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By Geraldine Mills

May 3, 2024

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How to Create Your Own Travel Nurse Blog to Document Your Journey

Blogging is a great way to express yourself and is even better at documenting your travels, especially from a unique perspective as a travel nurse. If you’re interested in starting a travel nurse blog, this article can show you what you need to start. But first, let’s discuss the importance of creating one.

Importance of documenting experiences through blogging

travel nurse blog

Starting a blog is a personal prerogative, so you can begin regardless of whether people think your experiences are meaningful enough to warrant your blog. However, unlike other niches, a travel nurse’s unique experiences make for a unique perspective that can be valuable on a blog.

Even if you’re not a travel nurse, blogging can be a personal project you enjoy, especially if wordsmithing and taking pictures are your hobbies. Also, you don’t need any physical items to start a travel nurse blog, so there isn’t any equipment you need to bring as an extra item to keep up with this hobby.

By documenting your experiences through blogging, you can relive your past more colorfully than your photos and videos. Being able to articulate what you went through and supplementing that with pictures or videos you shot can serve as a creative avenue and a personal journal detailing how you felt in more vivid terms.

When you create a travel nurse blog about being a travel nurse, you can also enjoy connecting with people with similar experiences. You can talk to other travel nurses and even create a community. It’s a great way to bond with different travel nurses about experiences unique to your group.

Choose a blogging platform.

Now that you know the importance or relevance of documenting your experiences through a travel nurse blog, it’s time to kickstart your new blogging journey. The first thing you should consider is your chosen blogging platform. Some examples of popular blogging platforms are the following:

  • Blogger
  • Drupal
  • Joomla
  • Medium
  • Tumblr
  • Weebly
  • WordPress

WordPress is a reliable blogging platform for many blogs due to its scalability and various features. However, you’re free to choose your preferred platform.

When choosing a blogging platform, you should consider how easy it is to use, especially when you need to learn how it works. Customization options should also be a factor, especially if you want to personalize your travel nurse blog as much as possible.

Another critical element to consider when choosing a blogging platform is its monetization and management costs. Some platforms are cheaper, while others are more straightforward to monetize. However, if you’re doing this as a hobby, monetization might not be your priority just yet.

These factors should narrow your options based on the platform’s capabilities, preferences, and abilities.

Select a domain name and hosting provider.

Once you’ve settled on a blogging platform and are eager to get a website up and running, you should choose a domain name and hosting provider.

The domain name is your website’s URL or address. It’s what you type in when you look for a website. A good rule to follow is to keep it short and sweet. Also, avoid hard-to-spell domain names. Some people even opt to get a domain name that can quickly determine what their blog is about, but that can pigeonhole your content, so be wary.

travel nurse blog

Your website needs a hosting provider or web host to exist and be viewable on the Internet. The web host provides a server to store the information on your website and serve it to people looking for it or have found it on the Internet.

When shopping around for a good web host, you will primarily consider the cost. You want to ensure the price is reasonable enough so you can at least not monetize your site during the first few months.

Aside from the price, it would help if you also looked at their uptime. They should keep a 99% uptime at all times so that your website rarely is down when someone tries to access it.

You should also ensure that your web host provider has a good reputation and customer service. If their previous customers aren’t pleased with certain things, you’ll know through reviews to avoid them. Also, you want to see that they have reliable customer service so that you won’t have difficulties finding a representative should you encounter issues with your website.

Please set up your travel nurse blog and customize its design.

Now that you have your website’s foundation, it’s time to modify it to your tastes. While there are tons of free plugins and themes that you can install, they might not fully accommodate your tastes unless you get paid options.

According to Sytian Productions Web Developer Philippines, hiring a web designer can be the better choice if you want your travel nurse blog to have more customized features and designs. While it’s a costlier investment than free plugins, at least you know that your website works and is in the design you want. This choice is beneficial if you have no coding experience or aren’t a very “techy” person.

When designing your website or travel nurse blog, make sure that you stick to a color scheme. If you share your blog posts on other platforms like social media, consistent branding is essential to make it memorable. That’s why having a set color scheme is something you should consider.

Set up the main pages.

