October 28, 2022

1865 Views

Preparing for Travel Nursing During the Holidays

Posted on October 28, 2022October 26, 2022 by TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

TNAA Healthcare provided this article.

This will be the first holiday season away from home for thousands of new travelers. For some travel nurses, their family is why they began traveling because they want to earn money that gives their loved ones better lives. Spending this cherished time away from them can be taxing on mental health.

So, how do you prepare to be away during the holidays and set your mental wellness up for success? We reached out to our experienced TNAA ambassadors to get their advice for a holiday season well spent.

Preparing for Travel Nursing During the Holidays:

Don’t Spend It Alone

Our ambassadors’ greatest piece of advice is to team up with fellow travelers or locals on the unit to celebrate the holiday. Getting together to share favorite traditions and side dishes or laugh at a ridiculous holiday movie is a great way to bond and expand your network of friends. Following this advice has been the source of some of their most cherished memories.

Stay Busy

Some travelers cope best by staying busy and choosing to work the holiday. While it’s a bummer not being around your loved ones, it can feel good to know you’re giving staff nurses the opportunity to be at home with their families.

And, if you’re working, know that you are the source of holiday spirit for your patients, so have fun! Get creative with decorations or play festive music on your unit to brighten their spirits.

Plan a Video Call

As one of our ambassadors said, a video call “is a great way to feel included with your family while not being physically present.” Schedule a video call with your family and use the time to open a present or two to feel like you’re part of their festivities that day.

Celebrate Again When You’re Together

A perk part about being a travel nurse is that you can take extended periods off between assignments. So, if you find yourself working on a holiday, plan to celebrate it in full force when you’re back home – even if it is a couple of weeks or months afterward. Your family probably won’t mind leaving the tree up a little longer, baking and decorating treats, or sipping hot cocoa to get into the holiday spirit when you’re together again. After all, it’s not when you celebrate but who you celebrate with that counts the most.

Ask About Your Agency’s Resources

Additionally, whether you’re working the holiday or not, make sure you’re familiar with any mental wellness resources your agency offers in case you, a coworker, or a loved one might need them. The holidays aren’t always merry and bright like we want them to be. Sometimes, the holidays can be difficult to get through for a variety of reasons. Knowing the mental wellness resources accessible to you can set you up for success in the moments when a helping hand or comforting word are most-needed. Are you debating whether you should take off a few days for the holidays or work through them? Read our previous blog highlighting tips for having happy holidays on or off the job.

We hope you found this article on preparing for travel nursing during the holidays helpful. Do you have any tips to share with fellow travel nurses for preparing for holidays as a travel nurse? 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 AMN Healthcare

October 27, 2022

3612 Views

Unlocking Prosperity: Travel Nurse Earnings – Average Pay and Salary Insights

Posted on October 27, 2022December 19, 2023 by AMN Healthcare

AMN Healthcare provided this article.

When healthcare facilities need experienced nurses to fill nurse-to-patient ratios, they rely on travel nurses to fill in the void and get the job done. Travel nurses accept short-term assignments – typically thirteen weeks, to ensure high-quality patient care regardless of whether the healthcare facility has staffing shortages. Due to the flexible nature of the job and the experience the nurse brings to the table, travel nurses are typically paid more than permanent staff nurses.

Average Travel Nurse Salary

As of September 2022, the average travel nurse’s salary is $1,998 per week. (Indeed) There is potential for nurses to earn even more based on their location and specialty.

Highest Paying Travel Nursing Specialties

Speaking of specialties, the higher the demand for a nurse specialty, the higher the salary. The top five specialties for travel nurses include:

Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (CVICU) is the most sought-after nurse specialty because CVICU nurses are responsible for caring for patients after heart transplants and open-heart surgeries. CVICU nurses can generally earn $2,223 to $4,406 per week.

Labor and Delivery (L&D) nurses are also in high demand. These nurses are invaluable and work in the maternity wards. An L&D travel nurse generally earns anywhere from $2,342 to $6,231 per week.

Emergency Room (ER) nurses treat patients in critical condition and suffering from trauma or a condition requiring emergency attention. ER nurses can earn up to $1,900 to $4,284 per week.

Progressive Care Unit (PCU) is a high-demand nurse specialty. PCU nurses quickly think on their feet as they monitor patients’ vital signs. PCU nurses can earn up to $1,914 to $4,333 a week.

