August 22, 2024

1099 Views

Packing Tips and Knowing When to Leave for Your Assignment

Posted on August 22, 2024July 23, 2024 by Travel Nurses Inc.

Travel Nurses Inc. provided this article.

Whether you’re packing for your first assignment or your tenth assignment, it can be overwhelming. You’re packing your life up for three months (or more) and going to a new place. Knowing what to pack and when to leave for your assignment is crucial.

In this blog post, we will discuss packing essentials, smart packing tips, and knowing when the best time is to leave for your assignment. Let’s prepare for your next adventure.

Packing Tips and Knowing When to Leave for Your Assignment

Essentials to pack:

For healthcare professionals embarking on a travel assignment, certain items are non-negotiable for packing. A critical aspect of preparation is confirming the color of scrubs required for your unit. Initiating this conversation with your manager during your phone interview ensures you arrive with the appropriate scrubs, avoiding any first-day mishaps. Should you discover your scrub collection lacks the necessary color, purchasing scrubs before leaving becomes essential.

Remembering to pack identification and official documents is also important for orientation. The specifics of these requirements will be outlined in your first-day instructions (FDI) with your recruiter. Additionally, if you have online orientations or mandatory modules, you will need to bring your laptop.

While it’s tempting to pack every possible need, remember the virtues of traveling light. Essential electronics aside, you can purchase daily necessities such as toiletries at your destination. This approach not only saves suitcase space but also lightens your load, allowing you to focus more on the adventure ahead.

Smart packing tips:

Packing efficiently is one of the biggest challenges when embarking on a new travel assignment. Investing in packing cubes can revolutionize the way you organize your suitcase. These handy organizers compartmentalize your belongings. This makes it easier to find what you need upon arrival and keeps your items in pristine condition throughout your journey.

Remember to review the climate and weather forecasts of your destination. Packing appropriate clothing for expected weather conditions will ensure comfort and preparedness for any situation. Consider the versatility of each piece of clothing you pack.

Choosing garments that can be mixed and matched for different settings not only maximizes your wardrobe options but also conserves valuable suitcase space. Another effective strategy is rolling your clothes instead of folding them. This method not only saves space but also minimizes wrinkles.

Lastly, while it’s essential to pack efficiently, remember the importance of leaving some room in your luggage for personal items that will make your new space feel like home. Whether it’s a favorite book, photos of loved ones, or a small keepsake, these personal touches can greatly enhance your comfort and well-being during your assignment. By adopting these smart packing strategies, you’ll navigate your travel experience with ease, allowing you to focus on the exciting professional opportunities ahead.

When to leave:

Navigating the timeline for your departure requires clear communication and coordination with your assignment’s support team. Engage regularly with your compliance specialist and your recruiter to stay up to date on requirements that must be fulfilled prior to your departure. At Travel Nurses, Inc., you will receive the email and phone number of the compliance specialist assigned to you. They will be your first line of support for all things related to your drug screen, background check, vaccination records, etc.

Receiving your FDI serves as a green light for beginning your journey. This crucial step ensures that all necessary background checks, certifications, and paperwork have been approved and processed.

In situations where the start date is rapidly approaching, and you find yourself waiting on final clearances, maintaining open lines of communication becomes even more vital. Informing your recruiter of your plans and any concerns will enable them to provide assistance and advocate on your behalf if necessary. While the anticipation of starting a new assignment is understandable, ensuring that all systemic and procedural boxes are checked will pave the way for a successful and fulfilling travel experience.

Turning in compliance items early helps ensure that you receive your FDI with enough time to get to your assignment. However, there are times when facilities ask for last-minute items and this moves the timeline for things. Keeping informed of any outstanding requirements, to the best of your ability, is key.

By staying informed, flexible, and in constant communication with your support team, you can mitigate the challenges and keep your focus on the exciting opportunity ahead.

We hope you found these packing tips and when to leave helpful. Do you have any packing tips to share or tips on when to leave for your next travel assignment? Comment any packing tips or tips on when to leave for your assignment 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 housing search.

By RNnetwork

October 25, 2023

2435 Views

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

Posted on October 25, 2023October 24, 2023 by RNnetwork

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.

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.

