Fusion Medical Staffing provided this article.

The holiday season can feel like a whirlwind. Between the festive chaos, holiday shifts, and maybe even some personal travel, it’s no wonder that things may feel a little out of sync afterward.

Whether you’re adjusting to a new travel nursing assignment, catching up on self-care, or just trying to find your rhythm again, easing back into your normal routine doesn’t have to be overwhelming. These are some practical tips to help you get back into the swing of things after the holiday season.

Travel Nurse Tips for Returning to Normal After the Holiday Season

Ease back into your routine.

One of the best favors you can gift yourself is easing back into your routine after a brief holiday hiatus. Establishing small, manageable habits helps to create a sense of normalcy, making your transition from holiday fun to day-to-day life a little easier.

Routines are also great for maintaining your physical and mental health, especially for travel nurses like you who thrive on adaptability but still need structure to recharge. Little things like meal prepping, going to bed at the same time, or scheduling time for your favorite hobby can help you ease back into normal living.

Set manageable goals

Ready to regain focus and stay motivated after the new year? Set manageable goals!

The post-holiday season can feel overwhelming with lingering to-dos and the need to get back into the groove. So, break down your ambitions into smaller, bite-sized, actionable steps and start fresh without feeling pressured to do everything at once. From organizing your work bag to updating your nursing credentials to brainstorming assignment locations, each small accomplishment helps rebuild your momentum.

Re-evaluate your assignment needs.

After the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it’s natural for your priorities to shift. Now, as you get back into the job, it’s time to reconsider what’s important to you in your nursing assignments.

Start by thinking about what worked for you and what didn’t work for you in the past. Maybe you’ve realized you require a better work-life balance, a different schedule, or additional resources to excel in your current role. By assessing your needs, you can have productive conversations with your recruiter ahead of accepting a new travel nursing job.

Reconnect with your support team.

Whether you took time off or worked through the holidays, the season can sometimes leave you feeling a little out of sync — so it’s time to reconnect with your support team!

For travel nurses, your support team may include your recruiter, traveler experience coordinator, fellow travelers, family, and friends. Once you’re ready to get back to the grind, reach out to your nursing support team to chat about potential assignments, traveler benefits, or any challenges you faced during the holiday season. Reaching out to those who understand your journey can provide the encouragement you need to jump back into the swing of things with confidence.

Focus on self-care

You’re used to putting others’ needs above your own, but focusing on self-care is essential. By intentionally carving out time for self-care, you allow yourself the chance to recharge physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Catch up on rest, indulge in arts and crafts, take a quiet moment to breathe — these small acts of self-care can make a big impact in how you feel as you step back into work after the new year. When you focus on your well-being, you don’t just take care of yourself. You also ensure that you’re able to show up for your patients as your best self.

The post-holiday season is an opportunity to reset, refocus, and realign with your goals — both personal and professional. By investing in your well-being and staying proactive, you’ll not only feel more balanced but also better equipped to tackle the challenges and rewards that come with being a travel nurse.

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.

Fusion Medical Staffing provided this article.

Icy roads, unpredictable weather, varying driving conditions — winter is on its way, and, with it, its challenges. The last thing you want is to face unexpected mishaps on your journey. To help you stay safe and confident on the winter roads, here are some essential safety tips for travel nurses.

Winter Road Travel Safety Tips for Travel Nurses

Plan your route

Whether you’re driving home during a break from nursing assignments or you’re road-tripping to your next travel job, one of the best things you can do is plan your route before you hit the road.

Mapping out your journey in advance allows you to identify potential hazards, like areas prone to snow or ice, and find the safest roads to take. Plus, knowing your route helps you pinpoint rest stops, gas stations, and places to grab a warm meal along the way.

When you take time to plan your path, you give yourself an extra layer of security so you can focus on what really matters: safely arriving at your destination.

Check weather conditions in advance.

Winter weather can be unpredictable, and conditions can change rapidly. Before you leave, make it a habit to check the weather forecast for your route. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare for potential snowstorms or freezing rain, allowing you to adjust your travel plans accordingly. Of course, if the forecast looks especially bad, consider delaying your trip until conditions improve.

Prepare your vehicle

Your vehicle is your trusty sidekick, and giving it some extra attention and TLC can make all the difference, especially before a big winter road trip.

To winterize your vehicle, start by checking your tires to ensure they have enough tread for traction on slick roads; you may consider switching to winter tires if you’ll be driving in snowy areas. Next, top off your fluids, such as antifreeze and windshield washer fluid.

It may seem simple and mundane, but these quick steps can not only help you feel more secure on the road but also ensure you’re ready to tackle whatever winter throws your way!

Keep an emergency kit handy.

No matter where you’re going or how far you’re driving this winter, it never hurts to keep an emergency kit in your car stocked and ready, just in case you may need it.

Wondering what should go inside this kit? Think about the essentials — blankets, non-perishable snacks, water bottles, a flashlight, jumper cables, basic mechanical tools, a first-aid kit, and maybe even a small shovel.

Having these supplies on hand will give you one less thing to worry about in the event of an emergency. Be proactive with your emergency kit and tune your focus on the journey.

Drive slowly and smoothly.

It can be tempting to maintain your speed, but winter roads demand a little more caution. That’s why it’s important to drive slowly and smoothly, especially on snowy, icy, or otherwise wet roads.

