May 3, 2025

684 Views

Navigating the Challenges of Being a Travel Nurse with a Family

Posted on May 3, 2025April 29, 2025 by trustaff

Being a travel nurse is an exciting and rewarding career choice. It offers the opportunity to explore new places, meet diverse people, and gain invaluable professional experience. However, when you are a travel nurse with a family, the journey can be filled with unique challenges. Balancing work, travel, and family life requires resilience, adaptability, and a strong support system. Here are some strategies to help overcome these struggles and thrive as a travel nurse with a family.

Navigating the Challenges of Being a Travel Nurse with a Family:

1. Communication is Key

Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful relationship, especially when you’re constantly on the move. Regularly check in with your family, share your experiences, and listen to their concerns. Use technology to your advantage—video calls, messaging apps, and social media can help bridge the distance. Establishing a routine for communication can provide stability and reassurance for both you and your loved ones.

2. Plan Ahead

Planning is crucial for managing the logistics of travel nursing with a family. Before accepting an assignment, research the location thoroughly. Consider factors such as housing, schools, childcare, and healthcare facilities. Create a detailed plan that outlines your family’s needs and how they will be met during your assignment. This proactive approach can alleviate stress and ensure a smoother transition.

3. Involve Your Family in Decision-Making

Involving your family in the decision-making process can foster a sense of unity and support. Discuss potential assignments together, weigh the pros and cons, and consider everyone’s preferences and concerns. This collaborative approach can help your family feel more connected to your career and more invested in the journey.

4. Establish a Support Network

Building a support network is essential for travel nurses with families. Connect with other travel nurses and families in similar situations. Online forums, social media groups, and professional organizations can provide valuable resources and emotional support. Additionally, seek out local community groups and activities in your assignment location to help your family feel more at home.

5. Prioritize Self-Care

Taking care of yourself is vital for maintaining your physical and mental well-being. Travel nursing can be demanding, and it’s easy to neglect self-care when juggling work and family responsibilities. Make time for activities that rejuvenate you, such as exercise, hobbies, and relaxation. A healthy, balanced lifestyle will enable you to be more present and supportive for your family.

6. Embrace Flexibility

Flexibility is a key trait for travel nurses. Unexpected changes and challenges are inevitable, and being adaptable can help you navigate them more effectively. Embrace the uncertainty and view it as an opportunity for growth and learning. Encourage your family to adopt a flexible mindset as well, which can help everyone cope with the ups and downs of travel nursing.

7. Create Meaningful Memories

Despite the challenges, travel nursing offers unique opportunities to create lasting memories with your family. Explore new destinations together, immerse yourselves in local cultures, and cherish the moments you share. These experiences can strengthen your family bond and provide a sense of adventure and excitement.

8. Seek Professional Guidance

If the struggles become overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance. Counselors, therapists, and career coaches can offer valuable insights and strategies for managing the complexities of travel nursing with a family. Professional support can help you develop coping mechanisms and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Conclusion

Being a travel nurse with a family is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right strategies and mindset, it can also be incredibly rewarding. By prioritizing communication, planning ahead, involving your family in decisions, building a support network, practicing self-care, embracing flexibility, creating meaningful memories, and seeking professional guidance, you can overcome the struggles and thrive in your career. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity for growth, and with resilience and determination, you can navigate the journey successfully.

We hope you found this article on navigating being a travel nurse with a family helpful. Do you have any tips for being a travel nurse with a family? If you would like to share them, comment below.

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.

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By Emma Joyce

December 26, 2023

2487 Views

Travel Nursing with a Family: Everything You Need To Know

Posted on December 26, 2023November 30, 2023 by Emma Joyce

Travel nursing is a stimulating and fulfilling career choice that lets medical professionals see the world while offering essential treatment. But the journey changes when you’re not going alone—rather, you have a family to think about. It takes considerable planning and thought to combine your employment as a travel nurse with your family life because there are many factors involved that can have a big impact on both your family’s well-being and your own professional development. In order to help you negotiate the intricate and varied world of being a travel nurse while simultaneously tending to the needs and goals of your family, here is all you need to know about travel nursing with a family.

The Benefits of Travel Nursing with a Family

Travel nursing with a family offers several benefits, one of which is the chance to see new places. Every assignment has the potential to be a brand-new journey that gives your family the opportunity to see various communities, climates, and cultures. Your kids might learn a great deal from this, and the whole family could be inspired, developing a spirit of curiosity and adaptability that will help them in their future pursuits.

