Planning your New Year Travel Nurse Adventure

As the calendar turns to a new year, many travel nurses find themselves gearing up for new and exciting adventures in different locations across the country. Travel nurses need to be well-prepared to start off on the right foot. Here are a few tips for Planning your New Year Travel Nurse Adventure:

Double Check Licensing and Certifications

Before jetting off to your next assignment, double-check that all your licenses and certifications are up-to-date. Different states have different requirements, and compliance is key for a smooth transition into your new role. If you have any questions on licensing, you can visit our Nursing Licensing blog and Allied Licensing blog for additional information.

Organize Ahead of time 

One of the first things travel nurses should do is plan ahead. Create a checklist that includes all the tasks you need to accomplish before, during and after you accept your travel nurse assignment. This may consist of obtaining necessary licenses, updating certifications, securing housing and what to pack as a travel nurse. As we’ve seen, the new year often brings a surge in demand for healthcare professionals, so planning ensures you are well-prepared and organized.

Consider all Housing Options

You’ll quickly find that securing housing is a top priority as a travel nurse. Consider whether you prefer facility-provided housing if available, traveling in your personal RV or a stipend for finding your own accommodations. Start the process with your recruiter early, as popular locations may have limited availability, especially during the beginning of the year when demand tends to be higher.

Get to know the Facility

Get to know the facility where you’ll be working. Ask questions throughout your interviewing process with hiring managers and ask questions that allow you to get a feel of what working at that facility would be like. Familiarize yourself with its policies, procedures and any particular protocols they may have. You can also always connect with your recruiter to see what first-hand experiences their other travelers have had at that facility. Being informed about the facility’s expectations will help you integrate seamlessly into the team and know if it’ll fit you well.

Understand Tax Implications

Travel nurses often have questions about filing taxes due to working in different states nationwide. We will always suggest consulting with a tax professional to have your specific tax-related questions answered. Being aware of tax-related matters from the beginning can help you plan your travel year accordingly and avoid any surprises come tax season.

Build a Support System

Moving to a new location can be challenging, especially at the beginning of the year when people are still settling into routines. Build a support system by connecting with other travel nurses in the area, finding community events, or becoming friends with your new team. A network will provide a sense of community as you adapt to your new surroundings.

Remain Flexible

Being open-minded and remaining flexible are key traits for successful travel nurses. Take advantage of the unexpected and be open-minded about the challenges and opportunities that may pop up while traveling. The beginning of the year can be unpredictable, but maintaining a positive attitude and adaptability will contribute to a more fulfilling travel nurse experience.

Starting a travel assignment at the beginning of the year requires planning, connecting with an Axis recruiter, attention to detail, and a flexible mindset. By taking proactive steps and staying informed, travel nurses can make the most of their new opportunities, ensuring a smooth and successful transition into their roles. Whether it’s your first travel assignment or a seasoned traveler, the beginning of the year is an excellent time to embark on a new adventure in healthcare.

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