Travel nursing is the perfect way to get paid to see the world while pursuing your passion for healthcare. It is a great alternative to traditional nursing, allowing you to expand your knowledge and professional network. This said, being a travel nurse is not without difficulty; there can occasionally be some less-than-desirable aspects to the job. Before diving into this position, it is important to be prepared for these challenges.
There is still much to be learned about this career path, but we’re here to help. Here are some of the pros and cons associated with travel nursing and how to know if it is the right fit for you.
Pros of Travel Nursing
1. Control Where and When You Work!
Job searching can be tough when your desired position does not align with your needs. Maybe you have a wedding in Utah this May but can’t afford to take a week off work to attend it. Or perhaps you love the hustle of the emergency room but can’t stand the pace of a doctor’s office. With travel nursing, you can relocate easily, given the demands of your social life and the environment you thrive in.
On our job board, you can filter all available travel nursing jobs by location, start date, duration, and pay, allowing you to streamline your search and tailor it to what best fits your needs.
2. Opportunity for Career Building
While traveling the country is great for your scrapbook, it can also help you expand your professional network. By interacting with colleagues nationwide, you not only make valuable connections but engage with new perspectives and practices that, in the long run, can make you a better nurse. This gives you a leg up on your fellow coworkers and may even save a life!
3. Great Pay Benefits
Travel nurses make great money! Because of the demands of the job, there is an increased opportunity for salary boosts through overtime, relocation bonuses, and even housing stipends. Though your anticipated salary can vary by state and demand, generally, travel nurses make more money than an average staff nurse. Additionally, the job provides many opportunities for tax exemptions and related perks.
4. Travel for a Living!
One of the greatest aspects of travel nursing is seeing the country! Because this career relies on relocation, there is a wide variety of travel nursing destinations available for you to choose from. Have you ever wanted to lounge on the beaches of Hawaii or hike the rolling hills of the Colorado mountains? As a traveling nurse, you can live out your wildest dreams with the security of a stable job.
Cons of Travel Nursing
1. Contract Logistics Can Be a Pain
Travel nursing contracts can be complicated. Because you frequently relocate to different healthcare facilities, independent contracts are often needed every time you begin a new assignment. No one likes reading the fine print, so this can prove complicated and give you undue stress. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. Some companies, like our own, help you understand the particulars of your agreement and promote transparency.
Related reading: Travel Nursing 101: What to Consider Before Signing a Travel Nurse Contract
2. It Can Get Lonely…
Let’s be real: moving to a new city can come with a lot of excitement, but it can also become a bit lonely. Not knowing anyone can quickly become isolating, especially when trying to get footing in a new environment. Establishing a solid support system is important to your success and essential to getting the most out of your career. Try connecting with other travel nurses on social media, like through our testimonials highlighting their experiences! You may find your new best friend is closer than you think.
Related reading: Homesick? Here Are Six Tips To Help Travel Nurses Deal With Being Away From Home
3. Packing Is Tough!
Packing is arguably the most stressful part of any trip, let alone one that requires an extended stay in a brand-new location. Making sure you pack the right things, including essential documents and uniforms, can be stressful. Staying organized, making lists, and reading testimonials from other traveling nurses can all help you prepare for your next big move! We’ve even got you covered with some of our top travel nurse packing tips, so you don’t forget a thing.
4. New and Unfamiliar Environments
Moving somewhere new can be very challenging, especially when it doesn’t live up to your expectations. This can cast a dark cloud on your stay and impact your performance. Be sure to thoroughly research the location of your next gig before moving there, so you can be as prepared as possible to handle unsavory or unexpected developments. And remember, you also don’t have to go terribly far on your first travel nurse assignment if you don’t want to. he whole point is to choose where you want to go! So if you decide a cross country move isn’t for you, then try a closer assignment! Check out our travel nursing job board for all available opportunities, both near and far.
Though it presents a unique set of challenges, travel nursing can be a fantastic career choice! There may be some difficulty adjusting to consistently changing environments, but nothing can match the widespread impact you can make by traveling the country to save lives. Embrace the change, enjoy the sights, and get ready for your next assignment. For more information, visit our travel nurse agency website, travel nursing blog, and job board.