Furthermore, travel nursing frequently offers competitive benefit packages that include increased pay rates, sizable incentives, and a range of other advantages that might support your family’s financial security. These financial benefits can serve as a catalyst for giving your loved ones greater possibilities, such as unforgettable holidays and high-quality education, as well as for creating a more stable future for your family. In this way, the journey can serve as both a source of exploration and an engine of prosperity, and you can use the time between assignments to learn new things and enjoy life with your family.

Preparing Your Family for the Journey

Given the intricacy of often uprooting your life, it is imperative that you make extensive preparations before setting out on your travel nursing adventure with your family. This involves looking into schools, locating acceptable housing, and building a strong support system in your new community. Selecting the housing choice that best fits your family’s needs and tastes is crucial, so finding cozy apartments for rent might make your family feel at home in any new location. Furnished apartments and extended-stay lodgings are just two examples of available housing alternatives.

Furthermore, since securing your kids’ access to a top-notch education is a primary concern, it is imperative that you conduct thorough research on nearby schools and educational establishments. If your tasks need you to move frequently, you can also think about homeschooling, which would enable you to keep your kids’ education consistent while also giving them the opportunity to experience new things. Creating a network of support is essential; this can include other travel nurses, your neighbors, local community resources, and even online communities that can help and give you a sense of community while you’re on assignment.

Dealing with Challenges

Providing travel nursing care to a family might present some difficulties, which must be overcome with a blend of adaptation, resilience, and proactive problem-solving techniques. Every new place has its own set of conditions, from temperature and culture to local amenities and healthcare facilities, making it difficult to adjust to new habits and situations. Another typical problem is overcoming homesickness, which is a normal emotion brought on by being apart from loved ones and familiar settings.

It can be difficult to manage your family’s healthcare needs since you have to make appointments, locate qualified healthcare providers, and make sure everyone in your family gets the treatment they need. Nonetheless, these difficulties are surmountable and can even present chances for individual and family development if the proper mindset and support networks are in place.

Managing Work-Life Balance

For travel nurses who have families, striking a healthy work-life balance and avoiding burnout may be rather difficult because it requires balancing a lot of responsibilities and making sure that your family’s needs are satisfied in addition to your professional obligations. Before starting any task, it’s critical to talk about expectations with your employer and family. Clear and honest communication is the foundation of a happy and successful trip.

You can achieve a balance that lets you succeed in your nursing career and be present for significant family events and milestones by making sure that your family’s needs are taken into consideration as much as possible while planning your work schedule. It’s important to keep in mind that spending quality time with your loved ones is crucial for both their well-being and the success of your trip.

A unique and fulfilling experience, travel nursing with your family can leave your loved ones with priceless memories and a strong sense of resilience. You can overcome the obstacles you encounter along the path if you have perseverance, flexibility, and a network of people who are there for you when you need them. You are prepared to start your trip as a travel nurse with your family by your side, eager to embrace the adventure in all its forms, thanks to the knowledge and insights offered in this guide.

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 Host Healthcare

September 6, 2023

2583 Views

9 Ways to Stay In Touch With Family While on Assignment

Posted on September 6, 2023 by Host Healthcare

Host Healthcare provided this article.

Whether you’re a nurse working long shift hours, a travel nurse on assignment far from home, or even just beginning to look for a travel RN position, being separated from your family can be emotional and exhausting. Missing holidays, milestones, or simple family time together isn’t easy for anyone.

But with some planning and a few tried-and-true tricks, you can turn your time away into something meaningful for all of you.

Not only does your family provide support, guidance, and love, but staying connected with them via phone calls, social media, or video chatting can actually keep you physically healthy.¹ So, if you’re wondering how to stay in touch while in travel healthcare, whether you are a medical assistant vs. nurse vs. doctor, read on for our 9 best tips to feel the family love when endless shift hours or long miles keep you apart.

Tips for Before You Head Out the Door

Before you ever set foot outside your family home, you can lay the groundwork for a positive separation by communicating with your family members with intention and compassion.

#1 Talk About It

It doesn’t matter if you’re a newlywed, a parent of young children, or a single professional whose pets, parents, and siblings are at home. You need to communicate with your family exactly what your absence will consist of.

Sharing the details of your separation with them, especially if you’re an OR travel nurse, will give everyone the timeline and framework they need to make sense of your absence. Some of the things you should share include:

Why you will be gone,
Where you’re going,
How long you’ll be gone,
How you will travel,
Where you will be staying
What you’ll be doing

#2 Make a Plan

Once your family understands the details of your impending absence, you can make a plan for how you will stay in touch during the hours and days apart. Letting them know that you will reach out through calls, text messages, and/or emails regularly will help alleviate some of the apprehension they might be feeling about your departure.