Telemetry (TELE) travel nurses monitor patients’ vital signs and assist doctors with various procedures. TELE travel nurses perform the same duties as nurses in permanent positions but earn $1,967 to $4,191 per week, depending on the assignment.

Highest Paying Travel Nurses Locations

The highest-paying travel nurse locations are typically always in California and New York; other cities outside of California and New York with high-paying contracts include; Orlando, FL., and Atlanta, GA. The highest-paying cities in the U.S. for travel nurses are New York, New York; San Diego, California; Denver, Colorado; Atlanta, Georgia; Orlando, Florida; Omaha, Nebraska; and Fort Myers, Florida. (Indeed)

As of September 2022, the states with the highest demand for travel nurses are California, New York, and Pennsylvania.

Traveling Nurse Competition and Benefits

Travel nurses are always in demand, but the competition is chasing the highest salary. Fortunately, salary can be supplemented with benefits. Some agencies offer benefits that may include; health insurance, vision insurance, disability insurance, and life insurance.

How to Increase your Travel Nurse Pay

Travel nurses can increase their pay, which doesn’t require negotiations. American Mobile recruiter, Levi L., shared, “If you want to maximize how much you make, there are different strategies such as finding low housing cost so that you can take home more money, take housing we provide, or take the housing subsidy. Also, take a look at tax rates. Some states don’t have a state income tax, while in California, nurses receive time and a half (overtime pay) if they work over eight hours.

Another option would be to consider various certifications. For example, some ER nurse positions pay more for nurses who have a TNCC certification.”

“The best option is to tell your recruiter your financial or compensation goals. While you can easily find the highest wages using AMN Passport, you don’t always want to base your final decision on the wage to meet your compensation goals.

That’s what the recruiter is here for – to maximize your compensation and optimize your experience.”

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 Lirika Hart

October 26, 2022

3216 Views

9 Tips for Travel Nursing While Pregnant

Posted on October 26, 2022September 27, 2022 by Lirika Hart

The period of time when a woman is pregnant is very unique and important. It brings challenges and new worries, but the joy is great. However, some women may have a harder time and many challenges during pregnancy. Especially when the woman is a traveling nurse on duty while pregnant.

Below we have listed some travel tips for expectant mothers.

Inform the Facility about your Pregnancy

It is best to let your company or facility know that you are pregnant so they can support you. They can advise you on decisions you may need to make and other issues.

Once the recruiter knows about your pregnancy, they must also inform the people who will receive your invitations and short-term assignments.

Don’t avoid Regular Checkups

The road to motherhood leads through an exciting and joyful phase called pregnancy. A woman’s physical health must be closely monitored during this crucial time, as the health of the unborn child depends heavily on prenatal care.

Prenatal care visits are extremely important. Your usual prenatal visits will be affected by your work as a traveling nurse, but you should not skip them. Depending on whether you gave birth in a public or private hospital, in a birth center, or at home, your exams and tests may be done at a hospital, doctor’s office, or other location in your community.

Take care and avoid Hazardous Situations

It may be difficult for a pregnant nurse to avoid teratogenic and fetotoxic exposures and work situations that could jeopardize her pregnancy, depending on her workplace, particular immunity, and stage of pregnancy.

As a nurse expecting a child, be extremely careful and stay away from these hazards. Do not handle or expose yourself to heavy medications, such as chemotherapy drugs. Also, be careful when giving injections or medications by IV to avoid accidental needle sticks. Clean your hands thoroughly and put on a mask for extra protection if necessary.

Maternity leave

Time flies, so it’s best if you try to plan everything; even if the plan changes, be prepared for it. Make plans for maternity leave as well, because that way, you will be better prepared for the time when you have to go on maternity leave. If you already know where you will deliver your baby and when you plan to take your leave, it will be much easier to coordinate your travel nurse assignments with your delivery date. If you have the option, you should end your contract around 37 weeks after delivery to be extra cautious. Also, use a pregnancy calculator to calculate your pregnancy days. Most often, they indicate the exact time of the baby’s birth.

Take breaks and pay attention to your diet

Breaks and rest are critical to the health and well-being of you and your unborn child during pregnancy.

Taking breaks can help you stay hydrated and satisfied. Pregnant women are advised to drink plenty of water daily to stay hydrated and avoid problems like swelling, bladder infections, and even early labor.

