By Emma Joyce

January 29, 2024

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5 Travel Nursing Must-Haves for Every New Assignment

Healthcare professionals are drawn to travel nursing because it is a dynamic and fulfilling career path that offers incredible opportunities for adventure. This route enables them to make a significant and beneficial difference in patients’ lives in various healthcare settings across the nation while fusing their love of travel with their passion for nursing. However, starting a new nursing assignment can be a complex undertaking that involves both thrilling adventures and difficult practical difficulties, especially when it comes to packing and being sufficiently ready for the trip. This comprehensive list of travel nursing must-haves will help you navigate this complex environment and make a smooth transition into the field of travel nursing with each new assignment. 

Travel nursing must-haves for every new assignment:

travel nursing must-haves

Documentation and Credentials

It is highly recommended that you make sure all of your credentials and documentation are current and well-organized before beginning your next nursing assignment. This includes a careful examination of your certifications, nursing license, and any other necessary documentation. Understanding that various states and healthcare facilities may have different requirements is crucial, as it calls for a methodical approach to document management.

If you don’t keep this meticulous organization, you might experience unnecessary stress and difficulties when you move to your new job. As a result, take the time and make the necessary preparations to go over, update, and organize all of the important documents that help to define your professional identity before you leave on your next travel nursing adventure.

Quality Scrubs and Comfortable Shoes

The shoes and scrubs a travel nurse wears for her demanding shifts are two essential parts of her everyday wardrobe. These two factors have a big impact on performance and comfort. Because you will be on your feet for extended periods, you must wear clothing that is both comfortable and durable. Indulge in scrubs made of materials that are breathable and moisture-wicking to keep you cool and comfortable even during the most taxing tasks.

Additionally, carefully consider the type of shoes you select, making sure that they provide the necessary cushioning in addition to the necessary support to lessen foot fatigue and discomfort. Given that the caliber of your clothing can have a significant influence on your capacity to deliver efficient and compassionate care, make thoughtful decisions in this area.

travel nursing must-haves

Personalized Medical Supplies

Being able to provide patients with the best care possible requires having your customized medical supplies on hand. Although many hospitals do provide a basic supply kit, it is still a good idea to keep a unique set of tools on hand, such as a stethoscope, penlight, scissors, and other essential tools. You can also pack one of those practical pocket knives that might help you in different scenarios, from opening something in a matter of seconds to cutting the bandage to the right size.

Customization of this kind ensures not only a higher degree of comfort but also encourages compliance with strict infection control guidelines, which is crucial given the current state of global health. Make sure you have a complete medical toolkit with customized instruments and equipment so you are always ready for every patient encounter. These will be your constant allies when it comes to delivering excellent care.

Travel-Friendly Essentials

Because travel nursing is a nomadic field, it frequently requires a level of location switching that is unmatched in many other professions. Therefore, it’s necessary to arm yourself with a carefully chosen assortment of travel-friendly necessities. The choice of luggage is crucial in this category; having a high-quality, long-lasting suitcase that can endure frequent travel is a must.

Use packing cubes and organizers to further expedite your packing and unpacking procedures. These tools will keep your space organized even when your schedule is hectic with assignments. Do not undervalue the significance of a portable charger for your electronic devices in this day of digital connectivity. It will guarantee that, wherever your nursing career may take you, you stay connected on a personal and professional level.

Health and Wellness Toolkit

Keeping your health and wellbeing safe when navigating the waters of travel nursing is not just advised—it is imperative. To achieve this, put together a thorough health and wellness toolkit that is well-stocked with some of your most essential vitamins, over-the-counter medications for common ailments, and any prescription medications that are essential to your overall healthcare plan. It is impossible to exaggerate the significance of maintaining a balanced diet and drinking enough water. Carry reusable water bottles and a variety of wholesome snacks to support these essential elements of well-being. This will guarantee that you stay well-fed and energized throughout even the most demanding shifts.

