The location of your Airbnb is crucial. Consider proximity to your workplace, public transportation, grocery stores, and other amenities. For travel nurses, their schedules can vary and the hours can be long. Staying close to the hospital or medical facility can save valuable time and reduce commuting stress. Additionally, research the safety and neighborhood vibe of the area before booking.

Now that you’re familiar with the perks of travel nursing, let’s dive into the steps to kickstart your career:

• Obtain Your Nursing License: To work as a travel nurse, you must be a registered nurse (RN) with a valid license in the state(s) where you plan to practice. If you haven’t already, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and obtain licensure in your home state.
• Gain Clinical Experience: While travel nursing is open to nurses with varying levels of experience, having at least one year of clinical experience is typically required by most travel nursing agencies.
• Research Travel Nursing Agencies: There are numerous travel nursing agencies out there, so take the time to research and compare their offerings. Look for agencies with a solid reputation, competitive pay packages, and a wide selection of job opportunities.
• Submit Your Application: Once you’ve chosen an agency, submit your application and provide all required documentation, including your resume, nursing license, certifications, and references.
• Interview with Recruiters: After reviewing your application, you’ll likely have an interview with a recruiter from the agency. Use this opportunity to ask questions, discuss your preferences, and learn more about available assignments.
• Select Assignments: Once you’re accepted into the agency’s network, you can start browsing available assignments and selecting ones that align with your interests and career goals.
• Prepare for Your Assignment: Before starting your assignment, make sure you’re ready. Preparations may involve obtaining additional certifications, arranging housing, and familiarizing yourself with the facility and local area.

If you work in multiple states, it’s important to understand that you become subject to the tax laws in each state in which you work, not just the state in which you live. Generally speaking, if you earn income in a state, you have a responsibility to report the income you earned in that state to that state. That doesn’t always mean you’ll end up paying taxes there (each state has its own thresholds), but you probably need to report there nonetheless. You may even find out that you’re due refunds!

It’s also important to find out if a state where you worked has reciprocal agreements with another state. These agreements allow residents who work in one state but live in another to only pay income taxes in their state of residence, rather than in both states. This means that if an individual lives in State A but works in State B, they will only need to file a tax return in State A, where they reside, and not in State B where they work. These agreements simplify tax filing for cross-border workers like traveling nurses and prevent double taxation. However, it’s essential for taxpayers to understand the specific terms of these agreements, as they can vary between states and may have exceptions based on certain types of income or residency status. Click here to find out which states have reciprocal agreements.

When negotiating your travel nursing contract, understand pay packages. Be clear on your base pay, overtime, stipends (for housing, meals, and incidentals), and any bonuses. For housing, decide if you want agency-provided housing or a housing stipend to find your own accommodations. As for travel reimbursement, ensure your travel expenses to and from assignments are covered. Finally, check if the agency offers health insurance, 401(k) plans, and other benefits.

Packing smart is crucial for a smooth transition and a comfortable stay. Start by making a checklist of essential items. Include enough scrubs and comfortable shoes to last between laundry days, along with your stethoscope and medical tools. Don’t forget your personal essentials, such as toiletries, medications, and a few home comforts to make your space feel like home. Space-saving techniques, like rolling clothes and using packing cubes, can help maximize your luggage capacity. Remember, less is often more – focus on packing items that serve multiple purposes and leave room for things you might acquire during your assignment.

Flexibility is one of the key advantages of a career in travel nursing. You have the freedom to choose when and where you want to work, allowing you to align your assignments with your lifestyle and preferences. Some travel nurses also choose to take time off between assignments to recharge, travel, or spend time with loved ones.