assignment!

Not sure how to prepare or unfamiliar with packing for cold weather? Consider this a travel nursing essentials guide for your fun, frosty adventures ahead!

Benefits of Cold Weather Assignments

While they might not be as popular, there’s a long list of reasons to choose a colder climate for your next travel nursing assignment. Here are some of the highlights:

Better Pay & Opportunities

Let’s face it — almost everyone applies for positions in the warm-weather states during the winter months. Cut past the competition and embrace the opportunities in cold-weather states. With less competition and higher demand, you might just find more options and higher pay.

Seasonal Festivities & Events

Skip the long lines and crowds of tourists and explore the area’s top spots during the off-season.

Plus, cold-weather regions tend to be the best at holidays. See if the area has any holiday markets or events you can attend. Who knows — you might even get to try your hand at winter sports!

Tips for Preparing & Packing for Cold Weather: Travel Nursing Assignments

Ready to brace for the cold? With a bit of preparation and packing for cold weather, you’ll go from chilly to cozy in no time:

Research the Climate.

Look up the monthly weather averages in the city you’ll be living in, including the highs, lows, rainfall, and snowfall when packing for cold weather.

Invest in Warm Clothing

A quality winter coat, footwear, and gloves will be your best friends when packing for cold weather. However, if you need to pack light, remember you can purchase more winter travel nursing essentials once you get there.

Learn How to Travel in Snow & Ice.

If you aren’t used to driving in the snow, take some time to learn and practice safe winter driving techniques. Map out your driving, walking, or public transportation path to work.

Packing for Cold Weather: Travel Nursing Essentials

Throw on your sweater, blast your winter playlist, and grab a pen — it’s time to pack! Packing for cold weather is a whole different experience if you’ve never done it before. Here’s a list of travel nursing essentials to help you get started.

Remember: Some items may be better to get once you arrive. Use this as a packing and moving checklist of travel nursing essentials!

Clothing & Accessories
- Winter-friendly scrubs and moisture-wicking base layers (Pro tip: Remember to layer your scrubs for cold weather!)
- Warm, water-resistant winter coat
- Insulated gloves or mittens
- Scarves and/or neck gaiters
- Sweaters and thermal tops
- Thermal bottoms and/or fleece-lined leggings
- Insulated, waterproof boots
- Wool or thermal socks
- Hats or beanies to cover your head and ears
- Heavy-duty snow boots for extreme conditions (if necessary)
- Sunglasses to protect your eyes from harsh winter glare
- Waterproof, insulated backpack or tote bag for carrying travel nursing essentials

Personal Care
- Sunscreen with a high SPF (Yes, you still need it in winter!)
- Lip balm or chapstick with SPF
- Travel-sized first aid kit with basic supplies
- Medications and any necessary medical supplies
- Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.)

Home Essentials
- Extra blankets and bedding for added warmth
- Space heater (if permitted and necessary)
- Electric blanket and/or heated mattress pad (if needed)
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Emergency kit with essential supplies (e.g., non-perishable food, water, first aid items)
- Rock salt or ice melt for walkways and driveways
- Snow shovel or snow removal equipment
- Thermos or insulated travel mug for hot beverages on the go
- Entertainment (something to cozy up with when it’s cold out!)
- Optional: Cozy rental-friendly décor or a “piece of home.”

Documentation
- Important documents (ID, nursing license, certifications, etc.)
- Health insurance information and contact numbers
- Recruiter and travel nursing agency contact information

Find Your Next Travel Nursing Assignment

Packing for cold weather assignments? From thrilling hotspots to chilly escapes, your career can be an endless journey of adventure. However, don’t forget one of the biggest travel nursing essentials: your recruiter!

Discover how travel nursing agencies like CareerStaff can guide you through the entire process of finding the right position, location, and healthcare facility that aligns with your career goals. Happy travels!

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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!)

