If you’re an aspiring travel nurse or recently qualified, you may be curious about the steps involved in developing your dream career and how long it might take to become a travel nurse. Well, our guide on how to become a travel nurse is all you need.

In it, we provide an in-depth exploration of how to become a traveling nurse, including how long it takes to obtain qualifications and licensing and growing in your field. Of course, we’re also sharing practical tips and tricks you can take with you on your journey.

UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE: WHAT DOES A TRAVEL NURSE DO?

Travel nurses are an integral part of many care settings. Like other types of nurses, they do quite a lot. But in addition to offering vital services, a travel nurse might also:

  • Help hospitals manage seasonal spikes
  • Support core staff to take leave
  • Diversify a nursing team with a specialty

Let’s further define the role and outline its broad strokes.

Defining the Role of a Travel Nurse

Travel nurses fill temporary nursing positions in hospitals or health centers in high need of care providers. On average, travel nurse contracts last about thirteen weeks. However, some contracts can be as short as two weeks or as long as six months (or even longer).

As a travel nurse, you’ll likely find yourself carrying out typical nursing responsibilities, like:

  • Collaborating with hospital staff to carry out patient care plans
  • Providing basic nursing care to your patients
  • Communicating with patients and their family members

But here’s where things start to differ between other types of nurses and travel nurses. Since you’re often working in new locations, you’ll also find yourself:

  • Integrating with new team members and learning how to collaborate effectively
  • Adapting to different units and care environments

If you’re beginning to feel butterflies alongside your excitement, take a deep breath—these last two skills are buildable and will become second nature as you gain experience.

Orientation and Getting Started

Orientation is the perfect time to meet fellow staff and acquaint yourself with a hospital’s layout. Keep in mind, however, that it’ll be fast-paced—compared to the 6-12 weeks of training staff nurses usually receive, you’ll likely train for just 1–3 days as a travel nurse before you’re on the floor working.

To that end, feeling confident and comfortable in your skillset is key before you take on your first assignment. Don’t forget that flexibility and preparedness are your sharpest tools for navigating (and thriving) on your very first day.

A Day in the Life of a Travel Nurse

A day in the life of a travel nurse primarily involves individual patient care and catering to their needs. Your days will begin to feel structured as you settle into your routine but always expect the unexpected—you may find yourself floating (moving around different departments to meet staffing needs) or you could be asked to assist in emergencies.

Each care unit comes with its routines and expectations, but most travel nurses perform similar day-to-day duties as a staff nurse. Here’s what a typical shift as a travel nurse can look like:

  • Clock in and pinpoint where you’re assigned for the day
  • Take a few minutes to learn basic information about your patients
  • Meet with the off-going nurse for a bedside report
  • Perform patient rounds
  • Examine your patient charts
  • Work with the multidisciplinary team to coordinate care
  • Complete orders based on patient needs or needs of the unit
  • Complete an end-of-shift report for the oncoming nurse
  • Clock out to end your shift

But remember—you’re performing all of these tasks in a totally new care setting and location, which can make the day-to-day all the more exhilarating.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION: STEPS TO PREPARE FOR A CAREER IN TRAVEL NURSING

How long does it take to become a travel nurse? Well, that depends on a few different factors, but first candidates must earn an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) to qualify. After obtaining your degree most facilities require at least one year of RN experience before you can apply to be a travel nurse.

Let’s take a quick look at the education requirements and qualifications you’ll need.

Nursing Degree

To become a travel nurse, you’ll need to earn a nursing degree from an accredited nursing program. Earning a nursing degree is a prerequisite for becoming a travel nurse. Completing nursing school is a critical initial step before gaining clinical experience and starting a career in travel nursing. The most common nursing degrees for travel nurses are:

  • Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

An ADN typically takes about two years to complete, while a BSN usually requires four years of study. While an ADN is the minimum requirement to become a registered nurse, many travel nurse staffing agencies prefer or even require a BSN. This preference is due to the comprehensive training and broader scope of practice that a BSN provides, which can be particularly beneficial in the diverse and dynamic environments travel nurses often find themselves in.

Completing a nursing degree is a crucial step in your journey to become a travel nurse. It not only equips you with the necessary knowledge and skills but also prepares you for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), which you must pass to become a licensed registered nurse. Whether you choose an ADN or a BSN, ensure that your nursing program is accredited and recognized by the relevant nursing education authorities.

NCLEX and Licensure

To become a travel nurse, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). This standardized exam assesses a nurse’s knowledge and skills across various domains, including medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, and mental health nursing. There are two types of NCLEX exams: the NCLEX-RN for registered nurses and the NCLEX-PN for practical or vocational nurses.

Once you’ve successfully passed the NCLEX, the next step is to obtain a nursing license in the state where you plan to practice. The licensure process can vary from state to state but generally involves providing proof of your nursing education, identity, and residency, along with paying the necessary fees. Some states may also require a background check and fingerprinting.