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:

START HERE

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

By Furnished Finder

July 20, 2023

1895 Views

Packing for Travel Nurses: A Comprehensive Guide

Posted on July 20, 2023July 20, 2023 by Furnished Finder

As a travel nurse, one of the most daunting tasks that come with a new assignment is packing. You might have limited space to carry your belongings, which means you need to be strategic in your choices. However, with a bit of planning and organizing, you can make sure you have everything you need while keeping your luggage manageable and easy to carry. In this article, we will dive into the essential items that every travel nurse should consider packing for their next assignment.

1. Clothing and Shoes

When packing your clothes, think about the climate at your destination and the duration of your trip. Make sure you have enough clothing to last at least a week. You can pack neutral colors that can be mixed and matched and don’t forget to include comfortable and durable shoes. Apart from work shoes, you might need sneakers for your leisure activities and flip-flops if you’re headed to a sunny spot.

2. Toiletries and Medications

Pack your toiletries, including toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, in a toiletry bag. Also, ensure that you have enough medication for the duration of your assignment. Don’t forget you can always buy more supplies at your destination. You could also carry essential oils or aromatherapy to help you relax after a long day.

3. Electronics and Entertainment

Bring your cell phone, charger, laptop, and any other electronic gadget useful for you. You could bring along an ebook reader, tablet, or music player to help pass the time during a long shift or on days off. Additionally, you should also invest in a good power bank, in case you can’t get access to electricity.

4. Personal Items

Personal items might include jewelry, purses, and decorative items for your mid-term rental. You could also include task-specific tools, like a stethoscope or work log books necessary for your assignment. Don’t forget to carry some cash, credit card, or ATM card, as well.

5. Documents and Paperwork

Finally, make sure you have all your essential documents and paperwork when traveling. You might need your nursing license, travel documents, passport, health insurance, and more, depending on your assignment’s specifics. Keep all these documents in a zipped folder and label them so you know what’s in there.

Packing as a travel nurse can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With careful planning, you’ll know exactly what you need to bring and what you can leave behind. Also, packing essentials can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and stresses during your trip. By focusing on the essential items, you’ll pack in a way that gives you peace of mind, no matter where your travel nurse journey takes you. Happy packing!

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

April 20, 2023

1415 Views

6 Items Travel Nurses Need to Pack

Posted on April 20, 2023April 20, 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.

The excitement within her had her heart beating at a rate not even three IV doses of Labetol would have been able to easily control! Yet here she was. After years of working at the bedside, she had chosen to pursue her dream. Nothing was going to stop her. Her kids were grown. She had no pets. Nobody to answer to except herself. The oil was changed, new wipers were on the windows, tires were at the proper pressure, and the car was filled with as many plastic totes and bags as she could squeeze in. She had just enough room to set her purse and a small cooler in the front seat beside her. The house was locked. The bills were paid. The alarms and security were set. She inserted the key in the ignition and was off to new beginnings.

As you read this, you might ask yourself what were in the plastic totes and canvas bags that she had gently at first and, in the end, forcefully shoved inside her car. What does a traveler need to take? My daughter tells the story of a travel nurse from Florida who came to Nebraska during the winter months. My daughter has a room she rents out and has had a lot of success doing this, having also made lifelong friends as she pursues her doctorate degree. But one nurse truly made her laugh. “I threw in anything that looked warm.” I’d been there upon the arrival of this particular new renter as she was an old travel buddy of mine. The floorboard and front passenger seat were just as full as the rest of the space in the car. She may have packed too much stuff. I thought as I helped her unload.

In the excitement of one’s first travel position, miles away from home, we sometimes forget that we are likely not moving away from home for good. Just for a travel nurse assignment or two. We don’t need the kitchen sink, just the usual necessities, and a few other items. The most important things to take with us are merely the basics.

6 Items Travel Nurses Need to Pack

Healthcare

Medicines and insurance cards. Phone numbers of your physician and dentist.

Financial information

Credit card, debit card, cash, banking information, and phone numbers to all credit card companies in case something happens. Don’t forget your computer and the charger.

Travel paperwork

I always encourage my travelers to have information on their phone, on an external hard drive of some type, saved on a cloud, and a hard copy. Keep a copy of every document you were asked for when you went through your onboarding. Add to this as you continue to travel. I kept a hard copy of everything in a folder, in plastic sleeves, and easily within reach. Throw in the diary or journal so you can write down interesting details about the journey you are on.