Prepare healthy snacks for your shift, such as fruit or protein bars. Adequate and nutritious food is essential for your baby’s growth and development. Also, your body will produce amniotic fluid if you consume enough nutritious fluids. Don’t forget to take your prenatal vitamins, as they contain all the important nutrients for pregnancy.

Avoid stress

Stress is another element that can harm our bodies, and it is possible that it is the biggest threat to a woman’s overall health during pregnancy. High blood pressure can be caused by stress. You run the risk of developing preeclampsia, a dangerously high blood pressure condition, giving birth too early, and having an underweight baby. It is important to take care of yourself and make an effort to reduce stress now and throughout the year.

Have an emergency plan in mind

During pregnancy, it is important to have an emergency plan. If you are traveling far from home, your health may change suddenly. Before you leave, find out if your health insurance is accepted at different hospitals or in other states. Prenatal care, delivery treatments, and other services are covered by health insurance for pregnant women. Check the rate summary before choosing your health insurance plan. Each plan includes a summary that lists the expected cost of prenatal care. Because each plan uses the same form, it’s easy to compare prices and benefits. You can find the rate summaries on the Health Insurance Marketplace.

If you notice changes in your body, you may become anxious. Instead, find out about the signs that could indicate something more serious.

Pack what you need about your traveling as a pregnant woman

Even though there are many, you should keep in mind that you will need to pack a lot of things during pregnancy. However, it is advisable to be prepared and have everything you need during this time or for unforeseen circumstances. Take enough for a few extra days in case your travel plans change.

Do not Take Things Personally

Being a nurse is a stressful profession. When you are in this profession, try to avoid problems and don’t take things personally because it can harm your body and your health in general.

Conclusion

Every woman should plan her pregnancy carefully, but it can be more difficult if you are working. However, if you follow some rules, such as putting the health and well-being of the patient first, communicating with the facility, planning for the birth, taking care of the patient’s health, eating and drinking, taking supplements, and having an emergency plan, it can be easy to afford travel jobs as a nurse. If you are in this profession, try to avoid problems and don’t take things personally because they can harm your body and your health in general.

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 Crais Robert

October 25, 2022

1798 Views

Opportunity Knocks for Travel Nurses

Posted on October 25, 2022May 2, 2023 by Crais Robert

Travel nursing offers unique and nearly limitless opportunities for nurses who want to tackle new personal and professional challenges. Benefits offered by many travel agencies include:

free housing (with paid utilities or housing stipend)
401K contributions
paid liability, health, and dental insurance premiums
workers compensation coverage
an opportunity to earn completion and referral bonuses
travel reimbursement to and from assignments
competitive pay rates
paid continuing education credits and state licensing fees

Travel assignments are typically 13 weeks long, and a traveler who adapts quickly and has good problem-solving skills may have the opportunity to extend a favorite travel assignment—or even turn it into a permanent position.

Points to consider

The adventure of travel nursing sounds exciting, but nurses considering this career option should weigh the pros against the cons. For example, travel agencies may not offer sick time or vacation pay benefits, and nurses can be financially penalized if they don’t complete a 40-hour work week. In addition, travel nurses are usually expected to stay to complete a patient assignment that takes longer than anticipated, just like the permanent staff. Taking call, working weekends, or being assigned to different shifts may also be a part of the job. Still, for some travel assignments, such as those at outpatient surgical centers, nurses don’t take call or work weekends and holidays.

You can do it

Quickly establishing mutual respect and a solid working relationship with new colleagues can be an ongoing challenge. Travelers must stay professional at all times, take responsibility for their actions, and be able to adapt to the workplace culture.

Travel nurses are compensated well, and hospitals and surgical centers have correspondingly high expectations. Travelers are expected to adapt rapidly and function efficiently in an unfamiliar setting, which can be stressful. Because orientation time can vary widely between facilities, nurses should ask potential employers about the type of orientation provided before accepting a travel assignment. Also, ask how members of the department work together as a team and what kind of supplies, equipment, and resources are available.

To increase the chances of selecting the right travel assignment, a nurse considering traveling should take advantage of the expertise of travel recruiters. Nurses should let recruiters know why they want to travel, such as for recreation, professional growth, or financial reasons. Be completely honest when completing the skills list that’s sent to potential employers.

