July 5, 2021

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The Best Cities for Your Travel Nursing Career in 2021

Posted on July 5, 2021June 15, 2021 by The Gypsy Nurse

Life as a travel nurse is an adventure. Traveling from city to city, experiencing new cultures, gaining skills in your field while making a sustainable income to put toward nursing school debt—the perks are enticing. But, make no mistake, going from a stationary to a nomadic lifestyle can be a major adjustment for those who have lived and worked in one city for the majority of their professional lives. If you’re considering getting into travel nursing, it’s important to consider the best cities for travel nurses in 2021 and whether or not it’s wise to relocate.

If moving is on your horizon, it opens up a variety of questions—is it time to sell your home and buy a new one in a city fit for travel nursing? Or is renting more appropriate? Before you decide to relocate for your travel nursing career, think about some of these things:

Pros of keeping your home

You can rent out your home while you’re away and put extra passive income toward medical debt or other living expenses.
A house of your own can provide a source of stability in a dynamic lifestyle.

Pros of selling your home

With prices of homes on the higher end and interest rates low, you might get an impressive sum for your existing home.
You can use the money from your existing home to put toward a mortgage or rent payment in a more affordable area.

Pros of renting

Renting frees you from many financial obligations related to homeownership.
Lease agreements are less permanent, allowing for more flexibility to relocate and experience many different places and cultures.

Pros of buying a new home

Other cities may be much more affordable for homeowners. Compare an area’s cost of living to the prices of local homes for sale and your new salary to determine affordability.
Your home can be in a more central, practical location.

Know that many agencies offer temporary housing based on the job and location, which could play a major role in deciding the right travel nursing agency to choose and which cities are on your list of new potential homes. While you decide on where to live, think about the perks in some of these cities across the county:

San Jose, CA

With such a dense and diverse population, there is always someone to help and cure, making this city a hotspot for healthcare jobs. Keep in mind; this area is on the higher end of the cost of living scale; however, it also has the highest average base salary for nurses, making it affordable for some. Note that California is one of the fifty states expecting to see a shortage of nurses and the highest demand of travel nurses by 2025, so keep that in mind when considering a career.

Boston, MA

Did you know that Boston is home to the highest metropolitan salaries for RNs in the country? At $98,040 a year, this could be a great metropolitan area to relocate to for big-city lovers. It also has some of the highest numbers of nurses already employed. Boston is amongst the top places to raise a family, the best places for young professionals, and the best cities for outdoor activities in the US, deeming this a great place to consider planting roots.

Honolulu, HI

Shockingly enough, Honolulu tops the list of highest-paying salaries for registered nurses outside of California at just over $106,000 a year and is one of the most sought-after locations for travel nurses. Despite the high cost of living, Hawaii’s appealing geography, the potential for outdoor activities, and active lifestyle make it one of the most attractive places to take a travel nursing career.

Seattle, WA

Compared to cities in states with high costs of living like California, Seattle can be a more affordable place to live with similar lifestyle perks. Travel nurses who have lived and worked here also say that moving here has allowed them to bring home more money at the end of the day compared to other west coast cities and more time to spend with their families. This city is also on the list of best cities to invest in real estate in 2021.

Washington, D.C.

With some of the most esteemed medical facilities in the country, this can be a high-paying location for travel nurses with an average base hourly pay of approximately $40 per hour. D.C. also tops the list of best cities for young professionals, healthiest cities in America, and best cities for outdoor activities. Not to mention it has a plethora of sightseeing and learning opportunities at any museum or monument and plenty of other outdoor and indoor activities.

We hope you found these tips helpful. Are there any cities you think would be ideal for travel nurses this year? Comment them below.

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!)

