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Travel Nurse

What is a travel nurse, how to become a travel nurse, travel nurse faqs, what does a domestic or international travel nurse do, travel nurse salary and employment, helpful organizations, societies, & agencies.

Travel nurses are RNs from various clinical backgrounds who work for independent staffing agencies. They are assigned to different care areas on a temporary basis to fill in short-term employment gaps.

Travel nursing is a specialty that took root when the field of nursing faced a nationwide shortage. Hospitals, clinics, and other care areas had unfilled positions, yet had patients needing care. To try and attract nurses to the open positions, employers offered higher pay, housing, and covered the cost of relocating.

Due to these shortages, health care facilities have vacancies that need to be filled—and travel nurses are often the ones to fill open positions. Not only do travel nurses work in health care in any state in the country, but they also work outside of the United States as international travel nurses. The adventure and excitement of new opportunities, along with higher-than-average pay, are facets of travel nursing that many RNs find attractive.

Why Are Travel Nurses Important?

Travel nurses are an important part of the health care team because they help bridge the gap between supply and demand in the field of nursing. Mandatory nurse-patient ratios have led to increased patient safety and lower patient mortality . While this is a positive finding, and more and more states are passing legislation to implement staffing ratios, there are not enough nurses to fill the openings. Travel nurses assigned those open positions help to increase patient safety and improve patient outcomes.

Additionally, nurses from different educational backgrounds, care areas, and geographic locations bring a great deal to the practice of nursing. Sharing ideas and practices not only benefits patients, but also other nurses.

A travel nurse should have the following characteristics to excel in the role:

• Enjoys experiencing new cities, towns, and organizations
• Enjoys freedom. Travel nurses choose when and where they work, and choose their duration of employment
• Enjoys flexibility. Travel nurses create their schedules, benefits packages, and income based on which agency they choose to work
• Thrives on challenges. Moving to different states or overseas and being “the new nurse” repeatedly is challenging. Learning new organizational systems and workflows is particularly challenging
• Loves learning new things. Each assignment takes travel nurses to new health care facilities, some with higher levels of technology or different standards of practice. Each experience helps nurses build upon their knowledge base

Additionally, travel nurses should have supportive families and friends. It's difficult to either pack up and move an entire family or leave your family and friends behind. The flip side to this is that new relationships are formed in each new location.

What Are the Educational Requirements for Travel Nurses?

Those interested in the specialty of travel nursing should first pursue a nursing degree through a two or four-year university. Obtaining an associate's degree ( ADN ) or bachelor's degree ( BSN ) in nursing is required. A BSN is not required to be a travel nurse, but some health care facilities only hire BSN-prepared nurses. The staffing agency in which the nurse is employed should match the nurse appropriately based on educational requirements.

After completion of an accredited nursing program, successful completion of the NCLEX-RN is required for licensure.

Most travel nurse agencies require a minimum of one year of hands-on experience in the chosen specialty of nursing. Additionally, some agencies will only hire BSN-prepared RNs. International travel nurses should speak the language of the country they are to practice in, as communication is an important part of effective healthcare delivery. Nurses are encouraged to research agencies when considering travel nursing.

Are Any Certifications or Credentials Needed?

No additional exams are required for travel nursing. Based on the specialty, certification(s) may be required. Examples include:

• Basic Life Support (BLS)
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) may be required
• Stroke care certification
• Telemetry certification
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
• Critical care nursing (adults, pediatric, neonatal)
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) may be required
• Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) certification
• Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)
• Trauma Nurse Core Course (TNCC) certification

Additional specific requirements may be necessary for international travel nurses. These include:

• Acquiring a passport and work visa (usually handled by the agency)
• Additional immunizations
• Learning a new language
• Learning about diseases unique to the area

How Can a Travel Nurse Receive a Tax-Free Housing Stipend?

Housing is one of the most significant concerns for a travel nurse. There are a few options available, and it depends on the travel nurse agency/company regarding how accommodations are set up. Some companies provide housing (i.e., apartment, duplex, etc.). Some companies offer a housing stipend, or a fixed amount of money each month to apply towards housing.

First, nurses need to be aware of where their “tax home” is, as stipends are tax-free if working away from the tax home. Having a tax home is necessary to receive tax-free housing. A "tax home" is defined as the general vicinity of an individual's primary place of work (regardless of where the primary residence is). Generally, the IRS considers someone traveling away from home (i.e., their "tax home") if it exceeds one workday.

Different travel nurse agencies offer different stipends - it’s important to research what the living expenses are in a specific area to ensure housing is adequately covered. The General Services Administration (GSA) lists the maximum daily amount for lodging, meals, and incidentals with regards to travel expenses . The key word is MAXIMUM. It's not required that a company pay employees the listed stipend. In fact, some travel nurse agencies offer higher hourly wages instead of housing stipends. Additionally, the GSA rates are based on short-term travel - usually less than a month. Travel nurse contracts can last three months or more.

Are Nursing Licenses Valid When Traveling and Working in Other States?

Those interested in travel nursing may have questions about licensing; specifically, how are licenses recognized if practicing in another state.

Depending on the state, new licensure is not necessary. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) developed the Nurse Licensure Compact which is an agreement between specific states to recognize nursing licenses without having to apply separately for licensure in another state. In other words, a nurse living in a "compact state" (one which is part of this agreement) can practice in another compact state without having to obtain additional licenses. There are now uniform licensure requirements that must be met when seeking a multistate license under the compact agreement. States that participate in the compact agreement can be found on the NCSBN website .

If not part of the compact agreement, some states allow nurses to obtain temporary licenses by endorsement. These are valid for specific lengths of time, so nurses must visit each state’s Board of Nursing website to determine specific temporary license requirements. If extending the assignment past the temporary license time frame, nurses must apply for a permanent license. Permanent licenses are also required for states that don't grant licensure by endorsement and don't participate in the NLC.

Travel nurses have a broad range of responsibilities and duties, and specific tasks depend on the specialty in which the nurse is trained. General nursing responsibilities and duties include:

• Using the nursing process of assessing, diagnosing, planning, implementing, and evaluating to care for patients in a variety of healthcare settings
• Administering medications, and fluids, assisting with activities of daily living and patient mobility
• Reviewing and interpreting diagnostic tests such as lab work and imaging
• Provide monitoring and oversight in all aspects of patient care
• Collaborating with physicians in developing a plan of care
• Assessing the psychosocial needs of patients and families
• Recognizing and intervening in clinically unstable patients
• Providing resources for patients and referring as necessary
• Educating patients and families in all areas of healthcare maintenance and prevention
• Working in assignments anywhere from eight to thirteen weeks (on average) in the U.S., one to two years if outside the U.S.
• Learning various patient care systems/documentation
• Providing immediate medical care and aid for large populations during times of war or disaster

Domestic and international travel nurses also have different characteristics specific to their roles.

Domestic Travel Nurses

• Work within the U.S.
• Typically work assignments that range from eight to thirteen weeks
• Can respond to areas of the U.S that experience natural disasters or disease outbreaks

International Travel Nurses

International travel nurses should have excellent communication skills, should be open to new experiences and challenges, and should have a strong desire to learn. These nurses are responsible for performing a wide array of duties. As stated previously, the tasks an international nurse will have to perform depend entirely upon their medical specialty. Some of the more general or everyday tasks that international travel nurses will perform include administering medication, wound care, and providing emergency medical services and care. Since there are often nursing shortages in many of the regions that international nurses travel to, another general role of these nurses is to educate family members and caretakers about the appropriate patient and medical care. In summary, international travel nurses:

• Work outside the U.S.
• Typically work assignments that range from one to two years
• Respond to areas that experience natural disasters or disease outbreaks, such as the Ebola outbreak in West Africa
• Provide medical care and aid to underserved, rural , and remote populations
• Usually, must wait for document processing before traveling

Travel Nurse Working Conditions

As with any career, there are positive and negative aspects to working as a travel nurse. Nurses can suffer from stress as they may carry a heavy patient load and have many critical decisions to make. Additionally, travel nurses may suffer from feelings of isolation since they tend to relocate often. Having a strong sense of independence and a support system available, even remotely, can help.