Mutual support

Once you’ve chosen an assignment, you’ll need the support and cooperation of permanent nurses and staff to help you get your bearings in a new facility.

Be friendly and show new coworkers that you’re ready and able to work hard and care for patients. Permanent staff at traveler-friendly hospitals will try to include travelers in the unit’s activities and camaraderie to maximize the entire team’s effectiveness.

Travelers should expect to encounter differences in procedures between facilities and even in different departments within a hospital. Understanding and accepting the similarities and differences between healthcare facilities is an important survival skill for travel nurses.

For some, becoming a traveler is a practical decision at first. Taking advantage of the higher salaries can help them quickly pay off debt or save for special expenses. But once they’ve experienced a few travel assignments, many nurses become hooked on the adventure. Every part of the country has something different to offer, so travelers should keep an open mind when considering potential assignments.

Staying young

Travel nursing can also be a great part-time or semi-retirement career option. Learning and traveling are great ways to stay young.

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 StaffDNA

October 24, 2022

1468 Views

Advice From an Experienced Travel Nurse

Posted on October 24, 2022October 23, 2022 by StaffDNA

StaffDNA provided this article.

In the wake of the Covid-19 crisis, rates for travel healthcare professionals have remained high; therefore, the market has been flooded with healthcare professionals ready to give a travel career a spin. With the added competition, it’s important to put your best foot forward to ensure you’re considered for the position you want.

Where and how to start? According to veteran travel nurse Kay Slane (RN, BS, CGM) of Highway Hypodermics, there are some key ways to make your profile shine and ensure it reaches the top of the manager’s stack.

Make sure your information is accurate and up to date.

By having your profile ready to go, you can get in front of the line when you see the right opportunity for you and be among the first for consideration when jobs are moving fast.

Make sure your highlighted features are at the top.

Hiring managers are busy people, and time is of the essence. Immediately showing that you meet all the qualifications is the best way to catch a manager’s eye.

Spotlight your previous assignment and outstanding performance as a staff nurse.

Nothing carries more weight than solid experience and proven success.

Be aware that your first assignment will be the toughest for you to obtain.

You are competing against healthcare professionals with long work histories and experience as veteran travelers. But don’t let this bother you. We all start somewhere. Include anything that you feel will help you stand out and move ahead with confidence.

Be careful about putting restrictions on what you want as a traveler.

People frequently ask for all holidays off, a position within two hours of home, and a “no floating” clause, and then wonder why they can’t find a traveling job. When it comes to getting your first travel assignment, flexibility and adaptability is the name of the game.

Be realistic about money.

You can’t demand $5,000+/week on your first assignment, especially in most of the southern states. But that doesn’t mean being taken advantage of either. The best advice is to take it slowly at first. It doesn’t take long to build the experience you need to command the pay you want.

Compare the same job with other agencies to make sure you’re getting a fair deal.

Digital platforms like StaffDNA can help give you an accurate view of the marketplace. By eliminating recruiter fees and putting the healthcare professional in control – allowing them to find, book, and manage the whole process – you get access to the highest-paying positions nationwide. And to ensure an apples-to-apples comparison, don’t forget to analyze what agencies offer in benefits, too.

Know exactly what benefits you are looking for and the wage you need.

Benefits can range from insurance to paid time off to a 401k with or without a percentage match. Make sure that your take-home pay is enough to cover your bills and travel expenses.

Using these tips from a veteran traveler can give you the upper hand in finding and acquiring your best travel assignment. With the right approach, you can have a successful travel career built on physical, mental, and financial freedom.

We hope this information from a veteran traveler was helpful. Do you have any tips or advice to share? Comment below.

About StaffDNA

By creating the first self-service healthcare staffing platform built on the industry’s most advanced technology, StaffDNA has revolutionized how healthcare professionals find their next job. Candidates can see available positions nationwide with complete details and apply 24/7. All onboarding can be handled in the app, and once they’ve started, candidates can manage the entire assignment—from credentials and timesheets to booking or extending a contract. StaffDNA has been designated the first Total Staffing Solution from Staffing Industry Analysts, the global advisor on staffing and workforce solutions. The company frequently makes regional and national Best Places to Work lists, including from Dallas Business Journal and Modern Healthcare. The StaffDNA app currently averages 30,000 unique downloads a month, making it the #1 downloaded app in the healthcare staffing industry.

