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This is a fantastic website to learn the ins and outs of being a traveling nurse, and why they are important.

Learn about the educational requirements needed, and what they do.

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What is Travel Nursing? - How to Become a Travel Nurse & Salary

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Learn more about domestic and international travel nursing careers and necessary education requirements.

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Informative video from a traveling nurse

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Informative video from a traveling nurse

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Discusses why you should go through a travel nurse agency to find jobs.

Discusses what to do about living situations.

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How To Become a Travel Nurse- YOUR GUIDE TO THE ENTIRE PROCESS- Housing, Recruiters, Much More!

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Choosing a travel nursing agency, like American Mobile, is a major decision that can chart the course of your travel nursing career. From the integrity and financial stability of the company to nurse reviews and travel nursing salary packages, there are many things to evaluate before deciding which travel nursing company is right for you.

With all of the choices available to travel nurses, things can get confusing. In fact, there are many common mistakes or misconceptions that can trip nurses up when choosing an agency. So, we asked our expert travel nurse recruiter, Victorya Y., to explain the biggest mistakes that nurses make when choosing a travel nursing agency and how to avoid them.

6 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Travel Nurse Agency

1. Not doing enough research

"Choosing a travel nursing agency that has your best interests in mind is one of the most important things a traveling nurse has to do," explained Victorya, a seasoned recruiter with American Mobile, an AMN Healthcare Company. "And, the only way to find out if a company is a solid choice is to do your due diligence and conduct plenty of research. This should include online research as well as talking to various contacts at each travel nursing agency that you are considering."

Travel nurse compensation packages are closely watched by the IRS due to the tax advantages of some stipends and reimbursements, which makes it important to ensure a company is financially savvy. "One really cool thing about AMN and American Mobile is that our pay rates are determined by a financial analyst who has been doing it for a very long time and is really good at it," Victorya said. "This kind of expertise is one of the many things nurses should look out for when researching a travel nursing company."

2. Overlooking reputation and industry standards

"The other thing that is really important about going with a well-known company that has a good reputation is that when a candidate's profile comes over if it has an AMN stamp on it versus a lesser-known company, the facility is most likely going to choose the travel nurse that is coming from the travel nursing agency with the best reputation, Victorya said. "Nurses should also look to make sure the agency is credentialed by the Joint Commission. The purpose of their Healthcare Staffing Certification Program is to provide an independent, comprehensive evaluation of a staffing firm's ability to provide qualified and competent staffing services, according to the Joint Commission.

Agencies that obtain the certification must complete a strict qualifications process, ensuring you would be traveling with a company that has upheld the highest standards in the industry.

3. Trying to find the perfect agency

As a nurse you already know that perfection doesn't exist, and it's important to keep that in mind when choosing a travel nursing agency. Sure, start with your wish list, but realize that even the best organizations have limitations. Keep an open mind and prioritize what is most important for you to see in a potential travel nursing company. One way to help you prioritize and ensure that your needs are met is to build a strong relationship with a travel nurse recruiter.

Don't be afraid to ask questions and talk to multiple recruiters before deciding on one who fits your needs and personality. That personal connection is vital to your success, especially since you are relying on that person to help you find the right job, prepare you to start strong, and support you throughout your assignments.

4. Missing out due to fewer job choices

One thing that nurses need to evaluate closely when considering travel nursing companies is the number, and type, of travel nursing jobs they have available. Nurses should look at the number of job openings, the locations of the contracts, and the types of assignments available in their specialty.

If you are a NICU nurse, for example, it will be important that you ask about the availability of NICU jobs right off the bat. The number of jobs is also important because you don't want to have to do your credentialing and compliance over and over again every 13 weeks.

"If you go with a company that has a lot of jobs, they are always going to keep you employed so you won't have to redo your credentials for each new assignment," Victorya explained.

5. Relying solely on online travel nurse reviews

Travel nursing company reviews are a vital piece of the puzzle, but it's important not to put too much weight on online reviews. Just like you wouldn't stop going to your favorite restaurant because some random person had a bad experience there, it's important to keep the same frame of mind when looking at reviews of travel nursing agencies."

"People are more likely to post a bad review when they want to vent versus when they've had a really good experience. I think social media presence is important, but it's not as important as the relationship that you will develop with your recruiter," Victorya said.