Additionally, nurses may work in high-risk areas that may expose them to workplace violence, blood-borne pathogens, and chemicals. Travel nurses must always familiarize themselves with and adhere to safety standards set by the organization.

International travel nurses can face different challenges. Travel nurses must be familiar with the country's laws, and geographic-specific diseases, and always keep their overall safety as a priority.

Despite these considerations, travel nursing can be immensely rewarding. Many organizations and staff nurses appreciate the help travel nurses offer. Travel nurses help relieve staff nurses from burnout, as can happen when working short-staffed.

International travel nurses are also highly appreciated. They provide medical care and assistance to many patients in remote settings who otherwise would have no access to healthcare. They help with relief efforts in war zones or after disaster events, which can be both rewarding and enriching.

According to the American Nurses Association, as of 2015 fourteen states had mandatory nurse-patient ratios . Nurses are pushing for federal legislation supporting safe staffing and because of this, if more states pass safe-staffing laws, nurses will be in even more demand. Travel nurses will help mend the current and projected nursing shortage. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 16% overall growth for nurses until 2024, which is much faster-than-average growth for all occupations.

RELATED :  RN License Transfer and NLC Guide

Travel nursing has many incentives for nurses regarding pay and benefits including:

• Travel reimbursement
• Free housing
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement plans
• Assistance in obtaining passports/work visas
• Choice of location
• Selection of hours/shifts worked
• Competitive pay
• Higher-than-average pay for RNs

According to Indeed, the average yearly salary for a travel nurse is $75,109. However, since pay is competitive in travel nursing, some companies are offering salaries of around $100,00 annually for domestic travel nurses.

International travel nurses tend to have lower salaries than domestic, except for assignments in some middle eastern countries. This is because, for the most part, nurses tend to make less outside of the U.S.

Salary is dependent on the agency, and nurses should research each company to find the right salary and benefits that best fit their needs.

• International Council of Nurses
• Professional Association of Nurse Travelers
• National Association of Travel Healthcare Organizations
• American Travel Health Nurses Association

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TravelNursing

What is Travel Nursing?

Travel nurses provide a valuable resource to healthcare providers and facilities needing temporary staffing assistance. Assignments usually range anywhere from 8 to 26 weeks, though most fall around 13 weeks. While the required level of expertise and care does not differ between travelers and permanent clinicians, when it comes to salary, travel nurses tend to earn roughly 15% more than an on-staff RN. Travel nursing gives clinicians the opportunity to advance their career while traveling the country and doing what they love - and who couldn't love that?!

How Does Travel Nursing Work

Due to nurse shortages, many healthcare facilities and hospitals lack the amount of nurses they need and often turn to agencies that can help provide short-term solutions without forfeiting quality of care or required expertise.

Most travel nurses take a 13 week assignment. Nonetheless it is very common for the facility or hospital to still need assistance, which would allow the traveler to extend their assignment.

Although rare, hospitals and facilities do have the option to end a contract early if there is no longer a need for the position. On the other hand, a nurse contract is a legally binding document and once signed, must be fully adhered to until the contract's end date. Of course, travelers always have the option of adjusting the contract's duration terms before their next assignment.

Hospitals Rely on Traveling Nurses

There are several reasons why hospitals opt to employ travel nurses. Aside from more flexible staffing options and providing relief to their regular staff, nursing shortages remain the primary factor in the rising demand for qualified RNs willing to relocate, if only for the short-term.

The US Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects that more than 1 million nurses are needed to meet the current demand while nurse employment opportunities continue to grow at a 15% rate through 2026. 

Why You Should Work With a Travel Nursing Agency

Healthcare facilities and hospitals work closely with travel nurse staffing agencies to help bridge staffing gaps with qualified, experienced clinicians. While there are currently around 340 nurse staffing companies in the U.S., only 110 are considered 'certified' by the Joint Commission. Although, it’s not required that a nurse staffing agency be certified, most Magnet hospitals and larger academic hospitals only work with agencies that are.

Aside from connecting RNs with healthcare facilities actively looking to fulfill assignments, travel nursing agencies offer invaluable support & expertise to both the traveler and the hiring facility before, during and after placement. To ensure the interests of both parties are completely protected, the nurse staffing agency also provides the official 'nurse contract', a legally binding document outlining the agreed terms for assignment, like start and end date, pay rate, optional stipend, and more. 

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The best travel nursing agencies typically provide some kind of education and/or assistance programs to clinicians needing a nursing license or license renewal for the state in which they are applying to work. Additionally, most reputable nurse staffing agencies tend to offer a bevy of other competitive employment benefits and perks as well, such as full medical, dental and vision packages; 401(k) retirement plans; free housing placement or housing stipends; and even discounts on hotels, car rentals, gym memberships and even shopping!

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How to Become a Travel Nurse

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• Career Overview
• Steps to Become
• Education Options
• Certification and Specialization

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Are you interested in a financially rewarding nursing career that offers the flexibility to take short-term assignments across the country and abroad? The nursing shortage has increased the demand for travel nurses in every type of healthcare setting, often in underserved communities in both urban and rural locations. Employers offer higher pay and more generous benefits to travel nurses with specialties, such as ICU or neonatal nursing, or those holding advanced practice registered nursing licenses.

Keep reading to learn how to become a travel nurse, what kind of license and certifications you need to enter the field, and what to expect on the job.

How Long to Become 2-4 years

Degree Required ADN or BSN

Average Weekly Salary $2,109

Source: Vivian , April 2024

What Is a Travel Nurse?

A travel nurse is a skilled nursing professional willing to take short-term assignments both across the U.S. and internationally , lasting from a few weeks to several months. Instead of seeking permanent positions in healthcare facilities, these licensed and registered nurses find temporary placements using the services of staffing agencies that specialize in travel nursing. Travel nurse contracts outline the start and end dates for the placement, total compensation for the duration of the assignment, and work expectations.

The demand for registered nurses has increased throughout the healthcare industry, along with critical nursing shortages in some geographic locations and in high-demand specializations. Travel nurses have stepped in to fill these gaps. According to the 2022 National Nursing Workforce Survey , 6% of RNs work as travel nurses.

Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Steps to Becoming a Travel Nurse

A travel nurse must meet the same educational and clinical requirements as all registered nurses (RNs). You must first earn an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Once you earn your degree, you need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and acquire your state nursing license. Because employers expect travel nurses to immediately begin working, travel nurse staffing agencies typically look for applicants with at least one year of clinical experience. Specializations and certifications can give you an advantage.

Earn an ADN or BSN Degree From an Accredited Program.

Travel nurses must earn an ADN or a BSN to qualify for RN licensure. An ADN offers the fastest pathway to an RN nursing career. However, a BSN, which typically takes four years to complete, provides graduates with a higher level of training and clinical experience, leading to broader employment opportunities. The major travel nurse staffing agencies and large healthcare systems prefer to hire RNs with a BSN degree.

Pass the NCLEX Exam to Receive RN Licensure.

You need to pass the National Council Licensure Exam for RNs (NCLEX-RN) to earn an RN license. This computer-adaptive test takes up to six hours and covers nursing practice, conditions and treatments, how the healthcare system works, legal and ethical issues, and patient communication and education.

Gain Clinical Nursing Experience.

The more clinical experience you have, the more likely you will find a placement. Most agencies only consider applicants with a minimum of one year of experience. However, some healthcare contracts require two years or more of clinical experience. Travel nurses must have the skills and background to jump into assignments without on-the-job training or orientations, adjusting to new environments, staff, and procedures.

Find a Travel Nursing Agency.

Nurse staffing agencies have grown in popularity, filling the nursing shortage gap resulting from RNs who retire or leave the workforce. Consequently, many agencies have emerged that specialize in travel nurse staffing. Travel nurse agencies advertise for specific positions, often recruiting at nursing school career offices, professional associations, and online. Before working with a travel nurse agency, it is important to research its reputation. When evaluating agencies, you should compare if the contracts they offer meet your expectations about available locations, types of assignments, salary and benefits, and travel and housing arrangements.

