What is Travel Nursing?

Travel nursing involves taking short-term assignments in healthcare facilities across the country (or internationally). Travel nurses provide temporary support where there is a high demand for nursing staff, whether due to seasonal demand, staffing shortages, or special projects. As a travel nurse, you get to explore new locations while advancing your career, gaining varied experience, and earning a competitive salary.

Why Choose Travel Nursing?

Explore New Locations: As a travel nurse, you have the freedom to choose where you want to work. Whether you want to work on the West Coast, in a bustling city, or in a peaceful rural area, travel nursing allows you to discover new places.

Higher Pay: One of the main benefits of travel nursing is the high salary. Travel nurses are typically paid more than their full-time counterparts, with additional stipends for housing, meals, and travel expenses.

Professional Growth: Travel nurses get to work in a variety of settings, which enhances their skills and expertise. This diversity in experience is highly valued in the healthcare industry and can open doors for future career opportunities.

Flexibility: Travel nursing offers flexibility in terms of where and when you work. Most assignments last between 8 to 26 weeks, and once your contract ends, you can choose whether to stay in the same area or move on to a new location.

Top-Rated Travel Nursing Agencies

When looking for travel nurse jobs, choosing the right agency is key to a successful career. Here are some of the top-rated travel nurse agencies that offer exceptional support and opportunities for nurses:

Aya Healthcare

Why Choose Aya? Aya Healthcare is one of the largest and most trusted names in travel nursing. They offer competitive pay packages, excellent benefits, and a robust network of healthcare facilities.

Specialty: Comprehensive nursing services across the U.S. and abroad, including pediatric and NICU positions.

Cross Country Nurses

Why Choose Cross Country? Known for its high-paying contracts and exceptional benefits, Cross Country Nurses has a long track record of providing travel nurses with top assignments.

Specialty: Pediatrics, ICU, ER, and labor & delivery.

American Mobile Healthcare

Why Choose American Mobile? American Mobile offers premium pay rates, travel reimbursements, and great perks for travel nurses. They have a strong reputation in the healthcare industry and are known for offering a wide variety of nursing specialties.

Specialty: General nursing, including pediatric, med-surg, and emergency room nursing.

NurseFly

Why Choose NurseFly? NurseFly is a platform that connects nurses with top-rated travel nursing agencies. It aggregates contracts and offers the best job options in real-time. NurseFly allows you to compare offers and choose the best match.

Specialty: Wide-ranging healthcare specialties with access to some of the highest-paying contracts in the industry.

Triage Staffing

Why Choose Triage? Triage is a travel nursing agency known for its excellent work-life balance and competitive pay. They also offer a range of benefits, including day-one medical insurance and 401k matching.

Specialty: Specialty nursing, including surgical, pediatrics, and critical care.

Host Healthcare

Why Choose Host Healthcare? Host Healthcare is one of the best travel nursing agencies for new grads. They offer great benefits and a simple process for applying to assignments across the country.

Specialty: Critical care, telemetry, and medical-surgical positions.

What to Look for in the Best Travel Nursing Agencies

Choosing the best travel nursing agency depends on several factors, including the type of assignments available, pay rates, benefits, and support provided. Here are some essential things to look for when selecting an agency:

Competitive Pay and Benefits: Look for an agency that offers competitive pay packages, including stipends for housing, meals, and travel. Additionally, consider the benefits they offer, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Great Customer Support: The best travel nursing agencies provide 24/7 support to help you manage assignments, resolve issues, and ensure you have a positive experience.

Diverse Job Opportunities: A reputable agency should offer a wide range of assignments across different locations and specialties. Look for agencies that provide travel nurse jobs in various settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics.

Travel Nurse Community: Agencies that foster a strong community and provide resources for travel nurses often have better support systems and can help you network with other professionals in your field.

License and Certification Assistance: Some travel nursing agencies assist with licensing and certification in different states, helping you avoid delays when starting new assignments.

Essential Tips for Getting Started in Travel Nursing

Be Prepared to Travel: Flexibility is key to travel nursing. Be prepared to relocate for each assignment, even if it’s in a state you’ve never visited before. The more flexible you are, the more opportunities you will have.

Research Housing Options: Many travel nurse agencies offer housing stipends, but it's important to research rental costs in the area where you will be assigned. You may be able to find cheaper housing on your own.

Maintain Your Certification and Licenses: As a travel nurse, you'll need to maintain your RN license and be compliant with the regulatory requirements of each state you work in. Some agencies provide support for state licensure, but it’s your responsibility to ensure everything is in order.

Stay Connected: Stay in touch with your recruiter and be proactive about discussing job opportunities. They can help you navigate different assignments and ensure you’re getting the best offers.

Embrace New Experiences: Travel nursing offers the chance to work in different healthcare settings. Embrace each new environment and use it as an opportunity to learn new skills and meet new people.

Final Thoughts

Travel nursing can be a rewarding career that offers flexibility, excellent pay, and the chance to explore new places. By choosing the best travel nursing agencies, you can ensure that you receive the support you need to succeed while embarking on an exciting adventure in healthcare. Whether you’re a seasoned travel nurse or just starting out, the right agency will provide you with the opportunities, benefits, and guidance to grow your career while enjoying the perks of travel.

Conclusion

Travel nursing is a great way to advance your nursing career while experiencing new locations and cultures. With numerous top-rated travel nurse agencies to choose from, it's important to find one that matches your specific career goals and preferences. By considering factors like pay, benefits, and the types of assignments available, you can make an informed decision and embark on your next travel nursing adventure with confidence.