Think of it like giving yourself the gift of time; by slowing down, you not only reduce the risk of slipping and sliding but also give yourself more time to react to any unexpected conditions. Smooth, gentle movements on the steering wheel and brakes can help you maintain control.

Plus, taking your time on the road allows you to enjoy the beautiful winter scenery as you make your way to your destination.

Winter road travel can pose unique challenges for travel nurses, but by following these simple safety tips, you can navigate the roads with confidence. Planning your route, checking weather conditions, preparing your vehicle, keeping an emergency kit, and driving slowly and smoothly will ensure you arrive safely at your destinations, ready for your next adventure!

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.

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!)

10 Places you can work and avoid the cold

Winter can really take its toll on some people. The cold weather, slippery ice, treacherous snow, many aspects don’t appeal to some folks. And there are some real effects on overall mood and behavior. Shorter and colder days usually means people spend more time indoors and have a tendency to become less active. Our bodies also produce more melatonin when the sun sets, and that makes us sleepy. Lower energy levels can also be attributed to our primitive instinct to eat heavier, heartier meals—like in survival times.

Now all of these “winter blah” symptoms vary for each individual, and some people aren’t affected by the cold at all. But if you’re not ready to hit the slopes or pull on those snow boots any time too soon, then you may want to consider your next assignment in one of these areas. Luckily the United States affords us several options that boast year-round idyllic conditions. Criteria include comfortable temperatures, dry weather, and mainly clear skies.

Here are 10 places that won’t make you hibernate:

1.) Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville gets about 38 inches of rain per year, 14 inches of snow. The number of days with any measurable precipitation is 125. On average, there are 212 sunny days per year. So, while you may not completely avoid the cold weather in Asheville it is much sunnier than other colder locations.

The July high is around 85 degrees. The January low is 28.

2.) Prescott, Arizona

Gets about 19 inches of rain per year, 25 inches of snow. The number of days with any measurable precipitation is 63. On average, there are 277 sunny days per year. Again, you may have a little bit of cold weather, but you will still have sunshine to go with it.

The July high is around 89 degrees. The January low is 21.

3.) Honolulu, Hawaii

Gets about 41 inches of rain per year, 0 inches of snowfall. The number of days with any measurable precipitation is 170. On average, there are 271 sunny days per year.

The July high is around 84 degrees. The January low is 66.

4.) Los Angeles, California

Gets about 18 inches of rain per year, 0 inches of snowfall. The number of days with any measurable precipitation is 26. On average, there are 284 sunny days per year.

The July high is around 77 degrees. The January low is 50.

5.) Key West, Florida

Gets about 39 inches of rain per year, 0 inches of snowfall. The number of days with any measurable precipitation is 101. On average, there are 260 sunny days per year. The July high is around 91 degrees. The January low is 65.

6.) Athens, Georgia

Gets about 49 inches of rain per year, 1 inch of snowfall. The number of days with any measurable precipitation is 98. On average, there are 216 sunny days per year. While you may experience a little bit of cold, you won’t have the snow to contend with.

The July high is around 91 degrees. The January low is 33.

7.) Vero Beach, Florida

Gets about 51 inches of rain per year, 0 inches of snowfall. The number of days with any measurable precipitation is 123. On average, there are 232 sunny days per year. The July high is around 90 degrees. The January low is 53. Vero Beach stays warmer year found, no cold weather there.

8.) Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Gets about 68 inches of rain per year, 0 inches of snowfall. The number of days with any measurable precipitation is 116. On average, there are 214 sunny days per year.

The July high is around 91 degrees. The January low is 41.

9.) Charleston, South Carolina

Gets about 46 inches of rain per year, 0 inches of snowfall. The number of days with any measurable precipitation is 106. On average, there are 209 sunny days per year. Charleston is a great option for those looking to avoid the cold.

The July high is around 88 degrees. The January low is 42.

10.) Orlando, Florida

Gets about 51 inches of rain per year, 0 inches of snowfall. The number of days with any measurable precipitation is 113. On average, there are 233 sunny days per year. Orlando is a great option if you want to avoid the cold weather at all costs!

The July high is around 92 degrees. The January low is 50.

We hope you found these 10 locations helpful to help you avoid the cold during the winter months. Did we miss any locations that you like to travel to during the cold winter months? Comment them below.

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

START HERE

Travel Nurse Tips for Returning to Normal After the Holiday Season

Ease back into your routine.

Set manageable goals

Re-evaluate your assignment needs.

Reconnect with your support team.

Focus on self-care

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

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Winter Road Travel Safety Tips for Travel Nurses

Plan your route

Check weather conditions in advance.

Prepare your vehicle

Keep an emergency kit handy.

Drive slowly and smoothly.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

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Cold Weather Destinations for Travel Nurses

Winter Locations for Travel Nurses with Friends or Family

Travel Nurses Who Can’t Wait for Summer

What to Pack for a Winter Travel Assignment

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

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10 Places you can work and avoid the cold

Here are 10 places that won’t make you hibernate:

1.) Asheville, North Carolina

2.) Prescott, Arizona

3.) Honolulu, Hawaii

4.) Los Angeles, California

5.) Key West, Florida

6.) Athens, Georgia

7.) Vero Beach, Florida

8.) Baton Rouge, Louisiana

9.) Charleston, South Carolina

10.) Orlando, Florida

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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