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 Nurse First Travel Agency

October 21, 2022

1684 Views

12 Tips to Survive a Travel Nurse Night Shift

Posted on October 21, 2022October 18, 2022 by Nurse First Travel Agency

Nurse First Travel Agency provided this article.

Travel nursing has become a great career choice for nurses who want to travel and earn extra income. The job often involves working long hours at night, often in less desirable travel nurse locations. If you’re thinking about becoming a travel nurse, you should know that working nights can be challenging. There are some things you can do to prepare for the transition from day to night shifts.

When you become a travel nurse, you’ll likely spend several weeks or months away from home. This means you’ll miss out on family time and other important events. To cope with these challenges, you’ll want to plan ahead. But it doesn’t have to be miserable. Read on for 12 tips to survive a travel nurse night shift and ensure your success.

12 tips to survive a travel nurse night shift and ensure your success.

1. Prepare Yourself Beforehand

Before you leave home, plan out your schedule so you know when you’ll be sleeping, eating, showering, etc. Also, pack all of your medications and medical equipment ahead of time.

2. Eat Healthy

During your overnight shift, you’re going to be eating very little. So, eat well before you leave home. Avoid junk food and unhealthy snacks. Instead, pack something like fruit, nuts, granola bars, protein shakes, etc.

3. Stay Hydrated

It’s also important to stay hydrated during your overnight shift. Drinking lots of water will prevent you from feeling thirsty. When you’re thirsty, you tend to drink more fluids. And, when you drink more fluid, you lose weight. So, staying hydrated will help you avoid losing weight.

4. Wear Comfortable Clothes

Wear clothes that are comfortable. You’ll be wearing them for hours at a time. So, choose clothes that fit comfortably but still look professional.

5. Be Prepared

Be prepared for your overnight shift. Have everything you need ready ahead of time. Bring along your uniform, medications, phone charger, etc.

6. Take breaks

Try to take short breaks every hour or so. Get up and stretch your legs. Walk around the room. Do whatever helps you relax.

7. Make Friends With Other Nurses

Nurses are like family. They understand what you go through every day. When you’re having a rough night, you want someone to talk to about it. So, find out where the nurses hang out during the night shift. Maybe there’s a coffee shop nearby. If you don’t know anyone else, start making friends now.

8. Create A Consistent Sleep Pattern

You’ve heard it before: “Sleep when you’re tired.” Well, that’s true. But how do you know when you’re really tired? One way to tell is to wake up naturally. Instead of waking up to an alarm, wake up naturally. Go to bed around the same time each night. Then, wake up naturally again. Once you establish a consistent sleep pattern, you won’t feel tired when you wake up.

9. Stick to your schedule

When you’re on a travel nurse assignment, there’s no way to predict what days you might be called upon to work. So you need to develop a routine that works best for you. For example, some nurses like to wake up early and go straight to bed late, while others prefer to keep their mornings free. Whatever works best for you, make sure you stick to it.

10. Don’t eat before bedtime

The best way to avoid getting sick while traveling is to make sure you don’t eat anything too heavy before bedtime. You’ll want to keep it light and healthy, like fruit, nuts, yogurt, and granola bars. Avoid eating meat, dairy, bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, and sweets.

11. Meal Prep

You might think that meal prepping makes things easier, but it actually makes them more complicated because you won’t know what you’re having for dinner until you’ve already eaten breakfast. When possible, try to cook one day ahead and freeze meals you know you’ll eat later. This will help you save money and space in your suitcase.

12. Keep your room cool.

When it comes time to sleep, keeping a cooler room may help. A cooler temperature helps regulate your internal body temperature. Try keeping your bedroom around 68 degrees Fahrenheit. You can even add blackout curtains since the light from outside might deter you from falling asleep.

Conclusion

Travel nursing is a rewarding career choice because you get paid to travel across the country and provide care to patients who need medical attention. In addition to earning a good hourly wage, you also get to experience new places and meet interesting people. The job also offers flexibility and independence. You’ll be working long hours, but you’ll enjoy the benefits of being away from home.

The downside is that you’ll often spend long hours at the hospital or clinic where you work. This means that you’ll miss out on time with family and friends back home. But don’t worry. Following our tips on how to survive a travel nurse night shift can ensure that you enjoy your travels.