"Also, many review sites are owned by travel nursing agencies, making it difficult to ensure an unbiased opinion."

6. Not considering all possible perks

Although travel nurse compensation is usually at the top of any jobseeker's mind, it is also important to look at other offerings besides the usual must-have travel nurse benefits of top pay, good medical benefits, and free travel nurse housing.

"One important question to ask any travel nursing agency you are considering is what kind of clinical support they provide while you are on assignment."

"AMN has 24x7 clinical support that is on the line and ready to go. If you ever have a question and it's midnight and you are in a new place and it's scary, you have a nurse who has 20-plus years of experience who is there to pick up the phone and guide you through it," Victorya said.

Other benefits to inquire about include mobile apps to manage your assignments, retirement plans, bonus plans, free continuing education units, professional liability insurance, licensure assistance, and more.

American Mobile, an AMN Healthcare company, has been matching travel nurses with their ideal assignments for nearly 40 years. Connect with a recruiter to learn more about our end-to-end service and support. FIND TRAVEL NURSE JOBS

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6 Mistakes Nurses Make Choosing a Travel Nursing Agency | American Mobile

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Looking for the right travel nursing company? From reviews to research, expert travel nurse recruiter shares the most common mistakes nurses make when choosing a travel nursing company.

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Discussion of what travel nurse agencies may be right for you, how to apply, with mentions of benefits

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So, you've decided you want to leave your permanent position and explore the lifestyle of travel nursing. Congratulations! Now you need to consider how to choose a travel nurse agency that can help get you the position you want.

Becoming a travel nurse is stressful enough as it is. However, choosing from the huge number of travel nurse agencies can be quite overwhelming.

Luckily, we're here to help you pick the right one. You'll also learn what a travel nurse agency does and how they work.

What Are Travel Nurse Agencies?

Travel nurse agencies are staffing companies connecting nurses and other medical professionals to open positions that need to be filled quickly.

They can help you:

Become a per diem nurse and work a local gig at your leisure

Find an extended local contract

Secure a travel contract

Local contracts are the same as travel contracts except they are close to your home. This means you won't qualify for travel expense reimbursement or stipends.

Most agencies fill positions that are within the hospital setting. However, sometimes positions can be in a clinic or other ambulatory care center.

Qualified candidates (like you) connect with an agency and go over:

Qualifications

Specialties

Location desires

The agency will provide you with a recruiter. This person will be your main point of contact and help find you the perfect gig.

The agency will be your employer, not the facility where you work.

Which Travel Nurse Agencies Are Popular?

Popular travel nurse agencies include:

How To Apply To Travel Nurse Agencies

You can seek out agencies online and apply.

Know that you'll be bombarded with emails and phone calls, so be ready!

Compare Different Agencies

It is wise to choose two agencies so that you can compare the two and make an educated decision right away.

Be sure to search where the agencies are located. With a local office, you may be able to utilize the physical location to submit paperwork or do fit testing.

For example, Gifted Healthcare has an office in Tulsa. This makes it convenient for local nurses to stop by and submit or fulfill testing. This can be helpful if you don't have a permanent local hospital where you would normally do it.

Travel Nurse Agencies Benefits

Travel nurse agencies are just like any employer, and most offer basic benefits to their employees.

Since it is normal for agencies to pay weekly, your benefits will be deducted weekly. Travel nurse agencies usually offer coverage for:

You won't find many who offer a generous PTO benefit. However, more and more agencies are starting to offer some PTO instead of opting out altogether.

They usually offer some sort of travel reimbursement and referral bonuses.

Please be aware, some of these benefits come at a cost that is typically more significant than at your full-time permanent job.

However, also keep in mind that you'll be making considerably more money than you would in a permanent position.

Travel Nurse Agency Benefits Example

Here is an example of a travel nurse agency benefits package:

Health insurance is typically $50-65/week for a single person, $165/week for a couple, and $300/week for a family of 3
PTO can vary from 0 hours per paycheck to 2 hours per check

Dental insurance ranges from $15-45/week, depending on your elections and dependents

Long-term care insurance ranges from $10-25/week

Travel reimbursement gives you anywhere from $100-500 after travel is complete

Use Caution When Researching Benefits

Use caution when researching benefits from agencies.

It is very common for sites to use verbiage such as "day one benefits." While it is true, it does not mean you'll have full access to every single benefit.