First, work on the main pages once you have a website. These would be:

  • Homepage: This is the first thing a website visitor will usually encounter, so it should let visitors know immediately what your blog is about.
  • About page: This page should describe your travel nurse blog’s goals, mission, and values in more depth.
  • Contact page: If someone wants to send you feedback or collaborate, they should go to the contact page.
  • Blog page: This page should cover the different blog posts you’ve already made, if any. Usually, the most recent post is at the top, but you can format it however you like.

While you might be a travel nurse blog since it’s the start of your website, you should prioritize these main web pages before creating blog posts.

Write engaging and informative blog posts.

You can start creating your blog posts now that you have the main pages.

It can be as short or long as you want. However, adding images and proper formatting can be valuable to keep your readers engaged. There are no set rules here for writing a blog, but pulling from your experiences can ignite your creative flames, so tap into that whenever you feel stuck on a blank page.

Utilize social media platforms to promote your blog

You can create a separate social media platform or use your account to promote your blog post. Either way, publishing a blog and not promoting it on other platforms can be a missed opportunity to get more eyes on it. So, make it a habit to create a promotional post every time you publish a new blog post.

Conclusion

At this point, you should be the proud owner of a travel nurse blog that will be your companion during your entire journey. All that’s left is to live your life so that you can document it and share your experiences through this new creative avenue. We hope these tips will help you on your travel nurse blog journey. Have you started a travel nurse blog? Are there any tips you would share with fellow travelers? Comment them below.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Miles Oliver

May 2, 2024

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Nurturing Your Well-Being: Essential Self-Care Tips for Travel Nurses

While working as a travel nurse is a gratifying and noble profession, it also presents its share of challenges. The constant movement and changing landscapes can be hard on your body and mind. Taking care of your physical and mental health is key, and these essential self-care tips can help you thrive in your exciting career.

Essential Self-Care Tips for Travel Nurses:

Essential Self-Care

Hydration Is Key

Hydration is essential when you’re constantly traveling. You’ll likely find yourself in many different environments and weather conditions, ranging from a dry climate to a humid one, so you need to be ready.

By staying hydrated, you can keep your joints lubricated, deliver nutrients to your cells, and keep your organs functioning properly. On top of all that, you’ll prevent dehydration, which could lead to fatigue, headaches, and more.

When you’re busy, it can be challenging to remember to drink water, but there are tips you can consider as a healthcare traveler. One of them is to start each day with a glass of water so you can wake up the body. Keep a water bottle with you, and you’ll be more inclined to drink. You can also eat hydrating snacks like watermelon and strawberries.

Dry weather and a lack of hydration can also lead to skin issues. Cold and dry air can cause your skin to get irritated, and without treatment, it can get scaly or flaky. In addition to drinking water, you should have a skincare routine. Many people use the Korean skincare routine because it can help your skin and provide a healthy glow. This routine involves using oil-based cleaners that can remove sweat and dirt. It also involves water-based cleansers that can help with essential hydration. Eye creams, moisturizers, and sunscreen can also produce healthier skin.

Maintaining Your Physical Health

Physical fitness is also vital during your efforts as a travel nurse. Even if you’re crunched for time, you can still find ways to fit fitness into your day. One way is to walk whenever you can. If you’re not walking on the job, research places nearby, like a local park, and walk there during your breaks. You can also pack light weights in your travel bag to take out between patients for a quick workout.

Essential Self-Care

Exercise can also include yoga or meditation to work your body and mind. Work stress-reducing routines like these into your day by packing a yoga mat and taking it out when you have time.

The other part of the equation regarding physical health is good nutrition because it will keep you in good shape, make you more resilient, and improve your mood. It can be tempting to stop for fast food when you’re on the go, but overindulging in trans-fats can leave you feeling slow and sluggish. Instead, eat healthy salads and snacks throughout your day, like almonds, fruits and vegetables, and yogurt. You can also plan out your meals so you know what to eat in advance and avoid the need for a quick solution with fast food.

Take Time To Rest Your Body And Mind

As a travel nurse, you must practice good mental health so you can feel good and help the patients to the best of your ability. When you’re constantly on the move, it can be easy to start to feel lonely and isolated, so turn to your personal relationships. Call family and friends when you’re down, and form healthy relationships with your fellow nurses so you can lean on each other.

You could also practice mindfulness during your assignments, which means paying attention to how you feel and focusing on your present self. One way to do this is by journaling your thoughts so you don’t keep your worries cooped up in your head. You can also stay optimistic by adopting a growth mindset. When you get a new assignment, think about how beneficial it can be and the valuable experiences you’ll learn.