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 Nadine Westwood

October 13, 2022

2768 Views

6 Useful Apps for Managing Your Finances When You’re Working as a Travel Nurse

Posted on October 13, 2022October 5, 2022 by Nadine Westwood

The life of a nurse is busy enough without also having to worry about keeping your finances in order when you’ve got little time to spare each day.

Luckily there are lots of excellent apps out there which make it straightforward to stay on top of all things money-related, so let’s look at the best of the bunch and explain why they’re worth using.

Mint: Comprehensive budget tracking

This is one of the most celebrated and widely recommended budgeting apps on the market and for good reason.

First up, Mint is free to download and use, so as long as you can put up with the in-app ads, it won’t cost you a penny.

Next, there’s the intelligent way that it tracks spending and breaks down your outgoings according to their categories. So if you’re trying to manage your budget while on the move, it will give you a snapshot of where you’re up to in an instant.

Last, there’s the simplicity of the interface, which belies the comprehensive suite of functions that are on offer. Simply put, there’s no better free budgeting app out there than Mint.

SoFi: All-in-one stock trading

More and more people are getting into the stock market at the moment, and the convenience of apps like SoFi, which lets you trade stocks online, is a big reason for this.

The market moves quickly, so you’ll want an app that lets you keep tabs on your portfolio and invest in a diverse array of products, including ETFs and even cryptocurrencies. That’s exactly what SoFi offers, and in addition to assisting with trading from your smartphone, it also makes filing tax returns easier each year when you need to report your gains to the IRS.

The app is award-winningly intuitive, and there are often incentives to encourage new customers to sign up, which will sweeten the deal further. So whatever your investment goals, SoFi is the app to use to reach them.

Venmo: Mobile payments

There are plenty of mobile payment platforms that let you send and receive money swiftly, and Venmo is arguably the top contender out there at the moment.

It functions like a digital wallet, meaning you can harness it for everything from splitting the bill at a restaurant with friends to sending gifts to family members.

Many businesses support Venmo as well, so paying for goods and services when you’re on the go is child’s play. Better yet, if you decide to set up a side hustle to supplement your income, you can use Venmo to accept payments as well.

Credit Karma: Free credit score & reporting

Even if you think you’re pretty good at managing your money, you won’t know where you stand unless you check your credit score regularly.

While some brands charge a fee if you want to access your full credit report, Credit Karma is free of charge.

It not only tells you your score out of 710 points, with weekly updates provided so you can monitor your progress over time but also pinpoints the factors that are influencing your score. That way, you can make changes that will boost your score in the future, and you’ll also know if there’s some issue or error that’s holding you back and needs to be rectified.

You can link bank accounts, track your mortgage, review credit cards, and even get suggestions for offers that will save you money on particular finance products, all within the Credit Karma app, so it really is convenient.

YNAB: Premium budget management

Mint may be free, but there are also premium products out there that target the same market and go above and beyond to justify the monthly fees they charge.

You Need A Budget, or YNAB for short, is one of the most feature-rich platforms out there and has some interesting aims underpinning its design.

For one, it wants to empower users by showing them where their money is going and encouraging them to make changes which will ensure every dollar counts for something.

It boasts that a typical user can expect to slash $6,000 off their spending in the first year of use, which justifies the almost $100 cost of an annual subscription.

Personal Capital: High-end wealth management

If your main issue is that you’ve got quite a bit of cash to put to work, and you don’t know how to go about this, Personal Capital has got you covered.

Wealth management is the name of the game here, and while the fees are fairly steep, the access to finance experts it affords you is perhaps the most saleable aspect of the app.

As you can see, it pays to match the finance apps you use to your needs, so don’t go all-in on installing every recommended app, but only choose the ones that make sense for your circumstances.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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

START HERE

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

By Advantis Medical Staffing

October 12, 2022

2437 Views

The Best Places to Travel Nurse in Winter

Posted on October 12, 2022October 5, 2022 by Advantis Medical Staffing

Advantis Medical Staffing provided this article.

Travel nurses are planners. On top of your game and generally ahead of the pack, planning your assignments well in advance is common. Location is often cited as the most important factor in job selection. So as the weather is changing and the air is getting cooler, what does your winter look like? Here are some of the best travel nurse locations for winter. We’ve included destinations for those of you who love the cold. Some locations are best for travel nurses with family or friends. Still, other states suit travelers who can’t wait for summer. Whichever you are, we hope you find inspiration!

