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 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

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

By Kevin Devoto

May 22, 2022

2104 Views

Everything You Need to Pack for Your First Travel Nursing Assignment

Posted on May 22, 2022January 16, 2023 by Kevin Devoto

If you are just getting started in the exciting world of becoming a travel nurse, you already know there are many benefits associated with this job. Perhaps you get to travel and see more of the country than you ever dreamed, or maybe you like the pay that comes with this particular line of work.

Before getting caught up in the excitement, it is crucial you know how to pack before heading out on your next travel nurse assignment. These guidelines can ensure that you have everything you need and you are ready to go.

Find Out How Far You’re Traveling

Before doing anything else, find out where your travel nurse assignment is taking you. This will also help you plan for the weather ahead since you’ll need some regular clothing, too, outside of your work uniform. It’s important to learn if the weather is typically dry, wet, cold, or warm and how this will affect your living conditions. For example, if wet weather tends to give you a headache, it can be helpful to pack the right type of medication, so you aren’t trying to work through a migraine.

Determine What Essentials Can Help You the Most

Think about what essential items you’ll want to take with you.

Some of these could be:

Face care products
Moisturizer
Shampoo/conditioner
Body wash
Deodorant
Toothbrush/toothpaste
Dry shampoo
Nail care kit for hangnails etc

As you are compiling your packing list, don’t forget to think about other things you might need to make the process easier for yourself. Maybe you want to bring laundry soap along so you can easily wash your uniforms. Don’t forget to bring several sets of uniforms to wear since you don’t know how long it will take to get through a busy day at the hospital. The last thing you want is to wake up and not have anything clean to wear for that day.

Travel Size or Regular Size: Packing Based on How Long Your Travel Nurse Assignment Is

Often when packing, many people find it easier to take travel-size bottles. This eliminates the need for extra space in your bag. If you have shorter travel nurse assignments, this can make life easier for you. However, if you know you are going to be gone for a long time, perhaps it might make sense to take bigger bottles. This way, you can avoid the need to go shopping on your days off, and you’ll have everything you need on hand.

Have Enough Backups On Hand

No matter the length of your assignment, have enough backups of items you’ll need so you aren’t left scrambling at the last minute. This could be anything from underscrubs to extra socks or anything else that makes your life easier. Nursing is a demanding career, and you might not be getting enough sleep or necessarily have the time you need to take care of basic errands and tasks. When you have enough backups of daily items, you avoid running into problems associated with making you late for work because you had to stop and grab something.

Conclusion

Travel nursing gives you the opportunity to build upon your professional career while providing you with a change of scenery. Although it might sound like fun, it’s important to be prepared and have everything you need. Make sure you understand the length of time you’ll be gone and where you are going to since this can influence how you should pack. It’s useful to take items you know you’ll put to use and have backups as needed, particularly for essentials like uniforms. These suggestions can ensure you flourish while you are on your next assignment.

We hope you found these tips on everything to pack for your next travel nurse assignment helpful. If we missed something, comment those items below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our travel nurse housing page.

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 Katie Pierce

April 5, 2022

3150 Views

6 Packing Tips for Travel Nurses

Posted on April 5, 2022February 15, 2022 by Katie Pierce

Getting ready to hit the road for another assignment? The life of a travel nurse can be full of excitement and adventure, but it can also cause a ton of stress and inconvenience without the right preparation. To help you avoid this situation, we’ve made a list of 6 packing tips for travel nurses that are easy to remember and simple to do.

Let’s get started.

Tip #1: Find out how long you’ll be traveling

Being on the road distances you from a ton of society’s modern conveniences, e.g., department stores, specialty boutiques, and restaurants. Before embarking on the next journey of your life, find out exactly how long this trip is going to be. That way, you can come up with an appropriate estimate of items to bring on your trip. Some assignments may take nurses over a month to complete. Others may only last a few days.

Tip #2: Location, location, location

Our second travel nurse tip is to research details about your assignment location. Is the climate warm or cold? Does it rain a lot in the area? What activities can you participate in while you’re there? Will you need to get any papers or certificates while in the area, e.g., a driver’s license, IDs, a card to ride public transportation? Knowing details like this can help you get a better idea of what items you need to pack and what procedures you need to follow.