However, your plans need to be flexible enough that if they get changed, no one feels disappointed. It might be tempting to say, “I’ll call every night at 6 p.m., and we’ll video chat on Saturday morning at 9 a.m.” But remember, things come up. You don’t want your family waiting nervously for your call while you’re handling a work emergency.

Instead, tell your family, “I will do my best to call you daily. Sometimes it might be early, and sometimes it might be late. If I miss my call, just know I’m thinking about you.” While you’re away, you can also send text messages to your loved ones or maybe a close friend to share updates, let them know that you’re okay, and check in with any family members who may be missing you a little more than usual.

#3 Leave Something Important at Home

Do you have a favorite sweatshirt or a pillow that you love? As great as it is to have that comfort item with you on assignment, it might be even better to leave it for a loved one to cuddle. Especially for small children, having something with your scent on it will comfort them when they are missing you.²

Tips for While You’re Away

For a few people, the build-up to departure is the hardest time. For most, though, the actual absence is the hardest. Luckily, we have some ways to stay in touch with family to help you and your loved ones transition easily.

#4 Use Technology

Today’s technology can keep families connected across time and distance. Most people have smartphones, tablets, and computers that can access a program or an app to help them feel connected even when they’re miles apart.

Before you leave, check that you and your family have compatible technology. Do a little tutorial so that everyone knows how to access and use the agreed-upon apps. Some modes of communication that you should consider include:

Emailing
Text messaging
Chatting with apps like:
- WhatsApp
- Slack
- Telegram
Video calling:
- Zoom
- Skype
- Google Hangout
Blends of video calls, group chats, and texting:
- Facebook
- Instagram
- Snapchat

#5 Mail Something

It doesn’t have to be big, but a postcard or a little gift in the mail will brighten your family’s day. Similarly, if you are going to be at a location where you can receive mail, a handwritten surprise from home will warm you immeasurably, especially after a long shift.

#6 Bring Them to You

This isn’t always feasible, but bringing your family to you for a few days or a long weekend can transform separation into an anticipated vacation. Plus, it’ll give you and your loved ones time to reconnect and spend some quality time together—whether that’s wrapping yourself in your hotel’s finest robes and gorging on local delicacies while watching your favorite movies or TV show series or getting outside to explore local attractions. This can also help to keep a strong relationship with your long-distance family.

After You Return

Sometimes, the reunion can be the hardest part. If you’ve been away for a while or if you missed a major milestone, it can take a little time to reconnect with your family and friends and return to a sense of normalcy.

#7 Do Something Fun Together

Having something special to do together as soon as you return will give everyone an event to look forward to, as well as soften any feelings of anxiety or angst. This doesn’t have to be a major or expensive event (although that certainly would work, too). Just going to a movie, hanging out in the park, or taking a hike together can be a fun way to reconnect with a family member.

#8 Bring a Little Gift

Pulling a little surprise from your backpack or luggage will make both of you feel warm. Again, don’t think big—think creatively! Complimentary hotel shampoo bottles are fun and interesting for children, plus it gives them a little insight into where you have been. Keyrings, magnets, and postcards are inexpensive and easy to find, but they will show your extended family lots of love. Also, looking for these little gifts while you’re away will help you visualize your return.

#9 Don’t Guilt Yourself

No matter where you go or how long you are gone, remind yourself that your career is important. Family separation is normal, and with a little bit of planning, it doesn’t need to be strenuous. Just be sure that while caring for your patients and your family, you’re caring for yourself, too. Furthermore, if you are an RN returning to practice, this can be an overwhelming time for you to manage learning new requirements and being away from home, so give yourself some time to adjust.

Let Host Healthcare Help

At Host Healthcare, we want your experience as a travel nurse to be positive for you and your family. We pledge to always do our utmost to find you the best, high-paying travel nursing jobs to make your separation worthwhile.

Apply with us today to join an award-winning staff of healthcare professionals dedicated to making a difference in the lives of all those we care about. We’ll work with you to find the best opportunities for you and your family so you can continue to build meaningful relationships near and far.

Sources:

Compass. “The Importance of Family Ties.” WebMD, April 16, 2017, https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/guide/family-support#3
Leahy, Meghan. How to Stay Close to Kids When Work Requires Lots of Travel. The Washington Post, September 3, 2014, https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/on-parenting/how-to-stay-close-to-kids-when-work-requires-lots-of-travel/2014/09/02/8c5bbb18-2c6e-11e4-994d-202962a9150c_story.html

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 Advantage Medical Professionals

June 27, 2023

1972 Views

Travel Nursing: A Family Affair

Posted on June 27, 2023June 27, 2023 by Advantage Medical Professionals

Advantage Medical Professionals provided this article.

