4 Tips to Consider Before Your First Travel Nursing Assignment
Are you thinking of embarking on your first travel nursing assignment? Congrats!
Being a travel nurse is a rewarding career path with many benefits such as having the opportunity to practice your skills, make a great salary, and all while seeing the country!
But before you head off to your first assignment, here are some tips to get yourself ready for your first of many adventures as a travel nurse.
1. Research the Area
Find out about your soon-to-be home. You can find local attractions, outdoor activities, restaurants, and so much more on-line. You can find information like this on TripAdvisor’s website. Also, check out Roadtrippers if you’re driving to your new assignment and want to see the sights along the way.
2. Pack Smartly
If you’re really not going to use something over the course of your travel assignment, leave it at home. That leaves more room for essentials, any souvenirs or gifts you want to bring back.
If you’re flying to your new assignment, it’s a wise idea to pack some essentials for your new job in your carry-on bag just in case your luggage is rerouted or lost. Be prepared by packing a carry-on suitcase with an extra change of clothing, a few work uniforms, medications you need, toiletries, etc.
3. Create Your “Just In Case” Fund
You never know what could arise when travelling – flat tire, lost luggage, or other emergency. That’s why having a backup fund of at least a couple thousand dollars in savings (if possible) to cover any unexpected expenses is for the best.
4. Be Flexible
Now is the time to prepare yourself for your new job, in a new place. Being a travelling nurse, you are working at a facility to temporarily address their staffing needs. Take the opportunity and see if there is anything you can do to assist where needed. By assisting in areas where you need more experience, you will gain skills that you could then add to your resume.
After You Arrive
Once you’re at your new assignment, take time to settle in and then start enjoying it! Explore, meet new people, and don’t take your time there too seriously – it’s only temporary. A tip for meeting new people is to use Meetup. It’s a site you can sign up for to find groups to join in your new area. There are Meetup groups for almost everything, whether you’re into crafting, reading, hiking, running, wine tasting, skydiving, whatever!
Looking for a new adventure? Voyage Healthcare has opportunities available across the country! Check out our current job openings here. You can also contact us at (800) 798-6035 or email if you have any questions about travelling as a medical professional!