Clothing

A couple of good pairs of pants, a few pairs of jeans, 5-10 tops, uniforms if needed, and a few pairs of shoes. You are going to be spending a large amount of time in your uniforms. There is likely no need to pack your entire closet. How many seasons will you be confronting before you come home? Remember, right now, we are packing only the necessary items. At least one nice outfit for a night on the town on your day off.

Toiletries

Hair dryer, curling irons, electric razors, hair gel, makeup, personal towels, etc. You may want to add some of your own bedding and a favorite pillow.

The rest of the totes

Now that you have the basics packed and loaded look around and see what else you would like to take with you. The more minimalistic you learn to become on these travel nurse assignments, the more likely it is that you will leave your apartment on your days off and do what you set out to do; become the explorer and traveler who embarked upon an adventure into the unknown to see new sights and meet new people. Be certain you make time to taste the local cuisine, visit an art museum, or go to a concert or a sporting event. And take your camera with you everywhere!

That nurse who rented the space from my daughter? Charlene went back to Florida for a week-long visit with her parents in the middle of the contract. Her camera was filled with pictures of her adventures. You’ve probably also guessed that she went home with a car full of stuff she really didn’t need. Upon her return, she had laughed at all that she thought she needed the first time, realizing that she wasn’t moving in. She was merely staying until the next adventure! May you all be blessed in your travel adventures and make the best memories!

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 Fusion Medical Staffing

April 13, 2023

1902 Views

5 Travel Nurse Packing Tips You Should Know

Posted on April 13, 2023April 13, 2023 by Fusion Medical Staffing

Fusion Medical Staffing provided this article.

It doesn’t matter if you’ve worked hundreds of travel nursing jobs or it’s your very first assignment. Packing for months at a time can be tricky. From cleaning supplies to clothing to meaningful mementos, there’s a lot to remember! Next time you’re packing for a travel nursing assignment, use these tips to help make sure you pack everything on your travel nurse packing list.

5 Travel Nurse Packing Tips You Should Know

1. Consider the length of your travel nursing contract

One of the biggest factors that will impact what you pack for a travel nursing job is the length of your travel contract. Most of the time, travel nurse contracts last for 13 weeks. They can be shorter or longer depending on the medical facility’s needs. For example, if you choose to extend your contract, you could be away from home for six months or more.

If you’re packing for a shorter nursing assignment, it’s recommended to pack as lightly as possible and only bring items that are absolutely essential. On the other hand, longer assignments may require you to pack more to make yourself comfortable during your travel contract. If you plan to take time off in between travel nursing assignments, you may wind up packing even more for vacation activities.

2. Think about the climate of your destination

Another packing tip for travel nurses is to think about the climate of your job destination. Different climates require different types of clothing and gear, so you have to know what type of weather you’ll be facing when you get where you’re going.

While lighter, breathable fabrics are beneficial in hotter climates, wearing multiple warm layers is great for colder weather. If you’re traveling to an area with a lot of rain, then you may want to pack a raincoat or umbrella to keep you dry – or choose a portable waterproof parka if you’re short on space. Knowing the climate of your destination ahead of time is key when it comes to packing for a travel nursing job.

3. Make a list of things you use regularly

It can be tricky to know what to pack as a travel nurse. Narrow it down by making a list of things you use on a regular basis. Think alarm clock, coffeemaker, hair straightener, headphones, and anything else you find yourself using a lot.

Making a list of everyday essentials can alleviate the stress and anxiety that comes with packing because it doubles as a travel nurse packing checklist! Whether it’s clothing, houseware, toiletries, or something in between, a packing list ensures you have everything you need for your travel nursing assignment so you can start enjoying your new location as soon as possible.

4. Maximize your packing space

Limited luggage space combined with the need to pack for an average of 13 weeks means maximizing your packing space is essential to make sure you have room for everything you need to bring.

In other words: pack smarter, not harder. Consider using these packing strategies to get the most out of your packing space.

Roll your clothes
Plan outfits that can be mixed and matched
Try vacuum/compression bags to save space
Consider using a toiletry bag
Bring multipurpose items (i.e., a scarf that’s also a blanket)

5. Double-check you have your important documents

So, not only do you need to make sure you have the right clothing and personal items packed, but you’ll also need to double-check you have your important documentation organized and packed. This includes items like your driver’s license, social security card, birth certificate, car insurance, nursing certifications, and state licenses. You may need these documents to fill out employment paperwork or verify your identity while traveling.