Begin Your First Travel Nursing Assignment.

Because travel nurses work in multiple settings with varied patient populations , duties and responsibilities differ for each new assignment. In most cases, you will receive little on-the-job training. Depending on the employer, your first shift may begin with a full orientation or just a brief introduction to the facility’s procedures and policies. You may be paired with a nurse for your first few days, but then you will be expected to work independently soon after.

While some travel staffing agencies handle housing arrangements to help you settle into your new environment, you may decide to find your own accommodations to save on living expenses.

Travel Nurse Education

Different employers and positions have different travel nurse requirements. Generally, it takes at least two years to earn an ADN, the minimum requirement to become an RN.

Most travel nurse positions require a BSN, but some nurses start with an ADN, which takes two years to complete rather than the four years required for a BSN. Many BSN programs offer RN-to-BSN bridge programs .

Admission Materials

Program curriculum, time to complete, skills learned.

All travel nurses must be licensed RNs by earning an undergraduate nursing degree, either a BSN or an ADN, and passing the NCLEX-RN examination. However, many employers require or strongly prefer a BSN.

Travel Nurse Licensure

If you plan on becoming a travel nurse, you must have a valid nursing license in the state where you intend to practice. If the state where you earned your initial RN license participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), you do not need to apply for another license to work in any other NLC state. However, not all states are NLC members . If your intended travel nurse assignment is located in a non-NLC state, you must apply for a license in that specific state before starting your contract. Some states have expedited processes for temporary licenses, and certain staffing agencies can assist you with the application process.

Maintaining an active license as a travel nurse is no different than for other RNs. You need to renew your RN license periodically, meeting the specific requirements for contact hours and continuing education units in your home state. If you are working in a non-NLC state, you must meet the renewal requirements for that jurisdiction.

Travel Nursing Certification and Specialization

RNs often choose to earn specialty nurse certifications in a variety of areas, including emergency care, pediatrics, obstetrics, and infection control. While earning a certification may not be required for a certain position, a specialization helps distinguish you from other job applicants and may boost your salary.

According to a 2019 travel nurse compensation report , the demand for travel nurses is highest for those with specializations in ICU, medical-surgical, operating room, and emergency room nursing. ICU nurses, the most in-demand travel nurse specialty, accounts for 16.5% of all travel nurses. Healthcare employers and staffing agencies often look for travel nurses with specialties in particular patient populations, including neonatal nursing and pediatrics, or those with experience in specific types of services, such as emergency and critical care nursing.

Working as a Travel Nurse

Travel nurses fill temporary assignments wherever nurses are needed. They may find placements in hospitals and clinics facing nursing shortages, community health facilities, and healthcare organizations in the U.S. and abroad that must respond to public health crises, disease outbreaks, and other medical emergencies. The average travel nurse contract lasts between 13 and 26 weeks, but hours and shifts vary widely depending on the assignment.

Travel nurse salaries also vary by setting, location, and specialization. According to Vivian , a major healthcare hiring service, the average weekly pay for travel nurses is $2,118, or $44.79 an hour, compared to $42.80 per hour for RNs overall, as noted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics . However, earnings can range from $458 weekly for the lowest-paid travel nurses to $6,419 for the top earners, and some travel nurses may be given a housing/relocation stipend.

Although working as a travel nurse has many benefits, there are some potential downsides. Travel nurses may be required to complete onboarding for each new contract they begin, even if they have already previously worked at a facility. This process can require time-consuming steps, such as providing proof of vaccination, fingerprinting, and documentation of your medical history, which can delay your start date.

Some travel nurses have difficulty finding affordable housing options for the duration of their contract. You can review a travel agency’s benefits to determine if they may provide assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Travel Nurse

Do travel nurses get benefits.

In addition to the attractive salaries, some travel nurse placements offer benefits. These may include medical and dental coverage, 401K contributions, sign-on bonuses, and stipends for housing, travel and per-diem living expenses.

Can travel nurses choose where they work?

One of the major perks of working as a travel nurse is the flexibility to choose when and where to work. However, your ability to choose your placement depends on the demand for your particular specialty or the number of available positions in the location where you want to work.

What is the best degree to become a travel nurse?

Many staffing agencies prefer to hire travel nurses who have completed a bachelor of science in nursing. A BSN equips nurses with a solid foundation of nursing knowledge and skills. This can prepare them for a travel nursing role, where they may need to transition between healthcare facilities and effectively adapt to diverse patient populations and settings.

How do I find a travel nurse staffing agency?

Travel nurse staffing agencies may recruit at nursing schools, through referrals, or through advertisements for specific positions or general placements. You can also look online for travel nurse staffing agencies or discover agencies through networking. Be sure to double check references and the agency’s reputation.

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Page last reviewed on April 7, 2024

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• What Do Travel Nurses Do?

Where Do Travel Nurses Work?

A day in the life of a travel nurse, pros and cons of being a travel nurse, is travel nursing right for you.

Becoming a travel nurse can be an exciting opportunity to not only experience new places around the country but also network and build lasting connections with healthcare professionals. But if you're considering starting traveling, you may be wondering, what do travel nurses do? 

This article will take you through the responsibilities of a travel nurse, including the day-to-day duties, where you can work, and the pros and cons of the job. Keep reading to determine whether this fast-paced, exciting, and adventurous career is right for you.

>> Click here to see available high-paying travel nurse opportunities!

What Do Travel Nurses Do? 

The specific duties of a travel nurse will vary depending on the unit and department you work. For example, the expectations of an intensive care unit (ICU) nurse will vary greatly compared to those of an obstetrics (OB) nurse or an operating room (OR) nurse. In this section, we'll discuss what travel nurses do, their duties, and their responsibilities.

>> Related: How to Become a Travel Nurse

Bedside Responsibilities

Travel nurses are responsible for taking care of patients from triage to discharge. Typically responsibilities may include, 

• Administer medications and monitor for adverse reactions
• Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including ambulation, feeding, dressing, and bathing
• Insert and manage IV catheters
• Perform vital signs at required intervals and recognize abnormalities and report to appropriate healthcare providers
• Perform physical assessments and recognize signs
• Prepare patients for bedside procedures and surgeries

A large portion of a travel nurse’s responsibilities include education. Specifically, travel nurses will need to provide education to the patient, if applicable, as well as to family and caregivers throughout their shifts. 

Time spent educating patients and families will vary depending on your specific unit. For example, a travel nurse that works in a post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) and is discharging patients after surgery will be required to spend more time on education than other typical bedside duties. 

On the other hand, an ICU nurse will spend far less time focused on education because of the severity of their patient’s illness and disease. 

Travel nurses also may be responsible for educating new nurses and orientees. While rare, it is possible for a travel nurse to be asked to work with new nurses.

Patient Advocacy

While not the most obvious job responsibility, advocating for a patient is an important job duty of a travel nurse. This can range from speaking to healthcare providers to advocating for tests or new medications. It also can mean speaking to family members about the wants and needs of the patient. 

Travel nurses can work in a variety of locations. Essentially, they can work anywhere that a staff nurse may work. However, not all healthcare settings will have a need for travel nurses. Some of the locations travel nurses work in include, 

• Home health
• Long-term care facility
• Government agency
• Private MD office
• Urgent care
• Specialty clinic
• Surgical center

Travel nurse days might look a little different than a staff nurse because they can be the first to be floated to another unit, depending on their contract. So, travel nurses will generally report to the floor they are contracted but may have to work their shift on another unit or even another hospital (depending on their specific contract).

1. Get Their Assignments

Most travel nurses will start their shifts either at 7 am or 7 pm. After getting an assignment, the first task is to get a report on your patients. This typically takes about 30 minutes but may take longer, depending on the unit and the patients! 

