The national nursing shortage has elevated travel nursing as a prominent career path within healthcare. Experienced nurses in high-demand specialties can secure short-term placements across the US, including desirable locations like Hawaii and the Caribbean.
Registered nurses with at least 10 months of clinical experience and strong references qualify for these temporary assignments. Typically lasting 13 weeks, these roles often involve critical care settings, ranging from rural hospitals to cruise ships and resort clinics.
Travel nursing appeals to nurses at all career stages. It offers travel opportunities to unique settings, fulfilling positions at leading teaching hospitals and research centers, and the chance to contribute in underserved communities.
According to Andrea Higham, director of The Johnson & Johnson Campaign for Nursing’s Future, “For nurses with flexible schedules, travel nursing presents an attractive career option. It offers competitive pay, flexibility, variety, and business travel opportunities.” She also notes the high demand for nurses far exceeds the current supply.
Nurses interested in travel positions typically begin by contacting placement companies to identify openings. Candidates complete applications, discuss their preferences with recruiters, and participate in phone or in-person interviews with potential healthcare facilities.
Upon receiving an offer, the travel company assists with travel documents, credentialing, licensing, hospital orientation, housing (including free or subsidized apartments), and even furniture and utility arrangements.