2 answers
Ana
Student
North Bergen, New Jersey
1
Question
Updated
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What are your opinions/experiences in travel nursing ?
I want to pursue nursing but I also would love to travel. I've heard of travel nursing, but I'm not sure if its worth it. #Spring25
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2 answers
Amanda Spino
Nurse Practitioner
5
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Amanda’s Answer
Hi Ana,
That's a great question! I was a travel nurse for two years and learned so much. Travel nursing is a great way to learn different skills, gain knowledge, meet new people, and travel to fun locations. In my opinion you do have to be a strong nurse to become a travel nurse, because you are often thrown into hospitals with little to no orientation. My advice would be to have a strong foundation first once graduating from nursing school and when you feel confident in your skills then begin traveling. The role of a nurse doesn't change, however each hospital or clinical setting can be different when it comes to patient population and hospital protocols. Travel nursing will definitely get you out of your comfort zone and allow you to expand in your career. Another benefit is that contracts are typically only 13 weeks long, so even if you do one travel assignment and end up not liking it, you can go right back to being a staff nurse. You can even do local contracts close to home just to get some experience as a traveler, this can make the transition a bit easier if you are wanting to travel further later one.
That's a great question! I was a travel nurse for two years and learned so much. Travel nursing is a great way to learn different skills, gain knowledge, meet new people, and travel to fun locations. In my opinion you do have to be a strong nurse to become a travel nurse, because you are often thrown into hospitals with little to no orientation. My advice would be to have a strong foundation first once graduating from nursing school and when you feel confident in your skills then begin traveling. The role of a nurse doesn't change, however each hospital or clinical setting can be different when it comes to patient population and hospital protocols. Travel nursing will definitely get you out of your comfort zone and allow you to expand in your career. Another benefit is that contracts are typically only 13 weeks long, so even if you do one travel assignment and end up not liking it, you can go right back to being a staff nurse. You can even do local contracts close to home just to get some experience as a traveler, this can make the transition a bit easier if you are wanting to travel further later one.
Hello Amanda, thank you so much for sharing. I will definitely take that into account. Ive heard about the 13 week contracts which sound amazing. I've heard stories of people even going to Hawaii, which sounds so much fun!
Ana
Martin Schoen
APRN
387
Answers
Ocala, Florida
Updated
Martin’s Answer
Travel nursing has its ups and downs. On the positive side, you get to visit new places that you might not have seen otherwise. It offers a lot of variety, and if you don't like one location, your stay there is usually short. The pay is generally good, but it's important to consider benefits like housing and transportation.
On the downside, you may have to move to unfamiliar places where you don't know anyone. You might have to follow the agency's rules, which could mean last-minute schedule changes. If you have a car, you'll need to drive and ensure it's safe. Without a car, you'll rely on public transport or ride services. Your housing is often pre-arranged and might not be in a great location. You'll be away from friends and family, but you'll also meet new people. The work environment might not always be ideal, and you may not have the option to change it.
Overall, travel nursing isn't for everyone. You need to consider what is offered, why you want to do it, and how much you enjoy change. For instance, traveling to places like Hawaii or Alaska sounds exciting, but if you live in the southern U.S., visiting home could be costly and time-consuming. Weigh your options carefully and decide what's best for you.
On the downside, you may have to move to unfamiliar places where you don't know anyone. You might have to follow the agency's rules, which could mean last-minute schedule changes. If you have a car, you'll need to drive and ensure it's safe. Without a car, you'll rely on public transport or ride services. Your housing is often pre-arranged and might not be in a great location. You'll be away from friends and family, but you'll also meet new people. The work environment might not always be ideal, and you may not have the option to change it.
Overall, travel nursing isn't for everyone. You need to consider what is offered, why you want to do it, and how much you enjoy change. For instance, traveling to places like Hawaii or Alaska sounds exciting, but if you live in the southern U.S., visiting home could be costly and time-consuming. Weigh your options carefully and decide what's best for you.