By Furnished Finder

November 23, 2023

1927 Views

10 Tips for Surviving the Cold Weather as a Travel Nurse

Posted on November 23, 2023November 17, 2023 by Furnished Finder

As a travel nurse, you have the incredible opportunity to experience different cities and climates. However, when you find yourself in an area with cold weather, it’s essential to be prepared. Here are some valuable tips to help you stay warm and safe while embracing your travel nurse adventure in cold temperatures:

1. Layer up!

Layering is key to staying warm in cold weather. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep your body dry and insulated. Add layers of clothing, like sweaters or fleece, for extra warmth. Finally, top it off with a windproof and waterproof outer layer, such as a quality jacket or coat.

2. Invest in proper winter gear

When it comes to cold weather, having the right gear can make all the difference. Make sure to have a sturdy pair of insulated and waterproof boots to protect your feet from the cold and wet conditions. Additionally, get a pair of warm gloves, a hat, and a scarf to cover your extremities and keep them protected from the biting cold.

3. Stay hydrated

Cold weather can fool you into thinking you don’t need as much water as you would in hot temperatures. However, proper hydration is just as essential during winter. Dry indoor heating and cold air can dehydrate you quickly. Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay healthy and keep your body functioning optimally.

4. Use a humidifier

Indoor heating systems can dry out the air, causing dry skin, chapped lips, and breathing difficulties. Placing a humidifier in your living space can help combat this issue. It adds moisture to the air, making the environment more comfortable and reducing the risk of respiratory problems.

5. Be mindful of icy conditions

Cold weather often brings ice and slippery surfaces. Take extra caution while walking to avoid slipping and falling. Invest in a pair of traction-friendly shoe covers or boots that have a good grip to help you navigate icy sidewalks and roads safely.

6. Sanitize your hands regularly

Cold weather often coincides with the flu and cold season. Protect yourself by washing your hands frequently and carrying hand sanitizer. Maintaining good hygiene practices can greatly reduce the risk of falling ill.

7. Get vaccinated

Don’t forget to get your flu shot before the cold season begins. As a travel nurse, you may be exposed to different people and environments, making you more susceptible to illnesses. Getting vaccinated adds an extra layer of protection for both yourself and the patients you care for.

8. Don’t overlook mental health

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that affects many people during the winter months. The combination of cold weather, limited sunlight, and being away from home can impact your mental well-being. Make an effort to stay connected with loved ones, engage in activities you enjoy, and seek support if needed. Self-care is crucial for your overall well-being as a travel nurse.

9. Stay active

Inactivity can make you feel colder. Try to incorporate some physical activity into your routine to keep your body warm and boost circulation. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a workout at the gym, or yoga in your living room, staying active will help keep you energized and warm.

10. Embrace the winter activities

While cold weather might not be your cup of tea, take advantage of the activities that come with it. Try skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, or even building a snowman. Engaging in winter activities can help you embrace the season and make your travel nursing experience more enjoyable.

By following these essential tips, you’ll be equipped to handle the challenges that cold weather brings as a travel nurse. Stay warm, stay safe, and make the most out of your adventures in different climates!

Interested in a travel nursing job? Our job board is a great place to search for assignments, and if housing is an issue, our housing page can help. It’s time to make a difference!

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

START HERE

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

By LeaderStat

November 7, 2023

2004 Views

Embrace the Chill: The Benefits of Taking a Travel Nurse Assignment in Cold-Weather Locations

Posted on November 7, 2023November 1, 2023 by LeaderStat

LeaderStat provided this article.

As the temperature drops and snowflakes start to fall, many people dream of escaping to warmer climates, leaving behind the icy grasp of winter. However, for adventurous nurses, there’s a unique and rewarding opportunity to lean into the chill by taking on winter travel nurse assignments in cold-weather locations across the United States. While it might seem counterintuitive, there are numerous benefits to this decision, from professional growth to personal enrichment. Explore the advantages of embracing the cold and some of the best cold-weather destinations for your next travel nurse assignment.