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By The Gypsy Nurse

July 4, 2021

5113 Views

Top Fourth of July Spots

Posted on July 4, 2021July 4, 2021 by The Gypsy Nurse

I don’t know about you, but coming together with family or taking a trip in the summer around the Fourth of July is something I wait for all year. It could be the cool summer breeze off your favorite lake while boating with friends and family or the sights, sounds, and new memories you’re creating in this chapter of your nursing career. We asked you, adventurous souls, where your top Fourth of July spots to celebrate the week and/or weekend of the 4th are and here are our top choices:

Lake Tahoe, California

People come from all around to take in the experience that is Lake Tahoe. Rated nationally as one of the “top 5 Fourth of July” vacation spots. There is no lack of activities for you and yours to enjoy. Take your pick from a plethora of community activities. Relaxing on the beach, cruising around the lake, enjoying the local food and drink specials, and so much more. No matter what you choose to do during the day, the real magic is the choreographed fireworks and music at night. With upwards of 100,000 onlookers, it’s not to be missed.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston hits the top of the list for being the largest gathering for the Independence Day celebration. It brings in around 3 million people. The cities Revolutionary War history alone draws in guests. The war reenactments, speeches, live bands, and historic heritage keep the visitors coming for more. Most importantly, most events around are free. It’s a great way to indulge in the exciting atmosphere without breaking the bank. Find some great tips for what to do here.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Of course, we would not forget where the Declaration of Independence itself was signed. Philadelphia has an array of fun things to do, and again most of these are free. Between concerts, museums, kids’ activities, an obstacle course, and even a zip line, there is definitely something for everyone to enjoy at this celebration of our country. Even your beloved pets are allowed to join in on the fun.

Everything comes together after the concert (which is said to be one of the largest free concerts in America with guests Mary J. Blige and Boyz II Men) at around 9:30 pm to start the grande finale firework at Ben Franklin Parkway. I could honestly go on for days with the number of amazing activities this city has to offer. Don’t believe me? Check it out for yourself!

New Orleans, Louisiana

It’s hard to talk about celebrating America without mentioning the culture-rich city of New Orleans. Aside from being one of the best places in the US to eat, it’s one of the best at throwing a good party. With unique performances like dueling river barges, synchronized to lights and music, and the amazing Essence Music Fest paying tribute to African-American music and culture. This is sure to celebration you don’t want to miss. Fireworks kick off at 9 pm after the sounds of celebrities like John Legend and Diana Ross.

Chicago, Illinois

It’s hard not to fall in love with a city like Chicago. Seeing the skyline lit up behind the river is truly a sight everyone should see at least once. The Windy City has wonderful spots for every kind of attraction. One of their most captivating would definitely have to be Navy Pier. Whether it be from atop the Centennial Wheel, or rooftop at a beautifully lit building, it’s a must for your Fourth of July bucket list.

Lisle Park District will be hosting the “Eyes to the Skies” event. Food, music, a carnival, and even hot air balloons. During this same time, there will also be a great way to fill your bellies. Head uptown to enjoy the Windy City Rib Fest June 30th-July 2nd. At Wrigley Field, all you need to cheer on the World Series-winning Chicago Cubs is a great hotdog.

Whatever you choose to do during this holiday, we hope you stay safe, and most of all enjoy yourself and your family!! Let us know where you like to celebrate and why you think we need to add it to our list!

Want to see more suggestions? Click here to see what our Travel Nurse Network members said are the best places to be for the 4th of July!

Finished the travel nursing guide and are ready to look for an assignment?

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

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By Kevin Devoto

July 3, 2021

6431 Views

3 Ways to Minimize Health Risks as a Traveling Nurse

Posted on July 3, 2021March 22, 2022 by Kevin Devoto

With staying healthy at the forefront of everyone’s minds these days, the idea of getting back to normal is equally omnipresent. While this simply can’t happen just yet, staying safe isn’t an all or nothing kind of affair, and you can resume much of your normal life and career as a traveling nurse even under the current circumstances. The caveat to this is that safety precautions need to be a major priority. Here’s what you need to know to minimize health risks as a traveling nurse.

Take Care of Your Body

In all matters of health, your body is a complex machine made of many moving parts. This means that staying healthy is a holistic endeavor, and there are many factors that come into play regarding the strength of your immune system. For example, your diet needs to be a comprehensive one that gives you all of the essential vitamins and nutrients you need. Vitamin C, vitamin D, and even protein are essential for maintaining your immune system. You can use supplements like greens powder to manage your diet more thoroughly, but it’s still important to eat the right foods and get plenty of water. Exercise is also important, as staying in shape is integral for maintaining not only your fitness but also your mental health. Mental health problems can actually have a pretty dramatic effect on your physical health.