Finally, ensure that you’re getting seven to nine hours of sleep every night and take naps when you’re tired. If you don’t give your body a chance to recharge, you’ll lack physical and mental energy the next day. To improve your sleep, try to go to bed at the same time every night. Try to sleep when it’s dark because lights can disrupt your circadian rhythm by entering your eye and tricking your body into thinking it’s daytime. Light can also disrupt your sleep cycles, so you wake up feeling unrested, setting the tone for the rest of your day. Set a good bedtime routine, and you’ll be better off because of it.

Conclusion

Self-care is of utmost importance in travel nursing. The best way to help others is to take care of yourself, so heed these tips, and your efforts will show in your work. We hope you found theses essential self-care tips for travel nurses helpful. Do you have any essential self-care tips to share with your fellow travelers? Comment your essential self-care tips below.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Travel Nurses Inc.

April 29, 2024

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Five Things to Know Before You Start Traveling

Travel Nurses Inc. provided this article.

Diving into the world of travel nursing can be an exciting but daunting transition. You get to explore new places, meet new people, and gain experience across various healthcare settings.

However, to make the most of this career path and navigate its challenges, there are several things to know before you start traveling. Whether considering your first travel assignment or looking to make your journey in this field more rewarding, understanding these areas will help set you up for success.

5 things to know before you start traveling:

start traveling

Essential Nursing Experience for Travel Nurses

Navigating the dynamic environment of travel nursing requires a strong foundation in clinical skills and adaptability.  Healthcare facilities expect travel nurses to seamlessly integrate into their teams, often with limited orientation or guidance. For this reason, a baseline level of experience is required.

start traveling

Typically, facilities require at least one year of experience in an acute care setting, though two years are preferred. This experience ensures that travel nurses are equipped to manage the diverse challenges they will encounter, from complex patient care situations to navigating different hospital systems and protocols.

It’s about more than just having technical skills. You must also be able to quickly adjust to new environments, work cultures, and patient demographics. This adaptability, grounded in solid professional experience, makes for a successful and effective travel nurse who can confidently step into new roles.

Understanding the Types of Nursing Licenses

Understanding the intricacies of nursing licenses is crucial for aspiring travel nurses. The landscape is divided into compact and non-compact licenses, each with its own set of rules and mobility options.

Holders of a compact nursing license enjoy the privilege of working across multiple states within the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) framework without the need for additional state-specific licenses. This significantly increases options for travel opportunities, making it easier to accept assignments in a variety of locations.

Those with a non-compact license can only practice in the state where the license was issued. To work elsewhere, these nurses must obtain licensure by endorsement in the desired state. It’s important to note that some states process licenses faster than others. Early preparation and a clear understanding of these licensing distinctions are crucial steps for those looking to pursue a career in travel nursing.

Willingness to Travel Far and Wide

Embracing the essence of travel nursing means being open to assignments in a variety of settings, including less sought-after ones. Your willingness to explore opportunities in diverse geographical locations can significantly enhance your access to a range of job positions.

start traveling

It’s not uncommon for certain areas, particularly those that are more isolated or experience seasonal population fluctuations, to exhibit a greater need for travel nurses. By demonstrating flexibility in your preferred work locations, you can position yourself for potentially higher compensation and the chance to encounter unique healthcare environments.

This openness to geographic mobility enables you to truly embody the adventurous spirit characteristic of successful travel nurses, providing you with the means to gain a wealth of experience while contributing meaningfully to communities across the nation.

The Importance of Scheduling Flexibility

In the fast-paced world of travel nursing, having a flexible schedule can greatly influence the opportunities available to you. It’s important to remember that as a traveler, you are there to help fill staffing gaps at the hospital.

The nature of temporary assignments means that demand can vary significantly, with night shifts often more prevalent than day shifts. This variability extends to the scheduling practices of hospitals and facilities. While some might offer a set schedule, others may require you to adapt to shifts that change from week to week.

Your ability to accommodate these variations enhances your attractiveness to potential employers. Being open to working different shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, can be a pivotal factor in securing assignments. By embracing scheduling versatility, you position yourself as a resilient and adaptable professional ready to meet the diverse needs of healthcare facilities nationwide.