The unprecedented uptick in remote work policies and online education programs have arguably made the world feel a little bit smaller and more accessible for more of us than ever before. Of course, as a healthcare professional, it probably seems that not much has changed for us on that front. After all, our “office” is always wherever our patients are, and wearing your scrubs is probably the closest you’ll ever get to working in your pajamas. However, you can still reap some of the benefits this brave new world provides – the ever-growing remote work and education opportunities available to students and working adults have made it more feasible than ever for immediate family members, roommates, or friends to join nurses and healthcare professionals in their travel journey as a travel nursing family.

Of course, there are still some important factors to consider when deciding whether bringing family or friends along for the adventure is ideal for everyone involved:

The Kids Will Be All Right….Right?

As any parent or guardian would attest, kids naturally have a way of both enriching and complicating their life and career plans. This universal truth also resonates with healthcare professionals who have kids but also want to start or continue taking travel assignments. Unfortunately, there is no universal “correct” answer to whether you should bring your tyke(s) along, arrange for them to stay behind with their other parent, or consider taking only local contracts so neither you nor your children would have to relocate. The age of your child or children may be one factor in your decision – for instance, toddler-age kids aren’t in grade school yet, so that makes some things less complicated if you’re leaning toward taking them along.

However, you would need to make sure you have solid childcare arrangements in place. If you have kids in junior high or high school, childcare is less of an issue, but pulling them away from their hometown, school, and friends will likely be a larger concern. You can always do a ”trial run” by taking a short-term travel assignment (some can be as short as four to eight weeks versus the typical thirteen-week assignment) to feel things out before making any long-term or permanent changes to your (or your child’s) living arrangements. No matter what your decision is, family should always come first.

Shifts in the Night

Regardless of whether you’re traveling with kids, your spouse, a colleague, or a roommate outside of the bedside healthcare field, it is important to take an honest, realistic look at both everyone’s work schedules, habits, and sleeping patterns who will be living under the same roof together to ensure they won’t clash. This doesn’t necessarily mean you and your roomies’ schedules need to be identical, but living with someone who enjoys opening all the blinds and doing an intense workout at 9 AM every morning while you’re struggling to fall asleep because you’re working nights might lead to some recurring trouble in paradise (even if that person happens to be your spouse).

If you and the other members of your family/household decide to travel together, here are just some of the advantages of doing so:

Emotional Support

There is nothing quite like being greeted at the door with your little one’s arms around your waist or a peck on the cheek from your significant other after an exhausting shift. Having someone you care about around for emotional support can be especially comforting when you’re feeling overwhelmed or emotionally drained. Conversely, it’s nice to know that you’re in close enough proximity to your loved ones to offer them your support when they need it, too.

Shared Expenses

Let’s start with the most obvious perk – if you’re traveling with at least one other working adult (e.g., a spouse, friend, or roommate), you won’t be left to shoulder all the temporary housing expenses on your own. This can be a huge load off your mind AND your bank account.

Please note: If you’re rooming with at least one other adult that is sharing housing costs with you (especially if they are also a travel nurse), you should consult a tax professional about how this can affect one or both of your untaxed stipends since both of you clearly won’t be duplicating 100% of all your expenses. They can advise you about the best (and legal) way to manage your finances accordingly.

Bonding Experiences

Embarking on an adventure has a unique way of bringing people closer together, and the adventure that is travel nursing is no exception. From the road trip toward your new/temporary home to navigating a new city together, there is nothing quite like the experience of discovering new places and meeting new people with some of YOUR favorite people. In some cases, you may get the opportunity to take a travel contract in a place that one of you is familiar with. If that’s the case, it helps to have someone you trust to show you the ropes. If you are the one who happens to have connections in your new/temporary town, don’t forget to take a moment to fully appreciate and experience some of your familiar haunts through the new, fresh eyes of your companion who is seeing them for the very first time.

Safety in Numbers

As nurses and healthcare professionals, we know all too well that the world can be a scary place. Living and working in a new place can further compound the anxiety many of us feel when we are already outside of our literal (and metaphorical) comfort zone. However, knowing you aren’t coming home to an empty apartment or hotel room every night can help alleviate some of the uneasiness we may feel if we were traveling/living completely solo. It may not cross your mind too often, but the opposite is also true – living under the same roof as you (and in the same zip code, no less) will probably help your loved ones sleep easier, too.