Most notably, mental illness can actually weaken your immune system, making physical illness more likely. Getting plenty of sleep is also essential for keeping your body in tip-top shape because sleep is an integral part of maintaining the body. Sleep deprivation can also create mood problems. The takeaway of all of this is that your body, and your mind, need to be taken care of in many ways, and each of these individual factors has a ripple effect that can impact other aspects of your well-being.

Listen to Experts

Social distancing, quarantine, and medical face masks are a point of contention for some, but the simple fact of the matter is that these practices are shown to be the best tools the average person has in the face of potential infection. This means that like it or not, maintaining these practices when and where it’s advised is the right call. Meeting with friends is no excuse to drop your guard, so be sure to keep your hands clean and wear your mask every time you leave the house. In the safety of your home or the home of someone you know has also been safe, you can take it easy to some extent, but that’s only when everyone involved has the health and safety of themselves and those around them in mind.

Keep Up With Current Events

Knowing the current state of things is a crucial means of playing it safe, so be sure to keep an eye on the news as the situation develops. For example, traveling to another area or even another country or continent necessitates having an understanding of the situation in your destination. If things are just as bad or worse there, then you need to increase your attention to detail regarding safety precautions or simply forego the trip entirely if possible.

Even within your own town, the situation can and will change over time, and policies regarding potential safety measures will change with it. If your area has experienced a substantial uptick in cases of infection, you may undergo quarantine in which you can’t afford to take the risk of interacting with others. However, as long as more people are embracing the safety measures in place, the situation can stabilize and even improve, allowing you to return to your normal life to an extent.

Life in the midst of a pandemic is less than ideal, but learning from the tragedies of the past can help to minimize the risks associated with this moment in history. While it can be devastating to self-isolate, leaving the house is inherently risky. These tips will help you remain safe while allowing you to start living your life again.

We hope you found these tips on minimizing health risks as a traveling nurse helpful. Have you found any ways to minimize health risks while travel nursing? Comment them below.

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

START HERE

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By Amber Pickler

July 2, 2021

8419 Views

Top Nursing Shoes for Travel Nurses

Posted on July 2, 2021June 29, 2021 by Amber Pickler

As a travel nurse, you know that, like scrubs, not all shoes are created equally. If you don’t have the right shoes, you risk a long, painful shift and even assignment. Recently, a post in our Gypsy Nurse Facebook group asked for the best shoes for nurses and travel nurses. We have put together a list of the top 5 shoes mentioned in that post. They are below in no particular order.

Brooks

Brooks has made our list of top shoes in the past. They are a running shoe company. Since they specialize in running shoes, you know they strive for comfort. The top 2 shoes from Brooks that were mentioned were Ghost and Levitate. Here is a little more information on each of these.

Ghost: The Ghost shoes are road running shoes. According to their site, Ghost is “Loved by runners for its smooth ride. The Ghost is all about balance. It has just enough given to cushion each step while staying responsive for a quick toe-off. And the upper hits the sweet spot between roomy and secure.” These features make them great for travel nurses who are on their feet for sometimes hours at a time.

Levitate: The Levitate shoes are also road running shoes. According to their site, “To help runners chase down their goals, we introduced the Levitate in 2017. With incredible energy return and a super springy feel, the Levitate is the cornerstone of our Energize category, making each mile feel a little easier. We partnered with the materials company BASF to develop our DNA AMP midsole compound that provides ample energy return — among the highest in our line.”

Brooks offers many more options of running shoes that would make perfect nursing shoes. These are just 2 options to get you started.

Nike

Nike is another brand that makes our list of top nursing shoes often. Again, their shoes are often made for walking, running, and sports. Making their shoes very comfortable and ideal for nurses, travel nurses, and travel healthcare workers. The two most mentioned shoes by Nike were the Vapor Max and Zoom Pulse. Here is a little more information on each.

VaporMax: According to an article on Menshealth.com, you can “expect maximum protection with an incredibly light and flexible feel. To achieve the protective, soft, bouncy, and flexible sensation of VaporMax, the approach was to put the right amount of air underfoot versus employing a ‘more is better’ solution. The unencumbered tubes of air are engineered to deflect on impact while offering the flexibility and stability a runner needs.” All of these features make the VaporMax the perfect nursing shoe.

