Becoming A Travel Nurse

Traveling across the country can be costly, but many professionals in healthcare are finding a unique way to fund their adventures — by stepping into travel-based roles.

Among the most in-demand are travel nurses, who have the opportunity to work in a variety of medical environments while exploring different parts of the United States.

A travel nurse is a licensed registered nurse (RN) who takes on temporary assignments in diverse care settings. These could include outpatient clinics, hospitals in need of extra staff, or in-home care situations.

The scope of these roles spans many specialties, from emergency and operating rooms to pediatrics and beyond. While the duties mirror those of full-time staff, the positions are contracted for shorter durations, typically lasting between 8 and 26 weeks.

Though travel nurses represented just 1% of the nursing workforce in 2021, that number is climbing rapidly and is projected to hit 23.4% by 2028. This surge isn’t just due to the pandemic’s lingering effects — it’s also fueled by the flexibility these roles offer.

Nurses can choose shifts that suit their lifestyles and often benefit from reduced hours. On average, travel nurses work around 36 hours a week and earn roughly $3,167 weekly, translating to about $75,000 per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

So how does someone get started? The first step is becoming a registered nurse through an accredited program. An associate degree can qualify you, but a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is often preferred for many assignments.

Beyond education, candidates need to pass required national and state exams, earn any relevant certifications, and often have prior experience in their chosen specialty.

Many aspiring travel nurses choose to partner with staffing agencies that specialize in these roles. These agencies help guide candidates through requirements, connect them with assignments, and manage logistics like contract negotiation, housing, and benefits — all while offering competitive pay.

The appeal of picking when and where to work is undeniable. With the added benefits of good pay, travel, and agency support, it’s no surprise that more healthcare professionals are making the leap into travel nursing.

For those curious to learn more, check out the resource below from Skybridge Healthcare, experts in staffing med surg travel nurses.