Professional Growth

High Demand: Cold-weather locations often experience a surge in patients during the winter due to cold-related illnesses, accidents, and flu outbreaks. This increased demand for medical professionals makes it an ideal time for travel nurses to find assignments.

Skill Diversification: Working in cold-weather locations may expose you to cases and medical conditions that are less common in warmer climates. This diversification of your skillset can enhance your career and make you a more versatile healthcare professional.

Develop Resilience and Adaptability: Winter assignments can help you grow both personally and professionally. Working in colder climates, you’ll develop resilience and adaptability, honing your skills in handling adverse conditions. It’s a great way to challenge yourself and prove that you can thrive outside your comfort zone.

Build a Diverse Resume: Winter assignments can add diversity to your resume. Working in different healthcare settings, in various regions, and during different seasons can make you a more well-rounded and adaptable nurse. Employers often value candidates with a broader range of experiences.

Personal Enrichment

Winter Wonderland Activities: Cold-weather destinations offer a plethora of activities to enjoy during your time off. Think snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobiling, and skiing. These experiences can be a welcome change of pace from your regular routine and create lifelong memories.

Natural Beauty: Winter landscapes can be breathtakingly beautiful, with snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes, and charming, snow-dusted villages. These sights offer opportunities for stunning photographs and a chance to reconnect with nature.

Festive Spirit: Cold-weather locations tend to go all out when it comes to holiday celebrations. You can immerse yourself in the festive spirit by attending local holiday markets, tree-lighting ceremonies, and parades.

Best Cold-Weather Destinations for Travel Nurses

Alaska: Known for its stunning natural beauty, Alaska offers outdoor activities like dog sledding, ice fishing, and watching the Northern Lights. Cities like Anchorage and Seward have thriving medical communities which ensure plenty of job opportunities.

Vermont: With its abundance of mountains and snow, Vermont provides ample opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. The state’s rich cultural scene and welcoming atmosphere make it an attractive option for travel nurses.

North Dakota: Here, you can explore the beauty of winter with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Don’t forget to experience the charming holiday events. Cities like Fargo are bustling healthcare hubs with friendly communities.

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada: If you’re a fan of winter sports, Lake Tahoe is a paradise for skiing and snowboarding. With its stunning alpine scenery and numerous healthcare facilities, it’s an excellent destination for winter travel nursing.

Maine: Maine combines coastal charm with winter activities like ice skating and snowmobiling. The state’s excellent healthcare institutions offer a variety of job opportunities.

Duluth, Minnesota: This port city on Lake Superior is a winter wonderland with opportunities for ice climbing, snowshoeing, and winter festivals. It’s also home to numerous medical facilities.

Upstate New York: Known for its heavy snowfall, Upstate New York offers unique winter experiences, including snowshoeing in the nearby Adirondack Mountains and exploring its vibrant cities.

While the idea of spending the winter in a cold-weather location may not be everyone’s cup of tea, travel nurses have much to gain from embracing this experience. Not only will you witness unparalleled natural beauty and be able to participate in exciting winter activities, but you’ll also boost your professional growth and enhance your personal enrichment. So, next time you consider a travel nurse assignment, don’t be too quick to dismiss the chill of winter – it might just be the adventure you’ve been waiting for.

Find the perfect opportunity to travel this winter with LeaderStat. With these great destinations to choose from, where will you spend the winter?

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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!)

By Cross Country Nurses

September 18, 2023

1445 Views

Top Reasons to Take a Cold Weather Travel Nurse Assignment

Posted on September 18, 2023September 18, 2023 by Cross Country Nurses

This article was provided by Cross Country Nurses.

When you picture yourself traveling, what is the first image that comes to mind? If you’re visualizing yourself on a toasty beach…for just a moment, imagine instead what it would be like to take a travel nurse assignment in a cooler region. Can you see yourself: Taking in expansive views of snow-capped mountains as you ride up a ski lift in Utah? Sipping a cup of hot chocolate as you warm your toes by the fire in Vermont? Taking a dip in the hot springs near Yellowstone in Montana? We can! Here’s why cold-weather assignments appeal to many travel nurses.

