How to Start Travel Nursing or Traveling as a Healthcare Professional
Hi y’all! I’m Ronnie. Welcome to My Blog!
I’ve been a travel nurse recruiter for nearly 5 years and a travel nurse for 4.5 years before that. My dream of becoming a traveling nurse was the reason I went to nursing school, and now I’m here to help you navigate the process of starting your travel nursing or healthcare career with confidence and clarity.
When I first started, the information was overwhelming and confusing. My goal is to make it easier for you to step into this exciting journey and live out your dream as a traveling healthcare professional!
Key Considerations Before Starting Your Travel Career
1. Why Do You Want to Travel?
Your “why” can help narrow your options. Is it:
Better pay?
New experiences?
Adventure and travel?
Being closer to family?
Knowing your goal will guide your decisions as you start this journey.
2. Where Do You Want to Go?
Have a few locations in mind. I recommend:
Two locations on the East Coast.
Two on the West Coast.
One in the Midwest.
This flexibility increases your chances of finding assignments that fit your needs.
3. Do You Have Enough Experience?
Most facilities require two years of experience for nurses. However, some allied health and therapy professionals can start right out of school.
If you’re unsure, consult an experienced traveler or a recruiter with travel experience. Starting before you’re ready can put patients—and your license—at risk.
4. Are You Financially Prepared?
Unexpected situations like contract cancellations, car breakdowns, or housing issues can happen. Be smart, save money, and have a cushion to fall back on. Preparation is key.
5. How Much Money Do You Need?
Understand your financial needs:
How much do you need to pay bills?
What are your financial goals?
This will help you evaluate pay packages and avoid taking an assignment that doesn’t meet your needs.
6. What Are Your Non-Negotiables?
Decide what you can’t compromise on, such as:
Shift: Day or night?
Pay: Minimum acceptable rate.
Unit: Staying within your specialty.
Location: Must-have destinations.
Be honest with your recruiter about these, but also evaluate if any non-negotiables are flexible. For example:
Would you take a night shift in your dream location?
Would you work in a remote area for higher pay?
Would you take a lower acuity floor for better work-life balance?
If the answer is yes, adjust your non-negotiables accordingly.
How to Find a Recruiter
Once you’ve answered the questions above, it’s time to connect with recruiters. Here are the best ways to find one:
1. Ask for Recommendations
Coworkers who’ve traveled.
Nurse influencers on Instagram or TikTok who recommend recruiters.
Most people will recommend reliable, legit recruiters who’ve worked well for them.
2. Avoid Job Board Pitfalls
Be cautious about signing up on job boards like Indeed. Your information could be sold to thousands of agencies, leading to an avalanche of calls, texts, and emails.
Tips for Starting Your Journey
Be Flexible: The more flexible you are with location, unit, shift, pay, and start dates, the more likely you’ll secure great opportunities.
Ask Questions: Reach out to experienced travelers or recruiters to clarify anything you’re unsure about.
Stay Prepared: Financial security and clear goals will keep you focused and confident.
Next Steps
Once you’ve reached out to recruiters and started receiving responses, the real fun begins. But what should you do next?
Stay tuned for my next post, where I’ll guide you through the process of working with recruiters to secure your dream assignment!
Happy Planning!
❤ Ronnie