Of course, there is no magical one-size-fits-all solution that would work for every family or household. However, advances in telecommunication coupled with the growing awareness of how important it is to prioritize family and our mental health have made it easier for us and our loved ones to stick together, no matter where our travel nursing journey takes us.

Are you a travel nursing family? How do you make it work while on assignments? If you would like to share any travel nursing family tips or advice, comment them below.

>> Treat yourself to a change of pace (and PLACE) by exploring all the travel nursing assignments we have available nationwide.

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 Triage Healthcare Staffing

May 12, 2023

2669 Views

Ways to Be a Travel Nurse: How Different Families Make It Work

Posted on May 12, 2023May 12, 2023 by Triage Healthcare Staffing

Triage Healthcare Staffing provided this article.

Lots of times, nurses think they can only be travel nurses if they’re travel nursing on their own. Either they’re single or leave their families and spouses at home while they go off on an adventure alone. If you’re interested in travel nursing with a family, see how these travelers make it work.

Travel Nursing with Your Family: How Others Make it Work:

Travel Nursing With a Partner Who’s a Remote Worker

If your partner is a remote worker, they may be able to join you on the road. One of the positive things that came out of the pandemic was how common remote work became for office workers. Before 2020, a lot of companies were against remote working, thinking that employees needed to be in the office to work effectively, but many have loosened that requirement. If your partner can easily work from anywhere, you’ve got a built-in travel buddy.

If your partner is traveling with you, check to make sure your housing is work-from-home friendly. This might be a corporate housing apartment or private Airbnb, so your partner can easily work during the day. Before you book your housing arrangements, make sure that there’s strong WIFI that’s included so you don’t end up spending money each day upgrading your WIFI.

Travel Nursing with a Partner Who’s a Travel Healthcare Pro

If you and your partner are both healthcare professionals, it will take a little extra work to make sure you’re both in the same city and even more if you want to be at the same facility with the same shifts. One way to do this is to use the same recruiter as a resource. If you’re a travel nurse and your partner is a lab tech, make sure you’re working with an agency that has both types of contracts.

Traveling PTs Kari and Tyler love traveling together because they always have a buddy to explore a new area.

“Having each other never makes you feel too far from home because you always have your person ‘home’ with you. However, it can be difficult to find two assignments at the same time. What makes it more difficult for us is that we are a little pickier about setting and location. We see pair jobs pop up often, but not always in settings we are willing to work. Having a recruiter who knows your interests and has your best interests in mind is key to being successful as a travel duo,” said Kari.

Travel Nursing With Kids

If you’re travel nursing with a partner and kids, you’ll want to look for housing near some kid-friendly activities, especially if you’re only taking one car while on assignment. You’ll definitely want to look for an apartment or at least a hotel suite with a separate sleeping area for your kiddo, so you have a place to relax if you’re working long hours or nights. Traveler Cindy travels with her husband and small daughter and suggests Furnished Finder after finding scams on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace.

One of Cindy’s favorite things about traveling with her family is the ability to explore new places as well as looking for a permanent place to call home.

“We love to explore the new city, museums, aquariums, zoos, parks, and the best restaurants and ice cream parlors. We are looking for our next place to live permanently and want to experience as many parts of the country that we have interest in as we can,” said Cindy.

Traveling gives Cindy’s husband, James, the freedom to attend online school while staying home to care for their little girl. She sometimes attends preschool, which gives her some interaction with other kids while allowing James time to focus on his studies while Cindy’s working. It’s an arrangement that takes a little effort but is well worth it, according to Cindy.

Travel Nursing With a Pet

Your four-legged buddies can be just as much of your family, but it can make finding housing more difficult, especially if your pet is bigger. Traveling PT Kari says their dog Spencer also has a vet in almost every state. He’s been rushed to the emergency vet after a snake attack in Louisiana, sprayed by a skunk, and even taken into work.

“The best part about traveling with a pet is having someone who is always so happy to see you! It is also great to see how much he loves to explore new places—he loves to adventure as much as we do. He is our little piece of home that is always with us,” said Kari.

Are you interested in travel nursing with your family? Triage staffs the best and brightest travel nursing, laboratory, radiology, cardiopulmonary, and rehab therapy professionals in facilities across the country. Visit our job board of travel nurse jobs, many with pay listed.

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.

By StaffDNA

March 25, 2023

2517 Views

Travel Nursing with Families

Posted on March 25, 2023March 25, 2023 by StaffDNA

StaffDNA provided this article.