For example, Travel Nurses Across America (TNAA) states that they offer day one paid sick leave.

This is a true statement. However, you need to understand that you begin accruing sick leave on day one, like you would with any other job.

You won't have a full day or week of sick leave available on your first day. You accrue it as you work.

How Much Do Travel Nurse Agencies' Benefits Cost?

It is difficult to find out the exact cost of benefits without fully applying to one of these agencies.

Don't be afraid to ask travel nurses what benefits their company offers and how much they cost.

Most travelers will be happy to share that with you. They may even offer to refer you to their agency (did I mention referral bonuses?).

Some nurses choose not to receive benefits from their agency. Instead, they choose a third party to provide insurance. Meanwhile, they seek financial guidance from advisors or investment firms.

Both are easy to do and only require a simple phone call.

What Are Travel Nurse Agency Stipends?

Stipends are tax-free reimbursements for food and housing costs that you accrue while being on a temporary assignment away from your tax home.

You'll only qualify for these if you live within the acceptable distance from your travel assignment compared to your permanent home or tax home.

Travel nursing salary rate will be in the range of typically hourly pay. However, when you add in stipends after taxes are deducted, your weekly pay increases dramatically.

Each geographic area has limits on stipends that are regulated by the government (U.S. General Service Administration or GSA).

In general, the stipends increase in areas where cost of living is higher, and decrease where they are lower, but this is not always tried and true. In my experience, you can still receive generous stipends even in areas of lower cost of living.

Travel Nurse Agency Stipend Example

For example, in Oklahoma City you can receive $168/day for lodging and food.

In comparison, in Fresno, California you qualify for $179/day according to GAS website.

Your stipend will vary between agencies. Some will not offer the full GSA amount as those are maximums.

If a recruiter tells you that they are offering you the full amount, you can head on over the to GAS website and check for yourself.

Do All Travel Nurses Get A Housing Stipend?

Sometimes an agency will offer to provide housing for you in lieu of paying a housing stipend.

The benefit to this is a higher taxable base salary with secured housing. The downside would be less control over your living arrangements and money. You'd be paying more in taxes since your taxable rate is higher.

Before agreeing to either a housing stipend or agency-provided housing, first look at the area where you'll be working. Do a search for extended-stay hotels and Airbnb's for your proposed travel dates.

Should You Opt For A Housing Stipend?

If you are confident in securing a place, then opt to receive the stipend. However, if rooms are limited in your area, then it may be wiser to allow the agency to secure the housing for you.

You won't have much say in where it is, and it will likely be an extended-stay hotel. However, you will be confident that you'll have a roof over your head.

In the end, it's entirely up to you. You need to decide what you really want out of the travel experience.

Consider the following questions to help you figure out what you want. Do you want to:

See a variety of destinations and try living in a certain area before relocating permanently?

Make more money by living in a more cost-effective housing option?

Live luxuriously while still earning money?

Meet new people?

Get away from home?

Think deeply about these things to help guide your choices.

What Is A Recruiter?

Recruiters work for the travel nurse agency. They are hired to find candidates, negotiate compensation, and ensure candidate compliance.

Occasionally, recruiters are ex-nurses who have stepped away from the bedside. Most the time your recruiter will not have any medical field experience.

Your recruiter is your lifeline. They will answer or get clarification for you regarding your assignment. If you have problems arise with your assignment, you will talk to your recruiter.

Do All Travel Nursing Agencies Provide You A Designated Recruiter?

Some companies do not have a designated recruiter for you. Trusted Health is one example. While you will have a team working on your file, there is not a single designated person. It's a generalized team.

The benefit is that they aren't paying out bonuses to a recruiter, so you get paid a little more.

The downside is that there isn't a specific person on your case advocating for you.

If you're new to traveling or need a lot of assistance, then you would be better suited with a company that is more hands-on.

Which Travel Nursing Agency Is Right For Me?

Now that you have a good understanding of what travel nurse agencies offer, how they work, and what to expect, it's time for you to get out there and apply!

Try a couple of the ones listed in this post. They have really great reputations, but don't limit yourself!

If a friend is referring their agency to you and you want to try it, then go for it. Review their websites and read the reviews. Check out how many jobs they are posting.