Financial Security is Key

Navigating the uncertainties of travel nursing requires some financial planning. The attractive pay rates and benefits often associated with travel assignments must be balanced with the reality that job stability can fluctuate. Unforeseen circumstances, such as a sudden contract termination or assignments with inconsistent hours, underscore the importance of maintaining an emergency fund.

It’s imperative for travel nurses to budget for the intermittent periods of downtime or relocation costs that come with transitioning between assignments. Establishing a financial buffer alleviates the stress associated with income variability and ensures you can fully engage with your travel nursing adventures without monetary concerns.

We hope you found these 5 things to know before you start traveling helpful. Is there anything you wish you knew before you started traveling? Comment them below.

To start your next adventure, check out the Travel Nurses, Inc. job board, and contact us today!

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your housing search.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Medely

April 26, 2024

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Embracing the Adventure: Top 5 Benefits of Being a Travel Nurse in 2024

Medely provided this article.

In the dynamic landscape of healthcare, travel nursing continues to stand out as a rewarding and exciting career path. From flexibility to professional advancement to financial growth, being a travel nurse offers a multitude of benefits. In this post, we’ll explore the top five benefits of being a travel nurse in 2024 and why this profession remains an attractive option for healthcare professionals seeking adventure, growth, and fulfillment.

Top 5 Benefits of Being a Travel Nurse in 2024

Benefits of Being a Travel Nurse

Flexibility in location and assignments

One of the most enticing aspects of being a travel nurse is the flexibility it offers in terms of location and assignments. In 2024, with healthcare systems facing varying levels of demand and staffing shortages across different regions, travel nurses are in high demand nationwide. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 19% growth in registered nurse (RN) jobs between 2022 and 2032, with over 1M additional RNs needed by 2024.

This demand allows travel nurses to choose assignments in diverse settings, from bustling urban hospitals to smaller,  rural clinics and care facilities, and everything in between. Whether you’re drawn to the bright lights of a big city or the tranquility of suburbia, being a travel nurse allows you to explore new places and cultures while making a difference in patient care.

Professional growth and development

Now more than ever, travel nursing offers an opportunity for professional growth and skill development. In 2024, with healthcare technologies advancing rapidly and new treatment modalities emerging, travel nurses have the chance to expand their clinical expertise and stay at the forefront of healthcare innovation. 

By working in various healthcare settings and with diverse patient populations, travel nurses gain valuable experience and develop adaptable skills that enhance their marketability and career advancement opportunities. Plus, often, travel nurses are asked to float into different specialties when they arrive at their assigned facility so they can explore what they most love to do. Whether it’s mastering a new specialty, honing leadership skills, or learning innovative clinical practices, travel nursing empowers nurses to continuously evolve and thrive in their careers.

Competitive pay and benefits

In 2024, travel nursing remains a financially rewarding career choice, with competitive compensation packages and attractive benefits in cities across the country. Travel nurses often receive higher pay rates than their permanent counterparts, along with additional incentives such as sign-on bonuses, completion bonuses, and referral bonuses, and that trend continues this year. Furthermore, travel nurses may have access to comprehensive benefits packages that include health insurance, retirement plans, and continuing education assistance. These financial incentives not only reward travel nurses for their hard work and dedication but also contribute to their overall financial stability and well-being.

Benefits of Being a Travel Nurse

Work-life balance and adventure

As a travel nurse in 2024, you’ll enjoy a unique blend of work-life balance and adventure. With the ability to choose your assignments and schedule, travel nursing offers flexibility that allows you to create a lifestyle that suits your preferences and priorities. Whether you’re craving a temporary change of scenery, pursuing personal interests outside of work, or simply seeking adventure in your career, travel nursing provides the freedom and flexibility to make it happen. From exploring iconic landmarks and natural wonders to immersing yourself in new cultures and cuisines, being a travel nurse allows you to embrace adventure both on and off the job.

Medely can help you find your perfect travel adventure. Learn more here.

Making a meaningful impact

Above all, being a travel nurse in 2024 allows you to make a meaningful impact on patient care and healthcare. By stepping in to fill staffing gaps, relieve burnt-out nurses and allied health professionals, and support healthcare facilities in need, travel nurses play a vital role in ensuring access to quality care for patients across the country. 

In fact, healthcare staffing shortages are expected to last in 2024, with one study estimating that over 6.5M health professionals in the U.S. will leave the workforce permanently by 2026, while only 1.9M are expected to fill the gaps. You can see that travel nurses can play an important role here.

