The travel nursing industry is booming, with over 50,000 travel nurses working across the U.S. in 2024 (Staffing Industry Analysts). If you're considering this exciting career path, you probably have questions like:

How do I get my first travel nursing assignment?

What should I pack?

How does housing work?

What if I feel unprepared?

This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from securing your first travel nursing job to thriving on assignment.

Why Choose a Travel Nursing Career?

Travel nursing offers higher pay, flexibility, and adventure, but it also requires preparation. Here’s why nurses love it:
✅ Earn 2-3X more than staff nurses (Avg. $3,000+/week for ICU/ER roles)
✅ Explore new cities (13-week assignments across the U.S.)
✅ Gain diverse experience (Work in top hospitals with cutting-edge tech)

2025 Travel Nursing Trends: 15% increase in travel nurse demand (BLS)

Most popular states: Texas, California, Florida (Highest pay + openings)

Step 1: How to Get a Travel Nursing Assignment

1. Meet the Basic Requirements

Most agencies require:
✔ Active RN license (Compact license preferred for multi-state work)
✔ 1-2 years of clinical experience (ICU, ER, L&D are most in-demand)
✔ BLS/ACLS certifications (Some specialties require additional certs)

2. Choose the Right Travel Nursing Agency

Not all agencies are equal. Look for:
✔ Transparent pay breakdowns (Avoid hidden fees)
✔ Housing options (Stipends vs. agency-provided)
✔ 24/7 support (For emergencies during assignments)

Top Agencies in 2025:

• Cambay Healthcare
• Aya Healthcare
• Travel Nurse Across America

3. Apply for Jobs & Interview

• Submit your resume & preferences (location, specialty, shift)
• Interview with facilities (Usually quick Zoom calls)
• Review & sign your contract (Never skip the fine print!)

Pro Tip: Ask about cancellation policies, some agencies guarantee pay even if a facility cancels.

Step 2: Prepare for Your Assignment

1. Secure Your Nursing License

• Compact License: Works in 40+ states (Best for flexibility)
• Single-State License: Needed for non-compact states (CA, NY)

2. Arrange Housing

Most agencies offer:
🏠 Company-Provided Housing (Fully furnished)
💰 Housing Stipend ($1,500-$3,000/month to find your own place)

Packing Checklist:

• Scrubs (3-4 sets)
• Stethoscope & nursing tools
• Important documents (License, certs, contract copies)
• Comfort items (Photos, favorite snacks)

3. Plan Your Finances

• Taxes: Stipends are tax-free if used for housing/travel
• Budget: Account for upfront costs (Security deposits, groceries)

Step 3: What to Expect on Your First Assignment

First Week Challenges

• Orientation: Shorter than staff roles (Be ready to adapt fast)
• New EMR Systems: Brush up on Epic, Cerner, or Meditech
• Different Protocols: Ask questions early!

Making the Most of Your Assignment

✔ Network with staff (Future job references)
✔ Explore the area (Travel nursing perks!)
✔ Stay organized (Keep track of contracts, pay stubs, and expenses)

Step 4: How to Extend or Find a New Assignment

• Renew early (Many facilities offer extensions at higher pay)
• Try new specialties (OR, PACU, NICU for career growth)
• Switch agencies if needed (Better pay/benefits elsewhere?)

Final Thoughts: Is Travel Nursing Right for You?

If you love adventure, higher pay, and flexibility, travel nursing could be your dream career. Just remember:
✔ Research agencies carefully
✔ Ask about housing & pay upfront
✔ Pack smart & stay adaptable

Ready to Start? Cambay Healthcare helps new travel nurses land high-paying, stress-free assignments.  Apply today: CambayHealthcare.com