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How to Become a Travel Nurse

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• Career Overview
• Steps to Become
• Education Options
• Certification and Specialization

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Are you interested in a financially rewarding nursing career that offers the flexibility to take short-term assignments across the country and abroad? The nursing shortage has increased the demand for travel nurses in every type of healthcare setting, often in underserved communities in both urban and rural locations. Employers offer higher pay and more generous benefits to travel nurses with specialties, such as ICU or neonatal nursing, or those holding advanced practice registered nursing licenses.

Keep reading to learn how to become a travel nurse, what kind of license and certifications you need to enter the field, and what to expect on the job.

How Long to Become 2-4 years

Degree Required ADN or BSN

Average Weekly Salary $2,200

Source: Vivian , October 2023

What Is a Travel Nurse?

A travel nurse is a skilled nursing professional willing to take short-term assignments both across the U.S. and internationally , lasting from a few weeks to several months. Instead of seeking permanent positions in healthcare facilities, these licensed and registered nurses find temporary placements using the services of staffing agencies that specialize in travel nursing. Travel nurse contracts outline the start and end dates for the placement, total compensation for the duration of the assignment, and work expectations.

The demand for registered nurses has increased throughout the healthcare industry, along with critical nursing shortages in some geographic locations and in high-demand specializations. Travel nurses have stepped in to fill these gaps. According to the 2022 National Nursing Workforce Survey , 6% of RNs work as travel nurses.

Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Steps to Becoming a Travel Nurse

A travel nurse must meet the same educational and clinical requirements as all registered nurses (RNs). You must first earn an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Once you earn your degree, you need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and acquire your state nursing license. Because employers expect travel nurses to immediately begin working, travel nurse staffing agencies typically look for applicants with at least one year of clinical experience. Specializations and certifications can give you an advantage.

Earn an ADN or BSN Degree From an Accredited Program.

Travel nurses must earn an ADN or a BSN to qualify for RN licensure. An ADN offers the fastest pathway to an RN nursing career. However, a BSN, which typically takes four years to complete, provides graduates with a higher level of training and clinical experience, leading to broader employment opportunities. The major travel nurse staffing agencies and large healthcare systems prefer to hire RNs with a BSN degree.

Pass the NCLEX Exam to Receive RN Licensure.

You need to pass the National Council Licensure Exam for RNs (NCLEX-RN) to earn an RN license. This computer-adaptive test takes up to six hours and covers nursing practice, conditions and treatments, how the healthcare system works, legal and ethical issues, and patient communication and education.

Gain Clinical Nursing Experience.

The more clinical experience you have, the more likely you will find a placement. Most agencies only consider applicants with a minimum of one year of experience. However, some healthcare contracts require two years or more of clinical experience. Travel nurses must have the skills and background to jump into assignments without on-the-job training or orientations, adjusting to new environments, staff, and procedures.

Find a Travel Nursing Agency.

Nurse staffing agencies have grown in popularity, filling the nursing shortage gap resulting from RNs who retire or leave the workforce. Consequently, many agencies have emerged that specialize in travel nurse staffing. Travel nurse agencies advertise for specific positions, often recruiting at nursing school career offices, professional associations, and online. Before working with a travel nurse agency, it is important to research its reputation. When evaluating agencies, you should compare if the contracts they offer meet your expectations about available locations, types of assignments, salary and benefits, and travel and housing arrangements.

Begin Your First Travel Nursing Assignment.

Because travel nurses work in multiple settings with varied patient populations , duties and responsibilities differ for each new assignment. In most cases, you will receive little on-the-job training. Depending on the employer, your first shift may begin with a full orientation or just a brief introduction to the facility’s procedures and policies. You may be paired with a nurse for your first few days, but then you will be expected to work independently soon after.

While some travel staffing agencies handle housing arrangements to help you settle into your new environment, you may decide to find your own accommodations to save on living expenses.

Travel Nurse Education

Different employers and positions have different travel nurse requirements. Generally, it takes at least two years to earn an ADN, the minimum requirement to become an RN.

Most travel nurse positions require a BSN, but some nurses start with an ADN, which takes two years to complete rather than the four years required for a BSN. Many BSN programs offer RN-to-BSN bridge programs .

Admission Materials

Program curriculum, time to complete, skills learned.

All travel nurses must be licensed RNs by earning an undergraduate nursing degree, either a BSN or an ADN, and passing the NCLEX-RN examination. However, many employers require or strongly prefer a BSN.

Travel Nurse Licensure

If you plan on becoming a travel nurse, you must have a valid nursing license in the state where you intend to practice. If the state where you earned your initial RN license participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), you do not need to apply for another license to work in any other NLC state. However, not all states are NLC members . If your intended travel nurse assignment is located in a non-NLC state, you must apply for a license in that specific state before starting your contract. Some states have expedited processes for temporary licenses, and certain staffing agencies can assist you with the application process.

Maintaining an active license as a travel nurse is no different than for other RNs. You need to renew your RN license periodically, meeting the specific requirements for contact hours and continuing education units in your home state. If you are working in a non-NLC state, you must meet the renewal requirements for that jurisdiction.

Travel Nursing Certification and Specialization

RNs often choose to earn specialty nurse certifications in a variety of areas, including emergency care, pediatrics, obstetrics, and infection control. While earning a certification may not be required for a certain position, a specialization helps distinguish you from other job applicants and may boost your salary.

According to a 2019 travel nurse compensation report , the demand for travel nurses is highest for those with specializations in ICU, medical-surgical, operating room, and emergency room nursing. ICU nurses, the most in-demand travel nurse specialty, accounts for 16.5% of all travel nurses. Healthcare employers and staffing agencies often look for travel nurses with specialties in particular patient populations, including neonatal nursing and pediatrics, or those with experience in specific types of services, such as emergency and critical care nursing.

Working as a Travel Nurse

Travel nurses fill temporary assignments wherever nurses are needed. They may find placements in hospitals and clinics facing nursing shortages, community health facilities, and healthcare organizations in the U.S. and abroad that must respond to public health crises, disease outbreaks, and other medical emergencies. The average travel nurse contract lasts between 13 and 26 weeks, but hours and shifts vary widely depending on the assignment.

Travel nurse salaries also vary by setting, location, and specialization. According to Vivian , a major healthcare hiring service, the average weekly pay for travel nurses is $2,200, or $61.20 an hour, compared to $42.80 per hour for RNs overall, as noted by the BLS . However, earnings can range from $1,764 weekly for the lowest paid travel nurses to $2,703 for the top-earners. While travel nurses tend to make higher salaries than the average RN, they sometimes have to pay out of pocket for healthcare benefits, housing, and other work-related expenses not covered in their contract.

Although working as a travel nurse has many benefits, there are some potential downsides. Travel nurses may be required to complete onboarding for each new contract they begin, even if they have already previously worked at a facility. This process can require time-consuming steps, such as providing proof of vaccination, fingerprinting, and documentation of your medical history, which can delay your start date.

Some travel nurses have difficulty finding affordable housing options for the duration of their contract. You can review a travel agency’s benefits to determine if they may provide assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Travel Nurse

Do travel nurses get benefits.

In addition to the attractive salaries, some travel nurse placements offer benefits. These may include medical and dental coverage, 401K contributions, sign-on bonuses, and stipends for housing, travel and per-diem living expenses.

Can travel nurses choose where they work?

One of the major perks of working as a travel nurse is the flexibility to choose when and where to work. However, your ability to choose your placement depends on the demand for your particular specialty or the number of available positions in the location where you want to work.

What is the best degree to become a travel nurse?

Many staffing agencies prefer to hire travel nurses who have completed a bachelor of science in nursing. A BSN equips nurses with a solid foundation of nursing knowledge and skills. This can prepare them for a travel nursing role, where they may need to transition between healthcare facilities and effectively adapt to diverse patient populations and settings.

How do I find a travel nurse staffing agency?

Travel nurse staffing agencies may recruit at nursing schools, through referrals, or through advertisements for specific positions or general placements. You can also look online for travel nurse staffing agencies or discover agencies through networking. Be sure to double check references and the agency’s reputation.

Related Pages

What to Know About Working as an International Travel Nurse

If you love traveling and want to become a nurse, consider the growing field of international travel nursing. Choose from many well-paying positions in a variety of destinations all over the world.

The 7 Top States for Travel Nurses (Fall)

The travel nurse industry is rapidly expanding. If you’d like to plan your first or next assignment, consider these top seven states for your fall destination.

How to Become an International Travel Nurse

International travel nursing offers great pay and adventure. Take these steps to get your first international assignment.

Page last reviewed on November 2, 2023

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Home / Nursing Careers & Specialties / Travel Nurse

Travel Nurse

What is a travel nurse, how to become a travel nurse, travel nurse faqs, what does a domestic or international travel nurse do, travel nurse salary and employment, helpful organizations, societies, & agencies.

Travel nurses are RNs from various clinical backgrounds who work for independent staffing agencies. They are assigned to different care areas on a temporary basis to fill in short-term employment gaps.

Travel nursing is a specialty that took root when the field of nursing faced a nationwide shortage. Hospitals, clinics, and other care areas had unfilled positions, yet had patients needing care. To try and attract nurses to the open positions, employers offered higher pay, housing, and covered the cost of relocating.

Due to these shortages, health care facilities have vacancies that need to be filled—and travel nurses are often the ones to fill open positions. Not only do travel nurses work in health care in any state in the country, but they also work outside of the United States as international travel nurses. The adventure and excitement of new opportunities, along with higher-than-average pay, are facets of travel nursing that many RNs find attractive.

Why Are Travel Nurses Important?

Travel nurses are an important part of the health care team because they help bridge the gap between supply and demand in the field of nursing. Mandatory nurse-patient ratios have led to increased patient safety and lower patient mortality . While this is a positive finding, and more and more states are passing legislation to implement staffing ratios, there are not enough nurses to fill the openings. Travel nurses assigned those open positions help to increase patient safety and improve patient outcomes.

Additionally, nurses from different educational backgrounds, care areas, and geographic locations bring a great deal to the practice of nursing. Sharing ideas and practices not only benefits patients, but also other nurses.

A travel nurse should have the following characteristics to excel in the role:

• Enjoys experiencing new cities, towns, and organizations
• Enjoys freedom. Travel nurses choose when and where they work, and choose their duration of employment
• Enjoys flexibility. Travel nurses create their schedules, benefits packages, and income based on which agency they choose to work
• Thrives on challenges. Moving to different states or overseas and being “the new nurse” repeatedly is challenging. Learning new organizational systems and workflows is particularly challenging
• Loves learning new things. Each assignment takes travel nurses to new health care facilities, some with higher levels of technology or different standards of practice. Each experience helps nurses build upon their knowledge base

Additionally, travel nurses should have supportive families and friends. It's difficult to either pack up and move an entire family or leave your family and friends behind. The flip side to this is that new relationships are formed in each new location.

What Are the Educational Requirements for Travel Nurses?

Those interested in the specialty of travel nursing should first pursue a nursing degree through a two or four-year university. Obtaining an associate's degree ( ADN ) or bachelor's degree ( BSN ) in nursing is required. A BSN is not required to be a travel nurse, but some health care facilities only hire BSN-prepared nurses. The staffing agency in which the nurse is employed should match the nurse appropriately based on educational requirements.

After completion of an accredited nursing program, successful completion of the NCLEX-RN is required for licensure.

Most travel nurse agencies require a minimum of one year of hands-on experience in the chosen specialty of nursing. Additionally, some agencies will only hire BSN-prepared RNs. International travel nurses should speak the language of the country they are to practice in, as communication is an important part of effective healthcare delivery. Nurses are encouraged to research agencies when considering travel nursing.

Are Any Certifications or Credentials Needed?

No additional exams are required for travel nursing. Based on the specialty, certification(s) may be required. Examples include:

• Basic Life Support (BLS)
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) may be required
• Stroke care certification
• Telemetry certification
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
• Critical care nursing (adults, pediatric, neonatal)
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) may be required
• Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) certification
• Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)
• Trauma Nurse Core Course (TNCC) certification

Additional specific requirements may be necessary for international travel nurses. These include:

• Acquiring a passport and work visa (usually handled by the agency)
• Additional immunizations
• Learning a new language
• Learning about diseases unique to the area

How Can a Travel Nurse Receive a Tax-Free Housing Stipend?

Housing is one of the most significant concerns for a travel nurse. There are a few options available, and it depends on the travel nurse agency/company regarding how accommodations are set up. Some companies provide housing (i.e., apartment, duplex, etc.). Some companies offer a housing stipend, or a fixed amount of money each month to apply towards housing.

First, nurses need to be aware of where their “tax home” is, as stipends are tax-free if working away from the tax home. Having a tax home is necessary to receive tax-free housing. A "tax home" is defined as the general vicinity of an individual's primary place of work (regardless of where the primary residence is). Generally, the IRS considers someone traveling away from home (i.e., their "tax home") if it exceeds one workday.

Different travel nurse agencies offer different stipends - it’s important to research what the living expenses are in a specific area to ensure housing is adequately covered. The General Services Administration (GSA) lists the maximum daily amount for lodging, meals, and incidentals with regards to travel expenses . The key word is MAXIMUM. It's not required that a company pay employees the listed stipend. In fact, some travel nurse agencies offer higher hourly wages instead of housing stipends. Additionally, the GSA rates are based on short-term travel - usually less than a month. Travel nurse contracts can last three months or more.

Are Nursing Licenses Valid When Traveling and Working in Other States?

Those interested in travel nursing may have questions about licensing; specifically, how are licenses recognized if practicing in another state.

Depending on the state, new licensure is not necessary. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) developed the Nurse Licensure Compact which is an agreement between specific states to recognize nursing licenses without having to apply separately for licensure in another state. In other words, a nurse living in a "compact state" (one which is part of this agreement) can practice in another compact state without having to obtain additional licenses. There are now uniform licensure requirements that must be met when seeking a multistate license under the compact agreement. States that participate in the compact agreement can be found on the NCSBN website .

If not part of the compact agreement, some states allow nurses to obtain temporary licenses by endorsement. These are valid for specific lengths of time, so nurses must visit each state’s Board of Nursing website to determine specific temporary license requirements. If extending the assignment past the temporary license time frame, nurses must apply for a permanent license. Permanent licenses are also required for states that don't grant licensure by endorsement and don't participate in the NLC.

Travel nurses have a broad range of responsibilities and duties, and specific tasks depend on the specialty in which the nurse is trained. General nursing responsibilities and duties include:

• Using the nursing process of assessing, diagnosing, planning, implementing, and evaluating to care for patients in a variety of healthcare settings
• Administering medications, and fluids, assisting with activities of daily living and patient mobility
• Reviewing and interpreting diagnostic tests such as lab work and imaging
• Provide monitoring and oversight in all aspects of patient care
• Collaborating with physicians in developing a plan of care
• Assessing the psychosocial needs of patients and families
• Recognizing and intervening in clinically unstable patients
• Providing resources for patients and referring as necessary
• Educating patients and families in all areas of healthcare maintenance and prevention
• Working in assignments anywhere from eight to thirteen weeks (on average) in the U.S., one to two years if outside the U.S.
• Learning various patient care systems/documentation
• Providing immediate medical care and aid for large populations during times of war or disaster

Domestic and international travel nurses also have different characteristics specific to their roles.

Domestic Travel Nurses

• Work within the U.S.
• Typically work assignments that range from eight to thirteen weeks
• Can respond to areas of the U.S that experience natural disasters or disease outbreaks

International Travel Nurses

International travel nurses should have excellent communication skills, should be open to new experiences and challenges, and should have a strong desire to learn. These nurses are responsible for performing a wide array of duties. As stated previously, the tasks an international nurse will have to perform depend entirely upon their medical specialty. Some of the more general or everyday tasks that international travel nurses will perform include administering medication, wound care, and providing emergency medical services and care. Since there are often nursing shortages in many of the regions that international nurses travel to, another general role of these nurses is to educate family members and caretakers about the appropriate patient and medical care. In summary, international travel nurses:

• Work outside the U.S.
• Typically work assignments that range from one to two years
• Respond to areas that experience natural disasters or disease outbreaks, such as the Ebola outbreak in West Africa
• Provide medical care and aid to underserved, rural , and remote populations
• Usually, must wait for document processing before traveling

Travel Nurse Working Conditions

As with any career, there are positive and negative aspects to working as a travel nurse. Nurses can suffer from stress as they may carry a heavy patient load and have many critical decisions to make. Additionally, travel nurses may suffer from feelings of isolation since they tend to relocate often. Having a strong sense of independence and a support system available, even remotely, can help.

Additionally, nurses may work in high-risk areas that may expose them to workplace violence, blood-borne pathogens, and chemicals. Travel nurses must always familiarize themselves with and adhere to safety standards set by the organization.

International travel nurses can face different challenges. Travel nurses must be familiar with the country's laws, and geographic-specific diseases, and always keep their overall safety as a priority.

Despite these considerations, travel nursing can be immensely rewarding. Many organizations and staff nurses appreciate the help travel nurses offer. Travel nurses help relieve staff nurses from burnout, as can happen when working short-staffed.

International travel nurses are also highly appreciated. They provide medical care and assistance to many patients in remote settings who otherwise would have no access to healthcare. They help with relief efforts in war zones or after disaster events, which can be both rewarding and enriching.

According to the American Nurses Association, as of 2015 fourteen states had mandatory nurse-patient ratios . Nurses are pushing for federal legislation supporting safe staffing and because of this, if more states pass safe-staffing laws, nurses will be in even more demand. Travel nurses will help mend the current and projected nursing shortage. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 16% overall growth for nurses until 2024, which is much faster-than-average growth for all occupations.

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Travel nursing has many incentives for nurses regarding pay and benefits including:

• Travel reimbursement
• Free housing
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement plans
• Assistance in obtaining passports/work visas
• Choice of location
• Selection of hours/shifts worked
• Competitive pay
• Higher-than-average pay for RNs

According to Indeed, the average yearly salary for a travel nurse is $75,109. However, since pay is competitive in travel nursing, some companies are offering salaries of around $100,00 annually for domestic travel nurses.

International travel nurses tend to have lower salaries than domestic, except for assignments in some middle eastern countries. This is because, for the most part, nurses tend to make less outside of the U.S.

Salary is dependent on the agency, and nurses should research each company to find the right salary and benefits that best fit their needs.

• International Council of Nurses
• Professional Association of Nurse Travelers
• National Association of Travel Healthcare Organizations
• American Travel Health Nurses Association

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How to Become a Travel Nurse

What Is a Travel Nurse?

• What Do Travel Nurses Do?

How Much do Traveling Nurses Make?

Advantages of being a traveling nurse, steps to becoming a travel nurse, requirements for traveling nurse.

Travel nurses are professionals who fill short-term staffing gaps in hospitals and medical facilities around the country. These contracts normally last between eight and 22 weeks, though sometimes travel nurses are offered extensions.

Travel nurses fill gaps in a variety of specialties, from the NICU to the medical-surgical unit and beyond. Although they plan to stay for just a short time, they interact with patients and perform the same duties as any permanent employee.

What Do Travel Nurses do?

Travel nurses have all of the same responsibilities as permanent staff in the hospitals in which they work. However, they are hired by contract on a temporary basis to fill a staff shortage. The average travel nurse assignment is 13 weeks in one hospital.

Travel Nurse Job Description

The travel nurse job description includes caring for patients using diagnoses, evaluations, and assessments, much like standard nurses. You may be required to visit patients in their home if they are not mobile. As a travel nurse, you’ll find yourself caring for patients as part of the team of permanent staff, despite your temporary role. In fact, when your contract ends, many of your co-workers might be surprised to learn you weren’t a permanent employee!

Core duties of a travel nurse also include:

• Educate patients and their families about conditions/treatments
• Tend to injured or sick patients
• Perform tests and analyze test results
• Administer medication
• Follow up with patients after treatment

Travel nurse salaries can vary depending on education, region, and contracts. For example, many hospitals prefer an advanced nursing degree, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing; others may accept an Associate in Nursing or Registered Nurse. Hospitals in major cities also tend to pay more than hospitals in rural counties, because of cost-of-living expenses are higher. And, some travel nurse contracts allow for bonuses or extensions, which would increase base pay. In addition to salary, many travel nurse contracts include a housing allowance, meal stipend, and travel reimbursements.

While all of these things should be considered, the   national average annual salary of a travel nurse is about $75,000 , according to Payscale.

Travel nursing has many advantages, including being able to work with people from all different walks of life and explore parts of the country you may have never seen. While it may seem daunting to interview for a new position every couple of months and move to a new city, there are many travel nurse agencies that can help smooth the process.

Many times, these agencies can set up the interviews with the hospital administration for you. Of course, then it’s up to you to let your talents shine! The agencies can also help find you fully-furnished housing, which is often free for travel nurses and located in close proximity to the hospital. Many of these accommodations are also pet and family friendly, so you don’t have to take the journey alone.

Many contracts allow for a meal stipend during your assignment. Some include bonuses or contract extensions. Each assignment can be different, so you’ll gain experience from different hospitals, equipment, and people.

If you're interested in becoming a travel nurse, there are a few steps you have to complete before you can begin applying for travel nurse assignments. While some steps may seem obvious, like making sure to get the proper education, there is more to a career in travel nursing than just having the right degree.

Step 1: Earn your degree.

If you’re wondering how to be a travel nurse, you should know that travel nurses have the same credentials as any nurse; so earning a degree in nursing would be the first step to becoming a travel nurse. Programs, such as the   Bachelor of Science in Nursing   degree, offered at Gwynedd Mercy University are traditional undergraduate degree programs in which you can enroll immediately after high school.

However, if you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field and are interested in how to become a travel nurse, you can earn a degree such as GMercyU’s   Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing   degree, which is an intensive full-time 15-month program.

Step 2: Gain some real-world experience.

After you earn your degree, you should take some time to work in a hospital setting to get used to the feel of it. Working in a clinical setting during your education will start your first hands-on experience within the nursing field. Obtaining an entry-level job within a doctor's office or hospital will also better prepare you for a travel nursing role.

Another way to ensure that you gain real-world experience is to make sure that you're enrolled in an accredited nursing program. Two popular accreditation agencies are the ACEN, or Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, and the CCNE, or Commission on Collegiate of Nursing Education. Accredited nursing programs will guarentee a specific standard of education within their program so that employers can trust that they are hiring a highly skilled and knowledgable nurse.

Step 3: Find an agency.

After you have some experience as a nurse, you can begin your search for a   travel nurse staffing agency . You’ll complete an application and be paired with a recruiter. This person will get in touch with you to talk about your skills and experience, expectations for the job, and your preference of cities. Then, you’ll be matched with the hospitals that are looking to hire travel nurses.

Step 4: Brush off your interview skills.

You won’t automatically be paired with a hospital; you’ll have to interview for the job by phone or video chat. This is your opportunity to show the hospital administrators what you’re made of, what you’re excited about, and what you can bring to their facility. Your recruiter might even be able to offer you some interview tips to calm your nerves.

Step 5. Away you go!

Once you're matched with a facility, you’ll begin your journey! Agencies can provide you with free housing or housing reimbursement. If you are familiar with the city you’re sent to, you may be able to find housing on your own. In that case, you’ll receive a housing allowance that varies depending on the city you’re in. The free housing option will always come fully furnished, and will usually be located in close proximity to the hospital. Keep in mind that the housing provided by your agency will be an efficiency or one-bedroom apartment, so you may prefer to find your own housing and pay the difference if you will need more space.

You can decide if you’d rather fly or drive, but the agency will give you a travel allowance that should cover the cost of transportation to your new hometown.

If you’re ready to become a traveling nurse, you should be aware of some of the travel nurse requirements. For starters, you’ll need to at least be a registered nurse (RN) with some hospital experience. Many hospitals prefer nurses with a   Bachelor of Science in Nursing , like the one offered at Gwynedd Mercy University. If you already have a bachelor's degree, you could earn an   Accelerated Bachelor's in Nursing degree , which is an accelerated degree for individuals who already have a bachelor's degree in another field. Once you earn your bachelor's degree, you can go on to earn a   graduate degree in nursing.

In addition, you’ll need to make sure you are certified to practice in the state where your assignment is. If your home state is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact – Pennsylvania is not – you are eligible for one multi-state license. However, because the NCLEX is a nationally recognized licensure examination, obtaining a license in another state should not be too difficult. Plus, your staffing agency will be able to provide some assistance. Rest assured that the licensing requirements for traveling nurse certification will not delay your new career as a travel nurse!

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How To Become A Travel Nurse – (15 Simple STEPS)

Are you considering becoming a registered nurse or already licensed as an RN? Do you love to travel, meet new people, and learn new things? If you could combine your love of nursing and travel to have a lucrative career option, would that interest you? If so, becoming a travel nurse could be a great option. Perhaps you have wondered, “Can someone tell me how to become a travel nurse?” If that sounds like you, you should keep reading! In this article, I will share 15 steps to successfully become a travel nurse and share information about degree options, earning potential, and the best places to work. You will also find answers to some frequently asked questions about travel nursing to help you decide if this is the right career path for you.

FIRST OFF, WHAT IS A TRAVEL NURSE?

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How To Become A Travel Nurse | 6 Requirements 2023 UPDATE

Written by Chaunie Brusie with expert review by Kathleen Gaines 

What Is a Travel Nurse?

Your immediate vision of travel nursing may be exploring exotic destinations, but that’s not necessarily true. Being a travel nurse simply means that you are employed by an independent nursing staffing agency instead of by a single hospital.

This means you could travel as far as a different country, or you could work at a hospital near you in need of temporary nurses. The choice is up to you on when and where you work, but travel nursing doesn’t necessarily mean faraway travel.

Looking for open travel nurse assignments? Speak with a recruiter today!

Travel Nurse Requirements

All travel nurses will have to meet several requirements before applying for contracts. These include licensure, degree, certifications, and experience.

Nursing License Requirements

Travel nurses are required to have an RN license in the state they are contracted. Now, if your permanent residence is one of the states that are currently part of the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC), then consider yourself lucky. You will not need an individual state license if you are contracted to work in another eNLC state. However, if your home base is not an eNLC state – you will be required to apply for an individual state license. This must be granted prior to the start of your contract.

Nursing Degree Requirements

Most travel nurses can expect to be required to have a BSN. The minimum requirement for travel nursing is an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). However, depending on the hospital or facility, a BSN may be preferred. For this reason, some travel nurse agencies will only work with nurses that have completed a BSN degree.

More specifically, most large healthcare systems will require a BSN, especially those with Magnet designation.

Magnet is awarded by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), a subsidiary of the American Nurses Association (ANA), and is awarded to individual hospitals that have been recognized for achieving the “gold standard” of nursing care. According to the ANCC and ANA, nurses that have earned a BSN have a higher level of skill and abilities.

Find available, high-paying travel nurse opportunities.

Nursing Certification Requirements

Certifications will depend on the unit and the specific job requirements. All nurses are required to have a Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, and most will have either a Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) or Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS).

Travel nurses will be expected to have and maintain these certifications prior to signing on with a travel nurse company. Additionally, some travel nurse agencies will assist their nurses with certification and recertification. It’s important to speak with the nursing agency recruiter to determine eligibility. If the travel agency does not assist with recertification, some hospitals will allow travel nurses to attend in-hospital classes. The other viable option is through a certification agency.

Any other job-specific certifications will be discussed in the contract. Earning additional certifications will increase your job opportunities and earning potential. Specific specialty certifications such as CCRN or CWON are not required for most travel nursing positions. However, those certifications will move your application to the top of the pile. Especially, in the current, highly competitive travel nursing industry.

These are the three most common certifications for travel nurses:

CPN (Certified Pediatric Nurse)

Ccrn (certified critical care nurse), cen (certified emergency nurse).

See below for additional information about these certifications.

The Board of Certification of Emergency Nursing offers the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) for nurses specializing in emergency medicine. In comparison to other certifications, the CEN examination has fewer eligibility requirements. There are currently more than 34,000 Certified Emergency Nurses.

According to their website, to be eligible to sit for the CEN examination, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• An unencumbered nursing license in the United States
• Two years of ER experience is recommended but not required

The exam is offered at computer testing sites throughout the country and the certification is valid for four years. The fee for the exam is $230.

The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (ANCC) offers the Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) national certification. Three exams are offered:

All exams follow similar eligibility criteria and examination guidelines. The difference is in the exam material.

In order to sit for the examination, the individual must meet the following criteria:

• Current, unencumbered U.S. RN or APRN license
• Practice as an RN or APRN for 1,750 hours in direct care of acutely/critically ill adult patients during the previous two years, with 875 of those hours accrued in the most recent year preceding application, or
• Practice as an RN or APRN for at least five years with a minimum of 2,000 hours in direct care of acutely/critically ill adult patients, with 144 of those hours accrued in the most recent year preceding application

The above is for those applying for adult certification. Individuals interested in pediatrics or neonatal certifications will need to have direct care time in those fields.

AACN members will pay $235 for the exam while non-members will pay $340. Recertification is done by either examination or CERPs and a nominal fee.

The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) offers the Certified Pediatric Nursing (CPN) certification. According to their website, more than 25,000 nurses currently hold a CPN certification. In order to apply, individuals must meet the following criteria:

• Current, valid, unrestricted, and unencumbered Registered Nurse license
• A minimum of 1800 hours of pediatric clinical experience completed within the past 24 months as an RN, or
• A minimum of 5 years as an RN in pediatric nursing and 3,000 hours in pediatric nursing within the last 5 years with a minimum of 1000 hours within the past 24 months

The cost of the examination is $295 with a $100 non-refundable registration fee. In order to recertify, individuals must maintain 15 PNCB-approved contact hours.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Travel Nurse?

Years of experience.

Most travel nursing agencies will require a minimum of two years of relevant bedside experience. This is usually required because the hospital or healthcare facility will also want an experienced nurse.

Travel nurses get very few orientation shifts, so they must have the skills and knowledge to jump right into any assignment or situation. New nurses may not be able to do this. In fact, agencies will very specifically list the amount of experience needed prior to applying. Additionally, some hospital contracts will require other experience.

For example, while the travel agency may only require 2 years of ICU experience, a level 1 trauma center with a high acuity ICU might want a nurse with a minimum of 5 years.

Remember, if you do not meet the level of experience requirements, do not apply. Your application will not be considered. The more experience you have, the more desirable you are.

6 Steps to Becoming a Travel Nurse

The moment you’ve all been waiting for…how to become a travel nurse.

Travel nursing has become increasing popular since the pandemic when travel and COVID pay rates were making travel nursing highly desirable. But now that we are getting back to more traditional times, travel nursing is getting back to its basics with the desires being freedom, flexibility, and travel.

So how do you become a travel nurse? Becoming a travel nurse can be easy if you follow these six steps:

1. Earn your BSN and pass the NCLEX to become a Registered Nurse.

Though there are several paths to becoming a Registered Nurse, the one that will provide you with the greatest opportunity and the educational background to become a travel nurse is the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). In fact, it is becoming the standard.

This four-year degree provides you with foundational knowledge in a wide variety of topics. BSN programs incorporate clinical rotations through the various care departments in hospitals and clinics, exposing you to a wide range of patients and colleagues to give you a well-rounded nursing education.

This test, called the NCLEX-RN, or National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Every state has its own requirements for licensure and process for exam registration, so make sure that you are familiar with the requirements as they apply to you and your locale.

2. Get at least two years of bedside experience

You will want to get a job in the specialty you are interested in. This is the experience you will need in order to gain a travel nursing position. Remember that you can only work as a travel nurse in the field in which you have experience. Once you have a position, it is possible that you may float within the hospital, but you will not be expected to work outside of your skill level.

3. Find a travel nursing agency and recruiter to work with

There are countless travel nursing agencies, and each one has dozens of recruiters. There are big and small companies, and each company has pros and cons. Most travel nurses work with several different agencies.

Why? Well, some healthcare companies have contracts with only one specific agency.

So, what does that mean? If you want to work at a specific hospital that only works with one agency then you will need to work with that particular agency.

While picking the right agency is important, picking the right travel nurse recruiter is even more important. Travel nurse recruiters act as liaisons between the travel nurse and the hospital. A great travel nurse recruiter will work hard to make sure you are paid your worth. They will be experienced and honest when working with you.

4. Get the proper state license and certifications

If you do not have an eNLC license or maintain residency in an eNLC state then you will need to plan ahead. Also, even if you do have an eNLC license but are interested in traveling to a state that is not part of the compact license, then you will need to plan ahead.

For example, Alaska and California are not part of the eNLC. California has been reported to take a very long time to gain licensure and is very specific in its requirements, so you’ll want to plan ahead if California is on your list of destinations.

Remember to plan ahead, and consider ahead of time where you wish to travel.

5. Pick an assignment and sign a contract

This can be one of the harder decisions because everything must be in your contract and is negotiated between the travel nurse recruiter and the hospital.

• Weekend time
• Shift requests

These all MUST be in the contract. If the information is not in the contract then the hospital does not have to honor it.

Picking an assignment location can be stressful. You have to determine whether you are traveling for money, location, experiences, or to be close to someone. For example, Hawaii pays travel nurses very well, but the cost of living is also very high. So, if you are interested in traveling for money, Hawaii may not be the best location.

6. Land housing and begin your adventure

There are several housing options available to travel nurses. First, all travel nurse agencies will offer either a stipend for housing or company-provided housing. If you take the stipend, then you will be responsible to find your own housing. The stipend may not be enough to cover your housing costs, and you will be responsible for the additional costs.

Travel nurses can find their own housing via Facebook, Airbnb, long-term stay hotels, or even Furnished Finders.

What are Travel Nurse Agencies Looking For?

Travel nurses are looking for nurses ready to take off on their next adventure! Contracts typically move pretty quickly, especially in popular locations such as California , Hawaii, and Alaska . While you can reach out to a recruiter if you are ready to take the next step toward travel nursing – know that most recruiters want to work with you once you are fully committed to submitting a contract offer.

Generally, travel nursing agencies are looking for nurses who meet the following criteria:

• Have a minimum of two years of relevant bedside experience
• BSN prepared
• BLS, ACLS, and PALS certifications (as required for the position)
• Ready for an adventure

Travel Nurse Salary

Everyone wants to know “ how much does a travel nurse make? ” And to be honest, travel nurse salaries can be confusing.

It’s important to figure out your weekly take-home pay, because it might be significantly smaller than what is advertised. Here’s how you can calculate your pay:

• Start with your total weekly pay
• Subtract the estimated weekly taxes from the weekly taxable wage
• Add the remainder to the total weekly tax-free stipends
• This will show you the weekly net pay for a contract

According to ZipRecruiter.com , the national average for travel nurses is $102,625 per year, or $49.00 per hour. Travel nurse pay, just like staff nurse pay, varies greatly by location and healthcare system. Nurses in California earn some of the highest wages in the country, and travel nurses are compensated equally.

The national average for travel nurses is $102,625 per year.

In more desirable locations, like Hawaii, the pay is often not as high.

Additionally, travel nurse pay will also include housing stipends and other miscellaneous things. That is not factored into the hourly wage. Therefore, when looking at travel nurse pay it’s important to look at all aspects of the contract.

Travel Nurse Taxes

Travel nursing recruitment often focuses on the benefits and perks, such as housing stipends or sign-on bonuses, but it’s also important not to overlook the tax implications that come with travel nursing.

In order to become a travel nurse, you will need to have what’s called a “ tax home ” in the eyes of the IRS. That simply means you have to prove that you have a full-time residence when you’re not working as a travel nurse.

If you don’t have a full-time residence that you maintain and pay for when you’re not working as a travel nurse, don’t worry — you can still work, but you will have a tax status as an itinerant worker, which means you have to pay taxes on all of your income, including any stipends or reimbursements.

For non-itinerant nurses who do have a tax home, your base wage pay is taxable income, while all “extras,” including meals, housing allotments, or travel reimbursement is non-taxable.

That means that you will save on paying taxes on that income, but it also means your adjusted income will not be as high in the eyes of say, a loan officer or for Social Security purposes. If you anticipate needing a loan soon or are approaching retirement, it may be more advantageous to you to have a higher taxable income reflected on your paycheck.

Read more in our Comprehensive Guide to Travel Nurse Taxes

How to Find Travel Nursing Jobs

To find a travel nursing job, a nurse must work with a travel nursing agency that will help secure their contract and negotiate with the hiring hospital or healthcare facility. It’s important to work with a recruiter and staffing agency that understands your needs and the contracts you’re interested in.

Working with a recruiter will also make sure that your contract has must have such as:

• Specific days off
• Vacation time
• Sick time/pay
• Cancellation policy
• Desired shifts

Click here for available high-paying travel nurse opportunities!

Maintaining Your Nursing License as a Travel Nurse

For nurses with a compact license, maintaining your license as a travel nurse is no different than meeting the requirements of the home state where you received your original license. Once you renew your home state license, your license for the new location is considered updated, too.

If you had to obtain an additional state license, however, you will have to renew your home state license (if you want to keep it, that is) and meet the requirements for license renewal in the state you are working in as well.

Certain states, such as Florida and Washington, also require all nurses to obtain Continued Education Units (CEUs) in the specific areas of pain management and HIV awareness, so you will need to make sure you fulfill the CEUs for your home state and/or work state as well.

All travel nurses are required to maintain an active RN license. Most continue to maintain all active licenses in case they want to work in the state again. Examples of continuing education requirements for RNs are as follows:

• Arkansas – 15 contact hours every 2 years
• Illinois – 20 contact hours every 2 years
• Florida – 24 contact hours every 2 years
• Iowa – 36 hours every 2 years
• Pennsylvania – 30 contact hours every 2 years

Some states do not require CEUs to maintain an RN license. Examples include Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Indiana, Maine, and Maryland. Several states also require HIV/AIDS education such as New York , Minnesota, and Kentucky. It is important for nurses to check their state’s RN credentialing body for exact CEU requirements.

In general, while it’s also good to prepare yourself as much as possible, becoming a travel nurse can be a pretty straightforward process.

Once you’re a nurse with an active license, have at least one to two years of bedside experience under your belt, and are ready to take on the challenge of a new location and work environment, you can take on the adventure of being a travel nurse.

If you’re interested in becoming a travel nurse, you can take the next step by learning more about travel nursing here .

Tips for Your First Travel Nursing Assignment

Accepting your first travel nurse assignment can be scary and overwhelming, but also exciting!

It’s important to remember, travel assignments are short-term, and if the location, hospital, and situation are not a good fit, you can always try somewhere new for the next assignment. If the assignment is not a good fit, speak to your recruiter about possibilities for future assignments.

Here are the top tips for first-time travel nurses to make the transition a little easier:

• Triple-check your contract
• Embrace the unknown of this new adventure
• Get organized
• Make copies of ALL of your licenses and certifications
• Open a checking and savings account at a national bank (ex. Wells Fargo, Chase, Bank of America, PNC)
• Downsize your belongings, especially clothes and shoes
• Join local Facebook groups for an easier transition to a new location
• Don’t be afraid to take your first assignment closer to family and friends
• Arrive at your new location ahead of the start date so you can get settled before your first day and orientation
• Make friends with co-workers at your assignment
• If you have a pet, prepare to take them with you by setting up dog walking services, doggie daycare options, and a new veterinary practice
• Make sure your vaccinations and health screenings are up to date
• If you own a home, prepare to rent or sell — depending on your situation
• Don’t be afraid to explore on your own
• Be patient with your coworkers and new work environment
• Go in with an open mind!

Find travel nursing assignments by speaking with a recruiter today!

Benefits of Travel Nursing

There are many benefits to travel nursing, but at the top are

• Getting to see and experience new parts of the country
• Getting paid a higher wage

Travel nurses have the opportunity to garner top wages in some of the top hospitals in the country. Typically, the demand is so high for nurses in a specific location and/or unit, the contracted wage will be significantly higher than a full-time staff nurse.

Travel nurses also have other compensated benefits such as housing, meals, incidentals, and travel reimbursement. These additional stipends make the earned wage some of the highest for nurses.

Other benefits include:

• Traveling the country
• Building your skill set
• Job security
• Personal growth
• Flexibility
• Networking with healthcare professionals around the country
• Opportunity to make new friends and experience new places
• Minimizing exposure to hospital politics
• Dependence on hospital to approve PTO

Travel nurse requirement FAQ

Starting a career as a travel nurse can be scary and overwhelming, especially leaving friends and family behind, but it can be a very rewarding and exciting career. There are six easy steps to becoming a travel nurse: 1. Become an RN 2. Get at least 2 years of experience under your belt 3. Find a travel nursing company to work with 4. Get all the proper state license and certifications 5. Pick an assignment and sign a contract 6. Find housing

It’s not hard to become a travel nurse because there currently is a nationwide nursing shortage. More and more nurses are leaving the bedside for other types of nursing jobs or to become travel nurses. Actually working as a travel nurse can take some adjustments, especially for those that have ever worked as a staff nurse. But it is a fun and exciting opportunity for many.

Travel nurses need to have a different set of skills than staff nurses. Why? Because they are constantly changing hospitals and always are the first to be floated to another unit. For that reason, travel nurses must be flexible and adaptable more than anything. They also should have a solid nursing foundation, critical thinking skills, strong communication skills, a love of travel and be personable.

Most travel nurse agencies do require the COVID-19 vaccine because the healthcare institutions they work with require it. In cases where there isn’t a requirement, travel nurse companies may still not want to work with you since it’s more difficult to place a non-vaccinated travel nurse.

The requirements vary from agency to agency and contract to contract. Generally speaking, you will need a minimum of two years of bedside nursing experience. Most will also require a BSN as well as certifications in CPR, PALS, ACLS, etc. The final requirement will be either a compact nursing license or an individual state license.

Nurses are not required to travel. Travel nursing is a unique aspect of nursing that allows individuals to take short contracts at different hospitals around the country.

To be a travel nurse, first and foremost you must be ready for an adventure! You will also need a minimum of two years of bedside experience. Now, not every travel agency or position will require this, but with minimal orientation to a unit, more experience is always better. You will also need a license in the state you are applying to (unless you have a compact nursing license). Most recruiters and agencies will assist with the paperwork in obtaining a new state license.

Of course! In fact, many travel nurses are accompanied by their families and pets. Travel nursing can be a family affair if you travel with a spouse who’s also a travel nurse or plan to bring your children . If you are traveling with pets – it’s important to make sure your housing accommodations allow for animals and that your schedule allows time to take care of a pet. At times and in certain locations it may be more difficult to find reasonable housing but with planning, it is possible.

Travel nurses generally can obtain health insurance and retirement benefits such as 401Ks through their travel nursing agency. However, it is important to note that not all agencies will offer benefits starting on day one of a contract, and others will terminate health benefits in-between contracts.

There are several differences between travel nurses and per diem nurses. The main difference is that, unlike per diem nurses, travel nursing hours are guaranteed. Generally speaking, they are not canceled and if they are, most are still paid their contracted rate. Per diem nurses are used on an as-needed basis and can be canceled whenever they are not needed and without pay. Travel nursing holds a lot of appeal for many people interested in the healthcare field because it offers perks like the chance to visit new places, competitive pay, and career flexibility. It’s also the perfect opportunity to gain valuable skills, get out of your comfort zone, and of course, make a difference in the lives of your patients.

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How to Become a Travel Nurse

What if you had the freedom to decide when and where to build your nursing career? If you enjoy the idea of meeting new people, living life in different parts of the country or building a resume that documents a variety of professional experiences at medical facilities, then it may be time to consider becoming a travel nurse.

You’ll need to know the requirements for becoming a travel nurse before leaping into this new exciting career path.

Steps to become a travel nurse:

• Understand the role of a travel nurse
• Earn your ASN/ADN or BSN degree
• Pass the NCLEX and become an RN
• Gain experience
• Get licensed
• Find a travel nurse staffing agency and apply
• Start your career

1. A career as a travel nurse – is it right for you?

Travel nurses work for independent staffing companies that recruit RNs to fill positions across the United States and abroad. The ongoing shortage of nurses makes it challenging for hospitals and clinics to maintain their staffing needs. Travel nurses can help in staffing issues but can also come in to fill in temporary gaps when nurses take a vacation, go on leave or get hired by a different hospital or medical facility. Travel nurses don’t always need to work in different states – some serve at local understaffed hospitals.

Travel nurses sign a contract to fill a temporary position that can last several days, weeks, months or longer with potential opportunities including international work. When contracts are up, travel nurses either extend their stay at the same location or move on to a new destination and opportunity. The length of their contracts can vary, although most placements are between  8 to 26 weeks . Some travel nurses can find a temporary assignment they love and have it turn into a full-time position.

If you have a desire to try new experiences, meet new people, visit new areas, and continue to develop an understanding of healthcare in other communities, becoming a travel nurse can be an exciting career move!

2. Earn your ASN/ADN or BSN degree

Any nurse who has completed an associate or bachelor’s degree from an accredited nursing program is eligible to be a travel nurse. Regardless of where you currently find yourself on the nursing continuum, there’s a path at Herzing University to help you earn the credentials you need:

• An Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree for entry-level RNs that can be completed in 20-24 months.
• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree that can be earned in 3 years or less, based on transfer credit and applicable prior learning experience you may already have. We offer an online BSN program for students new to nursing, available in select U.S. states.
• An online RN to BSN program that can be completed in as few as 12 months if you are already working as a licensed RN and seek your BSN. 
• An accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree that can be completed in as few as 20 months if you already have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree from a regionally-accredited college or university. You may also qualify for our online MSN Direct Entry program , in which you can alternatively earn a master’s degree in as few as 20 months.
• Bridge options for  LPNs ,  paramedics ,  military medics ,  Respiratory Therapists (RT) , and  Cardiovascular Technologists (CVT)  which can be completed faster than traditional ASN/BSN programs.

Note: enrollment requirements and availability are different based on campus location.

One significant advantage of choosing Herzing is that the university offers six start dates throughout the year. This ensures you can begin classes on your own terms, allowing enough time to make adjustments to your personal and work schedules to accommodate your studies - and minimize the time you need to become an RN .

Classes Start May 6th

3. pass the nclex and become an rn.

When you graduate with your associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing, you’ll be prepared to take the National Council Licensure Exam NCLEX-RN exam, which is required to become a registered nurse in the United States.

Once you pass your NCLEX exam and meet the board of nursing requirements in your state, you’ll be eligible to  become a registered nurse . From there, it’s a matter of gaining enough experience in your nursing specialty to pursue opportunities as a traveling nurse.

4.  Gain experience in your specialization

In addition to state licensing, you’ll also need to become certified in Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) before you can sign on to a travel nursing agency.

If you choose to specialize in a field, you may need to get additional licensing. Most places require you to have at least two years of experience in your  nursing specialty , whether it’s  surgical ,  neonatal , critical care,  pediatrics , trauma or a clinical nurse with many different specialties. Your clinical background will determine the specific openings you’ll qualify for as a travel nurse. Hospitals are constantly on the lookout for experienced,  in-demand types of nurses  with certain specializations and advanced training.

The two years of experience in nursing also gives you the time you need to receive a specialization in your area of expertise should you choose to take the certification exam. This will also make you more marketable for more opportunities. Check with your agency to confirm whether you need additional work experience if you’re in a specialized field.

5. Apply for a compact nursing license

To be a registered nurse, you need to be licensed in the state where you work. Fortunately, the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) is an agreement between states that allows RNs to hold a single nursing license valid in numerous states.

The  National Council of State Boards of Nursing  keeps track of what states have enacted and implemented the NLC. If you live in a state that is part of the NLC, you can get this multistate license in your state of residency. If you don’t live in a compact state, you’ll have to seek your license in the state you wish to work. The NLC doesn’t cover the entire U.S., so be sure to check your state’s licensing requirements to become a travel nurse.

6. Find a travel nurse staffing agency and apply

Once your education, nursing experience and credentials are in place, you’ll need to find a travel nurse staffing agency to work with. There are several resources you can use to help find the right agency for you:

• Rating services : There are several online services that former traveling nurses can rate various agencies they have worked with.
• Lead generators : Lead generation websites use your contact information and data to sell to agencies. These travel nursing agencies then contact you based on the information provided from these websites.
• Colleague referrals : If you know colleagues who have worked with a travel nursing agency, ask for their recommendations. They may be able to get you in contact with someone that they worked with at the agency.
• Join a professional networking site : Use a professional networking site to contact others in the field. You might be able to get more referrals or get in contact with agencies and recruiters

The benefits offered by each staffing agency will vary, along with the alliances they may have with specific hospital or healthcare networks, specific geographic areas or even specific nursing specializations. Keep detailed notes about the available positions and benefits packages companies offer you.

7. Get ready for your travel nurse career to take off!

After you have completed all the necessary paperwork, you can begin the process of interviewing. This might take some time, but your agency will help you find placement.

Once you’re matched with an organization, you must find housing. Some organizations will provide free housing, but these are usually small one-bedroom apartments, so you may want to find your own. Be sure to check with your organization and location to explore your options.

If you ever decide that you no longer want to be a travel nurse, don’t worry! Some hospitals will offer full-time positions to travel nurses after their contract is up. If you feel like you cannot stay at a placement, you have the option of canceling your contract.

What will your workdays be like?

Your day-to-day job description will be much like those you’d expect for a registered nurse. You’ll just be doing it in different settings as you move from contract to contract. One thing to anticipate is the variety of record-keeping systems different hospitals may use; you may need to get yourself up to speed using an unfamiliar electronic medical record (EMR) system when you start at a new facility. Generally speaking, and depending on your nursing specialization, your shifts will be spent:

• Working with doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals to develop care plans.
• Teaching patients and families about disease prevention and overall wellness.
• Assessing and diagnosing patients.
• Administering medication and fluids.

When you’re not actually tending to your patients, you’ll probably spend some time researching where you’ll go next and coordinating your professional goals with your staffing agency.

How much can you make as a travel nurse?

The BLS does not have specific information regarding travel nurses. However, general RN data is a good starting point. According to the  BLS , the average salary for a registered nurse is $89,010 per year ( $42.80 per hour).* Because travel nurses typically have a less stable employment structure, average pay is variable.

What is the current job market for travel nurses?

There is a demand for skilled RNs to fill open positions. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts there will be a 6% increase in employment of RNs from 2022-2032 due to the aging population and a large number of older nurses retiring in the workforce.* According to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) , 55% of today’s nursing workforce is 50 years or older.

Factor in nurses who are already employed are entitled to vacations, maternity/paternity leave and paid time off and it’s easy to understand there is a demand for traveling nurses.

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Are you an RN ready for a change of scenery and an exciting new adventure?

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* Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook 2022. BLS estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geography market in which you want to work and degree field, will affect career outcomes and earnings. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the average salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, salary increase or other career growth.

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What Is A Travel Nurse? [+ How To Become One]

• Amanda Marten, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
• Last Updated: July 28, 2023

Healthcare facilties all across the country experience critical staffing shortages.

Fortunately, there is a solution to this problem: travel nurses. Better yet, the industry is currently booming. There are dozens of top-rated travel nursing agencies to choose from, and each one helps provide essential healthcare support.

But how does travel nursing work? How and why should you become a travel nurse?

If you’re not sure, don’t worry! We’ll cover all this and more to help you decide if travel nursing might be a good career choice for you!

Table of Contents

What is a travel nurse, what do travel nurses do, why is travel nursing important, 1. higher pay and great benefits, 2. travel to new places, 3. build your resume, 4. have a more flexible schedule, who can become a travel nurse, what are travel nursing contracts, why is travel nursing paying so much, what taxes do travel nurses pay, do travel nurses get benefits, where can travel nurses work, agency-placed housing, housing stipend, can you travel with family, can you travel with pets, can you go with other travel nurses, 1. get your nursing degree, 2. pass the nclex, 3. gain rn experience, 4. pursue an advanced degree and certifications (optional), 4. obtain additional licenses, 5. connect with a travel nursing agency, how long does it take to become a travel nurse, is travel nursing worth it.

Travel nurses are RNs who work in temporary nursing roles. Rather than being hired by a single healthcare facility directly, these nurses typically work with staffing agencies to fill in-demand positions.

Since travel nurses work on a non-permanent basis, they often move from one facility to another at the end of their contract. This gives nurses the opportunity to work in a variety of settings and locations over a relatively short period of time.

Travel nursing is a great option for those looking to:

• Earn more money
• Explore different areas in the country
• Gain experience in multiple healthcare settings
• Work on their own schedule

We’ll discuss all of these benefits in more detail below .

Travel nurses can perform all the same duties as a permanent RN. The only difference between them is that travel nurses are brought in to fill staffing gaps on a temporary basis.

So, like other registered nurses, travel nurses do everything from administering medication to monitoring conditions to educating patients. 

It’s also worth noting that speciality travel nurses are even more in demand, allowing healthcare facilities to fill advanced roles. For example, travel nurses can fill speciality roles in areas like:

• Medical Surgery

Travel nursing is important because it helps healthcare facilities fill critical staffing shortages. There are a several reasons for these shortages, including but not limited to:

• Unexpected leaves of absence
• Seasonal patient population fluctuations
• Maternity leave

Since the demand to fill these roles is crucial, your travel nurse salary will be higher than that of permanent RNs.

Finally, travel nurses can sometimes reduce costs for hospitals. For example, travel nursing lessens the need for overtime pay and reduces turnover costs.

Why Should You Become A Travel Nurse?

As we mentioned earlier, there’s quite a few benefits travel nurses can take advantage of .

Let’s take a closer look at the top four reasons to choose travel nursing.

As with any career, earnings and benefits are always a key factor in which path you take. If salary is your main priority , you should definitely consider travel nursing.

We’ll discuss the hard numbers further on in this article , but for now you should know that travel nurses make a lot more money than their staff nurse counterparts.

Additionally, travel nurses typically have access to a wide array of benefits, including:

• Housing stipends and agency-placed housing
• Medical insurance
• Travel and meal reimbursement

While salary is often a key reason why RNs choose travel nursing, it’s certainly not the only reason. 

Another great aspect of travel nursing is that you get to live in and explore new places. Travel nursing opportunities are available in just about every location you can imagine in the United States.

For example, you could complete one contract in a rural location in the Midwest for a few months, and then spend your next couple of months working in a big city in the Northeast.

The travel opportunities are truly endless, and the freedom to choose where you live is one of the greatest things about becoming a travel nurse.

Just as you’ll have the opportunity to live in different areas, you’ll also have the option to explore different healthcare settings and learn from all kinds of medical professionals.

It’s likely that you’ll eventually want to settle down with a full-time, permanent RN position. To become the strongest candidate possible, travel nursing allows you to gain a multitude of hands-on experiences.

The ability to work these contract positions displays to employers that you can thrive under any conditions. 

Finally, if you want to work in a specific specialty at a hospital close to your permanent residence but there are no openings available, travel nursing allows you to keep working in your specialty while you wait for a new position to open up at home.

One more of the most important reasons to consider becoming a travel nurse is that you’ll have more control over your schedule.

You’ll probably have to work a 40-hour work week regardless of whether you’re in a permanent or temporary position, but travel nursing allows you the freedom to work for a few months and then take some off.

While you may have the opportunity to extend your contract depending on the needs of the facility you work at, most contracts end after a designated period of time (usually anywhere from 8 to 26 weeks).

Of course, you don’t have to take time off between assignments if you don’t want to. However, if you’re feeling burnt out and need a break, travel nursing allows you to take the time you need to recharge.

As long as you have your registered nurse license, you can work as a travel nurse. However, it is worth noting that most staffing agencies require that you already have one year of experience working as an RN.

Also, while you can work as a travel nurse with only your Associate’s degree, you’ll have access to more opportunities if you have your Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing degree or an advanced nursing degree.

We’ll walk you through all the steps to becoming a travel nurse further down in the post .

How Does Travel Nursing Work?

Travel nursing works by staffing agencies connecting nurses with positions at healthcare facilities. This means you don’t work directly for hospitals. 

Instead, you fulfill contracts with the travel nursing agency.

Travel nursing contracts lay out the details of your work assignments and specify things like:

• Length of assignment
• Hours of work per week
• Schedule (for example, day shift vs. night shift)

Once you sign a contract, it becomes a legally-binding document. This means you shouldn’t sign a contract until you fully understand it.

Remember, ending your contract early is rarely allowed and could have negative consequences. So, before committing to an assignment, make sure you’re ready to see it through until at least the specified end date.

Once the contract expires, you’ll be free to leave your temporary position and take on a role at a different healthcare facility.

How Long Do Travel Nursing Contracts Last?

The average travel nursing contract lasts about 13 weeks. However, some agencies offer both short-term and long-term contracts.

Typically, the shortest contract you can take on lasts about eight weeks. Meanwhile, the longest assignment you can complete will usually last no longer than 26 weeks.

Additionally, if your contract ends but a healthcare facility still needs your services, you may have the option to extend your contract longer than the original time period.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which contracts to take on based on what you want to do. After all, one of the best things about travel nursing is this flexibility.

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

As we mentioned earlier, travel nurses make more money than permanent registered nurses for a number of factors, most notably the critical demand to fill staff shortages.

According to a report by Sumner College , travel nurses made on average $1,673 per week before the pandemic. Now that number has risen to as high as $4,000 per week in some cases. 

Additionally, travel nurses now make an average hourly rate of $120 according to the 2021 NSI National Health Care Retention & RN Staffing Report .

Staff nurses, on the other hand, make an average of $37.31 per hour according to BLS . If salary is your main priority, travel nursing is clearly the way to go.

Travel nursing is paying so much because the demand for filling staffing shortages in healthcare facilities is so high.

These shortages are caused by several factors, but one of them is high RN turnover rate . Hospitals in the Southeast had the highest turnover rate at 24.9%, up 7.2% since 2019.

It’s also worth noting that, according to the 2021 NSI National Health Care Retention & RN Staffing Report , the RN vacancy rate in 2021 was 9.9%, a full percentage point higher than it was the year before.

According to Vivian Health , the demand for travel nurses was 68% higher in September of 2021 than it was September of 2021. Additionally, they found that the average pay for these travel nurses rose 39.4% over the same time period.

As with any job, you will have to pay taxes on the base rate of your pay package.

However, assuming you have a tax home, you won’t be taxed for additional stipends covering meals, housing, and work-related expenses. This is because these stipends are considered expense reimbursements, not income.

Keep in mind, however, that you will be taxed on those additional stipends if you don’t have a tax home.

Taxes can be confusing regardless of the career you choose. So, be sure to talk with representatives from your travel nursing agency to ensure you understand how your money will be taxed.

Travel nurses get access to a multitude of benefits that staff nurses don’t.

For example, most travel nursing agencies will provide you housing or give you a housing stipend for the duration of your assignment. We’ll discuss housing in more detail later on.

Additionally, you’ll likely be eligible for reimbursements for your traveling costs, as well as meals.

You’ll receive a host of insurance options from the travel nursing agency you work with, including:

While some agencies provide “Day One” benefits, other agencies’ benefits only kick in once you’ve been working for a specified period of time. If having insurance as soon as possible is a priority for you, you’ll definitely want to look for an agency that provides Day One benefits.

Finally, you may be eligible for even more benefits, like:

• Referral bonuses
• Licensure reimbursements
• Free online CEUs
• 24/7 support

Travel nurses can work at healthcare facilities just about anywhere in the United States. This includes workplaces like:

• Physicians’ offices
• Home healthcare
• Correctional facilities
• Ambulatory care centers
• Skilled nursing homes and residential care facilities

The one thing you’ll need to keep in mind is that the healthcare facility you are contracted to work at must be far enough away from your permanent residence that you cannot reasonably commute there.

So, while you can’t work as a travel nurse too close to your home, you can technically take on contracts at facilities in your home state.

Where Do Travel Nurses Stay?

When it comes to travel nurse housing, you can opt to stay in agency-placed housing or find your own accomodation and receive a stipend. Which works best for you will depend on your own needs and preferences.

Learn more about each option below.

The first option you have for housing is to let the travel nursing agency you’re working with coordinate your accommodation. 

This option is best for first-time travel nurses, because it’s the simpler of the two. By letting the agency take care of housing, you can focus on the other challenges you’ll face as a new travel nurse.

However, it’s worth noting that agencies will typically place you in a housing situation that’s most convenient for them . This means they’ll want to put you somewhere that’s readily available and for the lowest cost.

So, once you have a little experience under your belt and know what to expect, you may want to consider the second housing option.

You also have the option to coordinate your own housing situation and receive a stipend from your travel nursing agency. The dollar amount of the stipend will depend on several factors, like the location you’re traveling to. 

Your contract will spell out the details of how much you’ll receive. In most cases, you’ll be quoted a monthly rate, and the stipend will be included in your weekly paycheck.

The main drawback of the stipend is that it can be difficult to find a place within the allotted budget. Since travel nursing assignments typically last no longer than 26 weeks, it’s often a challenge to find an affordable, short-term lease.

If having control over your housing options is a priority for you but you can’t find a place within the stipend budget, you can always take the full stipend and use some of your own money to pay for the total cost.

Again, the option that works best for you depends on your own preferences.

Who Can Nurses Travel With?

Just because you’re a travel nurse doesn’t mean you have to go by yourself. Having others there to support you can help you maintain your mental health as you complete your assignments.

In fact, you may be able to travel with family members, pets, and other travel nurses.

You can absolutely bring family members with you to stay at your accommodation during your assignments.

While family members may not be eligible for travel reimbursements, there’s no reason they can’t keep you company on your journeys.

You should be able to bring pets with you as well. The only catch here is that some housing situations may not permit pets.

If you opt for agency-placed housing, be sure to confirm with your travel nursing agency that pets are allowed.

Of course, if bringing your pet with you is a must and your agency housing doesn’t permit pets, you may want to find your own accommodation and receive the housing stipend. This way, you can be sure you’re able to find an apartment that permits animals to live with you.

Believe it or not, it’s actually pretty common for travel nurses to plan and complete assignments with one another. Depending on the needs of healthcare facilities in the location you plan to travel to, you may even be able to work at the same place.

If you’re looking to save money on housing, you can also share an apartment with fellow travel nurse friends. 

Finally, going with another travel nurse can provide you with a support system during your assignments, as you’ll have someone there who understands the stresses that come along with the job.

How To Become A Travel Nurse

Becoming a travel nurse may seem like a long and arduous process, but it’s really not as daunting as it may seem.

Below, we’ll walk you through the entire process of going from a non-nurse to a travel nurse.

The first step to becoming a travel nurse, or any type of registered nurse for that matter, is to get your nursing education .

Now, you have several options when it comes to getting your degree.

The first pathway is to get your Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). This is the quickest way to become a nurse, but it’s likely not the best. Many healthcare facilities are only hiring nurses who have at least an undergraduate-level nursing degree.

So, we recommend you go straight for your Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree . This not only provides you with additional knowledge and skills required to be a great nurse, but it also opens up more opportunities for employment.

Of course, there are plenty of different ways to get your BSN:

• Pre-licensure BSN : For non-nurses with no prior degree
• RN-to-BSN : For licensed RNs who already hold an ADN or Nursing Diploma
• Accelerated BSN : For those with a non-nursing undergraduate degree
• Concurrent Enrollment BSN : For those enrolled in an ADN program who want to work toward their BSN simultaneously 

While getting your degree can be costly and time-consuming, there are plenty of quick and affordable options. In fact, you can even complete your degree online and on your schedule.

To find one suited to your needs, check out our top-rated online BSN programs .

Once you get either your ADN or BSN, you’ll be prepared to sit for the NCLEX. This is the exam that all registered nurses must pass before they become licensed.

While it may feel frustrating to have to pass one more exam after completing all your educational requirements, the NCLEX plays an important role: it determines whether or not you’re ready to begin working as an entry-level nurse.

The average first-time pass rate for the NCLEX in 2021 for test-takers educated in the United States was 82.48%. It’s also worth noting that the average pass rate jumped to 86.06% for BSN-educated students, while ADN-educated students had a pass rate of 78.78%.

If you fail the test, don’t worry! You’re allowed to take it again 45 days after your initial test date. 

Just be sure to review your results from your failed test. This allows you to see your problem areas so you can work on them. That way, you’ll be prepared to pass the next time you take the exam.

Once you pass the NCLEX, you’ll officially be a licensed registered nurse! This means you can begin working in entry-level nursing positions.

Unfortunately, most travel nursing agencies will require you to have at least one year of RN experience before you can begin your journey as a travel nurse. However, this is for a good reason.

Travel nursing comes with the additional stress of entering a new, fast-paced environment, so having some staff nursing experience will be key to your success as a travel nurse.

Gaining experience as a staff nurse also allows you to see how nurses operate in healthcare facilities, which will prepare you to jump into short-term contracts further down the road.

As you gain experience as an RN, you may learn that you prefer certain nursing roles and specialities to others. If you find that you really want to practice in a specific area, you may consider pursuing an advanced degree or certifications.

For example, you may want to go for your Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) in areas like:

• Informatics
• Nursing education
• Public health

You may also choose to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) . To do this, you’ll need to enroll in a Master’s-level, NP-focused degree program. You can choose to specialize in several areas, including but not limited to:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Fortunately, there are plenty of affordable and flexible ways to get your graduate nursing degree. To find a program suited to your needs, check out our top-rated MSN programs .

Additionally, depending on your interests, you may choose to go for a nursing certification like:

• Cardiac-vascular nursing
• Critical care nursing
• Emergency nursing

There are tons of certifications you can decide to pursue, but keep in mind that most of them require quite a bit of RN experience in addition to passing a certification exam.

However, one thing is certain: getting an advanced degree or certification can open up new employment opportunities for potential travel nurses. Additionally, because these roles require advanced skills and knowledge, you should also be able to earn a better salary.

As we mentioned, you’ll need to already have your RN license and gain working experience before you can become a travel nurse. However, since you’ll likely be working in a state outside of the one in which you received your RN license, you’ll need an additional license as well.

In fact, you’ll need one of the following three types of licenses depending on the state you hope work in:

• eNLC License
• Walkthrough License
• State-specific License

The Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC) allows travel nurses to practice in other states that accept the license .

While most states in the United States either accept the eNLC or are awaiting its implementation, others require a different license.

For example, you may need to obtain a Walkthrough License, which allows you to start working quickly as you begin the process of gaining permanent licensure within a given state.

Finally, some locations don’t accommodate either of the preceding options, meaning you’ll need to wait to obtain a state-specific license. For example, California is a non-eNLC state and doesn’t provide Walkthrough Licenses. This means it could take months before you’re licensed and able to work in the state.

If all the talk of licenses seems intimidating, don’t worry! Skip ahead to the next step, as most travel nursing agencies you work with should be able to guide you through the licensing process. However, it’s important that you’re aware of these requirements.

Once you’ve got your degree, licenses, and at least one year of experience, you’re finally ready to start working as a travel nurse! To do so, you’ll need to find a travel nursing agency to work with.

While this may seem like an overwhelming process (there are dozens of different agencies), it doesn’t have to be! You can check out our top-rated travel nursing agencies to get you started.

Every agency has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to do a little research to figure out which agency can best help you achieve your goals.

To make things even simpler, just click here and we’ll help you find a travel nursing placement.

How long it takes to become a travel nurse is entirely dependent on where you’re at in the process we discussed above.

For example, if you’re a registered nurse with at least one year of experience, you could start applying for travel nurse positions right now!

Alternatively, if you just started your first RN job last week, you could begin travel nursing in about a year.

Finally, if you’re a non-nurse, you’ll need to complete your degree program and gain RN experience, which could take anywhere from three years (two years for your ADN in addition to one year of RN experience) to five years (four years for your BSN in addition to one year of RN experience).

Overall, it’s safe to say that travel nursing is definitely worth it. From higher earnings to the opportunity to explore new places, there’s lots to love about this career pathway.

Additionally, you’ll provide support to healthcare facilities that really need your services, which can be rewarding in and of itself.

If you’re ready to start your journey as a travel nurse, then click here to start traveling today!

Amanda Marten MSN, APRN, FNP-C is a freelance nurse writer and a certified family nurse practitioner. With ten years of nursing experience, she has worked in a variety of specialties including urgent care, travel nursing, post-surgical, and intensive care. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, outdoor activities, and spending time with her friends and family.

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Traveling Nurse Education Requirements

The educational requirements for a traveling nurse are a high school diploma or a certificate. While an associate or bachelor's degree is more common, some employers may accept a certificate.

According to Clare Chambers , Assistant Professor of Nursing at Mars Hill University, "Skills that typically stand out on RN resumes include special certifications such as Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) or Acute/Critical Care Nursing (CCRN). Managers also tend to pay attention to applicants who have volunteer experience or are members of nursing organizations within their educational programs or nationally."

What education do you need to become a traveling nurse?

What degree do you need to be a traveling nurse.

The most common degree for traveling nurses is bachelor's degree, with 47% of traveling nurses earning that degree. The second and third most common degree levels are associate degree degree at 38% and associate degree degree at 7%.

• Bachelor's , 47%
• Associate , 38%
• Master's , 7%
• Diploma , 5%
• Other Degrees , 3%

What should I major in to become a traveling nurse?

The best college majors for a traveling nurse include nursing, nursing science, business, psychology, education, biology, and health care administration. According to the education requirements, a bachelor's degree is often necessary for administrative positions, research, consulting, and teaching. As stated by the data, "registered nurses with an ADN, ASN, or diploma may go back to school to earn a bachelor’s degree through an RN-to-BSN program."

• Nursing , 84%
• Nursing Science , 3%
• Business , 2%
• Psychology , 1%
• Other Majors , 10%

Most common colleges for traveling nurses

Traveling nurses often get their degrees at University of Phoenix, Grand Canyon University, and Excelsior College. Here are the most common colleges for traveling nurses in the US based on their resumes.

Best majors for traveling nurses

Best colleges for traveling nurses.

Advanced education is key for traveling nurses, as it leads to higher salaries and better job opportunities. Zippia identified the best colleges for traveling nurses based on metrics like admissions rate, retention rate, mean earnings of graduates, working vs. non-working student ratio, cost of attendance, and median debt. Top schools include Duke University, University of Pennsylvania, Yale University, and University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, among others.

1. Duke University

Durham, NC • Private

In-State Tuition

2. University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA • Private

3. Yale University

New Haven, CT • Private

4. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI • Private

5. Georgetown University

Washington, DC • Private

6. University of California - Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA • Private

7. University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • Private

8. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC • Private

9. Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY • Private

10. Chamberlain College of Nursing - Arlington

Arlington, VA • Private

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This course is designed for nurses who are drawn to practice in a different way – nurses who value whole-person care and know that the essence of nursing practice is truly caring and healing. You will learn about the principles and practices of Integrative Nursing and how you can be a healing presence to all you serve. Then, you will do an integrative assessment and apply the principles of Integrative Nursing to improve symptom management and overall patient outcomes. Finally, you will explore...

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5. The Critical Role of IT Support Staff in Healthcare

This is a very exciting time to be exploring a career in Health IT Support! In this introductory course, you’ll learn about various roles in IT support that are common in healthcare. IT support staff play critical roles in many different healthcare venues. In addition to helping clinics, hospitals, and emergency rooms, you may end up providing support in a skilled nursing facility, ambulatory surgical center, virtual care setting, or even a patient’s home! On any given day, you may interact...

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8. Emergency Care: Pregnancy, Infants, and Children

Welcome to the final course of lectures in your quest to master EMT basics. In this course, we will cover some of the highest-stress patient populations: pregnant patients and kids, also known as pediatrics. To wrap up your EMT knowledge we will end this course with information about hazmat situations, extricating patients from tight spots and finally how you write a note about your patient care. You will learn to ensure it communicates what your assessment of the patient was, what...

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Top 10 most affordable universities for traveling nurses

The most affordable schools for traveling nurses are SUNY Farmingdale, brigham young university, and hunter college of the city university of new york.

If the best universities for traveling nurses are out of your price range, check out these affordable schools. After factoring in in-state tuition and fees, the average cost of attendance, admissions rate, average net price, and mean earnings after six years, we found that these are the most affordable schools for traveling nurses.

1. SUNY Farmingdale

Farmingdale, NY • Private

Cost of Attendance

2. Brigham Young University

Provo, UT • Private

3. Hunter College of the City University of New York

4. Clayton State University

Morrow, GA • Private

5. Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN • Private

6. Minot State University

Minot, ND • Private

7. Florida International University

Miami, FL • Private

8. University of Puerto Rico - Mayaguez

Mayaguez, PR • Private

9. SUNY Polytechnic Institute

Utica, NY • Private

10. Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL • Private

Top 10 hardest universities to get into for traveling nurses

The hardest universities for traveling nurses to get into are University of Rochester, University of Tulsa, and Vanderbilt University.

Some great schools for traveling nurses are hard to get into, but they also set your career up for greater success. The list below shows the most challenging universities to get into for traveling nurses based on an institution's admissions rates, average SAT scores accepted, median ACT scores accepted, and mean earnings of students six years after admission.

1. University of Rochester

Rochester, NY • Private

Admissions Rate

SAT Average

2. University of Tulsa

Tulsa, OK • Private

3. Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN • Private

4. SUNY at Binghamton

Vestal, NY • Private

5. Clemson University

Clemson, SC • Private

6. Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD • Private

7. Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA • Private

8. Purdue University

9. Saint Louis University

Saint Louis, MO • Private

10. SUNY Stony Brook

Stony Brook, NY • Private

Top 10 easy-to-apply-to universities for traveling nurses

The easiest schools for traveling nurses to get into are AdventHealth University, nyack college, and d'youville college.

Some schools are much easier to get into. If you want to start your career as a traveling nurse without much hassle, check out the list of schools where you will be accepted in no time. We compiled admissions rates, average SAT scores, average ACT scores, and average salary of students six years after graduation to uncover which were the easiest schools to get into for traveling nurses.

1. AdventHealth University

Orlando, FL • Private

2. Nyack College

3. D'Youville College

Buffalo, NY • Private

4. La Roche College

Pittsburgh, PA • Private

5. Saint Joseph's College of Maine

Standish, ME • Private

6. Oklahoma Wesleyan University

Bartlesville, OK • Private

7. Gwynedd Mercy University

Gwynedd Valley, PA • Private

8. Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences

Canton, OH • Private

9. Saint Martin's University

Lacey, WA • Private

10. Mount Saint Mary's University

Average traveling nurse salary by education level.

Traveling nurses with a Master's degree earn more than those without, at $105,791 annually. With a Doctorate degree, traveling nurses earn a median annual income of $97,379 compared to $93,788 for traveling nurses with an Bachelor's degree.

Traveling Nurse Education FAQs

What is the best college for traveling nurses, search for traveling nurse jobs.

Updated March 14, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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Hello! I'm interested in eventually becoming a traveling nurse, and I'm looking for colleges that will prepare me for that path. Any recommendations for colleges that have solid nursing programs and focus on travel nursing opportunities? Thanks in advance!

Hi there! It's wonderful that you're interested in becoming a traveling nurse. While travel nursing is typically a career path you'll choose after obtaining your BSN and gaining experience working as a Registered Nurse, there are key factors to keep in mind when selecting a college with a strong nursing program:

1. Accredited Nursing Program - Look for colleges with a nursing program accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This ensures that your degree will be recognized professionally.

2. NCLEX-RN Pass Rates - Colleges with high pass rates for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) will show that their nursing program effectively prepares students for professional practice.

3. Clinical Opportunities - A good nursing program should provide diverse clinical experiences and hands-on training in a variety of healthcare settings.

4. Study Abroad/Global Health Programs - While there aren't specific travel nursing undergraduate programs, colleges with robust study abroad or global health opportunities can offer valuable international healthcare experience that may enhance your future career as a traveling nurse.

With these points in mind, here are a few colleges known for having strong nursing programs and global health experiences:

- University of Pennsylvania has an excellent nursing program and offers global health opportunities, including international internships and nursing electives abroad.

- Johns Hopkins University offers a top-notch nursing program as well as study abroad experiences, global partnerships, and international nursing opportunities.

- University of Washington has an acclaimed nursing program and offers various global health options, including international fieldwork and global health electives.

- Emory University's nursing program is highly ranked and offers global health initiatives, such as study abroad experiences, international partnerships, volunteer programs, and global research opportunities.

Don't forget to explore nursing programs in your state as well. In-state colleges and universities might offer a more affordable education while still providing a strong nursing education and opportunities for international experiences.

Good luck in your college search and future nursing career!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

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How To Become A Travel Nurse Right Out Of College

Table of Contents

Can you become a travel nurse right out of college.

Travel nursing is an exciting career path that offers unique opportunities for professional growth and cultural exploration. Whether you’re a recent nursing school graduate or a seasoned registered nurse, pursuing a travel nurse career can be a fulfilling experience. But can you become a travel nurse right out of college? In this article, we explore the path to becoming a travel nurse, the requirements and expectations of the job, and tips for preparing for a successful career in this field.

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Exploring the Path to Travel Nursing

The idea of pursuing a career as a travel nurse can be alluring, as it offers the opportunity to explore new cities, gain diverse nursing experience, and often enjoy higher-than-average pay. Travel nursing is a specialized area of registered nursing practice, and it is essential to understand the requirements and process of becoming a travel nurse to fully take advantage of the opportunities it offers.

Understanding the Role of Travel Nurses

Travel nurses are registered nurses who work short-term assignments in various healthcare settings, typically to fill staffing gaps due to leaves of absence, seasonal changes in patient volumes, or shortage of qualified staff in specific locations. A travel nurse might work in a big city hospital, a small rural health clinic, or even alongside disaster relief teams during times of crisis. Irrespective of the setting, travel nurses are expected to quickly adapt to new environments and work collaboratively with the existing nursing staff.

Grad travel nurse jobs are often plentiful, as travel nurse staffing agencies frequently seek newly qualified RNs to join their ranks. However, the requirements for practicing as a travel nurse may vary depending on the specific agency and the type of position being sought. It's essential to familiarize oneself with the grad travel nurse requirements to effectively prepare for a career in this specialized nursing field.

Pursuing a Registered Nurse Degree

To become a travel nurse, one must first complete an accredited nursing program and earn a BSN degree. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program typically takes around four years to complete, although accelerated BSN programs are available for those who have already obtained a non-nursing degree. BSN programs provide in-depth knowledge and clinical skills to students, preparing them for the demands of a nursing career.

After completing a BSN program, aspiring travel nurses must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) administers this licensure exam that measures the knowledge, skills, and abilities of candidate nurses before entering the profession. By completing a BSN program and passing the NCLEX-RN, registered nurses can start applying for travel nurse jobs in various healthcare settings.

Gaining Nursing Experience Before Travel Nursing

One of the most important grad travel nurse requirements is gaining nursing experience before embarking on travel nursing assignments. Most travel nurse staffing agencies require candidates to have at least one year of recent acute care experience in their specific specialty. This nursing experience benefits not only the travel nurse but also the hospitals and health systems they serve, ensuring that the travel nurse is adequately prepared to meet the demands of their role.

Gaining nursing experience before taking on travel nursing jobs can be achieved in various ways, such as working in hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities. Nurses may also choose to participate in clinical rotations during their nursing programs or internships in healthcare settings. Some integrity network members also offer mentorship programs for new nurses to gain experience under the guidance of experienced travel nursing professionals.

Travel Nurse Jobs

Travel nurse positions offer flexibility and the chance to explore different areas of nursing practice and healthcare settings. These positions often come with competitive salaries and benefits, attracting many nurses to pursue careers in travel nursing. The following sections provide an overview of travel nursing assignment opportunities and how to find and secure assignments through travel nurse staffing agencies.

Travel Nursing Assignment Opportunities

Travel nursing assignments are available across the United States and even internationally. These assignments can range from short-term engagements lasting a few weeks to extended contracts lasting several months or more. Nurses can choose assignments based on their personal goals, such as gaining experience in specialized areas, exploring new cities, or even earning higher travel nurse salaries.

Additionally, some nurses choose to pursue travel nursing jobs in compact state environments. A compact state is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows registered nurses and licensed practical/vocational nurses to have a multistate license and work in any of the compact states without obtaining additional licensure. This makes it easier for nurses to find and accept travel assignments in multiple locations without going through lengthy licensure processes.

Working with Travel Nurse Staffing Agencies

Travel nurse staffing agencies are essential resources for those seeking travel nurse jobs. They serve as intermediaries between nurses and healthcare facilities, matching available travel nursing assignments with qualified candidates. By partnering with a reputable travel nurse staffing agency, nurses can gain access to exclusive job opportunities, negotiate better pay and benefits, and receive ongoing support throughout their travel nursing careers.

It's crucial to select a travel nurse staffing agency that aligns with one's values and professional goals. Researching various travel nurse staffing agencies, reading reviews, and speaking with other travel nurses can help identify the best staffing agency partners. Communication and transparency are vital aspects of a successful partnership, so it's essential to select an agency that exhibits these qualities and demonstrates a genuine commitment to helping travel nurses succeed in their careers.

Requirements and Tips for Grad Travel Nurses

Grad travel nurse requirements are relatively straightforward, with minimal prerequisites to qualify for these rewarding positions. Most travel nurse jobs require nurses to hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, which is essential for those looking to join BSN programs at colleges and universities across the United States.

To become a travel nurse, aspiring nurses must first pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become a nationally licensed nurse. After obtaining a nursing license, traveling nurses must register with a compact state, which allows them to work across boundaries without additional applications or fees.

New graduate nurses should consider signing up with travel nurse staffing agencies such as Health Carousel Travel Nursing that can help facilitate the transition from college to work. Working with a travel nurse staffing agency streamlines the job-search process and opens up many lucrative doors for new graduates.

Travel Nurse Experience Expectations

Travel nurses must have the appropriate education to secure relevant travel nursing assignments, which means completing a BSN program and obtaining a BSN degree. Travel nursing jobs traditionally require a minimum of one to two years of experience in an acute care setting, depending on the specific travel nursing assignment. Travel nurse salaries are highly competitive, with higher pay rates than traditional staff nurses. Nurses can anticipate increased job satisfaction due to the variety of travel nursing assignments and unique work experiences.