Benefits of Cold-Weather Assignments for Travel Nurses

If you choose to embark on an adventure in a colder climate, you can enjoy:

More opportunities with better pay:

Competition is high, and travel assignments fill quickly in warm areas like California, Arizona, Texas, and Florida. You’ll have more choices if you’re open to working in cooler regions! You may also find that assignments in harder-to-fill locations pay more than those in high-demand warmer areas.

Less traffic and fewer crowds:

Compared to warmer weather locations where populations are rapidly growing, cold-weather locales often have less traffic, and towns can feel much less busy. You can enjoy wide expanses and open roads.

Fewer allergens and biting insects:

In colder regions, you won’t have to contend with mosquitos, gnats, and other pesky insects that are more common in warmer climates. Plus, mold and pollen counts are often lower, so people who struggle with allergies tend to love cold regions since they usually have fewer allergens.

Pristine landscapes:

Since many cold-weather regions are less developed, there are more untouched natural areas to explore there. Think Mount Ranier National Park in Washington, Denali National Park in Alaska, or Acadia National Park in Maine.

Surprising health benefits:

Living in cold areas can be good for your health – who knew?! Colder temperatures can help you burn calories, boost brain power, reduce inflammation, fight infections, strengthen your heart, and even sleep better (Business Insider).

Sweater weather:

Cold climates are great for snuggling up in cozy sweaters, warm scarves, adorable hats, cute boots, fuzzy gloves, and stylish coats! It can be so much fun to sport a winter wardrobe, especially if you grew up wearing tank tops and shorts in a hot climate.

Awesome adventures:

Colder regions offer an array of activities: hiking, camping, glamping, snow skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice skating, and sledding. And don’t forget, on snowy days, you can always walk right out your front door and build a snowman, make snow angels, or have a snowball fight (to break the ice) with your new neighbors!

Summers are a dream:

Rather than roasting in a hot clime, you can enjoy the beautifully mild summers of a colder region. Summers in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, for example, hover around the 70s – perfect for hiking, kayaking, and sunbathing. And North Dakota summers can average in the 80s – ideal for enjoying the beautiful lakeside swim beaches around the state.

Four seasons:

If you have always lived in warmer climates where it feels like summer year-round, you may not know just how invigorating and fulfilling it can be to enjoy the four seasons. In addition to the frosty winters and mild summers, you’ll see incredible leaf displays in the fall and enjoy the excitement and rebirth of spring.

The best part is…travel assignments are temporary! You can discover what it’s like to live in a cooler place without having to make a permanent commitment. This means you’ve got nothing to lose. So, when you choose your next travel nurse assignment, go snow! Find your next travel nurse adventure today.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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!)

By Staffmax Healthcare Staffing & Recruiting

September 2, 2023

1696 Views

Snow in September? It’s 100 Degrees Outside!

Posted on September 2, 2023September 2, 2023 by Staffmax Healthcare Staffing & Recruiting

Staffmax Healthcare Staffing and Recruiting provided this article.

Article was written by: Julie Hesseltine, RN, CNO, and Sr. Recruiter for Staffmax.

It isn’t time for snowflakes for most of us. After all, we are still hitting triple digits in most of the USA, and the beaches still have visitors. However, this morning was a chilly reminder that at any point in the coming 13 weeks, we could have a blizzard here in the Northern States. Two weeks ago, a friend of ours in the high mountain country of Wyoming was scraping frost off the windshields. Many of us have seen the first blizzard of the year in September and occasionally in August. It is time to prepare for winter assignments ahead of time. For travelers who are preparing to head northbound, be sure to think about what you are going to need for the winter months.

Tips for Cold Winter Assignments:

“Be sure to check your oil.”