2. Looking Through the EMR

After the report, travel nurses will spend a little bit of time looking through the EMR to go over orders and medications, including times they are due, and to find any missing information that was not communicated during the report. 

3. Performing Physical Assessments

The rest of the morning generally consists of performing physical assessments on your patients, vital signs, assisting in ADLs, and administering medications. 

Healthcare providers typically round in the morning so it is important to try and touch base with the medical team to learn the plan of care for the patient for the day and any changes to the orders and/or medications. 

The rest of the day is similar to the morning/evening but maybe a little less hectic. There are more vital signs, reassessment of your patients, admissions and discharges (depending on the unit), and road trips for MRI or CT scans. 

While this is a brief idea of what a typical day might look like for a travel nurse, it will vary greatly depending on your specialty and work location. 

Being a travel nurse may sound like a great opportunity: You get to travel the country, earn a higher wage, and experience new cultures. But like every job, there are pros, and there are cons as well. 

Travel Nursing Pros

• Higher compensation
• New locations
• Meeting new people
• Expand your skillset
• Adaptability 
• Flexibility between contracts
• Choice of contracts and location

>> Related: Travel Nurse Salary Guide

Travel Nursing Cons

• Always the new person
• First to float, first to cancel
• Relocating every 13 weeks 
• New computer modules for each assignment
• Lack of local support system
• Managing multiple nursing licenses
• Finding temporary travel nurse housing

Travel nurse requirements are the same as a staff nurse, except most travel nurse jobs require 1-2 years of experience and prefer a BSN degree over an ADN. Not meeting these standards can make finding travel nursing jobs in desirable locations more difficult and may dampen your experience.

Another reason travel nursing may or may not be right for you is variety. As a travel nurse, no two assignments will look the same. So, it may not suit you if you prefer stability and routine.

Kathleen Gaines (nee Colduvell) is a nationally published writer turned Pediatric ICU nurse from Philadelphia with over 13 years of ICU experience. She has an extensive ICU background having formerly worked in the CICU and NICU at several major hospitals in the Philadelphia region. After earning her MSN in Education from Loyola University of New Orleans, she currently also teaches for several prominent Universities making sure the next generation is ready for the bedside. As a certified breastfeeding counselor and trauma certified nurse, she is always ready for the next nursing challenge.

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50 Useful Travel Nursing Tips for First-Timers in 2024

Are you an experienced nurse looking for some excitement and a change but not sure what options are available? Do you enjoy traveling? Does meeting new people and learning about new cultures excite you? If so, have you considered what it would be like to become a travel nurse? Perhaps you are wondering how to get started or asking, "What are some useful tips for first-time travel nurses?” If this sounds like you, the 50 useful travel nursing tips for first-timers in 2024 featured in this article are just for you!

WHAT ARE SOME USEFUL TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME TRAVEL NURSES?

1. learn about travel nursing and what it involves., 2. determine your availability to work as a travel nurse., 3. consider working as a float nurse at your current nursing job., 4. consider getting a compact nursing license., 5. update your resume., 6. make sure all licenses and certifications, and immunizations are current., 7. create a medical records portfolio and keep it up to date., 8. gather necessary documents., 9. get excellent letters of professional reference., 10. don't burn bridges., 11. choose the type of transportation you want to use., 12. take care of the tiny details, so you don't feel overwhelmed later., 13. do your research., 14. consider getting a recruiter or agency representative., 15. prepare for the interview., 16. be honest with recruiters and potential employers., 17. ask questions., 18. read the fine print in your contract., 19. create a budget., 20. find out what the early cancellation penalty is., 21. ask if you will be reimbursed if the hospital cancels your contract., 22. consider getting a personal liability insurance policy., 23. think about health insurance., 24. be flexible., 25. plan for housing., 26. don’t pack your whole house, 27. get to know other travel nurses., 28. don’t forget about your fur-babies, 29. be confident about your knowledge and skills., 30. try not to take things personally., 31. if you have a recruiter, stay connected with them., 32. accept assignments with an open mind., 33. don’t forget self-care, 34. arrive in your new town a few days early, if possible., 35. be early for work., 36. find a mentor., 37. learn coping mechanisms to help reduce stress and promote a positive outlook., 38. develop friendships with your new coworkers., 39. enjoy your new town, 40. embrace opportunities to learn and master new skills., 41. create a healthy work-life balance., 42. leave work at work., 43. don’t limit yourself to one agency., 44. remember, travel nurse agencies and recruiters work for you as much as you work for them., 45. consider earning a certification., 46. get experience in different specialty areas., 47. never stop learning, 48. be committed., 49. prepare for your next assignment., 50. have fun, useful resources to help prepare for your first ever travel nursing assignment, youtube videos, • travel nursing 101: what to know before you travel (don’t get played on your 1st contract) -, • travel nurses who left staff jobs reflect on newfound freedom -, • behind the scrubs: the travel nurse experience -, • atlas all access- travel nursing where you belong -, • hitting the road: a guide to travel nursing, • the truth about travel nursing, websites/blogs, my final thoughts, frequently asked questions answered by our expert, 1. is it a good idea to start as a travel nurse right out of college, 2. will travel nursing look good on my nursing resume, 3. when can i start applying for my first travel nursing assignment, 4. what do i need to make sure of in my first travel nurse contract, 5. as a first-time travel nurse, can i choose where to go, 6. i'd prefer to drive to my first travel nursing job. can i do that, 7. what if i get my first travel nursing assignment and i hate it, 8. as a first-time travel nurse, can i make my own schedule, 9. do first-time travel nurses get health insurance and 401k, 10. as a first timer, can i negotiate my pay with my travel nurse recruiter, 11. as a first-time travel nurse, how much will i make, 12. will my first travel nurse stipend be taxable, 13. can first-time travel nurses travel on international assignments.

What is a Travel Nurse?

Learn about the role of Travel Nurse, what they do on a daily basis, and what it's like to be one.

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Definition of a Travel Nurse

What does a travel nurse do, key responsibilities of a travel nurse.

• Providing direct patient care in temporary assignments across different locations, often in areas experiencing staffing shortages.
• Adapting to diverse healthcare settings and integrating with new teams to ensure continuity of care.
• Assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating patient care plans in collaboration with healthcare professionals.
• Administering medications and treatments to patients and monitoring their responses.
• Documenting patient care services by charting in patient and department records.
• Communicating effectively with patients and their families, providing education and support.
• Maintaining a high level of clinical expertise and complying with all healthcare regulations and standards.
• Responding to medical emergencies and providing critical care as needed.
• Operating and monitoring medical equipment used in patient care.
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to create a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.
• Ensuring the transfer of medical information is completed accurately when transitioning to a new assignment.
• Staying current with nursing best practices and participating in professional development opportunities.

Day to Day Activities for Travel Nurse at Different Levels

Daily responsibilities for entry-level travel nurses.

• Providing direct patient care and performing routine nursing duties
• Documenting patient information and care in medical records
• Adapting to the policies and procedures of different healthcare facilities
• Collaborating with healthcare teams to deliver patient care
• Attending orientation and training sessions at new assignments
• Communicating effectively with patients and staff in diverse settings

Daily Responsibilities for Mid-Level Travel Nurses

• Independently managing patient care with minimal supervision
• Specializing in a specific area of nursing, such as critical care or pediatrics
• Assisting in the orientation and mentoring of new Travel Nurses
• Participating in quality improvement initiatives and committees
• Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient care
• Providing input on patient care plans and contributing to clinical decisions

Daily Responsibilities for Senior Travel Nurses

• Leading and coordinating nursing care for critically ill or complex patients
• Acting as a liaison between the travel nursing agency and healthcare facilities
• Developing and implementing policies and protocols to improve patient care
• Mentoring and supervising teams of nurses and other healthcare professionals
• Participating in high-level problem-solving and decision-making processes
• Engaging in professional development and contributing to nursing research

Types of Travel Nurses

Critical care travel nurse, labor and delivery travel nurse, operating room travel nurse, telemetry travel nurse, psychiatric travel nurse, pediatric travel nurse, oncology travel nurse, what's it like to be a travel nurse , travel nurse work environment, travel nurse working conditions, how hard is it to be a travel nurse, is a travel nurse a good career path, faqs about travel nurses, how do travel nurses collaborate with other teams within a company, what are some common challenges faced by travel nurses, what does the typical career progression look like for travel nurses.

