There are a thousand nursing careers out there, but most people only know of a handful. And there’s no telling where your career might take you when searching for a unique nursing job that involves travel. Fortunately, if you crave adventure and want to work somewhere other than in a hospital, there’s a place for you.
All in all, it is possible to find a job as a travel nurse with the right skills and experience. You just need to be willing to do what it takes to get one!
What Is Travel Nursing?
Travel nursing is a temporary career path for registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and certified nursing assistants (CNAs). RNs and LPNs often take advantage of travel opportunities because they enjoy working with different people and cultures. CNAs usually prefer traveling because they don’t require much training and are paid less than RNs and LPN. All three groups of workers are referred to as “travelers.”
Travel nursing allows nurses to take advantage of job opportunities outside of their current travel nurse locations. While many nurses find themselves stuck in one position for too long, traveling nurses can experience different types of environments and gain skills and knowledge that could help them advance in their career.
Travel nurse assignments offer an abundance of opportunities to explore the country and make memories while doing what you love. However, you don’t have to be a travel nurse to incorporate travel into your occupation. Here are five unique nursing careers that still allow you to travel for work.
Six Unique Travel Nurse Jobs
1. Flight/Transport Nursing
Flight nurses work with other trained medical professionals and accompany patients as they are transported by aircraft. Most of these patients require advanced critical care and the flight nurses are ultimately responsible for all direct patient care during transportation. Flight nursing is especially beneficial for rural areas that don’t have medical resources for emergencies that larger metropolitan areas do.
To become a flight nurse, you need three to five years of combined ICU/ER experience and certification as a Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN). Some knowledge of navigation and flight is always preferred for this always exciting gig.
2. Cruise Ship Nursing
Nurses who want a one-of-a-kind career experience should look into cruise ship nursing. Cruise ships are similar to small cities floating in the water with an average of around 3,000 guests, not counting the crew that works on the ship full-time. Cruise lines usually employ a team of nurses to treat all types of ailments, sicknesses, and health problems that may occur. Common issues like bad sunburns and seasickness could be followed up by a passenger suffering from cardiac arrest.
To be a cruise ship nurse, you must pass the NCLEX-RN, have two to three years of full-time experience, and earn the Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support certification (ACLS).
3. Camp Nursing
Camp nurses work closely with kids to ensure they are healthy enough to enjoy the great outdoors at sites across the United States. As a nurse, you can determine what type of camp would benefit most from your expertise and background. Some camps focus on youths with cancer, adults with mental disabilities, or other special populations. Camps may also specialize in specific activities, offer high adventure programs including white-water canoeing, or provide a general program with waterfront activities, archery, crafts, tenting experiences, and various sports.
While there are no specific certifications for becoming a camp nurse, most are required to be trained in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
4. Humanitarian Nursing
Humanitarian nurses travel the world to help people and communities in need. Many organizations such as Doctors Without Borders and the International Medical Corps hire nurses to help respond to global emergencies. Some immunize children in remote villages, and others provide emergency medical services after natural disasters. Humanitarian nurses get to apply their expertise in providing holistic care under the most challenging conditions.
Besides a few years of experience, a second language is preferred, and you should take relevant courses in humanitarian health run by NGOs, universities, or online to become a humanitarian nurse.
5. Resort Nursing
Working as a resort nurse exposes you to unique travel nurse locations, people, and cultures. This career can allow you to work at posh hotels in tropical areas where the beach is only a few steps away. You will act as a primary point of medical contact for the tourists who’ve come to soak up the sun as well as the people who serve them.
To be a resort nurse, first-aid and CPR certifications are expected, and communication and language skills are also helpful for interacting with various resort guests. If you plan to go international, make sure you meet the degree and licensing requirements of the country you choose.
6. Hospice Nursing
Hospice nurses assist patients and families through end-of-life situations. They do this by offering emotional support, helping patients prepare for death, and making sure they receive proper pain management. The job requires compassion, patience, and sensitivity.
Hospice nurses often work in hospitals, but some find employment in private homes, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes.
Ready, Set, Travel!
Traveling for nursing jobs is a great way to explore the world, make great money, and help take your career to the next level. Nursing is one of the most rewarding careers out there. It’s also one of the fastest growing professions. And with so much demand for nurses, it’s no wonder why people travel all over the country to find work. If you’re looking for a job as a nurse, here are some tips to consider when traveling for nursing positions.
If you still want to give travel nursing a try, take a look at our job board for available unique travel nurse jobs or contact our travel nurse agency today!