Making a decision begins with applying. Try applying to two agencies, and talk with both of them. Go with the one that is:

Patient

Giving you good information

Helping you

Giving you an overall sense of peace

Please don't be afraid to change your mind later or request changes. You are your biggest advocate!

Conclusion

With the overwhelming number of travel nurse agencies, it can be hard to choose the right one for you.

However, by following the advice in this article, you should have an easier time navigating the process.

Remember, don't settle for less and believe in your strengths.

Ready to become a travel nurse? Then start traveling today!

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Travel Nurse Agencies Guide: How To Choose The Right One

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Travel nursing agencies help you find a positions that fit your needs. Learn how to choose a travel nurse agency here.

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Benefits include:

1. Traveling - becoming immersed in a new culture.

2. Build a professional network.

3. Develop a career.

4. Flexibility.

5. If you are looking to move to a new location becoming a travel nurse will be a great test run to see if you want to move.

6. Help serve a population in need.

7. Gain new skills.

8. New places to work at can break up the monotony of staying in once place.

9. Explore new interests.

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Travel nursing is one of the many potential career options available for registered nurses. It's also a career option with many beneficial aspects to consider. If travel nursing interests you, Marquette University's Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing program for non-nurses opens up your career options into the future, and can also help qualify you for this dynamic career. In this article, we'll look at 9 benefits of travel nursing so you can determine if it might be the right career option for you.

What Does It Mean to Be a Travel Nurse?

There is a real need for travel nurses in facilities across the country. When a facility experiences staffing shortages, travel nurses fill those gaps to ensure patients still receive the care they need over a time period agreed upon between them (or their agency) and the organization they will be working within. Once the assignment is over, travel nurses may have the option of extending their contract or moving onto the next location and facility.

While all kinds of travel nurses are needed, there is a higher demand for certain specialty areas. For example, high-demand specialties include but are not limited to ICU, operating room, emergency room, labor and delivery, telemetry and medical/surgical. If you are interested in becoming a travel nurse, we suggest looking into these in-demand specialties to ensure that you have more options and opportunities as a travel nurse.

Travel Nursing Benefits

While the lifestyle of a travel nurse may not be for everyone, it's worth considering the benefits of being a travel nurse. If you find this route intriguing, read on to discover 9 of the top travel nursing benefits.

1. Travel Opportunities

The fact that you get to travel is probably the most obvious advantage of travel nursing. Travel nurses complete short-term assignments at healthcare facilities all around the country. You can even take assignments in many foreign countries.

The typical assignment in the United States lasts 13 weeks. This gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. You'll have ample time to explore what each location has to offer.

If you are offered a contract extension at a particular location, you can choose to stick around for an additional negotiated-upon period if desired. Of course, you're always free to leave at the completion of your contract should you decide it's time to explore elsewhere.

2. Build Your Professional Network

As you move from assignment to assignment, you're going to meet many new colleagues. You'll meet both permanent staff and fellow travelers at the hospitals you are assigned to. You'll also meet many recruiters as you navigate the industry to find the jobs you want.

All of this makes travel nursing an amazing way to expand your professional network. The importance of a strong professional network should not be underestimated. From career advancement to professional support, your professional network can have a profound impact on your overall career. Travel nursing offers one of the best opportunities to quickly build a broad network.

3. Develop Your Career

Travel nursing also offers an opportunity for career development. As a travel nurse, you'll work at a wide range of different healthcare facilities from small rural facilities to large urban trauma centers. As a result, you can be exposed to a much broader set of working conditions than you would if you worked at one facility for a long period of time. You'll be trained on different electronic medical record systems and gain experience with different types of equipment. It's also possible that you'll work with different patient populations. All of this will broaden your nursing skill set.

In addition, you'll gain new insight into certain aspects of facility administration. You'll go through an orientation period at each new facility you work. You may work at Magnet hospitals, teaching hospitals or trauma hospitals. Each new experience will allow you to observe and learn about different administrative approaches. You'll gain a unique perspective that will help you provide valued contributions throughout the course of your career.

4. Flexibility

Flexibility is another amazing benefit of travel nursing. During your time at any given facility, both the agency and the hospital, of course, expect travel nurses to work every assigned shift, with the exception of the occasional sick day. That said, it is possible to arrange for time off during your contract.

While the flexibility during an assignment is comparable to most other jobs, travel nursing's flexibility is realized in the time between contracts. Travel nurses are under no obligation to continually work. Therefore, it's possible to schedule extended periods of time off between contracts.