There have always been non-traditional travel nurses, but in the last few years, more and more families seem to be trying to figure out life on the road. The work-from-home and homeschool options have drastically increased since 2019, so a lot of the things that held families back in the past are no longer an issue. Whether you are traveling with babies, older kids, or other family members, there are a variety of ways you can make it work!

Tips for Travel Nursing with Families:

How to Handle Childcare

The easiest way to work as a travel nurse with kids is to have a spouse or other family member who can stay home on days you work. And with so many adults working from home, either full or part-time, it’s much easier to create a childcare plan that works for everyone.

The other option is to aim for a location where you can extend for longer. This way, you may be able to find a school or daycare program for your child in that location. Bigger cities are great for this style of travel because if needs dwindle at your first job, there are likely other jobs available within that metro area.

If you find a good spot where you plan to stay long-term, you could also look into hiring a nanny. This gives you the added flexibility of using them if you need childcare outside of work hours. For example, if mom and dad need a date night, having a nanny makes it much easier to sneak away!

School on the Road

Travel nursing with toddlers and babies may seem like the easiest option, but with so many districts offering online school, it may even be possible to travel with your school-aged child. There are so many resources for online schooling, and it may be less work on your end than you would think. Local homeschool groups are also popular, and they’re easy to find via social media or a quick Google search.

In addition, many places offer classes specifically geared toward homeschooled kids. You can often find local gyms that offer Homeschool PE, groups that facilitate outdoor learning, or programs for fine arts. And don’t forget that increased income from travel nursing can give you the opportunity to treat your family to experiences they may not otherwise have.

Making Friends in Each Location

Another big concern for parents considering traveling with their families is how to ensure their kids are making friends and learning how to socialize with other children their age.

This takes a little more leg work on the parents’ end, but it is possible! Kids who travel can still participate in activities like sports, dance, or gymnastics, depending on the length of your contract. Another great way to meet families is to look for local mom groups in whatever area you are moving to. Simply search the city name and “moms” on Facebook to see if there is a local group. These groups will often have ideas for places to go with your kids, or they may host meetups where you can connect with other families.

The other benefit of helping your kids meet friends in new places is it gives them the opportunity to create a network across the country. Who knows what camp and other opportunities may exist in the future when they have friends in every time zone?

Don’t Be Afraid to Reevaluate

Travel nursing with your family doesn’t have to be forever! Talk with your family and partner about what you want your travel experience to be like. Do you have specific places you want to live? Are there financial goals you want to meet? Is there a time in the future when you know you’ll want to settle down?

No matter what your reasoning is, it’s good to reevaluate your plan from time to time. Travel nursing with a family can certainly add stress to your life, and you may reach a point where the positives do not outweigh the negatives. If it’s time to go home, don’t feel bad! You still had an experience that many families won’t ever get to have, and you should be proud you made it work.

But until then, adventure awaits!

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. There you can search for what you are looking for in housing.

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

September 28, 2022

1619 Views

Top Tips for Travel Nursing with a Family

Posted on September 28, 2022September 27, 2022 by Furnished Finder

So, your next travel contract is set, and your family is joining. Whether this means that you have a spouse with you for the trip or you are traveling with kids, things shift when you’re traveling with family. Here are some of our very best tips and tricks to make it as smooth as possible for traveling with family!

Keep everyone included

With big life events, everyone is far more likely to be on board if they feel involved. Think of making it a “team travel” versus one person making the decisions and the others simply designated as passengers. There are ways to make everyone feel included and a part of the process without giving away important decisions. For instance, if traveling with kids, the parents will make the decisions regarding housing, but the kids can decide on travel tunes or some decor for their rooms. They can even decide a handful of things they want to do in their new home area or attractions they are interested in. This way, everyone is a part of the journey!

Plan for things big and small

This tip is particularly applicable if traveling with children. When thinking about traveling, “big” things are often the first things arranged. Transportation, housing, etc. To kids, the small things are big, too. Don’t forget to find local parks, kid-friendly restaurants, travel entertainment packs for the car, and snacks! While they seem small to adults, these things are game-changes to kids, particularly when they are going through a big change.

Divide and conquer

The bigger the crew, the more overwhelming travel can seem. Take time to divide and conquer the responsibilities and tasks that have to get done when traveling. Do not be afraid to ask for help! Friends and family may be able to pitch in a few hours to help you get details arranged, pack things up, or help you run errands last minute.

Join the community!

