TNAA-Travel Nurse Across America provided this article.

If you are new to the travel nursing world or are thinking of making the transition to travel, it might seem overwhelming. Finding the right guidance and support is essential for your success. Don’t worry – you are not alone! While there are many logistics to figure out, there are also several resources to help you easily make the transition. Read on to learn more about the top resources for new travel nurses to provide you with the knowledge, insights, and community you need to thrive in your travel nursing career!

Top Resources for New Travel Nurses

Travel Nurse Mentorships

One of the most effective ways to transition into travel nursing is through mentorship. Experienced travel nurses can offer invaluable insights and guidance, helping you navigate the challenges and maximize the opportunities in this field.

Travel Nurse 101, run by seasoned travel nurse Brandy Pinkerton, is not only one of the most popular and informative sites for travel nurses but also provides travel nurses with a complimentary mentorship session. For anyone new to the travel nursing career, Travel Nurse 101 is a phenomenal resource to get started on the right foot, and Brandy is dedicated to helping travel nurses thrive in their travel careers.

Travel Nurse Organizations and Communities

Joining a travel nursing organization or community can provide a support network of like-minded professionals who share your experiences and challenges. These communities are invaluable for networking, learning, and staying informed about industry trends.

You probably already know how wonderful The Gypsy Nurse is for learning about all things travel nursing. In addition to covering almost every topic imaginable on its blog, it hosts live and on-demand events and an excellent podcast. Their discussions cover current issues and trends from the perspective of travel nurses, allied travel professionals, healthcare staffing firms, and key industry players, making it an essential resource for all travel healthcare professionals.

Social media groups can also provide new travel nurses with a great community and resources. One group boasting over 187,000 members is the Travel Nurse Network—The Gypsy Nurse on Facebook. Join it to connect with fellow travelers, ask questions, share your insights, and keep up with what’s happening in the travel nurse world.

Webinars and Live Events

Another fantastic way to learn more about the travel nursing industry is to attend travel-centric events. Leading agencies and travel nursing organizations host opportunities to learn more about the many facets of travel nursing and get answers to your specific questions.

TravCon is one event travel nurses do not want to miss. It’s the largest traveling healthcare conference in the United States, but it’s so much more than just a conference. Healthcare travelers gather in Las Vegas for opportunities to earn continuing education credits (CEs), hear from top professionals in the industry, network with like-minded travelers, and cut loose Vegas-style while being spoiled by all the vendors in attendance. Attendees leave TravCon feeling more knowledgeable, better paid, and more savvy about their healthcare travel careers.

TNAA hosts monthly online discussions covering various aspects of the travel nurse industry. Available both live and on-demand, these webinars provide advice on everything travelers need to make their assignments a success. Offered live monthly and available on-demand anytime, TNAA masterclasses are excellent for anyone considering making the switch to travel nursing. Join their upcoming session on Monday, July 22, as they show travelers how to boost their careers through the power of networking.

Your Travel Nurse Recruiter and Agency Resources

A reliable recruiter and support team can make all the difference in your travel nursing career. A great recruiter is your advocate, helping you find assignments that align with your goals, negotiating contracts, and providing guidance throughout your journey. They can offer valuable insights into different facilities and locations, helping you make informed decisions about your assignments.

In addition to your recruiter, having a support team that includes housing coordinators, compliance specialists, and payroll professionals ensures that all aspects of your assignment are handled smoothly. This team works behind the scenes to secure your housing, ensure you meet all compliance requirements, and address any payroll issues promptly. Ask your recruiter what resources your agency provides, and make sure you have the support you need to succeed.

Ready to Embark on Your Travel Nursing Journey?

Making the switch to travel nursing is a bold and rewarding decision. With the right resources, guidance, and community, you can navigate this new path with confidence. From informative websites and podcasts to supportive communities and expert-led masterclasses, these resources are designed to help you succeed every step of the way. Embrace the adventure, explore new places, and advance your career with the knowledge and support of these top resources for travel nurses. Your exciting journey awaits – take the plunge today!

We hope you found these resources for new travel nurses helpful. Do you have any resources for new travel nurses that you think should make the list? Comment them 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 search.

Not everyone knows about being a travel nurse, a unique life path. If this is your first time diving into this line of work, there are a few things that you should know so that you can make the most of it. In this article, we’ll cover different tips for first-time travel nurses that you can apply so that the start of your life as a travel nurse will be a smooth one.

10 Practical Tips for First-Time Travel Nurses

1. Do your research

When you think of being a travel nurse, the thought that occupies you most is the traveling part. However, there’s more to being a travel nurse than you should research first to ensure that you are appropriately prepared for the job.

Of course, travel is one of the first things that you should think about. Prepare all your travel documents, have a ready-to-go travel pack at all times, and so on.

If you’re working with a travel nurse agency and recruitment, look into the customer testimonials. They should have a positive reputation and a portfolio of travel nurses they’ve helped. Before you send your travel nurse application, though, don’t be afraid to interview the agency since if things don’t go well, you will have to clean up the mess in the first place.