Some travel nurses use this time to take extended vacations abroad. Others use it to return home to visit friends and family. Some use it to focus on entrepreneurial interests. Many travel nurses use the flexibility to focus on schoolwork while advancing their nursing education.

5. Give Locations and Employers a Test Run

If you're looking to move to a new location, but aren't sure where, travel nursing can help you decide. You can use travel nursing to visit new locations for extended periods. This can help you determine whether you want to live there long-term.

Of course, you'll also be able to test out potential employers. You'll be able to determine whether the team and culture are a good fit before committing to a permanent position. As a result, travel nursing can help you find the right job in a desirable location.

6. Serve Populations in Need

Most nurses choose the nursing field because of a deep desire to help people in some of their most vulnerable moments. If you possess that desire to help, travel nursing may be a great option, as it gives you an opportunity to use your skills in a place that needs your help. Because travel nurses often travel to areas affected by the nursing shortage, those patients need the care you're providing. Being able to serve in these areas means you can amplify the already significant impact you'll have on people's lives.

7. Gain New Skills

Working in a wide variety of facilities and locations will allow you to greatly increase your nursing skills. Additionally, travel nursing also gives you an opportunity to develop skills outside of nursing. For example, working in different areas of the country with various patient populations helps you develop a deeper level of connection and understanding at the bedside with patients. Navigating interactions also improves your communication and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, learning how to travel and acclimate to new places every 13 weeks can help you to develop a sense of self-confidence.

8. Variability Breaks Up Monotony

While having a routine can be great, some people get restless after staying at one position in one place for long stretches of time. If this is you, travel nursing provides a well-paying, stable job that allows you to move around and have new experiences every few months. This lifestyle can be long-term for some, but many others find that they eventually want to settle down and find a more permanent position. If you do eventually decide to stay somewhere more permanently, the experience from travel nursing can only help your job prospects.

9. Explore Your Interests

The reality is not every facility will be your favorite place to work. However, because assignments are only temporary, you won't have to work at an undesirable place for long. Working in each assignment provides some valuable information about your preferences in the workplace. On the other hand, you may have a few assignments that you love that match what you want for your career. Trying out all types of facilities and work environments can help you to find your perfect match if you decide to start looking for a long-term position.

Are You Ready to Become a Travel Nurse?

Now that you are aware of some of the amazing benefits of travel nursing, what are you waiting for? If you're ready to start your journey toward this exciting and dynamic career, Marquette University can help you get there. We offer a Direct Entry MSN program for non-nurses that can be completed in as little as 19-21 months. Contact us today to learn more.

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9 Benefits of Travel Nursing - Marquette

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Is travel nursing worth it? From high salaries to flexibility, we examine 10 benefits of travel nursing to help you decide if travel nursing is for you.

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Discusses what travel nurses do

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University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

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The nursing field is currently experiencing a shortage that is expected to get worse: studies show 100,000 nurses have left the field since 2020, and more than half a million plan to leave by 2027. Fortunately, travel nurses are working to fill these gaps and are reaping the benefits of higher pay and a better work-life balance.
Learn how to become a travel nurse and explore how the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences' School of Nursing can help you achieve your career dreams.

What is a Travel Nurse?

A travel nurse works a temporary contract to fill gaps in coverage at underserved areas. For example, you might fill in for a nurse in a pediatrics office who is on maternity leave for ten weeks, or you might fill a vacancy in an ER for two weeks while they hire a full-time employee after a suddenly vacant position. These temporary jobs are also common in underserved locations, such as urban or rural areas, or areas with a lot of patient fluctuation, such as tourist areas.

You can opt to renew your contract or move on to another position at the end of your contract. If you love the job and facility, you may be able to sign on full-time.

What Does a Travel Nurse Do?

A travel nurse has the same duties as a staff nurse at the facility. Specific responsibilities vary based on the particular type of nursing job , but in general, you can expect to:

Care for the patients on your caseload

Interact with patients and their families

Administer medication

Collaborate with other members of a patient's care team

As a travel nurse, you'll be expected to jump in with both feet on your first day, so you'll have to adapt quickly to new systems, technology and expectations. You'll report to the lead nurse, just like every other nurse on the team.

Seven Steps to Become a Travel Nurse

If you are considering becoming a travel nurse, here are the seven steps you must follow.