Pro tip: bring copies of important documentation and leave the originals safely stored at home or with a loved one. That way, you don’t have to worry about accidentally losing your paperwork and documents while working a travel nursing job. And if you do misplace your copy, it’s no big deal to get another!

Travel nursing is both personally and professionally rewarding, and it’s even better when you’re well-packed. By packing efficiently and careful planning ahead of time, your next journey will go off without a hitch. Just follow these travel nurse packing tips, and you’ll be ready to hit the ground running on your next travel nursing assignment, no matter your destination.

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 Gifted Healthcare

September 22, 2022

2608 Views

9 Products Travel Nurses Swear By

Posted on September 22, 2022September 12, 2022 by Gifted Healthcare

Gifted Healthcare provided this article.

Some products are a must-pack for every assignment if you’re a travel nurse. Whether heading out on your first travel assignment or your hundredth, check out these products to add to your “must-pack” list.

Self-Cleaning Water bottle

The title really sells it all. Being on the go, traveling to assignments, and working long shifts doesn’t always give you access to consistent hydration, let alone cleaning your water bottle. Order this self-cleaning water bottle that nurses are raving about so you are always hydrated and can keep it sanitary wherever you go. You even have six color choices to find the one that really fits your style or maybe one that matches your scrubs.

Supergoop Sunscreen

Keeping SPF in your daily skin routine, whether you are traveling somewhere hot or cold, is super important year-round. Supergoop developed its products based on this and now offers 40+ formulas so you can find the one that is perfect for your skin – there are even travel sizes for flying.

One nurse raved about the “Unseen Sunscreen” product, claiming it is perfect for a day of adventure outside. She wrote, “This is my favorite sunscreen ever! It’s nongreasy, has no white streaks, it has a nice subtle glow.”

Alarm Clock

When you are moving into your temporary housing, you might not know where every outlet will be, what it can reach, or how many outlets you will have. This alarm clock comes in handy because it has two USB ports, so no matter where the outlets are, you can charge your phone or smartwatch right from your clock. Plus, the mirror design is sleek and matches any room.

Nespresso Machine

If you love kicking off the night shift with the perfect coffee, this will change your assignment. Think about bringing your Nespresso along with you, so you have access to caffeine 24/7. It might not fit in your suitcase, but if you are driving, make sure to pack it in the car!

One nurse said, “I also always bring my Nespresso machine for assignments, so I can start my shift with a perfect cup of coffee instead of purchasing one every day!”

Home Scented Candle

Homesick creates candles for specific cities and states, so find your hometown candle and order it to pack in your suitcase. It will help you relax post-shift and bring you back to your cozy home feeling. One nurse said, “Bring a candle for your bedroom that reminds you of home. I really needed it when I extended my stay. ♥️♥️♥️”

Blackout curtains

There is nothing more crucial than your sleep. If you are traveling for your assignment, you might not be sure if your temporary bedroom gets too much light, so investing in some blackout curtains to take with you from place to place will be worth it. They can also muffle some of the outside noise, making them even more important when traveling to a large city.

These blackout curtains from Amazon were rated as the “Best Affordable Curtains in 2022”.

Compression Socks

Compression socks are often overlooked as a way to prevent some of the chronic issues that come from working in a profession where you are on your feet for such long hours. Wearing compression socks helps to prevent varicose veins, improve venous blood flow, decrease the risk of blood clots, and decrease swelling of the ankles and feet. One nurse wrote, “I have found that compression socks with 20-30mmHg are the right compression strength for me as a nurse.”

Apolla, a female-founded company that was on Shark Tank, creates compression socks that provide targeted compression in key insertion points in the arch and ankle with a patented knitting technique your feet will thank you for after a long shift. This is an American Podiatric medical association approved product.

Silicone Rings

Are you paranoid about losing your wedding ring at work or while traveling? Silicone wedding bands are the perfect solution to keep you from accidentally losing your real band while taking gloves off. They also prevent your jewelry from getting dirty while working your shift. There are so many color and texture style options for you to choose from.

One brand, Qalo, specializes in silicone rings for nurses. The product is made from medical-grade silicone to keep you and your patients safe at all times.

Audible Subscription

There is nothing better than a physical book, but they might weigh you down, literally. If you are flying to your next assignment, the weight of your suitcase is important, so ditch the hardback while on duty and get an Audible subscription through Amazon.

