The beauty of being a travel nurse is that you are able to explore the country and get paid for it. By filling short- or long-term positions for facilities based on their needs, nurses can explore a variety of areas across the United States—and some even in other countries. You may be wondering if becoming a travel nurse is the right move for you. If you are looking for a change of pace, here are four reasons travel nursing might be the right career change.
An Adventurous Lifestyle
Travel nursing is ideal for individuals who often feel bored or stuck with their day-to-day routine in the same environment. Since the average contract is around 13 weeks, you will have ample opportunities to explore new locations and scenery. Whether you want to check out coastal states or take a hike in a more mountainous region, you will have plenty of options to choose from. You will also get a chance to meet new people from different areas and discover hidden gems only known by the locals. It is a great way to become a part of the community without permanently setting down roots.
Control When And Where You Work
You can have the flexibility and freedom you would not normally have in a traditional nursing career. In many cases, you will have the option to choose when and where you work and select from jobs lasting a few weeks or even just a few days. If you know you will need time off for upcoming events like a birthday or wedding, for example, then you can work that into your contract. (You could even find a contract in the location of your special event.) Oftentimes, travel nurses also work their 13-week contracts and take a week off to enjoy their current or new location before their next contract begins. With a travel nurse career, you can choose to take time off or keep earning money—it’s all up to you!
Make More Money
Since hospitals use travel nurses to quickly close gaps and fill vital positions, they are also willing to pay a higher salary than a traditional full-time nurse position. (The salary depends on the location, facility, and your experience.) If one of your top priorities is earning more money, you can look for contracts in areas with the highest shortages and work with your agency and hospitals to negotiate a compensation package that can include signing bonuses to fully-funded education opportunities. Travelers can also be eligible for tax-free stipends, which can help with housing, meals, and other expenses. When you add it all up, it will equal more money in your pocket.
Professional Growth and Experience
Each time you accept a new assignment, you get the opportunity to acquire new skills and work in different specializations. If you are accustomed to working only in your field of choice in large medical centers, you can try small, rural hospitals where you might have to work in nearly all positions. Every experience you have during your contracts will help you grow as a nurse, and show you what type of healthcare facility you want to work in. Not only will you be able to reach your nursing career goals, but you will also stand out from the crowd when you add all of your new experiences to your resume.
Travel nursing is a great opportunity to take your career to the next level and take a break from the mundane. If you are interested in finding your next career destination check out our job board for the latest travel nurse jobs in the top travel nurse locations!
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