Zoom Pulse: The Zoom Pulse Nike shoes are, in fact, made for the healthcare industry. According to Nike.com, the Zoom Pulse shoes were “Built for and tested by nurses. The Nike Air Zoom Pulse combines cushioning and flexible traction for a comfortable, natural feel that lasts through long shifts on dry and slippery surfaces. The durable design is easy to clean, pull on and take off to keep you ready for the unexpected.” Making these a top option for you to choose for your next nursing shoes.

Oofos

Oofos offers a line of clogs that are very popular among healthcare workers and their OOmg Low Shoes. Their clogs are said to be a versatile clog that brings unmatched comfort. The clogs have great reviews on the OOfos website. The only negative statement was that these clogs tend to make your feet sweat, so beware of that if you already have hot feet. As for the OOmg Low Shoes, the Oofos website states that their “breathable 4-way stretch mesh fabric introduces a new level of comfort and convenience into your everyday routine.” The biggest complaint we found for the OOmg Low Shoes was that the fit wasn’t quite right, so that is something to be aware of when shopping for these shoes.

Alegria

Alegria was another shoe mentioned frequently in the comments of the Facebook post. They have a few lines of nursing and professional clogs. Many nurses love the feel and comfort of these clogs. They are a little more pricey, but as they say, you pay for what you get. Each line offers its own benefits. Although each has its own benefits, they also have a lot in common Here are just a few of the ways Alegria shoes can also help with a 6-point comfort zone to support you, body, and sole as posted on their website.

Slip-resistant soles with elevated heels in a slight rocker style support movement.
A honeycombed bed reduces shoe weight but increases durability.
Secure, interlocking technology keeps the insert in place.
Soft polyurethane combined with cork on the bottom of the insert cushions your feet and provides arch support.
A memory foam middle contours to your individual foot.
A leather lining provides a soft touch to your sole.

Like technology, shoes change frequently, new ones are added to the market, and changes are made to older ones. We have written articles in the past on the top shoes of that time. We will continue to keep you updated on the best shoes for the travel nurse industry, so you can choose what shoes are right for you, but with a little insider information to help with the decision.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to visit our job board.

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!)

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By SkyBridge Healthcare

June 29, 2021

13575 Views

2021 Summer Sales for Healthcare Professionals

Posted on June 29, 2021November 28, 2023 by SkyBridge Healthcare

This article was provided by SkyBridge Healthcare. For more industry insight, follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

June 21^st marked the official start of summer! A time for friends and family to come together and enjoy some time off after a grueling COVID-19-filled winter. This speaks volumes to travel healthcare professionals across the nation who are finally ready for some well-deserved relaxation.

As you start to prepare for travel accommodations like hotels, airfare, and maybe buying a new swimsuit or two, you may start to find your expenses quickly adding up. SkyBridge Healthcare has compiled a list of airlines, hotels, and car rental companies, that are offering awesome deals for travel nurses and other Healthcare Professionals.

Sales, Discounts, and Deals for Healthcare Professionals

Hotel Savings

Choice Hotels – Offering special hotel rates for travel healthcare workers in select cities.

Marriott – Use code “HJH” when booking a Marriott hotel to receive a discount from now until December 2021.

Hyatt – Use code “THANKYOU” now until September to receive discounted rates at all Hyatt Hotels.

Airfare Savings

Although we haven’t listed any specific airlines offering discounts to travel healthcare professionals, we’ve come up with the top websites/apps (For Android or iOS users) to save money on flights.

Skyscanner – Use their website or free app to access the cheapest flights online. Skyscanner aggregates the best flight deals from the internet to provide you with an easy list view to compare prices. Their “Everywhere” feature allows you to view the best deals departing airports nearest you on your selected dates. Talk about convenience! Keep in mind; that you do not purchase tickets directly through Skyscanner. When you’re ready to purchase, you’ll be directed to the airline’s website.

Kiwi – Most search engines try to find you a flight with the same airline but not Kiwi. This unique website (and easy-to-use FREE app) collects the best deals among all airlines. Great for anyone looking to save some money. Their new “Deals” features allow you to see incredibly cheap prices from your preferred airport, depart/arrival dates, and flight type (Direct/Indirect).