How To Become a Travel Nurse in 2024

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How Does Travel Nursing Work? Requirements, Job Description, and Outlook

August 29, 2023

View all blog posts under Articles | View all blog posts under Master of Science in Nursing

Approximately 1.7 million travel nurses currently work in the United States, according to job website Zippia. Given that travel nurses in the 10th percentile of the salary range typically earn at least $120,000 per year, a nurse who wants to see the world may well consider pivoting to travel nursing.

Many registered nurses (RNs) are leaving the health care field altogether — to recover from burnout, to pursue an entirely different career, or to opt for early retirement. It’s a tough situation for health care providers because it takes years to educate and train nurses to replace those who leave the profession.

The RN shortage has challenged hospitals and health care facilities scrambling to do more with less. The ongoing pandemic has played a large part in creating this predicament. Additionally, an aging population, increased demand for health care services, and the nationwide nursing shortage have all placed even more strain on front-line medical workers.

Now more than ever, many understaffed facilities hire travel nurses to help with day-to-day health care demands until they can hire permanent nursing staff. This trend raises the question, "How does travel nursing work?"

Travel nurses deliver high-quality health care services to patients across the country by taking on short-term assignments at understaffed health care facilities. Travel nurse ranks among the better-paid nursing roles in the health care industry. Individuals interested in becoming a travel nurse can gain essential skills through an advanced education, such as an online Master of Science in Nursing program .

How Does Travel Nursing Work?

Travel nurses perform the same duties and play the same role in a health care facility as a local RN, but the difference is that they’re transitory, meaning they don’t live permanently in the locality in which they’re working. This is possible because geographical location has little impact on the training and skill set that’s needed from the nurse.

So, how does travel nursing work from the perspective of an understaffed health care facility that needs an immediate solution? Providers usually seek the services of a travel nurse because the hospital or health care facility has a gap in staffing. Finding a full-time local RN to fill that gap can pose a challenge for a facility. Either the pool of candidates is too small, or the facility has yet to find a candidate that’s a good fit with its current nursing staff.

Whatever the case may be, hiring a travel nurse is a temporary solution that can help the health care facility buy time while it looks for a permanent RN. In fact, it’s not uncommon for a hospital to make an offer to extend the travel nurse’s assignment given staffing demands.

A travel nurse’s employment is always on a contractual basis. The contract will usually last for three or more months, depending on the facility’s needs. During their employment, a travel nurse typically receives the following as part of their compensation package:

• Weekly stipend for expenses
• Lodging accommodations
• Signing bonus

However, these contract offers vary in terms of perks and compensation. For instance, a travel nurse may be offered a generous salary, lodging accommodations, and a weekly stipend but no signing bonus.

Additionally, stipends and lodging accommodations can vary dramatically depending upon the region. For example, a New York hospital may offer a much higher stipend, along with lodging accommodations, compared with a Salt Lake City hospital because the cost of living is so much higher in New York. When selecting locations, travel nurses need to be aware of how far their money will go in the city they’re considering.

Finally, location and seasonality play a big factor in the decision-making process as well. For instance, a travel nurse may be considering a high-paying contract role in Cleveland versus a lower-paying one in San Diego. If the two contracts happen to span December through February, the travel nurse might decide to go with San Diego simply because California winters are so much more temperate than Ohio’s.

Job Role and Main Duties of a Travel Nurse

The primary difference between travel nurses and RNs is the traveling element. Beyond that, the day-to-day responsibilities are nearly identical. The typical job duties of a travel nurse include:

• Assessing patients and logging their exact symptoms or conditions
• Administering medications and treatments
• Monitoring the status and vitals of patients
• Collaborating with physicians and other health care staff
• Explaining care plans to patients and their families
• Teaching patients how to better care for themselves
• Keeping detailed patient records
• Communicating with family members about a patient’s status

Similar to RNs, travel nurses work in hospitals, health care facilities, residential care facilities, outpatient care centers, and government facilities.

What Are the Travel Nursing Requirements?

Travel nursing requirements are similar to requirements traditional RNs need to meet but with a few key distinctions. The main educational steps an aspiring travel nurse needs to complete remain consistent:

• Complete an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program — though the latter is highly recommended for travel nurses who want to stand out to potential employers
• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
• Obtain licensure in their state of practice

Once these three steps are completed, an ASN or BSN graduate is able to practice as a licensed registered nurse. However, travel nurses require two additional certifications: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).

Travel nurses who plan to work in a specialized unit should also get the relevant certifications. For instance, a travel nurse who aims to work in an intensive care unit would benefit from getting the CCRN certification, which focuses on acute and critical care.

Another important step that travel nurses need to take is setting up what’s known as a "tax home" for the purposes of taxes and decreasing their overall tax liability. A tax home is the full-time residence where a travel nurse stays when they’re not working. Since travel nurses are away for months at a time, they generally try to secure tax homes with low rent and maintenance costs to help reduce their overall expenses.

For instance, a travel nurse would likely not set up a tax home in a luxury downtown apartment that rents for more than $2,500 per month. It makes more sense to find an affordable tax home to keep their overhead costs down. Travel nurses without a tax home can still work, but they must file under the status of an itinerant worker. This means they must pay taxes on all of their income, stipends, and reimbursements.

Finally, getting and maintaining licensure is of the utmost importance when considering travel nursing requirements. Through the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), nurses can earn a multistate license to provide care to patients in eNLC member states. Furthermore, renewing the eNLC license is a simple process that can be done anywhere.

However, non-eNLC states require a travel nurse to obtain an additional state license. This means the travel nurse must meet all the requirements of the new state. Additionally, some states require nurses to obtain continued education units (CEUs) to be allowed to work. When it comes to selecting contracts, travel nurses need to be aware of what — if any — new licenses or CEUs they’ll need to get before they decide to sign on.

Travel Nurse Practitioner vs. Travel RN

Just as RNs can travel to different parts of the country to fill in the nursing gap, the same is true for travel nurse practitioners. Compared with RNs, nurse practitioners (NPs) have more education (an MSN degree, at minimum) and more on-the-job experience, and they usually focus on one specific area of medicine, such as family care, adult-gerontology, or neonatal care. Additionally, NPs generally earn much higher salaries than their RN counterparts.

Scope of Practice

One of the biggest differences when comparing travel nurse practitioners and travel RNs is scope of practice. RNs take their marching orders from NPs, physicians, and physician assistants; this is consistent across all states. NPs, on the other hand, have full practice authority in certain states, meaning they can practice with full autonomy.

In some states, however, NPs operate under restricted or reduced practice, meaning they aren’t allowed to do certain things, such as prescribing medications. Additionally, NPs in reduced or restricted practice states are held accountable and sometimes work under the direct supervision of a physician or team of physicians.

For a travel NP, this means taking on a new contract may significantly expand or reduce their role in the health care facility. Serving in a greatly reduced or expanded role may not appeal to them, which will play a factor in their decision-making process. Travel RNs don’t have to worry about this because their scope of practice is consistent throughout the country.

Licensing for travel NPs is also different compared with travel RNs. While the licensing process is fairly simple for travel RNs working in eNLC member states, NPs usually carry two or three licenses per state.

They include the RN license, the APRN license, and a prescribing license to order medications for patients. A travel nurse practitioner also needs to update their Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) certificate to the state they’re practicing in so they may prescribe medications.

As a result of these various requirements, travel NPs have more to keep track of to maintain licensure.

Work Environment

Travel RNs typically work in acute care in a hospital or health care facility. Travel NPs, on the other hand, have more options, including:

• Health care facilities
• Doctors’ offices
• Community health centers
• Schools and universities
• Military bases
• Outpatient clinics
• Veterans clinics
• Women’s health care clinics

A travel nurse practitioner’s specialty usually dictates the types of contracts they’re eligible for. For instance, a women’s health nurse practitioner seeking travel assignments would likely find a placement in a women’s health care clinic.