The field of travel nursing offers an incredible array of opportunities, including the chance to further one’s career, pursue personal interests, and have a significant positive influence on patients’ lives all around the country. To make sure that you are exceedingly well-equipped to traverse this complex terrain, which includes the various facets of your professional and personal journey, you must have the necessary tools for each new assignment, so check these things out today!

Do you have any travel nursing must-haves? What are they? Comment your travel nursing must-haves below.

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:

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

By RNnetwork

October 25, 2023

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8 Must-Haves Every Traveler Should Take on a Travel Assignment

RNNetwork provided this article.

Are you about to head out on a travel nurse assignment away from home? Here’s a list of essentials you’ll want to be sure to take along.

take on a travel assignment

1. A second form of ID

Consider bringing along your passport as a second form of ID. Hopefully, your main form of ID never gets lost, but this will cover you if necessary. 

2. Documents

Items like a copy of your contract, digitally accessible copies of your immunization records, your nursing license, and your certifications are things you’ll want easily accessible. Many traveling nurses keep these in a secure digital place like Dropbox or Google Drive that they can access as needed from their own computer, tablet, or phone.

3. Kitchen essentials

Ever get to a new place and miss that perfect knife? Your garlic press? Small travel blender? Bring along those items that make your life easier or that you enjoy using in the kitchen.

Travel nurse Haleigh Todosichuk shares on her blog, “If you eat a lot of rice, consider a small rice cooker. Maybe you can’t live without your crockpot or your instant pot. Do you like meal prepping all of your meals before your set of shifts? Bring some Tupperware with you … chances are the housing doesn’t have enough. Another thing I always bring is a baggie of Bounce sheets and Tide Pods that are easy to travel with, just in case your housing doesn’t provide laundry detergent for you.” 

4. Comforts of home

Bring along whatever makes you feel comfortable. That might include a favorite mug, heating pad, or handheld massager for after your shifts. Maybe it’s a weighted blanket. And don’t forget to bring your prescription medicines.

What else is personal to you? “A weird thing I always bring is a mini extension cord and a mini fan,” says Todosichuk. “I can’t sleep without a fan blowing on me, and there are never enough outlets to plug everything in. Some people pack black-out curtains with them so that their room is really dark. Sometimes I bring my GoPro camera depending on what I’ll be doing while I’m there. Bring from home whatever will make your travel assignment easier! This is your home away from home, so do what you need to do to make your experience that much better.”

Another thing to bring? Mementos of home that make you feel better. “Bring some pictures, cards, letters, or trinkets from home that bring a smile to your face. Tired of scrolling social media? Get a digital picture frame for your memories. Make sure to leave room for the new ones!” says travel nurse Bob Goldnetz.

take on a travel assignment

5. Clothing and workout gear

You’ll want clothing that matches the weather. Look ahead. Do some research. Know the typical weather patterns for where you’re going — and what the extremes can bring. Bring workout clothes and shoes too, and equipment like jump ropes, running shoes, and a backpack or Camelbak.

6. Car essentials

If you’re driving, you’ll want to have a winter kit in the vehicle — shovel, food, water, blanket. And always carry a first-aid kit, a good spare tire (not the donut!), and jumper cables.

Also, consider signing up for roadside assistance. “My last cross-country trek was during the polar vortex of arctic temperatures across the Midwest. Nearing midnight — in single-digit temperatures — I locked my keys in the car in the middle of Kansas while filling up with gas,” says Goldnetz. “Thank God for roadside assistance! Embarrassingly, I lock my keys in the car a couple of times a year, and at $100 bucks a pop for a locksmith, I’d rather pay the additional several dollars a month.”

7. Packing supplies

As a travel nurse, you’ll need packing supplies to make things easier. Ideas? Vacuum-sealed bags to help make things fit better into a suitcase or tote. Look for totes for when you can drive so you can ship a tote or two ahead of time when you’re flying. These will all make it easier and simpler to organize your belongings and go.