Another thing that you should look into is the tax part. You can consult a tax professional about the different tax requirements, especially as you move from state to state.

2. Read your contract thoroughly

For first-time travel nurses, it is especially important to read your contract thoroughly. If you’re doing anything that involves a legally binding contract, make sure that you read through it thoroughly. Since it may be your first time, you might feel pressured to sign the contract and move on. However, you’re just setting yourself up for future frustrations.

Make sure to read through the contract terms. Some of the critical factors that you should be paying more attention to in the contract would be:

Assignment length
Requirements for the shift
Payment, compensation, benefits, and any travel reimbursements
Specific job responsibilities
Housing arrangements
Time off and sick leave conditions

If there are any terms in your contract that you want clarification on or want to change because they are not favorable to you, then bring them up with the representative.

3. Pack smart

If you plan to be a travel nurse for a long time, you must start mastering the art of packing for travel. For first-time travel nurses, it may seem strange to pay so little, but it’s unlike how you would usually pack for leisure. It would help if you were as intelligent and picky with what you pack as much as possible. Given that you’re traveling often, packing a lot of items all the time will be rough and time-consuming.

Stick to clothes, toiletries, and only a few shoes. Creating a list of the items you regularly need and use during your assignments can help you establish the core items you should pack.

Creating a standard list of your core travel items might take a while. Once you’ve narrowed that down, it’s a good idea to have a pack of items or toiletries to throw in your luggage and be ready to go.

4. Plan your housing

First-time travel nurses may choose to take agency-provided housing; your travel nurse contract should include terms of your housing if there are any. It should consist of details like:

Check-in and check-out times
The type of housing they provide
Furnishing availability
Cleaning items availability
Details on utilities
Parking situation
Laundry facility

Again, if you have any questions about the housing arrangements, you should talk to your recruiter to clarify the details. That way, you will know what your housing might not have and what you might have to buy when you get there.

Sometimes, they might not provide housing for you, or you may choose not to take agency-provided housing. In that case, you will have to make the arrangements yourself. What you should look for in your housing will depend on your stay there. The longer you have to be there, the more amenities you should want in your accommodations.

5. Prioritize self-care and work-life balance

When you are well cared for, that energy and proper self-maintenance will translate to better work performance as a nurse. While providing excellent service in your work is a good idea, that doesn’t mean you should forget your life outside of being a travel nurse.

Make the most of your ability to move around. During your downtime, get out of your accommodations and explore the area. You should dine out sometimes and hike on local trails if there are any.

Don’t forget to take care of yourself by eating healthy foods and adding some exercise time to your schedule whenever possible.

6. Bring your family along on your travels

While it might feel better to leave your family behind when you have temporary assignments, especially for first-time travel nurses, having your family along for your assignments might provide the emotional and social support you need, especially as you move from place to place.

Bringing your kids along is also a great way to expand their minds and let them experience new environments. While doing this might take much more work to arrange, it can be a great bonding point for everyone involved. Plus, you don’t always have to do it for every assignment.

7. Maintain an optimistic mindset

You might feel like since you’re a travel nurse, creating positive relationships with the people you work with is a waste of effort, but that sort of mindset can create unpleasant work environments.

Working with an open mind and a social approach will make you have a pleasant time at work, no matter how long you stay in a particular place. If you socialize and maintain that optimism, the job will be more enjoyable, and you will have new friendships that can make your work assignments less lonely.

8. Make new friendships

Talk to the people you work with. Please get to know them. No matter how short your assignment duration is, taking the time to socialize with your coworkers makes it a lot easier to spend your work days.

While many people don’t like small talk, sometimes it’s a great way to create a smooth working relationship without too much commitment on your part if you don’t want to. Plus, when you get along with the people you work with, the shifts go by slightly faster and easier.

9. Arrive early on your first day

The first impression you give to your new assignment can set a tone, at least for your first few shifts in the hospital. That’s why it’s a good idea to arrive early on the first day of your assignment. It’s a great way to get the lay of the land and how your shifts will go.

Aside from arriving early for your assignment, it’s also a good idea to arrive at your accommodations earlier—ideally a few days before your shift. That way, you have enough time to unpack and settle into your accommodations before the ball gets rolling for your assignment.

10. Plan your free time

Despite best intentions, sometimes, you can’t help but forget that you should be doing something during your free time. As mentioned before, it’s a good idea to make the most of your traveling as a travel nurse.

Explore the local hotspots and dining options. Join local events. These are the experiences that you should be doing with your new assignments. Instead of waiting until this happens, be more deliberate about it and plan your free time or schedule it just like you would with work.

Conclusion

The advice here should help prepare first-time travel nurses for the world of travel nursing. By applying these tips, the transition to this new and unique lifestyle should be a lot smoother, and you can soon reap the benefits and enjoy your life as a travel nurse.

Do you have any tips for first-time travel nurses? Comment any tips you think are helpful 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 search.

Go Healthcare Staffing provided this article.