Whether it’s providing compassionate bedside care, advocating for patient rights, or participating in community health initiatives, travel nurses have the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals and communities alike. 

In 2024, as healthcare continues to evolve and adapt to new challenges, the contributions of travel nurses remain invaluable in shaping the future of healthcare.

We hope you found these 5 benefits of being a travel nurse informational. We hope that if you are on the fence about a career in travel nursing, this article has helped you decide.

Are there any benefits of being a travel nurse that we missed? Comment what other benefits of being a travel nurse you have found while on your journey!

Want to use Medely to sign up for your next travel assignment? We’ve got you covered. Medely works with thousands of the best facility partners across the U.S. 
Check out our app here.

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.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Furnished Finder

April 25, 2024

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Travel Nurse Assignments Over the Summer–Popular Locations and Finding the Best Housing

Nurses are officially lining up their summer travel assignments, which means–it’s time to start looking for housing for the sunniest season of the year! 

One of the best parts of being a travel nurse is taking advantage of beautiful locations during specific times of the year. Summer is often the prime time to find the perfect location assignment while everyone waits for rates to pick back up in the fall. If you are going to live in a dream location during the dream season, you might as well find the dream housing to perfect the experience. 

Recently, we have been browsing Furnished Finder for housing and dreaming up the best places to stay this summer with the best amenities.

Here are a few of our favorite locations and housing listings:

housing

Anchorage, Alaska

Alaska is a bucket list location for many travel nurses, and summer is a great time to go. The weather is mild, and sunlight is abundant. Most travelers try to avoid going this far north in colder months and aim for May to September for their Alaskan assignment. 

An assignment in Anchorage promises abundant hiking, fishing, and outdoor adventures, ensuring a packed schedule. What better reward after a day of exploration than unwinding in your condo, basking in a stunning view?

Yes, that’s right–you can actually filter properties on Furnished Finder by amenities such as hot tubs and pools. Right now this Designer Downtown Condo with an amazing view looks like a great place to spend an Alaskan summer.  Explore more properties in Anchorage.

Los Angeles, California

If a rugged Alaskan adventure isn’t your style, consider spending your summer in a trendy city like LA, which has many things to do. 

We highly recommend using the “pool” filter for your summertime stay since you will want to take advantage of all the California sunshine. This listing at TenTen Wilshire comes with many luxury amenities, including a private gym and rooftop pool. 

Plus, by booking a space that caters to traveling professionals, you will have better luck making connections and building relationships during your assignment. Explore more properties in Los Angeles.

Coos Bay, Oregon

housing

Another place where it might be fun to live temporarily but not permanently is the Oregon coast. The cost of living can be a bit high, but taking a short assignment there for the experience is worth it. From fresh seafood to whale watching, there are many things you can only experience by staying in a coastal town for a while. 

This Waterfront Home has the perfect, dreamy deck to enjoy an oceanfront cup of coffee every day of your assignment. There is also an in-unit washer and dryer and an extra bedroom for guests to come visit. 

As a bonus, there is even an infrared sauna you can use during your stay. That’s something you definitely wouldn’t find on most hotel or homeshare websites! Explore more properties in Coos Bay.

Chicago, Illinois

If you want to spend the summer in the city without a ton of heat, Chicago is a great choice. Chicago winters can be brutal, so taking advantage of the nicer weather in this popular city is a great idea.

Chicago not only has great food, watersports galore on Lake Michigan, and amazing shopping spots but it is also known for luxury high rises. This Grand Plaza Condo has everything a travel nurse could dream of in a short-term unit. Why not spend the summer treating yourself and feeling on top of the world in one of the most fun cities in the US? Explore more properties in Chicago.

The Best Part

One of the most exciting things about travel nursing is the endless possibilities. From fun locations to bougie living spaces, you get to live a lot differently than if you were in a full-time job at home. Even if the location or job isn’t your favorite, it’s nice to get to experience different places and see what you enjoy or don’t enjoy. Spend this summer taking advantage of this opportunity–and splurge a little extra on a dreamy short-term rental as well. Start searching for your next rental on Furnished Finder today!