Salary and Assignment Length

Similar to travel RNs, travel nurse practitioners see varying salaries, depending on job demand, the facility hiring, the length of the contract, and other factors. Travel RNs earned an average annual salary of approximately $80,900 as of January 2022, according to PayScale. Those in the ninetieth percentile made approximately $107,000 per year.

Salary information for travel NPs isn’t as readily available. However, travel nurses in the top five highest-paying states earned $120,000 or more in 2019, according to TravelNursing.org. California was the highest-paying state, with a salary of $133,800. The takeaway is travel NPs generally earn higher salaries than travel nurses.

One other area that bears comparison is assignment duration. Typical travel RN work assignments are approximately three months long. Travel NPs have the three-month contract option too; however, their assignments can also be much shorter or much longer. Travel NP assignments can range from a single day to well over a year, which is ideal for health care workers who prefer flexibility in their schedules.

What Is Per Diem Travel Nursing?

Per diem travel nursing is one of the most flexible positions in health care. Per diem travel nurses have the same role and responsibilities as a travel nurse, but they pick up their shifts on an ad hoc basis.

They can choose how much or how little they work, even if it’s just a short shift lasting only a few hours. Per diem nursing is the ideal fit for a nurse who needs the maximum amount of flexibility in their schedule and prefers not to work on weekends and holidays. Additionally, per diem travel nurses often get paid more than the standard rate.

One major drawback of per diem nursing is the lack of job security. When a hospital or health care facility is fully staffed, that usually means it no longer requires the services of per diem nurses. Another drawback is that because per diem nurses work only on a fill-in basis and usually part time, they might not develop a rapport with the full-time staff.

Is Travel Nursing Worth It?

Being a travel nurse means working in a new city with a new group of health care professionals every few months. It’s the opportunity to take in a completely new culture and sights. A travel nurse could be in the heart of New York City one month, only to relocate to sunny San Diego the next.

It’s a position that’s rich with possibilities. Plus, travel nurses rack up a vast amount of experience since they work in so many different environments and with different teams. Lastly, travel nurses command higher salaries and receive stipends, signing bonuses, and other perks that their non-traveling RN counterparts don’t.

Is travel nursing worth it? For RNs and NPs who like a change in scenery and want to sample several different work environments across the country, the travel nurse role might well be a great fit.

Begin Your Journey to Becoming a Travel Nurse

Travel nursing is an exciting opportunity for a health care worker to see the world while offering high-quality care to patients in need. With the ongoing nursing shortage still in full swing, travel nurses will likely stay in high demand and continue to command competitive salaries.

To pursue a career as a travel RN or travel NP, investing in education is a great way to begin. Take the first step toward your career goals by discovering how Hawai‘i Pacific University’s online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program further develops the skills and knowledge of current RNs, allowing them to specialize in family care, psychiatric mental health, or adult-gerontology.

An MSN degree opens the door for a travel RN to become a travel NP, which can mean higher salaries, plus the advantages of a wide variety of work environments and flexible work assignments. Start your adventure as a travel RN or NP and help providers save lives.

Recommended Reading:

Burnout vs. Compassion Fatigue in Nursing

The Importance of a Nurse’s Role in Patient Safety

Trauma Nursing in Vacation Cities

American Association of Critical Care Nurses, Frequently Asked Questions About CCRN Certification

CareerStaff Unlimited, "Comparing Travel and Per Diem Nursing Jobs: Which Is Right for You?"

Health Affairs , "COVID-19’s Impact on Nursing Shortages, the Rise of Travel Nurses, and Price Gouging"

Healthcare Dive, "Nurses Burned Out, Dissatisfied With Careers Consider Leaving the Field, Survey Finds"

Indeed, "How to Become a Traveling Nurse Practitioner (6 Steps)"

Indeed, Travel Nursing Salaries in the U.S.

PayScale, Average Travel Nurse (RN) Hourly Pay

Remede Group, "Are You More Comfortable With Per Diem or Travel Nursing ?"

Travel Nursing, "The Difference Between a Travel NP and a Travel RN"

Travel Nursing, "How to Become a Travel Nurse | 5 Requirements 2021"

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Registered Nurses

Zippia, Traveling Nurse Demographics and Statistics in the U.S.

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What Is a Travel Nurse? Job Description and Salary

When healthcare organizations face staffing shortages, they call on travel nurses. What is a travel nurse? As skilled professionals, travel nurses take temporary nursing positions in high-need areas. They jump into hospitals, clinics, and other facilities, giving patients across the country quality care.

The COVID-19 pandemic created a nationwide staffing crisis and, as a result, a surge in demand for travel nurses. Health leaders attribute this change to two main factors: First, as CNN reports, staff nurses, demoralized and exhausted, have been quitting and retiring at a faster rate than facilities can hire new ones. Second, many nurses are leaving their stable jobs for well-paying temporary jobs, netting $5,000 or more per week working through travel-nurse agencies, according to AP News.

Students and professionals interested in this career path can benefit from exploring the roles and responsibilities of travel nurses, reading travel nursing tips, and learning about the travel nurse salary and job outlook. 

History of the Travel Nurse

The travel nurse industry emerged in the 1970s in response to high-census healthcare contexts. 

• High census is when the patient population in a healthcare facility becomes higher than the current staff can appropriately care for. In effect, high census means that a facility is understaffed. 
• Low census is when the patient population in a healthcare facility becomes too low for the facility to use its entire nursing staff. In essence, low census means a facility is overstaffed for a period of time. 

In the 1970s, persistent nursing shortages in warmer southern states, such as Florida, drew nurses from northern states over the winter. These nurses followed the seasonal influx of so-called snowbirds — people who move for part of the year to get away from harsh northern winters. 

At first, these nursing work arrangements were informal. Nurses would travel to meet demand but were hired as regular permanent employees who would leave when the season ended. Because these nurses had no special contract with their hospitals and clinics, these healthcare organizations also did not provide housing or extra wages. This worked well for facilities in warmer states that could not afford to hire so many staff members year-round. 

Today, professionals fit a similar travel nurse description . Travel nurses often work for healthcare staffing agencies that specialize in placing temporary contractors across the country. Agencies take a cut of what a hospital might pay a travel nurse, and in exchange, they advocate for secure housing, competitive travel nurse salaries , and all-expense-paid transportation to new assignments for their travel nurses.  

Culture Fit: What to Expect as a Travel Nurse

What does a travel nurse do? Travel nurses routinely jump into roles at understaffed healthcare settings. Facilities expect them to perform all the duties of a traditional nurse with little to no context for care. Because of this, travel nurses must become comfortable with working in extremely fast-paced, chaotic environments.

For example, a travel nurse may take an assignment at a severely understaffed neonatal intensive care unit. The nurses on staff may not have the time or bandwidth to explain all aspects of the hospital charting system or details about specific patients; travel nurses may need to pick these details up as they go.

Travel nurses sign a contract to fill a temporary position. This can last several days, weeks, or months — or longer. When contracts end, travel nurses either extend their stay at the same location or move on to a new destination and opportunity. The length of their contracts can vary, although most placements are between eight and 26 weeks. Some travel nurses find a temporary assignment they enjoy and work to secure a full-time position, but many continue to travel and keep flexible working hours. 

Working as a travel nurse has many perks. Here are some of the benefits of travel nursing:

• Assistance in obtaining passports/work visas (if working internationally)
• Choice of location
• Competitive pay
• Free housing
• Higher-than-average pay for RNs
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement plans
• Selection of hours/shifts worked
• Travel reimbursement

Travel Nursing Tips and Personal Characteristics

Travel nurses need to cultivate the skills of learning new systems quickly, taking criticism in stride, and adapting easily to change.