Embarking on your first travel nursing assignment is like stepping onto a stage for the first time. It’s a blend of excitement, anticipation, and the thrill of the unknown. While the journey may seem daunting at first, with the right mindset and preparation, you can transition from a rookie to a rock star in the world of travel nursing. We’re here to guide you through the process, providing valuable insights and tips to help you navigate your first travel nursing assignment with confidence and success.

Here are 10 essential tips to navigate your first travel assignment:

1. Research Your Destination:

Before you pack your bags, take the time to thoroughly research your destination. Understanding the city or town where you’ll be working will help you acclimate faster. Learn about the local culture, climate, cost of living, and recreational opportunities. Are there any unique healthcare challenges in the area? Being well-informed about your destination can ease the transition.

2. Choose the Right Agency:

Selecting the right travel nursing agency is a critical first step. Look for agencies with a strong reputation for supporting their nurses. They should offer competitive pay packages, provide comprehensive benefits, and have a track record of placing nurses in quality assignments. Reach out to fellow travel nurses for recommendations and read reviews to gauge the agency’s reliability.

3. Prepare Your Documentation:

Ensure all your nursing licenses and certifications are up-to-date before you begin your assignment. This includes your RN license, BLS, ACLS, and any other specialized certifications required for your assignment. Having all your documentation in order will prevent any last-minute hiccups.

4. Establish a Budget:

Create a realistic budget that considers your living expenses, travel costs, and any debt obligations. While travel nursing can be financially rewarding, managing your finances wisely is essential for long-term success.

5. Housing Matters:

Discuss housing options with your agency. Be mindful of your budget and the location of your assignment when making this decision. Research neighborhoods and read reviews to ensure your housing choice is safe and convenient.

6. Embrace Flexibility:

Flexibility is a hallmark of travel nursing. You’ll be working in different healthcare settings with varying policies and procedures. Be open to adapting and learning quickly. Your ability to adjust to new environments and work with diverse teams will be a significant asset.

7. Prioritize Self-Care:

Nursing is a demanding profession, and travel nursing comes with its unique set of challenges. Prioritize self-care to maintain your physical and mental well-being. Ensure you get enough rest, eat healthily, and engage in activities that help you relax and recharge. Burnout can be a real concern in healthcare, so take time for yourself.

8. Embrace Learning Opportunities:

Every assignment is an opportunity to expand your skills and knowledge. Whether you’re working in a busy urban hospital or a rural clinic, approach each assignment with a learning mindset. Be open to new experiences, techniques, and patient populations. The variety of assignments in travel nursing can significantly enrich your professional growth.

9. Stay Organized:

Travel nursing assignments involve a lot of paperwork and logistics. Stay organized by keeping track of important documents, such as licenses, certifications, and tax-related information. Create a system that works for you, whether it’s using digital apps or traditional filing systems.

10. Plan for Your Next Assignment:

As your first assignment comes to an end, start planning for the next one. Reach out to your agency early to discuss your preferences for your next location and assignment. Being proactive in planning your future assignments will give you more control over your travel nursing career.

Transitioning from a rookie to a rock star in the world of travel nursing requires preparation, adaptability, and a passion for nursing. Each assignment is a unique opportunity to grow personally and professionally. With the right mindset and the support of a reputable agency, you can embark on a fulfilling and successful career as a travel nurse. Embrace the challenges, savor the experiences, and enjoy the journey of making a positive impact on patients’ lives across the country.

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

Top Resources for New Travel Nurses

Travel Nurse Mentorships

Travel Nurse Organizations and Communities

Webinars and Live Events

Your Travel Nurse Recruiter and Agency Resources

Ready to Embark on Your Travel Nursing Journey?

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Related Posts

How Nurses Can Stay Optimistic During the Pandemic

Finding Balance: Healthcare Workers’ Guide to Preventing Burnout and Maintaining Well-Being

9 Reasons to Take a Winter Travel Assignment

Categories

Hot Jobs

Recent Articles

10 Practical Tips for First-Time Travel Nurses

1. Do your research

2. Read your contract thoroughly

3. Pack smart

4. Plan your housing

5. Prioritize self-care and work-life balance

6. Bring your family along on your travels

7. Maintain an optimistic mindset

8. Make new friendships

9. Arrive early on your first day

10. Plan your free time

Conclusion

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Related Posts

Packing Tips from Travel Nurses

Step # 22 How to Make the Most of Your Travel Nurse Contract

How to Resolve Issues With Your Recruiter

Categories

Hot Jobs

Recent Articles

Here are 10 essential tips to navigate your first travel assignment:

1. Research Your Destination:

2. Choose the Right Agency:

3. Prepare Your Documentation:

4. Establish a Budget:

5. Housing Matters:

6. Embrace Flexibility:

7. Prioritize Self-Care:

8. Embrace Learning Opportunities:

9. Stay Organized:

10. Plan for Your Next 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!)

Related Posts

Top Travel Gadgets for Travel Nurses

5 Useful Tips for Working Long Hours

Why Nurse Certification Is Important for Travel Nurses

Categories

Hot Jobs

Recent Articles

Sign Up for Our Community Newsletter Today