1. Earn a BSN Degree

First, start by getting a degree in nursing. You'll need at least an associate's degree (ADN), or a more advanced degree such as a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN). This process can take two to four years, depending on the degree and program.

2. Prepare to Sit the NCLEX-RN Exam

Apply to licensure or registration to your state's nursing regulatory board to start the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) registration process . Once eligibility is granted, you have one year to register to take the test with Pearson VUE and pay your testing fee.

3. Take and Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

Once you've completed your nursing program, take the NCLEX-RN. The exam covers everything ranging from management of care to pharmacological and parental therapies to basic comfort and care, and you'll take it online.

4. Obtain RN Licensure

The next step is to apply for RN licensure. If you only want to practice in your state, you can apply through your state board of nursing . If you want to practice in multiple states, apply for a multistate license from the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) , which includes 40 member states

To apply, you'll pay a fee, pass a background check and submit evidence of degree completion and your NCLEX-RN scores.

5. Gain Field Experience

Because most travel nurses need to be able to hit the ground running, it's a good idea to get at least one year of field experience under your belt before you start applying for travel nursing positions. Most nurse staffing agencies require at least one year of experience in your specialty, but some may require more.

6. Level Up Your Nursing Degree

To maximize your success as a travel nurse, earn an advanced nursing degree or a post-graduate nursing certificate in your role specialty. To maximize your success as a travel nurse, earn an advanced nursing degree or a postgraduate nursing certificate in your role specialty. An advanced degree or certification will qualify you for more positions.

There are two types of advanced nursing degrees: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) .

You can earn an in various role specialties, including Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Primary Care (PMHNP-PC), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP). If you want to pursue jobs in nursing leadership, consider earning your MSN in Nurse Executive or Nurse Educator. With an MSN degree, you'll be able to apply for a nurse practitioner position.

As the terminal degree for nurses, the includes training in system leadership, evidence-based practices and healthcare policy, preparing you for leadership roles in the nursing field.

Earning an advanced nursing degree will also help you maximize your earning potential as a travel nurse. For example, an RN makes an average base salary of $87,000 , but an RN with a master's degree earns $102,000 and a DNP earns $111,000

7. Find a Nurse Staffing Agency

When you are ready to start looking for travel jobs, find a nurse staffing agency. These agencies work with healthcare providers to find travel nurses to fill short-term positions in exchange for a percentage of your contract.

While you can find travel nurse positions on your own, it's a time-consuming process. Nurse staffing agencies make this much more manageable. They also provide health insurance and retirement benefits you wouldn't receive working a short-term job.

Once you've signed with a nurse staffing agency, they'll send you job opportunities and serve as the go-between for you and the facility that needs you. They can help you find housing and advocate on your behalf if any problems arise in your contract.

Five Benefits of Becoming a Travel Nurse

Working as a travel nurse comes with its challenges, like any job, but it has several key benefits that make it a promising career option for many nurses.

1. Opportunity to Travel

Because you'll be living in the area, you can explore on your time off. Hit the beach, visit historical sites and meet new people as you eat like a local.

2. Higher Salary

3. Housing Stipends

4. More Bonuses and Incentives

In addition to a housing stipend, some contracts will include untaxed stipends for travel or food. Some agencies also provide a bonus when you complete a contract or a referral fee when you refer another travel nurse . Depending on where you travel, the agency may also cover your licensing fees so you can practice in a new state

5. Job Satisfaction

FAQ

Still trying to figure out if travel nursing is for you? Here's some more information that might help you make your decision.

What Will My Workdays Look Like?

Because there are so many different specialties and settings for travel nurses, it's difficult to say exactly what your workday will look like. However, you can expect to work an 8-hour, 10-hour or 12-hour shift in which you report to the lead nurse and do similar duties as the staff nurses:

Overseeing patient care

Examining patients

Completing paperwork

Educating patients and their families

Coordinating care with other team members

Taking vitals

Administering medication

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

The average hourly wage for a travel nurse is $37.84.

However, how much you earn can vary widely depending on:

Do Travel Nurses Get Paid More Than Staff Nurses?

Most travel nurses make a similar take home hourly wage as staff nurses. However, travel nurses also earn travel, housing and food stipends. These stipends are tax-free, and whatever they don't spend, they can keep. In addition, they can earn additional bonuses or incentives.