Audible offers a variety of products you can utilize, from audiobooks, sleep tracks, meditation programs, podcasts, and more. The best part is that you will have access to all this content from an app on your phone, so you can take your book with you everywhere.

We hope that you found this list of 9 products travel nurses swear by helpful when packing for your next travel nursing assignment. Don’t forget to include them on your packing list. Do you have any products on your packing list that we forgot? 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

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

By Titan Medical

July 28, 2022

1416 Views

Pack Your Bags!

Posted on July 28, 2022July 27, 2022 by Titan Medical

Titan Medical Group provided this article.

Getting ready for a 13-week travel assignment can be both exciting and hectic! You’ve got so much to do– from squaring things away at home to ensuring you’re getting all your paperwork done for your assignment.

Packing your bags may be one of the last things on your to-do list, but it’s one of the most important things to get right!

Of course, you don’t want to show up with bags upon bags of clothing, toiletries, and other odds and ends from home; so, what’s the most efficient way to get everything done? We’ve come up with a few helpful hints to make your packing (and the rest of your adventure) a breeze!

1. Make a packing list.

Begin to think of things you use every day and things you can’t live without a few weeks before you begin packing for your assignment. Adding to this list over time can help ensure that you won’t forget anything the day of.

Go over your packing list the day of and ensure everything is packed and ready to go.

2. For shampoo, conditioner, and other bottled liquids, place a square of plastic wrap under the cap.

The plastic wrap will keep the fluids from getting into the cap and spilling out if the lid isn’t shut. Place the piece of plastic wrap on top of the bottle and screw the cap back on. Safe and secure!

3. Roll your t-shirts, pants, and other garments to save space.

Rolling your garments to form a cylinder shape will save more space than folded clothes. You can pack more into your suitcase without worrying about wrinkles.

4. Cover your razor heads with a binder clip.

Razor heads are sharp and can be dangerous. Not only can they scrape your hand when reaching in your bag to find something, but they can also tear up the inside of your luggage. Placing an appropriately sized binder clip over the razor head will keep everything safe & clean.

5. Separate your shoes from your clothes with a shower cap.

To prevent dirt, dust, and other stuff from getting onto your clothes in your luggage, wrap a pair of shoes in a shower cap. Covering the soles of your shoes will keep your bag and clothes neat!

6. Hide valuables in an empty lotion container.

You can never be sure of your new surroundings or the people you’ll encounter. To ensure that your money and valuables stay safe, especially in your hotel room or on a plane, keep your valuables in something discrete—like an empty suntan lotion container or an old shampoo bottle.

Try out these hacks, and stress less about your new assignment! Everything will go smoothly, and the next 13 weeks will be a breeze! So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags!

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’re ready for your next travel assignment, give Titan Medical a call today at 866.332.9600, and we’d love to assist in finding your next adventure!

By Kevin Devoto

July 23, 2022

2121 Views

Great Tips To Help Travel Nurses Live Minimally

Posted on July 23, 2022November 10, 2023 by Kevin Devoto

Any job that requires you to travel also requires you to be able to pack adequately for that type of travel. People traveling for business typically have bags ready to go with the essentials, including suits, work devices, and documentation, for example. However, packing as a travel nurse requires a bit more. Here are five great tips to help travel nurses live minimally.

1. Simplify Your Wardrobe

One of the easiest ways to live minimally is by prioritizing the clothes you need for your job, including women’s scrub sets, appropriate shoes, and layers necessary for your assignment location’s climate and the time of year you’re working there. However, that doesn’t mean you need to omit all other clothes. Instead, think of ways to make the most out of your clothes. Athleisure garments are good multi-use garments and can be worn whether you’re exercising or not. Pieces that layer, such as tank tops and cardigans, can make your wardrobe more versatile. If you can, pack clothes that complement each other so you can mix and match more easily.

2. Learn about Your Housing in Advance

There are two main housing options: finding it yourself and having it assigned by your agency. If you’re finding lodging yourself, you have more freedom to find a place that fits your needs best, but your agency will have more experience and may be better suited to ensure you get what you need. Before you go, you should familiarize yourself with your housing. Check average utility costs, whether the place is pre-furnished, what stores and services are nearby, and what transportation options you’ll have.