For those planning to work in multiple states, the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) can be a game-changer. The NLC is an agreement that allows registered nurses to hold a single nursing license that is valid in numerous participating states. This means you can practice in any of these states without needing to obtain additional licenses, making it easier to embark on your travel nursing journey.

Gain Experience

Most healthcare settings prefer highly trained nurses with a few years of hospital-based bedside experience. Most nurse staffing agencies have specific requirements for field experience, typically expecting travel nurses to have at least one year of experience in their specialty before applying for travel nursing positions. As mentioned, one year of RN experience is typically required but more can be helpful. If you choose to specialize in an area of care, you should have prior experience in those units, too.

To that end, you may be wondering now: how many years will it take me to become a travel nurse?

When it comes to meeting expectations and measuring experience, it’s okay to take your time—feeling comfortable and confident in your skills is the best indication you’re ready to start your travel nursing career.

Research Staffing Agencies

Finding the right travel nurse staffing agency is a pivotal step in your travel nursing career. With numerous agencies out there, it’s essential to start early and do thorough research to find one that aligns with your needs and expectations. Here are some key factors to consider:

  • Reputation: Look into the agency’s reputation by reading online reviews and seeking referrals from other travel nurses. A well-regarded agency is more likely to provide a positive experience.
  • Benefits: Compare the benefits offered by different agencies, such as pay rates, housing stipends, and bonuses. Ensure the agency provides a comprehensive benefits package that meets your needs.
  • Specialties: Consider the types of specialties the agency offers. Choose an agency that aligns with your skills and experience to ensure you find assignments that match your expertise.
  • Locations: Think about where you want to work and check if the agency has opportunities in those areas. Some agencies have a broader reach and can offer positions in various desirable locations.
  • Support: Look for an agency that offers robust support and resources to help you succeed as a travel nurse. This includes assistance with licensing, housing, and any issues that may arise during your assignments.

Host Healthcare is a great choice when making your choice between travel nurse staffing agencies. As the top rated travel nurse agency with healthcare benefits starting day one and jobs for multiple nursing specialties in all 50 states. Starting or continuing your nursing career alongside other travel nurses at Host Healthcare checks all the boxes.

A reminder that most travel nurse staffing agencies impose a requirement of at least one year of field experience for travel nurses before they start applying for positions, indicating that this experience is essential to meet the standards of the facilities they will be working at.

LICENSING AND CERTIFICATION: NAVIGATING REQUIREMENTS ACROSS STATES

As you know, registered nurses must be licensed in the state where they practice. But what happens when you’re crossing state lines as a travel nurse?

Let’s explore all you need to know about licensing and certification.

Nurse Licensure Compact

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) is an interstate agreement that allows RNs to practice nursing in participating states with one license. So, if you’re licensed in a participating NLC state, there’s no need to obtain further licensure to practice. Forty-one states and jurisdictions are currently a part of the NLC, with several states pending legislation.

If your dream destination isn’t a member of the NLC, don’t worry—you can still cross it off your travel bucket list. You’ll just need to apply for state-specific licensure before you accept a position there.

Travel Nurse Certifications 

There aren’t specific certifications required for travel nursing, but you will need to be certified to perform the same skills and life-saving practices as any other kind of nurse. As a reminder, those certifications always include Basic Life Support (BLS) and may include Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS).

FINDING YOUR FIRST ASSIGNMENT: TIPS FOR LANDING YOUR INITIAL TRAVEL NURSING JOB

To help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience, keep the following tips in mind when searching for your first travel nursing assignment:

  • Do research on the care setting where you wish to work
  • Have your certifications on hand and make sure they’re up to date
  • Be prepared to talk about your experience (and boast a bit about it, too)
  • Be open-minded to different travel nursing assignments
  • Partner with travel nurse agencies or staffing agencies

Choose a Staffing Agency

Staffing agencies are a must-have resource for all travel nurses—even ones with years of experience. These agencies facilitate the connection between travel nurse candidates searching for the perfect position and clients looking for skilled nurses. If you read this guide when you started your nursing journey, you should have a list of agencies that you’ve already researched, way to go! No worries if haven’t we’re here to show you what to look for in a staffing agency. The right staffing agency will offer:

  • Flexibility in positions and the freedom to choose where you work
  • Access to a wide range of positions all over the country
  • Personalized housing assistance
  • Medical and other benefits
  • Growth and development opportunities

Matching travel nurses with positions they’re passionate about is our top priority. Whether you’re searching for your dream job or dream destination (or both), our responsive recruiters work with you to build the life and career you deserve.

BENEFITS OF TRAVEL NURSING

Travel nursing offers a wealth of benefits that make it an attractive career choice for many healthcare professionals.