How Many Years Does it Take to Become a Travel Nurse?

In general, it takes three to five years to become a travel nurse. You'll need two to four years to complete your degree, plus at least one year of field experience.

How Do I find a Nurse Staffing Agency?

You can find nurse staffing agencies using networking sites like Indeed and LinkedIn or through recommendations from the travel nurses you know. Once you discover a nurse staffing agency, it's important to do your due diligence to ensure they are the right fit for you. You'll want to learn the following:

Health insurance and retirement benefits

Partner facilities

If they have jobs for your specialty

Where they are located

How much they charge

Finally, read reviews and talk to travel nurses who have worked with the nurse staffing agency in the past.

Choose USAHS for Your Nursing Education

Whether you are already a travel nurse or are just getting started, expand your job opportunities with the USAHS School of Nursing . Our MSN and DNP programs and Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate program with specializations in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Primary Care are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and we've been a leader in graduate education for health sciences for over 40 years.
The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) offers one online The RN-MSN (FNP, PMHNP-PC, and AGNP) degree program is designed specifically for registered nurses with an associate degree in nursing and an active unencumbered RN license. The program strengthens the leadership abilities of nurses who have foundational professional experience. Students enrolled in this degree path complete four bridge courses before proceeding to the role specialty courses to achieve a Master of Science in Nursing with a chosen nursing role specialty. The initial four bridge courses within the RN-MSN program focus on concepts applicable to the acute and primary care settings, such as team-based care delivery, quality and safety, leadership, and ethics, which provide the foundation for the advanced practice role specialty tracks. Master of Science in Nursing The information provided on this website is based on self-reported data and is intended for general informational purposes only. PayScale is a limited data source that relies on voluntary submissions from individuals and employers. Please be aware that the accuracy, completeness, and reliability of the data may vary due to its voluntary nature and limited scope. While efforts are made to maintain the data's accuracy, we cannot guarantee its absolute correctness or currency. Sources: (MSN) program with five popular role specialties: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Primary Care (PMHNP-PC), Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP), Nurse Educator and Nurse Executive. The nurse practitioner specialties feature a required on-campus clinical intensive, whereas all specialties feature optional on-campus immersions. The MSN has several options to accelerate your time to degree completion. Take your nursing degree to the next level of specialty practice.
to take advantage of our flexible start dates and innovative blended learning programs.

The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice program with BSN- and MSN-entry options. The BSN-entry track features two role specialties: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Nurse Executive. The FNP specialty features one required on-campus clinical intensive, whereas both specialties feature optional on-campus immersions. Become a nurse leader and manage interprofessional teams with your DNP degree.

1. American Hospital Association, "Study Projects Nursing Shortage Crisis Will Continue Without Concerted Actions," last modified April 13, 2023, https://www.aha.org/news/headline/2023-04-13-study-projects-nursing-shortage-crisis-will-continue-without-concerted-action.

2. Payscale, "Average Travel Nurse (RN) Hourly Pay," Payscale, https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Travel_Nurse_(RN)/Hourly_Rate.

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How to Become a Travel Nurse in Seven Steps

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Are you a nurse with a bachelor's degree in nursing who loves to travel? Learn how to become a travel nurse and combine both your passions into one!

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News from Bowling Green State University

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News from Bowling Green State University

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One traveling nurse states:

“I have worked in a hospital where I’ve floated on several units and taken care of several patient populations,” she said. “I have also worked in a rural hospital, where I learned so much about their local norms, practices and created a bond with people who live in a very different environment than where I live.”

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Sopongwa has worked at hospitals with staff shortages because of COVID-19, and found the experience to be rewarding in many ways.

"Due to short staffing, we had high patient ratios but the way the staff appreciated us helping with staffing was the best part," she said. "They were so grateful that we chose to come to their rural hospital. It is difficult on all parts of staffing when staff is sick or need to be quarantined due to exposure. Whether it's the nurse, the secretary, the aides or even the janitors, each person in the health care team is important. When one person is unable to be at work, it affects everyone.

"During this pandemic, I've learned that I really do love what I do. I love being able to hold a critically ill patient's hand and comfort them when they can't have a family member with them."

Sopongwa's biggest reward as a travel nurse is knowing that she has a positive effect on people's lives wherever she goes.