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.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Geraldine Mills

April 24, 2024

1349 Views

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10 Practical Tips for First-Time Travel Nurses

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

10 Practical Tips for First-Time Travel Nurses

first-time travel nurses

1. Do your research

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

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

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

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

2. Read your contract thoroughly

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

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

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

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

3. Pack smart

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

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

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

4. Plan your housing

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

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

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

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

5. Prioritize self-care and work-life balance

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

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

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

first-time travel nurses

6. Bring your family along on your travels

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

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

7. Maintain an optimistic mindset

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

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

8. Make new friendships

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

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

9. Arrive early on your first day

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

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

10. Plan your free time

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

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

Conclusion

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

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

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

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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.

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Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By AMN Healthcare

April 22, 2024

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Top 6 Advantages and Disadvantages of Per Diem Nursing Jobs

AMN Healthcare provided this article.

Per diem nursing offers a unique blend of benefits and challenges, catering to individuals seeking flexibility and higher pay rates. Nicole T., a senior recruitment manager for AMN Healthcare, provides insights into the reality of per diem work, highlighting its pros and cons.

per diem nursing

Pros of Per Diem Nursing

1. Flexibility: Per diem nursing allows you to create your own schedule, accommodating personal commitments and interests. There’s no pressure to adhere to minimum or maximum shift requirements, providing autonomy in balancing work and life responsibilities.

2. Higher Pay Rates: Compared to other nursing roles, per diem positions typically offer increased pay rates. This compensation reflects the flexibility and readiness required to fill critical staffing needs across various healthcare settings.

3. Variety of Settings: Per diem nurses have the opportunity to work in diverse healthcare environments, gaining firsthand experience and networking opportunities. This exposure can enhance clinical skills and pave the way for future permanent employment.

per diem nursing

Cons of Per Diem Nursing

1. Inconsistent Schedule: Per diem nurses face the challenge of unpredictable shift availability, necessitating flexibility and spontaneity. While some thrive in this environment, others may find it challenging to maintain a work-life balance.

2. Lack of Benefits: Per diem positions often do not provide traditional job benefits such as health insurance and paid time off. However, higher pay rates and flexibility may offset this shortfall for some individuals.

3. Limited Job Security: The nature of per diem work results in fluctuating employment opportunities, leading to periods of high demand and downtime. This uncertainty may not suit those seeking stable, long-term employment.

Embrace the Opportunity

Per diem nursing offers a unique blend of freedom and challenges. If you value flexibility and potential earnings, consider exploring per diem positions through AMN Healthcare. Take control of your career and shape your schedule while maximizing your earning potential. Apply today to embark on a rewarding journey in per diem nursing.

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.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

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Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

April 19, 2024

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Understanding Travel Healthcare Bonuses

TNAA-Travel Nurse Across America provided this article.

As you embark on your journey into the world of travel nursing, you’re probably already excited about all the fantastic experiences ahead—exploring new places, expanding your professional circle, and putting your nursing skills to work in diverse communities. One more reason to get excited? Earning bonuses!

Travel healthcare bonuses are a great way to increase your income. You can earn various bonuses on your travels. From sign-on bonuses to referral incentives, each type of bonus offers unique advantages for travel nurses embarking on travel assignments. Understanding the various bonuses available and how they impact overall income is crucial for maximizing your financial rewards.

4 Types of Travel Healthcare Bonuses

travel healthcare bonuses

Sign-On Bonus

A sign-on bonus is a set amount that travel nurses receive when they sign a contract. These are distributed as either a lump sum (rare but not unheard of, especially for nurses with specialized skills or years of experience) or tiered payments throughout the assignment as certain milestones are reached. This may mean getting some of it at the beginning of your contract and then incrementally the rest of the assignment.

Completion Bonus

Completion bonuses are similar to sign-on bonuses. They are rewarded for successfully fulfilling the assignment terms, which means fully finishing your assignment before you receive your bonus.

Referral Bonus

Referral bonuses encourage travel nurses to refer qualified candidates to the agency or facility. Travel nurses can earn extra income by leveraging their network while helping expand their agency’s talent pool. These referral bonuses benefit travel nurses and agencies, making them a great way to boost the travel nurse industry and earn extra cash in your pocket. Some agencies cap how much you can earn through their referral bonuses, so talk to your recruiter or agency about your options. TNAA’s referral bonus is one example of a referral bonus program that allows you to earn recurring bonuses for every eligible referral, with no cap on how many referred travelers you can submit.