Cold Weather Destinations for Travel Nurses

You know who you are – you start eyeing wool sweaters in August, and you celebrate Christmas in July. Why? Because you love EVERYTHING winter! The crisp air, the warm clothes, winter sports, and hot cocoa. These cold-weather destinations are not for the faint of heart or the boring of spirit.

Illinois – Travel nurses are a special kind of brave, and that’s necessary to endure an Illinois winter. If your answer to sub-zero temps is, “Bring it on,” we’d recommend Chicago. Ice skating under the Bean at Millennium Park. Stroll along the Magnificent Mile and Lakefront Trail to take in the sights. In the evening, you can enjoy cocktails and curling on the rooftop rink at The Gwen Hotel. Whether you crave sports, culture, or a culinary adventure, you can thrive in the Windy City.

New York – Travel nurses, can live the dream. You can spend 13 weeks in New York City without the cost of long-term residency. View the skyline from a heated boat tour, skate under the famous Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center, and take in a Broadway or off-Broadway show! Make sure to pack your best shoes when you head to NYC. If you prefer a slower pace, Upstate New York has peaceful charm while still offering city access on days off.

Alaska – If laying eyes on the Northern Lights is on your bucket list; this is the assignment for you. In coastal locations, which average around 25 degrees Fahrenheit, you can enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle. Coastal cities include population centers like Juneau and Anchorage. Enjoy ice skating, snowshoeing, or playing hockey. Remember to bring serious gear for this sub-arctic adventure. Also, pack sunlight-supplementing full spectrum lights to combat Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Winter Locations for Travel Nurses with Friends or Family

Winter is a magical season during which many of us celebrate holidays. Togetherness with friends or family is often a priority around now. Accept assignments in these places for adventures best enjoyed by more than one.

Washington – Washington State is great for travelers with families. Leavenworth is a storybook Bavarian town tucked away in the Cascade Mountains, where you can visit an actual reindeer farm! Fit friends and family can hike for miles through the ancient Hoh Rainforest. And the most fearless travelers can venture into the spooky Seattle Underground with their crew.

New Mexico – The Land of Enchantment offers breathtaking winter escapes and cultural experiences. Witness massive formations in Carlsbad Caverns, sled down ivory hills in White Sands National Park, or hit the slopes in Taos. Decompress on off-days in Santa Fe, where you can visit the Plaza Area museums for cultural experiences. You’ll find souvenirs in the many local galleries.

Utah – Nothing showcases the Utah landscape quite like a blanket of snow. Winter sports include skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and even snow tubing. Explore breathtaking destinations such as Park City and Arches National Park. For those who like seeing more than doing, don’t miss the stunning annual Ice Castle display in Heber Valley.

South Carolina – From Charleston’s charm to Myrtle Beach’s sandy shores, South Carolina truly has something for everyone. The many state parks and dedicated outdoor spaces are great places for observing wildlife and admiring the region’s flora and fauna. History buffs can make a stop in Gaffney to visit the site of a Revolutionary War battle.

Travel Nurses Who Can’t Wait for Summer

Texas – The Lone Star State offers a wide variety of winter escapes. You can spend a weekend fishing on the Gulf Coast or head west to Big Bend State Park. Texas’ temperate winter weather is also perfect for those who want to visit Waco’s famed Magnolia Farms, the Fort Worth Stockyards, or Dallas’ happening Arts District. Everything’s bigger in Texas – including the fun.

California –Nature lovers, head west. Yosemite’s breathtaking Horsetail Falls turn golden at sunset in February. Head to Joshua Tree National Park to check out its odd-looking namesake plants. Or delight in a mass migration of monarch butterflies at Pacific Grove. Of course, the famed California beaches make for the perfect unwinding destinations. And wine country is a can’t–miss on your days off.

Louisiana – Head down to Louisiana for amazing music, historic architecture, and incredible food! Plus, if your winter assignment falls around February, you can go to New Orleans to experience all the festivities of Mardis Gras. You can catch and cook your dinner on the same boat at the coast. Or head to the scenic Atchafalaya swamps in the heart of the state on your weekend.