Tip #3: Personal care items first

If you’re someone who’s particular about the products you use on yourself, make sure you pack all your personal care items first. Everything from your skincare essentials down to your favorite brand scrubs. Some states or countries may not carry the product you’re using or perhaps may not have the model you’re looking for in stock.

For some women, this may also mean packing more period underwear than you normally would. You never know what period accidents may happen while you’re during your assignment. In this case, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Tip #4: Travel light

Unless you’re planning to stay in a location for more than a couple of weeks, you don’t need to bring an excessive amount of things with you. Apart from really important papers and personal care items, everything else you need you can simply buy or rent while you’re in a foreign location.

Travel nurses need to be quick on their feet in case of emergencies or new assignments. Traveling light reduces the level of struggle that you may experience during each transition. So as much as possible, stick to the basics.

Tip #5: Consider compression bags

Running out of luggage space? Compression bags are nifty equipment that you can use to squeeze your clothing into tighter shapes, so you can easily squeeze them into your suitcase. They come in a variety of sizes and, most cases, in sets. The great thing about compression bags is that they can also keep your things protected from possible leakage in your bags, e.g., from lotions, oils, and creams from your personal care items.

Tip #6: Consider leaving behind unnecessary items

If you want to make more room in your suitcase, perhaps consider leaving a few items that aren’t technically necessary on your trip. For instance, you don’t need to bring along your entire library of books. Get a kindle and download all the titles you want to read on that single device.

Want to take amazing pictures of the sights you visit? Most mobile devices nowadays have cameras that can take HD images that are just as good or even better as larger cameras.

Pack it all up!

Packing for a nursing trip can be overwhelming, especially if this is your first time. However, with the tips that we’ve given you above, you should be able to manage packing without any trouble. Enjoy your next nursing adventure!

We hope you found this article with 6 packing tips for travel nurses helpful. Do you have any packing tips to share with fellow travel nurses? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

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 Alycia Gordan

December 5, 2021

7145 Views

Hacking the Packing: 6 Tips to Packing Light and Right

Posted on December 5, 2021January 16, 2023 by Alycia Gordan

Packing light is nothing short of a task considering we all love to overpack.

A minimalist’s approach to packing is one that most of us do not see eye-to-eye with. However, once you adopt the strategy, you will find yourself feeling liberated and at ease.

Your packing list depends on multiple factors, such as the destination, the duration of your trip, the weather, and planned activities. However, if you wish to pack light, there are some tips that you must follow to make your life easier.

The following is a list of our top 6 tips to help you pack light and pack right every time. Let us get started.

1. Choose the right bag

First thing first: start with the right bag for the trip.

When it comes to packing, people tend to overpack simply because they have space in their luggage. The easiest way to avoid overpacking is to simply eliminate all the extra space. By choosing to travel with a smaller bag, you will be compelled to pack lighter and more efficiently.

We recommend choosing a carryon sized backpack. A stress-free way to avoid bags weighing over the weight limit, extra luggage fees, and, most importantly, the trouble of dragging your heavy bags around everywhere, carryon bags are fantastic.

2. Pack the necessities; cut out the luxuries

When it comes to packing, the general rule of thumb is to stick to the necessities.

An easy way to go about the ordeal is to lay out all your clothes and belongings, including money. Pack half the number of clothes and belongings and double the amount of money for travel.

Packing light requires a fair bit of sacrifice because you cannot carry everything you own, unfortunately. You just have to pack what you would for any regular day. Were you to pack an outfit for every occasion; you would need an extra suitcase.

Follow the Parento “80/20” packing principle stating that only 20% of your luggage will account for 80% of what you will wear on the trip.

Your safest bet is to pack items from your core wardrobe that you wear every day. Everyday casual clothes are easy, comfortable, and no fuss. Even if you pack all your fancy outfits for those perfect insta shots, you will find yourself feeling uneasy and longing for your everyday favorites.