Higher Pay and Benefits

One of the most significant advantages of travel nursing is the potential for higher pay. Travel nurses often earn higher hourly rates compared to staff nurses, and they may also receive additional bonuses and benefits. These can include housing stipends, travel reimbursement, meal allowances, health insurance, and retirement plans.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a registered nurse is around $86,000 per year, or $40 per hour. However, travel nurses can earn significantly more, with some agencies offering hourly rates of $50 or more. This financial incentive, combined with comprehensive benefits, makes travel nursing a lucrative career option.

Opportunities to Travel

Another major perk of travel nursing is the opportunity to explore new places. As a travel nurse, you can work in different cities and states. This allows you to experience diverse cultures, climates, and healthcare environments while advancing your career.

Some popular destinations for travel nurses include California, Texas, Massachusetts, Hawai‘i, New York, Alaska, Washington, Florida, and Illinois. Each location offers unique experiences and opportunities, making travel nursing an exciting and fulfilling career path.

CAREER OUTLOOK

Job Outlook for Travel Nurses

The job outlook for travel nurses is excellent, with a high demand for skilled nurses to fill temporary positions in hospitals and healthcare facilities across the country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of registered nurses is expected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an aging population, increased emphasis on preventive care, and the need to replace retiring nurses.

Travel nurses are particularly in demand due to their ability to fill staffing gaps quickly and efficiently. Hospitals and healthcare facilities often rely on travel nurses to manage seasonal spikes in patient population, cover for staff on leave, and bring specialized skills to their teams. This high demand translates to abundant job opportunities and job security for travel nurses.

Salary Range

The salary range for travel nurses varies depending on factors such as location, experience, and specialization. However, travel nurses can earn higher salaries than staff nurses.

Here are some average salary ranges for travel nurses in different specialties:

  • Medical-Surgical: $40-$70 per hour
  • ICU: $25-$60 per hour
  • ER: $25-$65 per hour
  • Pediatrics: $30-$50 per hour
  • Operating Room: $35-$70 per hour

Keep in mind that these are just general estimates, and salaries can vary widely depending on the specific job and location. Additionally, travel nurses often receive other benefits such as housing stipends, travel reimbursement, and health insurance, which can adjust their overall compensation package.

Overall, the career outlook for travel nurses is bright, with strong job growth and competitive salaries making it an attractive career choice for many healthcare professionals.

LAUNCH YOUR TRAVEL NURSE CAREER WITH HOST HEALTHCARE

If you’re an aspiring or recently qualified travel nurse, consider partnering with Host Healthcare.

At Host Healthcare, we care about care providers like you. That’s why we offer day-1 medical, dental, and vision benefits, personalized housing assistance, 24/7 support, and priority access to exclusive positions at locations across the country.

You deserve a staffing agency that has your best interests at heart so that you can focus on developing your dream career in every state you temporarily call home. Host Healthcare is that agency. Apply today to see for yourself.

 

Sources:

Munday, Rebecca. “What Is a Travel Nurse?” Nurse Journal, April 16, 2024. https://nursejournal.org/careers/travel-nurse/ Accessed May 22, 2024.

“How to Become a Travel Nurse.” American Nurses Association, May 18, 2023. https://www.nursingworld.org/content-hub/resources/nursing-resources/how-to-become-travel-nurse/#:~:text=Travel%20Nursing%20Education%20Requirements,Science%20in%20Nursing%20(BSN). Accessed May 22, 2024. 

St. John, Mariah. How To Become A Travel Nurse: Qualifications, Perks And Career Data. Forbes, April 29, 2024. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/healthcare/become-a-travel-nurse/. Accessed May 22, 2024.

“Registration Process: How to Register to Take the NCLEX.” NCSBN, https://www.nclex.com/register.page. Accessed May 23, 2024.

“Registered Nursing Requirements by State.” Nurse Journal, January 31, 2023. https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/rn-licensing-requirements-by-state/#. Accessed May 23, 2024. 

“Benefits of Working with a Travel Nursing Agency.” Daily Nurse, April 7, 2023. https://dailynurse.com/benefits-of-working-with-a-travel-nursing-agency/#:~:text=A%20good%20travel%20nurse%20agency,start%20your%20travel%20nursing%20journey.. Accessed May 23, 2024. 

Taylor, Mariah. “States, specialties with highest demand for travel nurses.” Becker’s Hospital Review, January 19, 2024. https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/nursing/states-specialties-with-highest-demand-for-travel-nurses.html. Accessed May 23, 2024.

“How Does Travel Nursing Work? Requirements, Job Description And, Outlook.” Hawai’i Pacific University, August 29, 2023. https://online.hpu.edu/blog/how-does-travel-nursing-work#. Accessed Mat 23, 2024.

“Explanation of the Nurse Licensure Compact.” NLC, 2024. https://www.nursecompact.com/how-it-works.page. Accessed May 23, 2024.

“Nurse Licensure Compact: Participating Jurisdictions.” NCSBN, https://www.nursecompact.com/index.page. Accessed May 23, 2024.

“Occupation Outlook Handbook.” US Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm. Accessed January 17, 2025.