"In the previous hospital where I worked, the manager told me that patients mentioned my name and noted how pleased they were with their care when the hospital called and asked how their hospital stay was post-discharge," she said. "I have also had patients who remembered my name and sent their regards through others."

Her biggest challenge has been being away from her toddler son and husband while traveling.

"He was 5 months old when I started traveling," she said. "My husband is a pharmacist, so we've both been on the front line during this pandemic. It's been quite a challenge, but I am grateful to be doing my part."

One of the best things about BGSU's RN to BSN program is its flexibility, which fits into the hectic schedule of a travel nurse - even during a pandemic. The program, which started in Fall 2019, is 100% online through BGSU's nationally ranked eCampus.

"We offer four various pathways which accommodate both the personal and professional individual needs of each of our students," said Dr. Lara Wilken, coordinator of the RN to BSN program. "Having these various pathways allows us to be flexible to our students' needs should a scheduling conflict or personal issue arise. In addition to this, we have the most knowledgeable, caring and compassionate faculty and staff. Each of us being registered nurses and having taken online courses understand each of our students' situations.

"We care for our students as though they were our patients. This pandemic has only brought us closer to each one of them and we go above and beyond to make sure we are able to accommodate their academic needs. Traveling or not, each one of our students hears from their professors at least once a week and they always know we are only a phone call or email away."

"The RN to BSN program has helped me as a travel nurse, especially in understanding various leadership styles and approaches that I meet in different hospitals," Sopongwa said. "I have also learned the importance of research and evidence-based practice in my nursing practice."

She wanted to get her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to further advance her career in health care.

"A BSN from BGSU can offer a wide range of new opportunities and also allows me to further my education in health care," Sopongwa said. "I chose BGSU because as soon as I inquired about the RN to BSN program, the staff and advisors were so kind and helpful and wanted to help me succeed as a student. This is still true today, as I am more than halfway through my program."

She was attracted to BGSU's RN to BSN program because it was in Ohio and the advisors and educators were very supportive from the first day she inquired about the program.

"They answered all of my questions and were very supportive in helping me plan out my courses and checked in on me from time to time. Their kindness and support forever means so much to me."

Sopongwa is happy she chose BGSU, especially because the guidance that Wilken has provided.

"My advisor, Lara Wilken, has been an amazing support system," Sopongwa said. "She is really devoted to supporting her students to succeed in this program. When the pandemic hit, and I began travel nursing, I had to postpone one of my courses. Lara was very helpful in quickly responding to me and finding the best way for me to achieve a work, school and life balance.

"My instructors have also been amazing. During the pandemic, they have all reached out and explained that they knew how much stress we were under as frontline workers and were going to be support us in every way they could. This has meant so much to me."

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BGSU's RN to BSN program fits into the hectic schedule of a travel nurse

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Bowling Green State University's BGSU's RN to BSN program fits into the hectic schedule of a travel nurse even during a pandemic.

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In September 2021, I began working as a travel nurse. In that role, I've worked in an ER holding/CDU & Observation unit, as a tele-float nurse, and on a med-surg neuro unit. However, I'll soon be leaving direct-bedside care to embark on my new journey in nursing professional development.

What inspired you to become a nurse?
I've always been interested in science, and I've always seen myself as a natural caregiver. However, my biggest inspiration to enter the nursing profession was my parents. In my parents' home country of Haiti, nursing is seen as one of the most respected professions. As a means for social advancement in the United States, my father heavily encouraged me to get into nursing, although I did question whether I would be a good nurse. But when I was in elementary school, I watched my mom work her hardest to complete a nursing program while working full-time as a CNA. Sitting with her and studying with her helped to inspire my fascination and love for nursing, which led me to become the fierce advocate for the nursing profession today that I am today.

What advice would you give to nursing students wanting to go into this specialty?
Med-surg and PCU are great building blocks for so many other specialties. Experience in these areas can prepare you to manage time well and assess effectively. However, know that you don't have to start in med-surg just because you hear people say that's where you should start. If you want to explore any other specialty, don't let yourself be limited to med-surg. The whole nursing world is your oyster!

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In September 2021, I began working as a travel nurse. In that role, I've worked in an ER holding/CDU & Observation unit, as a tele-float nurse, and on a med-surg neuro unit. However, I'll soon be leaving direct-bedside care to embark on my new journey in nursing professional development.