Travel nursing offers an exciting opportunity for registered nurses (RNs) to advance their careers while traveling to new places. If you love flexibility, adventure, and competitive pay, becoming a travel nurse might be the perfect path for you. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know from what a travel nurse does to how to start your career in this dynamic field.
What Is a Travel Nurse?
A travel nurse is an RN who takes temporary assignments at healthcare facilities experiencing staffing shortages. Unlike permanent nurses, travel nurses move between locations, often working through staffing agencies. These nurses bring their expertise to various environments, such as hospitals, clinics, and emergency centers.
In addition to domestic opportunities, travel nurses can work internationally. Countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia actively recruit travel nurses, offering competitive pay and unique cultural experiences.
What Does a Travel Nurse Do?
Travel nurses perform the same essential duties as permanent RNs. They assess patients, administer medications, assist with procedures, and provide emotional support. However, their roles often vary depending on the assignment. One contract might involve working in an ICU, while another could focus on pediatric care or emergency services.
Flexibility is a key advantage for travel nurses. They choose assignments based on their skills and preferences, whether in a bustling city or a rural community. Each assignment allows nurses to gain new experiences and adapt to different healthcare environments.
How to Become a Travel Nurse
Starting a travel nursing career involves meeting specific requirements, gaining experience, and connecting with the right agencies. Follow these steps to begin your journey:
1. Meet the Educational Requirements
Travel nurses must first become licensed RNs. You can achieve this by completing a nursing program, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). While an ADN qualifies you to work as an RN, a BSN often opens doors to more opportunities and higher pay.
2. Obtain the Necessary Licenses
Passing the NCLEX-RN exam is essential to becoming a licensed nurse. For travel nursing, you may also need state-specific licenses or the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) certification, which allows you to work across multiple states without additional licensing.
3. Gain Experience
Most travel nursing agencies require at least one to two years of clinical experience. Specializing in areas like critical care, neonatal nursing, or oncology can make you more competitive. This expertise also qualifies you for higher-paying roles.
4. Secure Certifications
Certifications such as Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) are mandatory. If you specialize in areas like emergency care or pediatrics, consider certifications like Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) or Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS).
5. Partner with a Travel Nursing Agency
Research reputable travel nursing agencies that match your goals. Look for agencies offering benefits like housing stipends, travel reimbursements, and health insurance. Compare contracts and ask about their support services before committing.
Skills Every Travel Nurse Needs
To succeed as a travel nurse, you need more than medical knowledge. Essential skills include:
- Adaptability: Quickly adjusting to new environments is crucial.
- Strong Communication: Effective communication helps you integrate into teams and build patient trust.
- Cultural Competence: Working with diverse populations requires understanding and respect.
- Independence: Problem-solving on the go is often necessary in unfamiliar settings.
Benefits of Travel Nursing
Travel nursing provides many benefits, making it an attractive career choice:
- Higher Salaries: Travel nurses often earn more than their permanent counterparts. The average travel nurse salary in 2022 exceeded $100,000, compared to $82,750 for permanent RNs.
- Flexibility: Travel nurses choose where and when they work. Assignments typically last 13 weeks, allowing time off between contracts.
- Adventure: This career combines professional growth with travel. Assignments can take you across the country or even abroad, letting you explore new cultures and cities.
Challenges of Travel Nursing
While rewarding, travel nursing has its challenges:
| Aspect | Challenges | Opportunities |
|---|---|---|
| Relocation | Frequent moves can disrupt personal life and require constant adaptation to new environments. | Explore diverse locations and healthcare systems, gaining varied experiences and personal growth. |
| Licensure | Obtaining and renewing licenses in different states or countries can be time-consuming. | Access to compact licenses (NLC) simplifies the process of working in multiple states. |
| Certifications | Some assignments may require additional certifications, which can incur costs and effort. | Specialized certifications like CCRN or CEN enhance career prospects and earning potential. |
| Health Benefits | Managing health insurance independently can be challenging, especially during breaks. | Many agencies offer benefits while on assignment, and stipends can offset personal costs. |
| International Travel | Navigating visas and cultural adjustments may require additional effort and planning. | Agencies like ITN provide visa support, accommodation allowances, and travel reimbursements. |
International Opportunities
For nurses who dream of working abroad, travel nursing provides the chance to combine career advancement with international exploration.
Working in the UK
The UK is a popular destination for international travel nurses, thanks to supportive agencies like International Travel Nurse (ITN). These agencies assist with essential processes such as securing visas, finding accommodation, and navigating the National Health Service (NHS) system. ITN also offers attractive benefits, including accommodation allowances and reimbursement packages, making the transition to working in the UK smoother and more affordable. Additionally, the UK’s healthcare system provides a unique opportunity for nurses to broaden their professional skills while working in diverse and well-regarded medical facilities.
European Travel
One of the greatest perks of travel nursing in the UK is its proximity to the rest of Europe. With just a short flight, nurses can explore iconic destinations such as Rome, Ibiza, and Santorini during their time off. Assignments in the UK often allow for extended weekends or holiday breaks, giving nurses the chance to experience cultural landmarks, historical sites, and vibrant nightlife across Europe. This aspect of travel nursing makes it an ideal career choice for those who want to balance work with adventure.
Summary
Travel nursing combines adventure, career growth, and financial rewards. It allows nurses to gain diverse professional experiences, explore new locations, and adapt to different healthcare environments. While challenges like relocation and licensing requirements exist, the benefits of this career often outweigh the difficulties.