8. Yoga mat, travel blanket, and travel pillow

Why these? Because you never know when you might get stuck in the airport or simply need to get more comfortable in your new place.

“A mat can serve many purposes,” says Goldnetz. “I have slept on mine in the airport, used it to sit on at the park or the beach, or used it as a surface to put dirty stuff on in the car. A small (or inflatable) pillow and blanket are always a nice touch as well, especially when your accommodations aren’t what you expected on arrival.”

Now, just enjoy your travel assignment!

Once you’ve checked these must-brings off your list, you’ll be able to enjoy your time on a travel assignment, truly feeling like you’re in your home away from home.

RNnetwork can help you find your next travel nursing job. Call us at 800.866.0407 or view today’s travel nurse job openings.

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:

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

By trustaff

August 31, 2020

8039 Views

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5 Things You NEED From Amazon for Your Next Travel Assignment

This article was provided by TruStaff Healthcare.

Planning what to pack for your next travel assignment can be a challenging task. With limited room in your car, you’ve got to be smart about what you bring! Everyday necessities like clothes, toiletries, shoes, and your nursing bag are a no brainer, but what else can help make your next assignment feel like home?

We’ve created this Travel Nursing Amazon Wish List to add a few helpful items to your packing list that you just can’t miss! (Plus, let’s face it, we all love a good Amazon buy and Prime shipping!)

 Filtered Water Pitcher

First things first: all water does not taste the same, especially when you’re in a new place. A filtered water dispenser or pitcher is a must. With this simple Brita dispenser, you’ve got the closest thing to “water from home” you can find and without worrying about strange water from the sink. It’s also the most eco-friendly option–pair it with a reusable bottle and refill to your heart’s content!

Vacuum Seal Bags

The next item on our list will make packing much easier. Vacuum seal storage bags are life-changing for travel nurses! They come in multiple sizes that can fit in your trunk or even in your suitcase if you’re more the minimalist type. They can hold multiple coats, jackets, an entire bedding set with pillows, and much more, and then shrink down to a compact size! These make packing your trunk a breeze and you can save plenty of space for you other large items. If your packing list is long, be sure to pick up some of these to make the job easier.

Instant Pot

If you don’t already have an Instant Pot, maybe now is the time! With the long working hours of a traveler, the last thing you want to do after a 12-hour shift is to make yourself a meal. Instant Pots can make an entire meal in minutes, and you can even pre-program so dinner is hot when you get home! With multiple sizes ranging from 4-8 quarts, they’re also great for bulk meal prepping. If you’re staying at an extended stay or Airbnb that may not come equipped with a full kitchen, we HIGHLY recommend it!

Couch

There’s no better feeling than plopping down on the couch after a long shift. But what if your accommodations don’t come with a couch? (Such a shame!) It’s really hard to pack a traditional couch in your car, but that’s where the inflatable couch comes in! It can be packed right into one of the vacuum storage bags above and suddenly you can bring your couch along on every assignment! Just like air mattresses, air couches have come a long way. They’re extremely durable and come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Our pick is even a sectional! Plenty of lounge space to take a nap or relax on your day off.

Coffee

Speaking of working long hours, coffee is a MUST. This cold brew press is the answer to those early mornings or overnight shifts. Making your own coffee is simple with just two steps! Mix water and your favorite coffee grounds and put the pitcher in the fridge for 12 hours. When you’re ready to drink, press the grounds down, and BAM you’ve got 51oz of cold brew iced coffee to last you a week (or not, we don’t judge!). Super simple and ready to add your favorite syrups, cream, milk, or sugar. Become your own barista and avoid the LONG coffee shop lines at any hour!

While we know there are plenty of other items that are a must for travel assignments, these are just a few necessities we feel are much needed to help with the traveler lifestyle! What are your favorite and most helpful Travel Nursing Amazon Wish List buys?

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!)