That is what my dad used to always preach to his kids before leaving on a trip. Car maintenance is of utmost importance. Dad didn’t always tell us to check the radiator fluid to make sure it would withstand certain temperatures. If you are putting your own windshield wiper fluids into the chamber, be certain it is the winterized kind or that you have some with you. Change your blades, too, if they are getting old. Visibility is important, just as is traction on the road surfaces. What about your tires? All tires are NOT the same. If you are contracted to work where there is usually a fair amount of snow, and you permanently reside in an area that never sees those gorgeous, white, cold, icy flakes, make sure the tire man knows you want all-weather tires if you are getting new ones. Trust me, it will make your life better.

Keep a warm blanket and snacks in the car.

Something else that you may have never thought about was keeping a nice warm blanket in your car and some snacks. It is a good thing to have a small survival kit if you are going to be in an area far between towns. Growing up in a very rural part of the Midwest, I always keep a survival kit in my car, and there are usually 2 or three blankets as well as a small shovel and an extra pair of gloves. Sounds ridiculous, doesn’t it? Why in the world would one need things like this? It does happen that I have been darn happy to have those things when I was stuck in a snow drift waiting on help. Here is a short list of items you may want to keep in the kit: 1-2 candles, matches, some energy bars, candy bars, puzzle books and pencils, an extra pair of gloves or mittens, a good book to read, beef jerky, a few bottles of water, and a small empty can. The can is simply for filling with snow you will melt over the top of the candles so you have something to drink in an emergency. Battery charging cord. The hope is to never have to use anything in your kit at any point in time. But occasionally, people do get stranded or stuck in the snow. Caught in a blizzard or bad roads, these can be life-saving for those who have this. Just as some get caught stranded in the heat of the deserts without water and suffer, this will help you stay safe too.

Finally, it comes down to clothing.

Oh, how I hate to see people traveling in the wintertime wearing shorts. They could freeze to death if they were in an accident! But, by traveling with the appropriate clothing in one’s car, I guess they should be okay. Just be sure to pack and carry an extra jacket, and on those cold, blustery days, take a coat with you!

For many, this may seem like mere common sense.

But here in Nebraska and elsewhere, we may wake up to the birds chirping and the sun shining, 90 degrees by noon, raining in the afternoon with a heavy snowfall at night. We can pack a punch of all 4 seasons in one 24-hour span. Most importantly, drive slowly and with care. Icy and snowy roads aren’t so bad once you become accustomed to them. My cousin once told me a story about how everyone from Nebraska, South Dakota, etc., would park their cars when the roads were icy and there was any snow where she attended school because “those people down there didn’t know how to drive in those road conditions.

Soon there will be frost on the pumpkins, and we will all be wishing for spring once again. Be careful and safe travels.

We hope you found this article on preparing for winter assignments helpful. Do you have any tips you would like to share on how you prepare for winter assignments? Comment them below.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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

START HERE

Benefits of Cold Weather Assignments

Tips for Preparing & Packing for Cold Weather: Travel Nursing Assignments

Packing for Cold Weather: Travel Nursing Essentials

Find Your Next Travel Nursing Assignment

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

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

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1. Layer up!

2. Invest in proper winter gear

3. Stay hydrated

4. Use a humidifier

5. Be mindful of icy conditions

6. Sanitize your hands regularly

7. Get vaccinated

8. Don’t overlook mental health

9. Stay active

10. Embrace the winter activities

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

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

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Professional Growth

Personal Enrichment

Best Cold-Weather Destinations for Travel Nurses

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Benefits of Cold-Weather Assignments for Travel Nurses

More opportunities with better pay:

Less traffic and fewer crowds:

Fewer allergens and biting insects:

Pristine landscapes:

Surprising health benefits:

Sweater weather:

Awesome adventures:

Summers are a dream:

Four seasons:

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

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

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Tips for Cold Winter Assignments:

“Be sure to check your oil.”

Keep a warm blanket and snacks in the car.

Finally, it comes down to clothing.

For many, this may seem like mere common sense.

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

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

Related Posts

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