Hopper – Hopper (App only) is awesome to utilize if you’re not committed to a particular date range. The calendar view is great to see what days will save you the most money on flights. The cheapest flights will be shown in green, while the most expensive flights will be highlighted in red. You can “watch” flights to be notified of price changes and be informed on whether to wait to book or purchase now.

Car Rental Savings

Below you’ll find a few savings on car rental companies for travel healthcare professionals, but may we offer an alternative? If you’re visiting a city with public transportation, this can be a great way to save money and really experience the city’s culture. You may also want to check out bike rental shops near your vacation destination to save some cash. If you’re choosing the bike option, be sure to check the weather beforehand! The last thing you want to do is get stuck in a massive storm while exploring on wheels.

Hertz – Up to 25% off car rentals for travel nurses and first responders.

Enterprise – Up to 25% off car rentals for travel nurses and first responders.

Budget – Up to 25% off car rentals for travel nurses and first responders.

Saved The Best for Last

Our last word of advice is to plan ahead but stay flexible. Things happen, flights get delayed, excursions don’t turn out the way you plan, and hotel pictures aren’t always what they seem to be. Vacations are a gift that not everyone gets to experience, so make the most out of it and enjoy the unexpected. SkyBridge Healthcare wishes you big savings and big smiles this summer.

We hope you found these discounts and offers for travel nurses and healthcare professionals helpful! If you find any others that we haven’t mentioned, please share them in the comments.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Need housing for your travel nurse 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!)

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By Titan Medical

June 28, 2021

5262 Views

Summer Sun Tips for Travel Nurses

Posted on June 28, 2021June 25, 2021 by Titan Medical

This article was provided by Titan Medical Group.

Whether you’re at the lake, on a boat, or hiking the mountains this summer while having fun in the sun, be sure to keep yourself protected from both the heat and the Ultraviolet (UV) rays. Here are some safety summer sun tips to help avoid heat exhaustion and sunburns.

-Summer Sun Tips-

1) Water:

Be sure to keep extra bottles of water in your vehicle. Seventy percent of your body is water. It is recommended that you drink 8-10 glasses of water daily to replenish your body, especially in the hot summer months when you’re sweating and doing more outdoor activities to prevent dehydration. Keeping water in your vehicle is a good idea for emergencies in which water might be needed.

2) Attire:

Planning to spend long periods of time in the outdoors? You’ll want to wear a shirt that comfortably covers your shoulders and neck. Dark-colored clothing can provide more protection than loose fabric and lighter colors. You also can’t forget about the pesky bugs that buzz around during those warm and humid summer nights. Just like sunscreen, use insect repellant to avoid irritating bug bites and potential viruses. You can also light citronella candles and/or torches to keep mosquitoes away in your backyard or campsites.

3) Sunscreen:

Using sunscreen on your face is important even on those overcast days when you think you might not need it. Daily use of a moisturizer with SPF is both nourishing, protective, and healthy for your skin. You’ll also want to get a pair of sunglasses that are labeled as blocking UV rays at 100% to protect your vision. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every two hours with an SPF of 30 or more. Reapplying will also be important after swimming or sweating. A suggested tip would be to keep extra sunscreen in your car. That way, you always have some on-hand.

We hope you found these summer sun tips helpful. Do you have any summer sun tips to share with your fellow travel nurses? Comment any summer sun tips you feel others should know below.

Are you currently looking for your next sunny summer travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board.

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!)

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By The Gypsy Nurse

June 27, 2021

11870 Views

Nurses Need Nutrition Too: 10 Snacks That Pack Power

Posted on June 27, 2021January 26, 2023 by The Gypsy Nurse

Nursing is a very demanding profession. It’s physical, mental, emotional, everything wrapped into one. Days can be long, situations are very difficult. So it makes perfect sense that nurses need to be at the top of their game. It doesn’t take pile research, only common sense, to realize that when we are hungry our body is out of sync and we can experience moodiness, brain fog, and even confusion. It’s important that you take care of yourself so you can take care of others. Our food markets and online options have expanded considerably to include many options for healthy snacks that you may not know even existed.

Here are 10 snacks that are high in nutrients to help you stay sharp at work and play.