Spouses and kids may feel a little lonely when entering a new community, especially if they work from home or are home-schooled. It can be intimidating to think about jumping right into a new community. You have a built-in network with your new coworkers, but spouses and kids don’t get that new network. Take some time and research local churches, meetup groups, interest groups, rec centers, and more. This will allow your family to feel involved in the new community as soon as possible.

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 Advantis Medical Staffing

July 11, 2022

2414 Views

Enjoy Travel Assignments Solo, in Pairs, and in Families

Posted on July 11, 2022October 5, 2022 by Advantis Medical Staffing

Advantis Medical Staffing provided this article.

After money, adventure is one of the most sought-after benefits of being a travel nurse. The chance to explore new destinations for long enough to experience them fully is highly appealing and hard to do for most professionals. Along with remote staff, travel nurses and allied health workers have some of the best jobs for explorers. But unlike remote workers, travel clinicians get the added benefits of being active participants in a new community. And that makes travel assignments more fulfilling in three main ways:

Social interaction is good for your mental health.
You can learn about the locals’ favorite things to do and places to go, and what tourist traps to avoid.
The friendships you form can last way longer than 13 weeks.

Let’s look at ways to engage with locals while on travel assignment for singles, pairs, and families.

Solo Travel Without Feeling Alone

Independence can be wonderful. With no one to answer to, you can explore freely without a care for scheduling or the whims of others. It’s exciting, empowering, and lets you feel like the star of your own movie. Until you get lonely. Or just want some company or conversation. Here are some ways to share space, make new friends, and even learn a thing or two.

Movie Night –

Exhausted from a long shift but not ready to turn in? Fathom Events shows the classics, advance screenings, and cinematic special events at theaters across the nation. And because you’re solo traveling, you don’t have to worry about anyone else’s opinions when choosing a movie screening! If sharing space is what you seek, Fathom or the latest blockbuster might be exactly what you need.

Burn-Off Stress –

If you like to work through emotions with a workout, consider the unconventional. Sure, if you have a gym membership that travels with you, that’s a great way to meet people who share your passion for fitness (or your willingness to work out to justify dessert – we don’t judge here!). But since you’re trying out a new locale, maybe try a new workout with a coworker or two, like Yoga in the Park. The main thing here is to ditch your app and get fit around other folks for a double dose of endorphins.

Get a Culture Fix –

You can learn about local culture by visiting museums or attending concerts. Adventuring solo lets you go at your own pace! Feeling lucky? Sites like Stubhub and Seatgeek often sell discounted tickets on the event day. This lets you be spontaneous and also gives you extra cash for concessions.

You Have Agency –

You probably chose to work with a top healthcare staffing agency to make your job search more expansive, efficient, and effective. Capitalize on that! Many agencies host virtual and in-person events and com m unities that can make your travel career go from solo to in pairs or a group. Sign up and join in! This is a great way to share the fun with those who share your passion for healthcare. Pro tip: keep it fun. Try not to let shop talk seep into your off time.

Tour the Town as a Team

For many travel nurses and allied health professionals, traveling as a pair is the best of everything. You have a built-in plus one when you want and the option for alone time. And that holds true whether the duo you’re a part of is “pals” or “partners.”

Let Your Belly Lead the Way – Have you ever enjoyed a hot slice of Chicago-style pizza in the heart of the city? How about a heaping helping of Texas barbeque? Explore local cuisine! It’s the tastiest way to learn about your destination.
Have a Ball – Want thousands of new friends in an instant? Join the cheering crowd for a sporting event – team colors and face paint are optional!
Are You Game? – Lots of restaurants and bars have Game or Trivia Night. Hone up on obscure knowledge to win new friends AND a contest.

Family-Friendly Fun on the Road

Want to feel safe and not spend a lot of money? Check out the local library! Most libraries have free or nearly free events that are open to the public. Best of all, libraries tend to be centrally located and have tons of family-friendly activities:

Story Times for All Ages
Maker Spaces
Craft Nights
STEM Events
Book Talks

Another great virtual stop is your destination’s Convention and Visitors’ Bureau. If your location isn’t linked to this list, a quick Google search should have you covered. CVBs offer listings of permanent and pop-up events across the community, so they not only help you find a way to get out but also help you find your way into the most-hyped local happenings.

Safety First When Travelling

Safety is key – especially for solo travelers. Follow these three tips every time:

Make sure to use trustworthy sources and avoid unfamiliar or shady online options. If your gut tells you to pass, trust it.
Keep it public. After all, you’re reading this blog to inspire socialization. Not only does a public-facing outing likely keep you safer, but being out and about is the point!
Be prepared. The bear spray takes up little room in a pocket or purse and is a quick, easy way to defend when you’re solo. It’s also a good idea to let someone know where you’ll be and with whom once your plans are set.