We all tend to overpack just in case. Please realize that most what if and just in case scenarios do not pan out, so why even bother prepping for them? Why carry around extra physical and mental baggage “just in case”? If a situation does work out, find a cheap and temporary fix, and swipe your card.

Cut out the unnecessary stuff. It is not exactly fun to be prepared all the time. Maybe deal with unexpected situations as they come. If nothing, you will get a good travel story out of it.

3. Pack for a week

It is always a good idea to decide on a set number of days to pack for. It does not matter whether you are traveling for a week, two, or maybe even a month; if you want to travel light, try to only pack for a week.

Packing for every possible exigency on a long trip is next to impossible. Therefore, it is best to reduce the chunk down to one that is more manageable. A week’s outfits are much easier to visualize, organize, and manage.

Packing more clothes means laundry, and laundry may not always be doable amidst hectic travel schedules, so spare yourself the responsibility.

Convenient, flexible, and reduced mental and physical burden; what’s there to complain about

4. Avoid bulk, pack layers instead

If you plan to travel in the fall or wintertime, you will need warm clothing that ensures protection. Bulky sweaters and jackets, although warm and cozy, are a hassle to travel with. Layers always get the job done.

Therefore, instead of packing bulky garments, we suggest packing multiple thin layers as they take up lesser space and are easier to manage. Moreover, you can always take off a layer or two in case it is warmer. With bulky jackets, you do not have that kind of luxury, and it will probably take up all the space in your luggage. Generally, two base layers and two to three t-shirts together take up as much space as one big jacket.

Our favorite layers to pack are thermal shirts and woolen or fleece base layers. They are super warm, comfortable, and versatile, i.e., worn with other items or taken off in case the weather changes.

5. Wear the heaviest item

If it is bulky, wear it. For instance, if you plan to carry a chunky pair of boots or a plus size leather jacket, it is best not to pack it and wear it instead. Similarly, always choose the lighter item to pack and wear the heavier item en route, as it just makes everything easier.

If you are traveling to someplace with colder weather and you want to bring your coat with you, do not pack it; just wear it. If wearing the coat during the entirety of the trip is impractical, ditch it altogether because the hassle is not worth it.

If things do get bad and you require a coat urgently, use the cheap and temporary retail therapy hack.

6. Pack the right fabric

In order to ensure that you pack light, it is critical to pack the right fabric for your trip.

Cotton is a very common choice. However, Cotton is not the wisest choice because it is quite heavy, takes time to dry, and is not as breathable as wool, perhaps. Synthetic fabrics and wool work out better in such situations. Wool, although pricey, is a worthy investment because it is warm, durable, versatile, and comfortable. It also fights off odor better than any sweat-wicking performance fabrics, so there is also that pro.

Performance fabrics are also great for packing. They are cheaper than wool and are good for wicking away sweat. Their downside, however, is the smell that reeks from them if you do not wash them, so best be careful. Either invest in wool or give your performance fabric clothes a rinse after every use to avoid the smell.

Parting thoughts

Packing is not rocket science. Sure, it is overwhelming, but everything simplifies eventually. You just have to decide on how you wish to go about the matter. Traveling light is a choice and a fantastic one because it just makes everything so much easier.

Our advice is to keep it simple. Pack pieces, not outfits – it makes the whole ordeal much easier to deal with. Also, invest in packing cubes – they are a lifesaver. Lastly, leave a little room for souvenirs and maybe some new things you buy on your trip. The rest we are sure you will figure out using our tips and on your own. Good luck and have a fun trip!

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

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Essentials to pack:

Smart packing tips:

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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:

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1. Clothing and Shoes

2. Toiletries and Medications

3. Electronics and Entertainment

4. Personal Items

5. Documents and Paperwork

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1. Make a packing list.

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

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

4. Cover your razor heads with a binder clip.

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

6. Hide valuables in an empty lotion container.

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1. Simplify Your Wardrobe

2. Learn about Your Housing in Advance

3. Differentiate Needs And Wants

4. Create Packing Lists

5. Keep Your Method of Travel in Mind

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A camera.

A few good books.

An air fryer, Instapot, crockpot, etc.

A yoga mat or at-home fitness gear.

Your pillow.

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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