The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Travel Nurse

This blog post explores the exciting world of travel nursing assignments, offering insights into the qualifications, licensing requirements, and career opportunities available for healthcare professionals looking to work in various healthcare settings. It provides valuable tips on securing assignments, understanding pay structures, and adjusting to new environments while highlighting the benefits of flexibility, career growth, and competitive compensation. Whether you're an RN or LPN, this guide will help you navigate the path to a successful and fulfilling travel nursing career.

Brett Rickord

1/31/20253 min read

black hiking backpack near white Fujifilm instax mini camera near black leather boots, red half-zip jacket, gray pocket watch on white map
black hiking backpack near white Fujifilm instax mini camera near black leather boots, red half-zip jacket, gray pocket watch on white map

If you’re a registered nurse (RN) or a licensed practical nurse (LPN) looking for an exciting career with flexibility, competitive pay, and opportunities to explore new places, travel nursing might be the perfect fit for you. In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about becoming a travel nurse—from qualifications and licensing to job search strategies and life on the road.

1. What is Travel Nursing?

Travel nursing is a unique career path where RNs and LPNs take short-term assignments at healthcare facilities across the country. These contracts typically last between 8 to 26 weeks, allowing nurses to gain diverse experience while enjoying the perks of travel and high pay rates. Travel nurses can work in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and group homes.

2. Qualifications and Requirements

To become a travel nurse, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a licensed Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) with at least one year of clinical experience.

  • Hold an active nursing license in your home state or obtain a multi-state license through the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC).

  • Have Basic Life Support (BLS) certification; additional certifications like Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) may be required depending on your specialty.

  • Some facilities prefer travel nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), but an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or an LPN certificate is often accepted.

3. How to Obtain the Right Licenses

  • Compact License (NLC): If you live in an NLC state, you can work in other compact states without needing additional licensing.

  • Single-State Licenses: If your home state isn’t part of the NLC, you’ll need to apply for a new nursing license in each state where you take assignments.

4. How to Land Your First Assignment

Once you’ve decided to pursue travel nursing, follow these steps to secure your first contract:

  • Apply with Heart Medical Solutions: Our team is dedicated to helping RNs and LPNs find the best assignments tailored to their preferences and career goals.

  • Prepare your resume: Highlight your clinical experience, certifications, and any special skills.

  • Be flexible: Being open to different locations or shifts can help you land your first travel job faster.

  • Complete interviews: Many hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities conduct phone or video interviews before making offers.

5. Understanding Pay and Benefits

Travel nurses often earn higher wages than staff nurses, but pay structures can be complex. Your total compensation package may include:

  • Hourly wage

  • Tax-free housing, meal, and travel stipends

  • Overtime and shift differentials

  • Referral bonuses

6. Housing Options for Travel Nurses and LPNs

You can choose between:

  • Housing stipend: You receive a tax-free stipend to secure your own lodging.

  • Short-term rentals and extended-stay hotels: Websites like Airbnb, Furnished Finder, and VRBO are popular among travel nurses.

7. Adjusting to a New Assignment

Starting a new job every few months can be challenging, but here are some tips to help:

  • Arrive early to explore your new city and facility

  • Connect with fellow travel nurses and staff

  • Be adaptable to different policies and electronic medical record (EMR) systems

  • Keep essential documents and certifications readily available

8. Advancing Your Travel Nursing Career

As you gain experience, you can increase your earning potential by:

  • Specializing in high-demand areas like ICU, OR, or ER (for RNs) or skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and long-term care (for LPNs).

  • Earning additional certifications such as CCRN, TNCC, or gerontology nursing certifications.

  • Seeking assignments in high-paying states or crisis response positions.

9. Is Travel Nursing Work Right for You?

Before committing, consider the pros and cons:

  • Pros: High pay, career growth, flexibility, adventure

  • Cons: Frequent moves, adapting to new environments, being away from family

Final Thoughts

Travel nursing assignments offer an excellent opportunity for those who love adventure, learning, and professional growth. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a rewarding and fulfilling career while making a difference in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and group homes across the country. If you're ready to take the leap, apply with Heart Medical Solutions today and start your journey with us!