1. Sunflower Seeds-

These tiny nuggets contain a rich mix of protein that powers the brain. They also have fiber, healthy fats, iron, and tryptophan which the brain converts into serotonin to fight depression.

2. Seaweed–

This green monster is anything but scary with omega 3 fatty acids and both soluble and insoluble fiber. Its folic acid has been shown to improve verbal and memory function for even more brainpower.

3. Dark Chocolate-

This treat is loaded with antioxidants and helps boost mood. The flavonols in chocolate can improve circulation, increase brain function, and even improve memory.

4. Avocados-

Easily found in guacamole, avocados are rich in omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids which increase blood flow to the brain, reduce cholesterol, and improve antioxidant absorption. Also rich with vitamin E which has been linked to protecting the brain from free radical damage. Its vitamin K and potassium can reduce the risk of stroke.

5. Walnuts-

Another favorite food for the brain, high in Vitamin B12 and B6 these nuts are shown to prevent memory decline by eliminating homocysteine in the blood.

6. Whole Eggs-

Hard-boiled eggs, with less than 100 calories each, are a great option for busy workdays. They contain the highest quality source of protein available as well as almost every essential vitamin and mineral needed by humans for balanced nutrition.

7. Carrots-

These time-tested favorites are good for your eyes and brain. Featuring high levels of luteolin, this compound helps reduce memory deficits and inflammation in the brain. More good news, these flavorful snacks are nutritious, easy to find, and portable.

8. Blueberries-

Studies show blueberries may improve cognition and promote memory.

9. Whole grains-

Granola, wheat bran, oatmeal, whole-grain bread, and cereals are good snack choices that release glucose slowly into the bloodstream and help keep you alert throughout the day.

10. Bananas and Apples-

Especially when fresh, these fruits are loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. These portable wonders can also give a little energy boost when you need one.

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By The Gypsy Nurse

June 26, 2021

13790 Views

Tips For Reducing Housing Costs on Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment

Posted on June 26, 2021November 10, 2023 by The Gypsy Nurse

Hey Gypsies – we all know that several different factors can make a huge difference in a travel nursing assignment’s success. One of the major ones is how you approach housing and housing options. Travel Nurse Housing Costs can be a major financial factor. Most agencies will provide you with a few housing options, and you will need to figure out what’s best for your and your unique situation. Cost is always a factor in the travel nursing housing equation, so we’ve pulled together these 4 tips for reducing housing costs on your next travel nursing assignment.

Opt for a housing stipend

Unless you’re completely new to travel nursing, you may want to consider taking the housing stipend over agency-provided housing strongly. Agencies may choose pricier accommodations for nurses to uphold a quality reputation. But with the flexibility of a housing stipend, you can choose your price point and pocket the difference. This also allows you to set the duration of your stay. Many agencies will match your move-in and move-out dates to the dates of your assignment. With a stipend, you can move-in early or extend your stay if you want to stay longer.

Beyond savings, picking your own housing lets you select which part of town you want to experience and which housing amenities matter most to your lifestyle. You may be able to lower your travel nurse Housing Costs by cutting out conveniences you don’t care about.

Save yourself from the hassle of coordinating a U-Haul rental and moving your needed belongings to each new city. The average travel nurse assignment is 13 weeks, but it can be as short as 4 or 5 weeks. The easiest solution is to rent furnishings and housewares — or find housing with these included.

The price of renting might initially dissuade you, but the potential long-term savings pay off. This option allows you to avoid the risk of damaging any of your valuable furniture or personal possessions. You won’t have to spend time and effort on renting a van and scheduling movers. You also don’t have to worry about your existing items fitting into every space you rent. Every apartment or house you rent has its own available space and room dimensions. Leave that coordination to the professionals and cut your travel nurse housing costs.

Plan to cook your meals at home.

It seems like a small choice to make, but this can have a huge impact over the course of your assignment. Eating out is both expensive and unhealthy in comparison to preparing your meals at home. When dining out, the average meal costs $12.75 in the U.S. That’s more than $1,000 a month!

Plus, cooking food in your own kitchen can make you feel more at home while you’re living in a new place. When you’re choosing housing for your next assignment, make sure it comes with a full-sized kitchen, or at least a kitchenette, with the necessary kitchenware to be your own chef.

