How to Become a Travel Nurse

Defining a travel nurse

A travel nurse is a registered nurse (RN) who works short-term assignments at healthcare facilities experiencing temporary staffing shortages. These assignments typically last anywhere from 8 to 26 weeks and may be located anywhere in the United States or internationally.

Travel nurses are most often employed through travel nursing agencies, which place them in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings that need immediate or specialized nursing support. In exchange for their flexibility and willingness to relocate, travel nurses often receive competitive pay, housing stipends, travel reimbursements, and other benefits. This is a unique career path that offers nurses the opportunity to explore different parts of the country, gain diverse clinical experience, and enjoy flexible work schedules. With the growing demand for healthcare professionals across the United States, travel nursing has become an increasingly popular option for RNs looking to expand their horizons and enhance their skills.  

What do travel nurses do? 

Travel nurses are RNs who take temporary assignments in various healthcare settings, often in locations where there is a shortage of nursing staff. These assignments typically last between 8 and 26 weeks, although some may be shorter or longer depending on the facility's needs.  Travel nurses work in a wide range of environments, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and outpatient centers. 

The primary role of a travel nurse is to fill staffing gaps in healthcare facilities, ensuring that patient care is not compromised due to a shortage of permanent staff. Travel nurses perform the same duties as staff nurses, such as administering medications, monitoring patient conditions, coordinating care, and educating patients and their families. However, they must also adapt quickly to new environments, work with different teams, and often manage a steep learning curve as they familiarize themselves with each facility’s policies, procedures, and electronic health record systems.  

Responsibilities of travel nurses vary by specialty and facility but commonly include:

• Providing direct patient care and administering medications
• Monitoring patient conditions and documenting care
• Collaborating with physicians and interdisciplinary teams
• Using facility-specific electronic health record (EHR) systems
• Following local policies, procedures, and safety protocols

Opportunities available for travel nurses 

Travel nursing offers a diverse array of possibilities, allowing nurses to tailor their careers to their personal and professional goals. Some of the most common types of travel nursing opportunities include: 

Hospital-based assignments: The majority of travel nursing assignments are in hospitals, where nurses are needed to fill temporary staffing gaps. These assignments can be in various units, such as the ICU, ER, or labor and delivery. Hospital-based travel nursing provides an excellent opportunity to gain experience in different clinical settings and work with diverse patient populations. 

Specialty assignments: Nurses with expertise in specialized fields, such as pediatrics, oncology, or cardiovascular care, can find travel assignments that match their skills. Specialty assignments often come with higher pay rates due to the advanced knowledge required. 

Rural and underserved areas: Travel nurses are often needed in rural or underserved areas where healthcare facilities struggle to attract and retain permanent staff. Working in these areas provides the chance to make a significant impact on communities with limited access to healthcare. 

International travel nursing: Although most travel nursing assignments are within the United States, some opportunities are available internationally. International travel nursing allows nurses to work in different countries, experiencing new cultures and healthcare systems. These assignments may require additional licensing or certifications depending on the destination country. 

Crisis response assignments: During times of crisis, such as natural disasters or public health emergencies, travel nurses are urgently needed to provide care in affected areas. Crisis response assignments are typically fast-paced and challenging, requiring nurses to work under pressure in demanding conditions. 

Seasonal assignments: Some travel nursing opportunities are seasonal, such as assignments in tourist-heavy areas during peak seasons or in regions with specific healthcare needs during certain times of the year. These assignments offer flexibility for nurses who want to work part of the year and take time off during the rest. 

Steps by step process of becoming a travel nurse 

Becoming a travel nurse involves several steps, from obtaining the necessary qualifications to finding the right travel nursing agency. Here’s a comprehensive guide to becoming a travel nurse: 

Obtain a nursing degree and RN license: The first step to becoming a travel nurse is to become a registered nurse. This requires completing an accredited nursing program, which can be an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of   Science in Nursing (BSN). While an ADN is the minimum requirement to become an RN, many travel nursing agencies prefer candidates with a BSN due to the comprehensive education and training it provides. 

After completing your nursing program, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain your license. This exam tests your knowledge and skills to ensure you are prepared for entry-level nursing practice. 

1. Gain clinical experience

Most travel nursing agencies require candidates to have at least one to two years of clinical experience in their specialty area. This experience is crucial, as travel nurses are expected to hit the ground running with minimal orientation at each new assignment. Gaining experience in a high-demand specialty, such as ICU or ER nursing, can open up more travel nursing opportunities and higher pay rates. 