Some personal characteristics that serve travel nurses on the job include:

• Ability to learn quickly. Travel nurses all have experience working in a traditional nursing context, but they need to be able to draw upon their broad knowledge bases as they adapt to new healthcare facilities. Some healthcare settings have different standards of practice and different technologies to learn. Travel nurses need to adopt new practices and technologies quickly. 
• Resilience to persevere in challenging contexts. The combination of moving to different states, being the “new nurse” constantly, and taking care of difficult patients comes with many challenges. Travel nurses need to be able to withstand these challenges. 
• Flexibility. Travel nurses have the freedom to create their own schedules with the agencies they work for. For example, travel nurses might work for nine intense weeks on the other side of the country and then take a month off. 
• Comfort with working in new environments. Travel nurses need to adapt to different organizations and care teams, often when those organizations and teams lack the adequate resources to run properly. 
• A strong support network. Travel nurses may need to leave their families and friends for long periods of time to take temporary jobs. Having a supportive person or group of people who act as an emotional sounding board can be crucial for working long-term in the chaotic assignments of a travel nurse.

Navigating Crises as a Travel Nurse: Pandemic Pressure

The demand for travel nurses has accelerated over the course of the pandemic. Rising clinician burnout continues to be a challenging issue in the healthcare field.

A recent National Academy of Medicine report suggests that between 35% and 54% of U.S. nurses and physicians have symptoms of burnout due to pandemic pressures. These burnout symptoms include:

• High emotional exhaustion
• High depersonalization (expressed in cynicism about the healthcare system or healthcare in general)
• A low sense of personal accomplishment from work

Even in more normal times, the American Nurses Association’s Healthy Nurse, Healthy Nation project found that at least 69% of U.S. nurses said they agreed or strongly agreed that they put their patients’ health and safety before their own.

Given the added stressors of the pandemic — including abnormally high patient mortality rates, the lack of personal protective equipment, political decisiveness surrounding pandemic precautions, and polarized public responses to the vaccine rollout — nurses have clearly borne the brunt of the pandemic chaos.

In the wake of so much nursing burnout, hospitals and health systems have relied on travel nurses to pick up the slack. As a result of severe staffing shortages, healthcare organizations are paying steep rates for much-needed staff.

How to Become a Travel Nurse

After determining what a travel nurse is and what a travel nurse does, current and future nurses may want to know how to become a travel nurse.

The steps involved in becoming a travel nurse include:

• Earning an ASN or BSN degree
• Passing the NCLEX to become a registered nurse (RN)
• Gaining experience on the job
• Getting licensed
• Signing with a travel nurse staffing agency

Earn a Nursing Degree

Any nurse who has completed an associate or bachelor’s degree from an accredited nursing program is eligible to be a travel nurse. Several paths lead to meeting this education requirement:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree
• Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree for entry-level RNs
• LPN to BSN bridge program for licensed practical or vocational nurses or licensed paramedics
• LPN to ASN degree for licensed practical nurses

Pass the NCLEX to Become a Registered Nurse

After graduating with an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing, the next step to becoming a travel nurse is passing the National Council Licensure Examination, also known as the NCLEX-RN exam.

Once they have passed the NCLEX exam and met the state board of nursing requirement, candidates will be eligible to become a registered nurse. From there, they need to start gaining enough experience in a nursing specialty to pursue opportunities as a travel nurse.

Gain Experience in a Specialty

Nursing professionals interested in travel nursing should look ahead and gain experience in the specialties they desire while still working full time as a regularly scheduled nurse so that they can work in specialized care environments as a travel nurse.

For example, a travel nurse with no experience working in a neonatal intensive care unit will not be competitive for NICU jobs. This is true for all specialties. 

Attain Licensure

To be a registered nurse, a professional must be licensed in the state where they work. The Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) allows RNs to hold a single nursing license valid in several states.

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing keeps track of the states that have implemented the NLC. For professionals who live in a state that participates in the NLC, additional licensing may not be required to work as a travel nurse. However, travel nurses seeking to work outside of the NLC will need to get an additional license in the state(s) they seek to work in. 

Work With a Travel Nursing Agency

The last step to becoming a travel nurse involves signing with a travel nursing agency.

The benefits offered by each staffing agency will vary, along with the alliances they may have with specific hospital or healthcare networks, specific geographic areas, or even specific nursing specializations.

Travel Nurse Salary and Job Outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the nursing profession to grow at a rate of 16% between 2014 and 2024. Due to the current nursing shortage, the job outlook for travel nursing is even greater. The BLS predicts a 19% growth for travel nurse jobs by 2022.

Skilled RNs will have opportunities to fill open positions in travel nursing. The BLS predicts a 9% increase in the employment of RNs from 2020 to 2030 due to the aging general population of the United States and a large number of older nurses retiring in the workforce. According to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), 55% of today’s nursing workforce is 50 years or older. That means there will likely be even greater need for travel nurses in the future as older nurses retire.

See the Country as a Skilled Travel Nurse

Traveling to provide patient services opens doors for travel nurses. They work for independent staffing companies that recruit RNs to fill positions throughout the United States and abroad. A lucrative career awaits nurses who are willing to take the leap, leave their traditional nursing jobs, and work in high-need areas across the country.

The ongoing shortage of nurses makes it challenging for hospitals and clinics to maintain their staffing needs. Travel nurses can help with persistent staffing issues, and they can also fill in temporary gaps when nurses go on leave. Travel nurses don’t always need to work in different states ; s ome serve at local understaffed hospitals.

For current and aspiring nurses with a desire for new experiences, an interest in meeting new people and visiting new areas, and a drive to develop an understanding of healthcare in other communities, becoming a travel nurse can be an exciting career move.

Learn more about opportunities for nursing pre-professionals with St. Catherine University’s accredited nursing degree program . Through comprehensive nursing instruction, St. Kate’s equips students with the technical skills to succeed on the job. 

Sources: American Traveler , “Travel Nurse Salary” AP News, “US Hospitals Hit With Nurse Staffing Crisis Amid COVID” CNN , “ Traumatized and Tired, Nurses Are Quitting Due to the Pandemic” Forbes, “What It's Like to Be a Travel Nurse During a Pandemic” Professional Association for Nurse Travelers , “History” Travel Nurse Across America, “New Grad Nursing & How to Start Travel Nursing” Travel Nurse Across America, “ Travel Nursing Basics: Agencies, Requirements & More” TravelNursing.com, “Which Travel Nursing Specialties Are in Demand?” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2020 - Registered Nurses The Wall Street Journal , “High Pay for Covid-19 Nurses Leads to Shortages at Some Hospitals” 

Travel Nursing RN State Licensing Resource

Obtaining a nursing license, whether initial or through endorsement can be confusing and overwhelming, especially since each state has its own set of individual requirements and timeframes.

With the expansion of the Enhanced Nursing Compact License (eNLC) , working in multiple states or accepting travel nursing assignments quickly is much easier. Nurses have the ability to obtain licensure in their state of residence, and also work in an additional 31 states with more pending legislation. 

Pro tip: Timeframes for license processing can change without notice. It’s best to apply as soon as possible to ensure your license is issued in plenty of time.

There are two different types of temporary nursing licenses.

The first is a traditional temporary license . These are issued in some states, but only if an individual has a confirmed job offer and needs to start before a permanent license is issued. These licenses are valid for roughly one year. To obtain a temporary license there are additional fees and required paperwork. Temporary licenses can be a good option for travel nurses if they plan on working in a state for a brief period of time and not returning. A temporary license will simply expire, while a permanent license requires renewal fees. 

The second type is a walkthrough temporary license and there are only a few states that issue this type of license. The state boards of nursing issue these licenses same-day, sometimes as quickly as an hour. Walkthrough temporary licenses are typically valid between 30 days and six months, depending on the issuing state. 

It’s important to discuss with your travel nurse recruiter the different licensing options and which are the best for your current travel nurse assignment. 

RNs can earn up to $2,300 a week as a travel nurse. Speak to a recruiter today!