What to Pack for a Winter Travel Assignment

Congrats! You’ve accepted a winter travel nurse assignment. Start knowing you’ll need to pack more strategically for cold weather assignments than for warm ones. You’ll need more layers along with bulky items like coats, boots, and possibly heavy blankets, depending on your living arrangements. Here’s a winter checklist to get you started:

Layers (plan strategically for different environments)
Coats, jackets, scarves, hats, and gloves
Boots / waterproof shoes
Heavy blankets and throws
Moisturizer for dry skin
Skis or other winter sports supplies suitable for your destination
Cold medicine for the inevitable sniffles
Humidifier

Travel Nursing Adventure that Gives You the Chills

Whatever your favorite season or weather, travel nurses can fully experience a new destination four or more times a year. As you crisscross the country taking care of others, make sure you take time for fun and self-care. Each travel job can be a new chapter in your travel career. You can enjoy each day more fully; plus, the memories you make will last a lifetime.

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 Amber Pickler

October 9, 2022

5381 Views

Cold-Weather Travel Assignment Location Tips

Posted on October 9, 2022November 1, 2022 by Amber Pickler

This article was sponsored by Furnished Finder.

As a travel nurse, you can take assignments around the country. Which can sometimes mean going to a location where the weather conditions are new to you. The most significant adjustment seems to be going from warmer to colder states. Especially in winter. We have put together some tips to help you make it through your cold-weather assignment.

Long warm coat

Winters can be brutal. You have not only snow and ice but the wind. You will need a nice warm coat. Many people go for longer coats because they cover more. Down coats are great for cold-weather assignment locations as they provide more warmth than other fillers. Northface, Nautica, Columbia, and many other name brands offer great options. You could even purchase a skiing or snowboarding jacket as they are made to wear outdoors while doing either activity and will provide great warmth.

Warm Winter Hat or Earmuffs

Along with your warm winter coat, you may want to consider a nice warm hat. With the cold winds, your ears can and most likely will get cold. If you aren’t a fan of hats, you can consider some earmuffs. They won’t cover your hair, but they will protect your ears from the harsh winter wind.

Snow boots

Snow boots are a must in cold-weather assignment locations. Insulated winter boots are best. Ugg boots are cute in theory, but your feet will not be protected when the slush gets them wet. There are many great options as far as brands. LL Bean, Columbia, Sorel, and North Face are all great options. I would suggest getting boots that go higher than your ankle, the snow is most likely going to be higher than your ankle, and you don’t want the snow going into your boots, trust me!

Warm Gloves

Gloves are also a must. Your hands will be freezing by the time you get from the facility to your car; then, you may have to clean your car off. Make sure you get good warm gloves, not the one-dollar ones at Walmart or Target. I would suggest getting thick Wool gloves or insulated ones. They will keep the melted snow from getting to your hands longer.

Jumper Cables and Ice Scraper for your Car

Winter weather is brutal on your car’s battery, so you can find yourself stranded with a dead battery at any point. Having a pair of jumper cables in your car is a must in colder weather locations, especially in the winter. This way, you aren’t relying on others to have a pair.

An ice scraper in your car is also a must. You may go into your shift, and your car is completely free of snow or ice, and finish your shift with a car covered in either of both. Depending on the size of your car, a long handle may be beneficial to scrape the snow off the top of your vehicle as well.

Emergency Kit for the car

Getting stranded in your car in the snow and/or ice can happen. It is important to have an emergency kit if the situation happens. While you may tweak the list to include things you may need like daily medication or if you travel with pets, extra food for them, here is a list of things to include for emergency situations.

A blanket or two
Granola bars, trail mix, beef jerky, or any non-perishable easy-to-eat foods
kitty litter, to put under your tires for traction
a small or foldable shovel
first aid kit
gallon of water
change of warm clothes

Great Cold Weather Assignment Locations

These are just a few great options for colder weather locations to think about.

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

Preparing for Travel Nursing During the Holidays:

Don’t Spend It Alone

Stay Busy

Plan a Video Call

Celebrate Again When You’re Together

Ask About Your Agency’s Resources

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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Maternity leave

Take breaks and pay attention to your diet

Avoid stress

Have an emergency plan in mind

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Do not Take Things Personally

Conclusion

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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Make sure your highlighted features are at the top.

Spotlight your previous assignment and outstanding performance as a staff nurse.

Be aware that your first assignment will be the toughest for you to obtain.

Be careful about putting restrictions on what you want as a traveler.

Be realistic about money.

Compare the same job with other agencies to make sure you’re getting a fair deal.

Know exactly what benefits you are looking for and the wage you need.

About StaffDNA

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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