2. Obtain additional certifications: 

Depending on your specialty, you may need to obtain additional certifications to qualify for travel nursing assignments. For example, nurses working in critical care may need to obtain the Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) certification, while those in the operating room may need the Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) certification. These certifications demonstrate your expertise and commitment to your specialty, making you a more attractive candidate for travel nursing positions. 

3. Obtain licenses in multiple states:

Travel nurses must be licensed to practice in the state where they accept assignments. If you plan to work in multiple states, you may need to obtain additional state licenses. However, many states are part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses to hold a multistate license and practice in any participating state without needing additional licensure. If your home state is part of the NLC, obtaining a compact license can significantly streamline the process of accepting assignments in multiple states. 

4. Choose a reputable agency: 

Selecting the right travel nursing agency is critical to your success as a travel nurse. Agencies act as intermediaries between nurses and healthcare facilities, helping you find assignments, negotiate contracts, and handle logistics such as housing and travel arrangements.  

5. Apply for travel nursing positions: 

Once you have chosen an agency, you can start applying for travel nursing positions. Your agency will help match you with assignments that align with your skills, experience, and preferences. Before accepting a position, carefully review the contract terms, including pay rate, assignment duration, location, and any benefits offered. Make sure the assignment meets your professional and personal goals. 

6. Prepare for your assignment: 

After accepting a travel nursing assignment, you’ll need to prepare for the move. This includes arranging housing (if not provided by the agency), packing your belongings, and familiarizing yourself with the new facility’s policies and procedures. Your agency will typically provide support during this process, helping you with logistics and ensuring a smooth transition to your new role. 

7. Stay adaptable and open to learning: 

As a travel nurse, you’ll be working in different environments, each with its own challenges and learning opportunities. Staying adaptable, open to new experiences, and committed to continuous learning is essential for success. Each assignment will help you grow as a nurse, expand your skill set, and build your professional network. 

Understanding Travel Nurse Licensing and the Nurse Licensure Compact

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) allows nurses to practice in multiple participating states without obtaining additional licenses. This can significantly expand job opportunities and reduce administrative burden.

If you plan to work in non-compact states, you may need to apply for individual state licenses, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Many travel nurses work with their agency to manage licensing timelines and requirements.

What to look for in an agency 

The right travel nursing agency can make all the difference in your experience as a travel nurse. Here are key traits to look for when choosing an agency: 

Reputation and reviews: Research the agency’s reputation within the travel nursing community. Look for reviews from other travel nurses to get a sense of their experiences with the agency. A reputable agency should have positive feedback regarding its professionalism, support, and commitment to its nurses. 

Range of assignments: Choose an agency that offers a wide range of assignments in various locations and specialties. This allows you to explore different opportunities and find positions that match your skills and interests. An agency with strong relationships with healthcare facilities will have access to exclusive job openings. 

Support services: A good travel nursing agency provides comprehensive support throughout your assignment. This includes assistance with licensing, housing arrangements, travel logistics, and onboarding at your new facility. Some agencies also offer 24/7 support for any issues that arise during your assignment. 

Competitive pay and benefits: Pay rates for travel nurses can vary widely depending on the agency and assignment. Look for an agency that offers competitive compensation packages, including base pay, housing stipends, travel reimbursement, and bonuses. Additionally, consider the benefits offered, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and continuing education opportunities. 

Transparency and communication: Clear communication and transparency are essential when working with a travel nursing agency. The agency should provide detailed information about each assignment, including contract terms, job expectations, and potential challenges. They should also be responsive to your questions and concerns, keeping you informed throughout the process. 

Flexibility and personalization: The best travel nursing agencies recognize that each nurse has unique preferences and goals. Look for an agency that offers flexibility in choosing assignments, locations, and schedules. They should work with you to find positions that align with your career aspirations and lifestyle. 

Travel Nurse Salary & Benefits

Pay for travel nurses varies based on specialty, location, experience, and demand. Compensation packages may include:

• Competitive weekly or hourly pay
• Housing stipends or provided housing
• Travel reimbursements
• Completion or sign-on bonuses
• Health insurance and retirement options

In many cases, travel nurses earn more than staff nurses, particularly in high-demand specialties or locations.

Travel Nurse Certifications

While certification requirements vary by specialty and employer, the most commonly required or recommended certifications include:

• BLS (Basic Life Support)
• ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support)
• PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support)

Specialty certifications such as CCRN, CEN, or CNOR may improve job prospects and potential for higher earnings. 

Is Travel Nursing Right for You?

Travel nursing can be an excellent option for nurses who enjoy change, autonomy, variety in nursing duties, and of course, traveling! However, it may not be ideal for those who prefer long-term stability or consistent routines.

Before pursuing travel nursing, consider your personal goals, financial priorities, and willingness to adapt to new environments.