Retention or Loyalty Bonus

Retention bonuses are designed to encourage travel nurses to stay with the agency or facility. They are typically awarded at specific milestones, such as after completing a certain number of assignments, incentivizing loyalty, and fostering long-term relationships between travel nurses and agencies. Depending on what your agency offers, you can earn thousands of dollars just for continuing to travel with the same agency. TNAA is offering travel nurses up to a $10,000 bonus as part of their 25th anniversary this year, plus other cash prize giveaways.

travel healthcare bonuses

Tips for Navigating Travel Healthcare Bonuses

No matter how enticing a bonus may seem, it’s essential to carefully review the terms and conditions before committing to a contract. Here are some common stipulations you should be aware of:

Duration

Many sign-on and completion bonuses require a specified assignment duration. If you decide to leave before completing this timeframe, you may forfeit the bonus entirely or be stuck paying back what you’ve already earned.

Retention and loyalty bonuses likely also have a certain duration or number of assignments you need to complete before you can earn them.

Taxes

It’s important to understand the tax implications of your bonus. Typically, bonuses are considered taxable income, meaning a portion of the bonus will be withheld for taxes. Check with a travel tax expert to see how bonuses affect you come tax time.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for any bonus, you may need to meet certain eligibility criteria. This could include achieving specific performance goals, completing a set number of assignments, or maintaining a minimum number of work hours per week.

Check With Your Agency

As you decide which agency to secure your next travel nurse assignment with, do some research to see what kind of bonuses they offer travel nurses. With the right agency, you could be earning multiple bonuses at the same time, helping you generate more revenue on your travels.

We hope you found this article on understanding travel healthcare bonuses helpful. If you have any questions or comments about travel healthcare bonuses, please comment below.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Nadine Westwood

April 16, 2024

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Expanding Horizons: Why Travel Nurses Should Consider Home Care Opportunities

The nursing field is always filled with many opportunities – both near and far. Travel nurses can even find themselves in parts of the country where their services are more than needed. One of the demands in today’s fast-paced world is home care opportunities. Many seniors are in need of medical care that pertains to the chronic conditions they may be dealing with.

In this guide, we’ll discuss why travel nurses can take advantage of these opportunities. Let’s get started with some of the reasons below.

Why Travel Nurses Should Consider Home Care Opportunities:

home care

They meet a growing demand.

Needless to say, the demand for home care is growing. Travel nurses can take advantage of those opportunities – even if it means traveling to destinations that are hundreds or even thousands of miles away. Once you have moved to a new place and get settled in, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running and work with patients who are delighted to be in your care. Nonetheless, travel nurses will use the opportunity to fulfill the demand to get the experience they need to further their careers.

It provides them with flexible schedules.

Flexibility may be one of the best advantages of home care nursing. This is unlike the traditional structure offered by hospitals and clinics, where nurses work fixed shifts. Thus, nurses who work in home care will be able to create schedules that align well with their personal and professional lives. It will give them a chance to find that work/life balance, allowing them to spend more time off and work at times that will suit them best.

That time off can be used for them to get to know the community they’ve lived in. It can also provide them with the chance to pursue other opportunities, like higher education or talking with family online or on the phone (if they are far from them).

It will help them adapt to their skills.

home care

Nurses with experience in a clinical setting can use home care to adapt to a set of skills useful in a slightly different setting. Those skills include assessment, critical thinking, and communication. The major difference here is that the home environment is more decentralized, allowing them more autonomy. 

Still, they can manage medication and address any of their patient’s health concerns. At the same time, travel nurses can even help their patients live independently while placing a premier emphasis on their health.

Promoting growth – personal and professional

Nurses who work to provide in-home care services have a chance to grow in terms of their personal and professional lives. They can be able to pursue different avenues of nursing based on their experience in home care. At the same time, it also gives them a chance to grow personally by cultivating their ability to build a trusting and compassionate relationship with patients and their families. In short, they become better people both in the personal and professional sense.

Final Thoughts

Travel nurses should consider home care opportunities as a way to get experience, utilize their skills, and give them the fulfillment that they can get from a challenging but rewarding career. Even if it means going to places they have never been before, it gives them a chance to grow personally and professionally. With a growing demand comes more opportunities.

Every nurse who dreams of having a successful and rewarding career should take those opportunities when they are present. Is home care a good one for you? If the answer is “yes,” take advantage of it as soon as you can.

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.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab