What is a travel nurse?
Travel nursing is a unique and rewarding career path that offers nurses the opportunity to work in different healthcare facilities across the country, or even internationally, on a temporary basis.
But what exactly is a travel nurse? This article will delve into the roles, benefits, and requirements of travel nursing to give you a comprehensive understanding of this dynamic profession.
The role of a travel nurse
A travel nurse performs the same essential duties as a regular nurse but as a temporary assignment, typically ranging from 8 to 26 weeks.
These assignments can vary in specialty, location, and the type of healthcare facility, providing a wide range of experiences. Travel nurses fill in staffing shortages, help during peak seasons, or cover for permanent staff on leave.
Benefits of being a travel nurse
Competitive pay and bonuses
Travel nurses often receive higher pay rates than permanent staff due to the demand for their skills and the temporary nature of their assignments.
Additionally, many travel nursing agencies offer sign-on bonuses, completion bonuses, and referral bonuses, which can significantly boost overall earnings.
Flexibility and adventure
One of the most appealing aspects of travel nursing is the flexibility it offers. Travel nurses have the freedom to choose where and when they want to work, allowing them to explore new cities, cultures, and healthcare environments.
This lifestyle can be particularly attractive for those with a sense of adventure and a love for travel.
Professional growth and experience
Travel nursing provides a unique opportunity for professional growth. Nurses gain diverse clinical experiences, work with different patient populations, and learn new healthcare practices and technologies.
This variety can enhance their resumes and make them more competitive in the job market.
Housing and travel stipends
Most travel nursing agencies offer free housing or a housing stipend, along with reimbursements for relocating to assignment locations. This can significantly reduce living expenses and make travel nursing financially advantageous.
Comprehensive benefits
Travel nurses often receive comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and continuing education opportunities. These benefits ensure that travel nurses have the same security and support as permanent staff.
Requirements to become a travel nurse
Education and licensing
To become a travel nurse, you must first obtain a nursing degree — either an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) — and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX) to become a registered nurse (RN).
While both degrees are acceptable, many employers prefer or require a BSN due to the broader education and training it provides.
Clinical experience
Most travel nursing agencies require a minimum of one to two years of clinical experience in your specialty before you can start traveling. This experience ensures you have the necessary background to handle travel nursing demands.
State licensure
Travel nurses must be licensed in the state where they will be working. Fortunately, the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) allows nurses to hold a multistate license, making it easier to work in multiple states without needing to obtain a new license for each one.
For states not participating in the NLC, travel nurses must apply for licensure in those specific states.
Soft skills
Successful travel nurses possess excellent communication skills, adaptability, and the ability to work well in different environments. Being able to quickly acclimate to new settings and establish rapport with new colleagues is crucial for a smooth transition between assignments.
Finding travel nursing assignments
Travel nursing agencies
The primary way to find travel nursing assignments is through travel nursing agencies. These agencies connect nurses with job opportunities, provide support throughout the assignment, and handle logistics like housing and travel arrangements.
Some well-known agencies include American Mobile, Aya Healthcare, and Travel Nurse Across America.
Direct hire opportunities
In some cases, healthcare facilities may hire travel nurses directly, bypassing the need for an agency. While less common, this can sometimes result in higher pay and more direct communication with the hiring facility.
Is travel nursing right for you?
Travel nursing is an exciting and rewarding career path, but it may not be for everyone. It's ideal for nurses who enjoy new experiences, adapt well to change, and thrive in diverse clinical settings. If you value flexibility, adventure, and professional growth, travel nursing could be the perfect fit for you.
Browse Travel Nursing Jobs
Travel nursing offers an exciting opportunity for nurses to explore new places, gain diverse clinical experiences, and make a difference in healthcare facilities across the country.