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International Travel Nursing: How to Work Abroad as a Nurse

Written by: university of tulsa   •  jan 22, 2024.

International Travel Nursing: How to Work Abroad as a Nurse                                                 ¶

Offering care that improves patient outcomes is a global health care goal, but it can be difficult to achieve. A worldwide nursing shortage has left care facilities in need of skilled, qualified nurses who can help them meet their goals. The shortage provides unique opportunities for those interested in travel nursing to take their expertise abroad.

International travel nursing provides advanced professional nurses the ability to deliver care where it’s most needed around the globe. It also enables them to see the world, a view that can make the role even more satisfying. Those interested in the role should be prepared to add a few extra steps to their advanced nursing journey.

The International Demand for Nurses  ¶

The nursing shortage is a growing issue across the globe. Domestically, the supply of registered nurses (RNs) dropped by more than 100,000 in 2021 , according to a Health Affairs study. This represented the largest drop in the field in four decades. 

The shortage also carries a global impact. In 2020 — the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic — the World Health Organization (WHO) set the estimated need for nurses around the globe at 7.07 million . One year later, data gathered by the International Council of Nurses (ICN) suggested that this need would climb to almost 13 million worldwide by 2030. 

The shortage correlates with poor economic development. According to an ICN policy brief, 89% of nursing shortages are generated from low-income and low- to middle-income countries. The brief also noted the impact of an aging nursing workforce relating to the shortage, as 1 in 6 nurses worldwide is projected to retire by 2030.

The data represents not only the global need but also potentially abundant opportunities for those seeking to advance their careers as travel nurses. A qualified nurse with the right credentials can also pursue a role in international travel nursing and deliver holistic patient care to places in the world where their services are needed.

An international travel nurse can help ease the stress of long-term nursing shortages, but they can also travel to places that need nurses due to sudden or unexpected circumstances, such as a disease outbreak or a natural disaster. Exposure to different countries and cultures can help these nurses enhance their skill sets in unique ways, such as learning about a new medical technique or picking up a new language. 

Additionally, international travel nurses get to see the world through their work. This can make the job personally enriching for individuals interested in exploring the globe and experiencing different cultures, customs, and traditions.

Several other benefits are associated with international travel nursing. These additional benefits include gaining hands-on experience with treating issues uncommon in the U.S., gaining exposure to different work environments and treatment strategies, and gaining exposure to patients with diverse cultural backgrounds. 

Becoming an international travel nurse isn’t for everyone. The role requires flexibility and a willingness to adjust to the differences that may exist within different countries, such as unfamiliar facilities or societal health care norms. For some, these differences may make the role uniquely enticing and an ideal career choice.

How to Work Abroad as a Nurse  ¶

Becoming an international travel nurse is a complex process. The journey involves several steps typically associated with becoming a nursing professional. It also involves unique steps designed to allow nurses to be eligible and fully prepared to travel abroad and provide nursing services. Those interested in the career must fully understand how to work abroad as a nurse before embarking on this journey, as failure to do so may disrupt the process.

Step 1: Earn a Nursing Degree            ¶

As is the case with any advanced nursing career, the first step to becoming an international travel nurse is to earn a nursing degree . This allows nurses to develop the foundational knowledge and skills needed to perform the essential patient care tasks that they may face while working abroad.

While earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is the educational benchmark for an international travel nurse, earning an advanced nursing degree, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) can further fortify a nurse’s acumen. This may make them even better prepared for the unique challenges of international travel nursing. 

Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam             ¶

Individuals with a nursing degree must pass the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) before they’re allowed to practice nursing as an RN. The exam is intended to ensure that nurses are fully prepared to put their knowledge into practice in a real-world environment. In addition to this exam, nurses may need to meet the requirements of the state where they intend to work.

Step 3: Gain Experience            ¶

RNs must typically have at least two years of clinical experience before they can become an international travel nurse. The experience allows nurses to not only develop their skills individually or with nursing mentors but also pursue a specialty within the nursing field, which is usually required for the profession. Common specialties include pediatric nursing, surgical nursing, intensive care nursing, and emergency room nursing.

Step 4: Obtain Additional Credentials             ¶

International travel nurses often must carry credentials beyond licensing that can transfer from state to state. The credentials can include a valid passport, a work visa, up-to-date vaccinations, and a language test. Nurses need to double-check the requirements of any prospective country before pursuing nursing opportunities there.

Tips for Prospective Travel Nurses  ¶

Finding work in international travel nursing can be a daunting task. Fortunately, plenty of tips and resources are available to make the process easier for nurses to navigate.

Using an International Nursing Recruiting Agency          ¶

Travel nurse agencies are staffing organizations designed to connect travel nurses with international employment opportunities. The opportunities are based on experience and whether credentials align with a country’s guidelines, among other key metrics. Several agencies may also require candidates to have a minimal understanding of the assigned country’s language.

Some agencies may provide free housing for the duration of the assignment. Other agencies may provide a stipend to cover travel and housing costs for the opportunity. Typically, assignments last between two and six months.

An individual can connect with an international nursing recruiting agency in several ways, including the following:

• Lead websites. Lead websites enable nurses to provide key professional and contact information to various nursing agencies at once.
• Rating services. Rating services provide feedback from peers in the field regarding their agency experiences, giving deeper insight into an organization’s operations.
• Networking websites. Networking websites allow nurses to directly connect with agencies. This can lead to referrals or connections to agency recruiters.
• Peer referral. Peer referral requires nurses to correspond with networked colleagues to ask them directly about their agency experiences.

Tips for Success       ¶

Before using a staffing agency to land an international travel nursing position, individuals must be aware of a few things to make the process efficient. These will not only streamline the potential opportunities but also allow them to confirm whether the opportunity is an ideal fit for them.

• Ensure proper licensing. Nurses should double-check that their licensing and credentials satisfy the country offering the position. These opportunities are only available for nurses with the correct credentials.
• Learn the requirements. In addition to having travel documents, such as passports and visas, some countries may require other documents for travel nurses. These can include birth certificates, work permits, and professional sponsorships. Some jobs may also require certification in a nursing specialty.
• Understand logistics and budgeting. Nurses should be aware of assignment length to properly plan for consistent work opportunities while minimizing lengthy unemployment gaps. They must also analyze the economics of each assignment to ensure that the salary is satisfactory, that they’re properly prepared for taxes and exchange rates, and that they can comfortably handle expenses like housing and food.
• Weigh the pros and cons. Examine the advantages of each potential opportunity and weigh them against the potential challenges. If the challenges outweigh the advantages, it may be wise to pass on the opportunity.
• Explore multiple opportunities. Seeking details on a wide range of potential travel jobs can allow nurses to find a travel role that best suits their knowledge and skills. It can also prevent individuals from merely settling for pursuing the first ill-fitting role or two they encounter.

Resources  ¶

Here are some resources for prospective travel nurses.            

• Health Carousel : This travel nurse job board provides a host of tips for first-time travel nurses. The tips highlight assignment preparation and strategies to succeed within the new work environment. 
• Verywell Health : This medical website provides a curated resource list for the top travel nursing services as of 2023. The list is based on metrics such as best track record, best benefits, best job board, and so forth.
• LeaderStat : This health care job site provides a checklist covering documentation commonly associated with travel nursing. It also highlights other requirements that may be associated with certain assignments, such as physical exams.
• CollectivCare : This travel nurse-focused website features resources for mobile apps designed to help travel nurses stay organized and efficient while abroad. The apps can also help travel nurses integrate with new surroundings both foreign and domestic.
• Travel Nursing Central : This travel nurse review website has a list of foreign nursing boards that can provide further information on travel nurse requirements by country. It also provides tips on travel nurse preparation and cultural traditions.

Deliver Care Around the World ¶

International travel nursing provides professionals with unique opportunities to explore the world, learn new care techniques, and expand their knowledge. More importantly, the work of these nursing professionals makes the delivery of quality patient care possible. This level of care can have a positive impact on other people’s lives, making the role of the international travel nurse one of the most satisfying professions the health care field has to offer.

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