This is YOUR Adventure

Travel clinicians are a special breed. Embracing challenges and broadening horizons comes naturally to you. Building and maintaining new friendships is a rewarding and healthy part of a successful travel career. Whatever your approach, we hope your experience is safe, fulfilling, and exactly what you hoped it would be.

We hope you found this article on enjoying travel assignments solo, in pairs, and in families helpful. Do you travel solo, in pairs, or with family for your travel assignments? Comment below.

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 Kevin Devoto

September 10, 2021

5313 Views

6 Fun Ways to Spend Quality Time with Family for Traveling Nurses

Posted on September 10, 2021August 24, 2021 by Kevin Devoto

Leaving your family for work is sometimes inevitable, particularly if you are a traveling nurse. Being away from your loved ones for prolonged periods can cause stress, anxiety, and sadness for everyone involved. If you travel for work and are looking for ways to spend quality time with your family when you are home, here are some fun ideas to try.

Family Quality Time Ideas for Travel Nurses:

Take a Family Trip

If time permits, take a trip with your family to get some stress-free bonding time. Family cruises are a great choice because they offer myriad activities to satisfy even the pickiest traveler. You also typically pay for the majority of the cruise upfront, so you aren’t hit with unexpected expenses while you travel.

Yet, it doesn’t matter how you choose to vacation — even a fun staycation close to home can be a great way to bond with your loved ones. Taking time off of work has health benefits as well as being fun, so be sure to take the time every so often.

Disconnect From Technology

Having your phone or iPad nearby isn’t always necessary, but many people are joined at the hip with their devices. When you are lucky enough to be home with your family, take the time to disconnect and live in the moment. Even if there are lulls in the conversation, everyone will appreciate your willingness to give them your undivided attention. You never know what interesting things you might hear and learn if you are free of distractions.

Have Dinner Together

Sit down at the dinner table and have a family meal. If anyone in your family likes to cook, help them in the kitchen or at least spend time with them while they prepare the food if cooking is not your forte. Having a meal together (disconnected from phones and technology, of course) is a great way to reconnect with everyone and keep the family interacting. Ask each person at the table about what is happening in their life, and share stories about your life on the road as well.

Have a Game Night

Having a family game night is a great — and inexpensive — way to have some fun with your loved ones. Let each person in the family choose a game that they want to play. If you run out of time to play every game chosen, schedule a second game night so everyone’s choices can be included. A little bit of friendly competition is a great way to bring some normalcy back into your life, particularly if you are traveling more frequently than usual or have recently started traveling for work.

Buy Gifts

Purchasing little souvenirs for your family when you are away is a fun way to show them that you are always thinking of them. You need not break the bank and choose expensive gifts — something unique to the area where you are traveling (food, inexpensive jewelry, etc.) is all that is needed. Even if you are not anywhere fabulous or exciting, grab gifts anyway. Your family will appreciate the fun little collection of items from around the country or globe that you have chosen for them.

Make an Itinerary

Unless you are forbidden to share your location, always ensure that your family knows where you are going before you travel. This is important for your safety, but it also keeps your loved ones in the loop and makes them feel connected to you while you are away. If you are traveling to multiple spots in one trip, create an itinerary and share it with everyone, so they know where you will be each day. Consider also adding hotel contact information in case you are unreachable by cellphone.

Traveling for work can be enriching and fun, but leaving the people you love can also be sad. Use some of these fun tips to keep connected and spend quality time with the ones you care about between assignments.

Are you looking for your next job? Click here to view our job board. Have a job but need to find housing? Click here to view our housing page.

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

START HERE

Navigating the Challenges of Being a Travel Nurse with a Family:

1. Communication is Key

2. Plan Ahead

3. Involve Your Family in Decision-Making

4. Establish a Support Network

5. Prioritize Self-Care

6. Embrace Flexibility

7. Create Meaningful Memories

8. Seek Professional Guidance

Conclusion

Find Your Next Travel Healthcare Assignment with Our Job Board!

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

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Tips for Before You Head Out the Door

#1 Talk About It

#2 Make a Plan

#3 Leave Something Important at Home

Tips for While You’re Away

#4 Use Technology

#5 Mail Something

#6 Bring Them to You

After You Return

#7 Do Something Fun Together

#8 Bring a Little Gift

#9 Don’t Guilt Yourself

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