Especially with rapid response and crisis assignments, sometimes you need to find housing fast. But travel nurses always need to be aware of sketchy rental situations as, unfortunately, there are some housing scams out there. Stay diligent in vetting every agreement before you sign a lease.
Some common red flags to watch out for include:

Any price that seems too good to be true.
A property manager who communicates with you only via email.
A landlord who doesn’t ask for any background info.
A landlord or property manager who says they’re in another country and wants money wired to them.

The easiest way to avoid these scams is to rely on a trusted temporary housing provider or your agency to find and secure your housing. Work with housing experts who have access to an inventory of trusted, vetted properties. You won’t have to stress or do any of the work to find quality housing that you can trust.

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!)

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—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

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By Megan Hutcherson

June 23, 2021

11944 Views

RV Living as a Travel Nurse

Posted on June 23, 2021May 20, 2021 by Megan Hutcherson

Imagine not having to worry about packing up your entire life and finding a furnished apartment every three months. This is just one of the many reasons why vans and RVs are growing in popularity with the travel nurse community. Having a home on wheels helps to remove much of the stress associated with traveling so you can enjoy your time off. So what do you need to know if you are considering RV Living?

RV Living: Housing Tips for Travel Nurse

Choosing your rig:

Based on your needs, there are several options for nomadic homes, including busses, vans, RVs, and travel trailers. A great way to determine which is best for you is by trying it out for yourself temporarily. Some companies allow you to rent a van or RV for a few days. This can give you a feel of which option would work for your lifestyle and how much room you may need. Here are a few things to consider when choosing your home on wheels: how many people are in your household? Do you have pets? What are the necessities you can’t live without?

Downsizing:

If you’ve been travel nursing for a while, you’re probably already used to traveling with a lighter load but travel nursing while living in a condensed space requires the belongings you travel with to become even lighter. When deciding what you will fill your home on wheels with, it is important to determine your wants versus needs. Look at your items and ask yourself if it is something you will use frequently or if it will sit in a corner and take up precious space.

Parking accommodations:

When starting a new assignment, you will need to ensure that the location will fit your parking needs. Parking may vary based on the size and type of your home. For example, if you have an RV that requires electrical and water hookups, you will need to make sure there is an RV park near your hospital. If you have a van that runs off solar power, you may choose to seek out free parking in your area. Some free parking options include the hospital you are working at (it is always best to check in with security and ask where to park. Most hospitals are happy to have you stay there), national forests, BLM land, truck stops, street parking in local neighborhoods, chain stores like Walmart, Cracker Barrel, Cabelas (it is always good to call ahead to ask permission first).

Temperature and Climate:

When choosing an assignment location, consider the season that you will be in for the duration of the contract. Research the average high and low temperatures in that area and be compatible with the climate control that you have inside your rig. With extreme temperatures, whether it be 120 degrees in the desert or single digits in the mountains, living conditions can become very uncomfortable without proper planning. One of the perks of travel nursing is having a say when you take your assignments, so be sure to think about this when deciding on your location.

Security:

One downside to living in your vehicle is having all of your valuables in your rig. This can be stressful when working twelve-hour shifts and being away from your vehicle for that long period of time. Taking extra measures to secure your home on wheels can alleviate some of that stress and give you peace of mind when you are away. Some ways to add extra security measures include installing extra locks on the inside of your vehicle, security cameras, keeping valuables out of sight, having a lockbox hidden to store important documents or valuables. One of the most important steps you can take is being aware of your surroundings and if something feels off, listen to your gut. Making the jump into living in a home on wheels while travel nursing can be a beneficial decision in so many different ways. Although this way of life isn’t always for everyone, those who decide to adopt nomadic living usually don’t regret it. If this is something, you find yourself considering but still have some reservations about it, again, seek out one of the vans or RV rental companies and give it a try for a weekend. It’s always best to be confident before pulling the trigger rather than diving in and then realizing maybe this lifestyle isn’t exactly what you had in mind.

We hope you found these tips for RV living helpful. Are you currently or have you used a van or RV for housing during a travel nurse assignment? Do you have any tips for RV living to share? Comment them below.

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