3. Differentiate Needs And Wants

Another great way to live minimally is to differentiate your needs and wants. It’s important for people who travel for work to prioritize their packing needs over their packing wants. Clothes, toiletries, documents, linens, certain electronic devices, and medications are all necessary. Depending on your role, you may also need to bring a printer, kitchen supplies, cleaning tools, and a television. While entertainment and exercise are also important, these are activities you’re more likely to be able to find when you arrive at places such as gyms and libraries, so you may classify them as wants.

4. Create Packing Lists

If you plan to participate in travel nursing for an extended period of time, it will be helpful for you to create a packing list template that you can populate for each assignment. Typical lists written by hand or in a word processor will work just as well. Lists can help you stay organized and ensure you pack everything you need. You can even divide your list to account for your needs and wants. That way, you can pack your needs first and then fill in your wants with the room you left in your luggage.

5. Keep Your Method of Travel in Mind

Travel nurses may end up working almost anywhere. Their options may be limited to within their home country, or they may have the option to work internationally, depending on their degrees and licensing. You should pack according to what method of travel you’ll take to get to your destination. Driving yourself will give you the most space for packing, while taking ground transportation such as buses and trains means you’ll have minimal space to store your bags. Airlines typically require you to pay additional fees for checked luggage over their size, weight, or number limits. You should focus on how long you’ll spend at each location and whether you’ll be going home between assignments or spending long stretches away from home. You should also consider your transportation options. These will heavily inform how you pack and how.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. If housing is an issue, we have you covered with our housing page. 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 trustaff

June 27, 2022

2170 Views

Top Must Packs For Your Travel Nurse Assignment

Posted on June 27, 2022August 11, 2022 by trustaff

trustaff provided this article.

Packing for your assignments can be a stressful time. Making sure you have everything you may need for a 13-week stay in a new area while also trying to fit everything in your suitcase or trunk can be a real task. Whether you’re a light packer or over pack just in case, we came up with this list of 5 must-have things to make sure you have room for in your suitcase to bring on every assignment.

A camera.

You’ll be out adventuring new places, and what better way to create memories than to take lots of photos to share with friends and family or for yourself as keepsakes. While it’s just as important to take a mental image and take in all the experiences, sometimes having a photo to look back on helps you reminisce about your unique experience. Packing a good camera is a must for travelers of all kinds. Evolving technology makes this even easier now, as many high-quality cameras are compact and packable in a purse or backpack.

Top Must Packs For Your Travel Nurse Assignment

A few good books.

Taking some time away from screens can really refresh your mental state. Having a few good books on hand can make your time between shifts enjoyable and a breath of fresh air. We highly suggest checking out Book-Tok (on TikTok!) for some amazing suggestions for your next read. Whether you’re into history, fiction, or biographies – enjoying a good read can be very important for your mental health and overall downtime.

An air fryer, Instapot, crockpot, etc.

Meals are important, and having time between long shifts to prepare them is sometimes a hassle. Bringing your favorite kitchen appliance can do wonders for time-saving on your meal preps while on assignment. And to be fair – what CAN’T you cook in an air fryer or Instapot?! The options are endless! These are taking over kitchens and are easy to use in any housing situation. Thinking ahead and bringing one of these can make for a life-saving item when you’re hungry.

A yoga mat or at-home fitness gear.

Finding somewhere to work out or clear your mind with yoga in an unfamiliar location could be challenging. Having a few staples ready in your hotel, apartment, or house while on assignment can make a difference! And making sure you’re moving your body and clearing your mental state is SO important as a healthcare professional.

Your pillow.

Sleeping on a new pillow you’re not used to can jam your beauty sleep – and we know how important your sleep is after a long shift! Making sure you have your comfy pillow wherever you sleep is a game-changer. Never leave home without it – especially for 8-12 weeks of sleep.

We hope you found this list of top must packs for your travel nurse assignment helpful. Are there any other items you think should make the list of must packs? Comment 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. 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

Packing Tips and Knowing When to Leave for Your Assignment

Essentials to pack:

Smart packing tips:

When to leave:

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

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1. A second form of ID

2. Documents

3. Kitchen essentials

4. Comforts of home

5. Clothing and workout gear

6. Car essentials

7. Packing supplies

8. Yoga mat, travel blanket, and travel pillow

Now, just enjoy your travel 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. Clothing and Shoes

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3. Electronics and Entertainment

4. Personal Items

5. Documents and Paperwork

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2. Think about the climate of your destination

3. Make a list of things you use regularly

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5. Double-check you have your important documents

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

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