Grad travel nurse jobs not only offer excellent pay, but also provide new graduate nurses with invaluable experience, exposure to a diverse set of healthcare settings, and opportunities to garner references and connections in various regions. Travel nurse positions can also help new nurses develop the necessary skills to become effective healthcare professionals, as well as provide a foundation for future specialized roles in the nursing field.

Evaluating and Pursuing Travel Nursing Jobs

When searching for travel nurse jobs, it's crucial to thoroughly research potential travel assignments and various travel nurse staffing agencies. To find the best fit, nurses should consider factors such as location, facility type, available resources, compensation packages, the potential for growth, and the integrity of the staffing agency.

Many travel nurses register with multiple travel nurse staffing agencies to maximize their job options. Having several agencies can be advantageous, allowing nurses to choose the best travel nursing jobs from various offerings. Additionally, it is essential to maintain a professional demeanor, punctuality, and skilled nursing abilities throughout the assignment, as employers may provide the staffing agency with evaluations, which could benefit the nurse for future travel assignments.

To further enhance their qualifications, travel nurses should join professional nursing organizations, such as the American Nurses Association (ANA), and complete specialized certifications that employers value highly. By joining these organizations, staying current on best practices, and following national council protocols, travel nurses can elevate their chances of securing top-choice travel assignments.

Preparing for a Career as a Travel Nurse

Setting goals and expectations.

Grad travel nurses should set specific goals and expectations that guide their travel nursing career. By considering career aspirations, personal values, and lifestyle preferences, travel nurses can determine the type of travel assignment that most align with their desires. Additionally, establishing a roadmap of how traveling will help achieve professional milestones can contribute to a satisfying career.

One way to narrow down travel assignment opportunities is by determining which areas of nursing interest them most. Potential specialty areas include critical care, labor and delivery, or operating room nurses , which may require additional training or experience. With these goals and expectations in mind, travel nurses can then search for travel nursing assignments that best meet their requirements.

Enhancing Skills Through Continuing Education

Travel nurses should invest in their education by enrolling in continuing education classes and certification programs. These courses not only provide essential knowledge and abilities but also help nurses remain competitive within the travel nursing field. An active engagement in ongoing education demonstrates dedication to professional growth and the provision of quality patient care, helping to solidify travel nurse positions and career opportunities.

The American Nurses Association (ANA), for example, offers numerous opportunities for continuing education credits that travel nurses can leverage to elevate their skills and desirability in the job market. Many travel nurse staffing agencies also provide continuing education options to their agency nurses.

Transitioning from College to a Travel Nurse Career

As students near the completion of their BSN program, they should begin planning for a career in travel nursing. Outreach to potential travel nurse staffing agencies can start while still enrolled in school, with interviews and contract negotiations taking place upon licensure . Students should network with experienced travel nurses and agencies, and inquire about job possibilities and tips for starting a successful career as a travel nurse.

Once licensed, newly graduated nurses should seek positions that provide the required experience for travel nurse jobs, often found in acute care and hospital settings. By gaining this critical experience and further enhancing skills, nurses will be poised to excel in their travel assignments and transition into fulfilling, in-demand travel nurse careers.

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Many travel nurses opt for temporary assignments because of the autonomy and opportunities − not just the big boost in pay

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Travel nurses take short-term contracts that can require long commutes or temporarily living away from home. Time and again, they have to get used to new co-workers, new protocols and new workplaces.

So why would staff nurses quit their stable jobs to become travel nurses?

Well, for one, they get bigger paychecks . But U.S. nurses have other rationales besides making more money, according to a study I conducted .

To do this research, I interviewed 27 registered nurses based in different places.

Many of the people I interviewed disclosed that they left permanent positions to combat burnout. Although they welcomed the bump in pay, travel nursing also gave them the autonomy to decide when and where to work. That autonomy allowed them to pursue personal and professional interests that were meaningful to them, and it made some of the other hassles, such as long commutes, worth it.

On top of earning more money, travel nursing “gives you an opportunity to explore different areas,” said a nurse I’ll call Cynthia, because research rules require anonymity. “When you actually live there for three months, it gives you a chance to really immerse yourself in the area and really get to know not just the touristy stuff, but really hang out with the locals and really be exposed to that area.”

Other study participants said they enjoyed the novelty and educational opportunities.

“You don’t get bored or stuck in a routine,” Michelle said. “You’re always trying to learn new policies at the new hospital that you’re in, learning about the new doctors, nursing staff, new ways of doing things, where things are located. That helps keep me from feeling burned out so quickly.”

Said Patricia: “I want to see how other operating rooms across the country do things and how they do things differently. I do learn a lot of things going from place to place.”

Why it matters

A growing number of U.S. nurses were obtaining temporary assignments before the COVID-19 pandemic began.

But travel nursing became much more widespread in 2020, when hospitals were scrambling to keep their staffing levels high enough as millions of Americans were becoming infected with the coronavirus, straining capacity in many communities.

While compensation varies widely, the median pay of registered nurses in 2022 was US$81,220 , about 35% less than the $110,000 that registered nurses who traveled earned .

At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, travel nurses could earn an even bigger premium . Many were paid twice as much as staff nurses.

Once the number of Americans with severe symptoms fell, that premium declined too . But there are still over 1.7 million travel nurses in the U.S. Hiring them is one of the main ways that hospitals cope with a long-term shortage of nurses .

But nurses with permanent jobs can get aggravated by this arrangement when they learn how much more travel nurses earn for doing the same work, as I found through another research project .

What other research is being done

Research supports a widely reported trend: More Americans have temporary jobs and freelance employment than in the past.

While travel nurses can help hospitals, nursing homes and doctors’ offices meet staffing needs, there are signs that patients don’t always fare as well with their care.

And a Canadian study found that when hospitals let staff nurses work part time and offer other alternative arrangements, their retention rates may rise .

The Research Brief is a short take about interesting academic work.

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Becoming a Travel Nurse: Everything You need to Know

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Have you always wondered if travel nursing would be a good fit for you as an RN? Have you had questions about how to become a travel nurse, and what it takes to become a successful and fulfilled one? Have you been wondering about the other side of travel nursing that no one talks about, and you want to know everything before you commit to this career path? Have you been experiencing difficulties with settling in your assignments and seeking advice, on what you can do better? In this book, you will learn everything there is to know about travel nursing – most of which is never said out loud. Written by an experienced travel nurse, who has been on this journey and knows the path so well, the lessons are invaluable; they are real and practical in the real world of a traveling nurse! If you have been looking for the truth regarding this career path, and only getting bread cramps of truth, then this book is a honest blueprint for the journey of a travel nurse. Have you been wondering; What does it take to become a travel nurse? What is the negative side of this career path, and how can I survive it? How do I ensure that I work with the right agency and sign contracts that fulfill my needs? How do I make settling down in new locations smooth and save money and time? How do I handle the downsides such as housing issues, license troubles, hostile environments, socializing problems etc. that are common in a travel nurses ‘nomad’ life? If you have these and other related questions, you will find legitimate answers in this book.

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Joel Embiid injury update: Nick Nurse says 76ers star will 'work out' with team on upcoming road trip

Embiid was on the court at practice on thursday.

As teams continue to jostle for playoff position in the final weeks of the NBA regular season, there's a giant, 7-foot cloud hanging over the entire Eastern Conference: Will 76ers superstar Joel Embiid return and, if so, when?

Nick Nurse did not share a return-to-play timeline at practice on Thursday, but told reporters that Embiid would be on the road with the Sixers when they visit Cleveland on Friday and Toronto on Sunday.

"He is going on the trip to work out, yes." Nurse said, via KYW Newsradio's Dave Uram .

Embiid was on the court at practice, but he's not yet playing 5-on-5 or taking contact. He has missed 28 games after suffering a meniscus injury on Jan. 30 at Golden State that required surgery on Feb. 6.

"Joel was in practice -- I mean, [he didn't]  really  practice, but he was in today, doing work," Nurse said. "He was doing it against other players. Just kind of skill work, with kind of some live bodies."

👀 @PennMedicine pic.twitter.com/CCkOqJfSOH — Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) March 28, 2024

The day after a heartbreaking ( and controversial ) loss against the Clippers , Nurse said that he'd love to have Embiid -- and De'Anthony Melton and Robert Covington , who are also sidelined -- back in the lineup, but, in the meantime, he is ready to go "into battle with the guys here, to continue to polish and improve this group."

"I still don't, like, have a timeline," Nurse said. "I'd love to give you one. I mean, I would love to not have to continue this [back and forth about Embiid's status] -- and that means he's back playing, right? -- but, again, I think that it's coming. But I also understand that, like, I see some growth here. I think this is helping us."

Sixers head coach Nick Nurse said Joel Embiid will go on this road trip to workout. There remains no timeline for Embiid returning. @KYWNewsradio pic.twitter.com/EeAnRDaTM3 — Dave Uram (@MrUram) March 28, 2024

Prior to the 108-107 loss in Los Angeles. Nurse said there is a "very good likelihood" that Embiid will return before the postseason. This was music to the ears of the 76ers and their fans, but Nurse did not offer a concrete timeline then, either.

"I think there's a very good likelihood that he will return before the play-in/playoff," Nurse told reporters, via NBC Sports Philadelphia .

Embiid has been "out there working," Nurse said. "He's doing lots of skill work and things like that, and just trying to continue to advance, all that stuff."

Asked if Embiid has sccrimmaged with the Sixers' low-minute players yet, Nurse implied he has not. "He's on the court," he said. "So, we'll let you know when he gets to those stages."

"I think there is a very good likelihood that he will return before the play-in playoff." Nick Nurse gave an update on Joel Embiid with just 10 games left in the regular season 👀 pic.twitter.com/ybn3UvbatJ — NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) March 27, 2024

ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported Wednesday that there is optimism in the organization that Embiid could play multiple regular-season games before the postseason begins on April 16.

"I'm told it is not a question of if, but when," Wojnarowski said . "The belief is, with nine regular-season games left ... that Joel Embiid can be back for a handful of those before the playoffs."

Embiid hasn't played since the end of January due to surgery on his left knee. At the time of his injury, Embiid appeared to be on his way to a second straight MVP award, averaging 35 points, 11 rebounds and a career-high six assists per game on 53/37/88 shooting splits. He scored 14 points in the last game he played, which snapped a streak of 22 consecutive 30-point games, a feat only surpassed by James Harden and Wilt Chamberlain. Embiid poured in a career-high 70 points against the Spurs on Jan. 22.

A month ago, Embiid said that he planned on returning this season .

"That's the plan," Embiid told reporters, "Obviously, everything has to go right as far as getting healthy and being as close as I'm supposed to be. But yeah, that's the plan."

Embiid's potential return essentially blows up the entire Eastern Conference hierarchy. The 76ers were flirting with the No. 2 seed at the time of his injury and are now in the No. 8 spot, having gone 13-26 without their franchise player on the season. If Embiid rejoins the lineup and approaches his pre-injury form, the Sixers could be one of the most imposing lower seeds in NBA history.

Philadelphia's front office has been operating as if Embiid would be back, adding guards Buddy Hield , Kyle Lowry and Cameron Payne to the roster in February. Given the emergence of All-Star  Tyrese Maxey  and how well the Sixers' pieces seemed to fit for about three months, Embiid's return could make them a legitimate threat to come out of the East. To do so, however, they might have to survive the play-in and get past the Celtics , who have already clinched the top seed, or the Milwaukee Bucks , who are currently second, in Round 1. At 39-34, Philadelphia is a game behind the seventh-place Heat and sixth-place Pacers in the loss column. It would surely love to overtake both teams and avoid the play-in entirely, but time is running out.

After visiting Cleveland and Toronto, the Sixers will host the Thunder next Tuesday before a three-game road trip against Miami, Memphis and San Antonio and a three-game homestand against Detroit, Orlando and Brooklyn to close the season. 

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