Travel Nursing: Opportunities, Benefits, and How to Get Started

Photo by Vladimir Shevtsov on Unsplash

Introduction to Travel Nursing

Travel nursing is a dynamic segment of healthcare where registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) accept short-term assignments in hospitals and clinics across the country and, at times, internationally. Born out of a need to address staffing shortages, travel nursing has evolved since the 1970s into a sophisticated career path offering flexibility, mobility, and professional variety [4] . Travel nurses play a critical role in maintaining the quality of patient care during periods of high demand, such as seasonal peaks, public health crises, or local staffing gaps [1] .

What Does a Travel Nurse Do?

Travel nurses perform the same core functions as permanent staff but under temporary contracts that typically span 13 weeks, though durations may range from several weeks to months depending on the facility’s needs [3] . Their responsibilities include direct patient care, supporting unit operations, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Upon arrival, travel nurses undergo rapid orientation-often just a few days-requiring them to adapt quickly and demonstrate strong clinical skills [3] .

Assignments can be in various specialties, such as emergency, critical care, or surgical units. Travel nurses are expected to handle patient rounds, coordinate care transitions, execute medical orders, and integrate smoothly with local teams. After completing an assignment, nurses may be offered extensions or may choose new locations, providing ongoing professional variety.

Benefits of Travel Nursing

Travel nursing offers several key advantages:

Competitive Pay: Travel nurses are typically paid higher than permanent staff due to their role in filling urgent staffing needs. Compensation often includes base salary, overtime, and stipends for housing and meals. Some agencies offer additional benefits such as healthcare coverage, retirement plan contributions, and loyalty reward programs [2] .
Housing: Many agencies provide housing, usually a furnished one-bedroom apartment with utilities, or offer stipends for nurses to secure their own accommodations [2] .
Professional Growth: Nurses gain experience working in varied clinical environments, enhancing both their skills and resumes. Exposure to different healthcare systems and protocols supports ongoing learning and career advancement [1] .
Flexibility and Adventure: Assignments can be chosen based on personal preferences for location, climate, and type of facility. This flexibility offers opportunities for travel, personal discovery, and work-life balance [4] .

Challenges and Solutions

While travel nursing is rewarding, there are potential challenges:

Adaptation: Rapid transitions between facilities mean travel nurses must quickly learn new protocols and integrate with diverse teams. Nurses can prepare for this by specializing in high-demand fields and maintaining strong communication skills.
Licensing: Nurses must ensure their credentials are valid in each state or country they work in. The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) allows RNs to practice in multiple states with one license, simplifying the process. For states outside the compact or international assignments, nurses should contact state boards or local regulatory agencies for guidance.
Housing logistics: If agency-provided housing isn’t available, nurses must secure their own accommodations. Many use reputable apartment search portals or consult with agency housing coordinators for assistance.

Developing a support network through fellow travel nurses and agency contacts can help mitigate feelings of isolation and ease transitions between assignments.

How to Become a Travel Nurse: Step-by-Step Guidance

Here’s a practical roadmap to launching a travel nursing career:

Obtain Required Credentials: Most travel nurse agencies require candidates to hold an active RN or LPN license and have at least 1-2 years of clinical experience in their specialty [3] . Some assignments may require additional certifications (e.g., ACLS, BLS).
Research Agencies: Travel nurses typically work with established agencies that match them to assignments. Consider reputable agencies such as AMN Healthcare or Cross Country Healthcare , both of which are verified, accessible, and industry recognized.
Apply and Interview: Submit applications through agency portals, including your resume, licensure, and references. Agencies conduct interviews to assess clinical skills and preferences.
Secure State Licensure: For assignments outside your home state, research the Nurse Licensure Compact or contact the relevant state’s board of nursing for requirements. For international roles, review local licensing requirements or consult with your agency.
Review and Accept Contracts: Contracts outline assignment length, compensation, housing, and benefits. Review all terms carefully and clarify any uncertainties with your recruiter before signing.
Prepare for Assignment: Complete required onboarding and orientation with the agency and facility. Arrange travel, confirm housing details, and gather necessary documentation.

If you’re uncertain about which agency to choose, you can search for “top travel nurse agencies” and compare reviews on reputable job boards and professional organizations such as the American Nurses Association (ANA).

Alternative Pathways and Career Advancement

Travel nursing is not limited to RNs. Opportunities exist for advanced practice nurses, certified nursing assistants, physician assistants, and allied health professionals willing to travel [4] . Some travel nurses transition into permanent roles at facilities they enjoy, pursue advanced certifications, or move into leadership and education positions. Agencies often offer continuing education resources or reimbursement for professional development.

For those interested in travel health nursing-a related but distinct specialty focused on caring for travelers before, during, and after journeys-explore recognized programs through the American Travel Health Nurses Association or consult with occupational health clinics [5] .

Practical Tips and Next Steps

To begin your journey as a travel nurse:

Build a strong clinical foundation with 2+ years of experience in your chosen specialty.
Research and connect with established travel nurse agencies using online platforms and professional networks.
Prepare necessary documentation-licenses, certifications, immunization records, and references.
Clarify housing and compensation details before accepting any assignment.
Maintain flexibility and openness to new experiences, as adaptability is key for success.

If you need assistance or more information, consider contacting your state’s board of nursing, joining professional nursing organizations, or attending industry webinars and career fairs.