Travel nurses have many perks — career flexibility, competitive pay, and the opportunity to explore new places. However, like all careers, travel nurse pay varies by location, specialty, and shift. High-demand areas pay the most for travel nursing jobs.
Specialization
Travel nurses often specialize in a specific specialty, making negotiating a higher pay rate with a healthcare facility easier. Some of the highest-paying travel nurse jobs include emergency care, medical-surgical, oncology, and pediatric nursing. These positions are ideal for travel nurses who want to gain experience in various settings and work with different patient populations. They also offer the opportunity to experience new cultures and meet other people. As with any job, the pay for a travel nurse assignment depends on your experience and skills. Some agencies may offer additional perks, such as referral, sign-on, and completion bonuses, which can increase your earnings. Another reason why these types of assignments are so popular is that they are usually short-term. This means you can decide how long to work and when you want to work, which is an excellent benefit for those who prefer a flexible schedule. Suppose you’re a registered nurse interested in pursuing a travel nursing career. In that case, it is essential to note that some of the highest-paying travel nurse jobs require certification in their specific field of practice. This certification is a great way to distinguish yourself from other applicants, show your commitment to nursing, and improve your chances of getting a job.
Shifts
Travel nurses often have to adjust to a new work schedule and make friends in new cities. Aside from the apparent adjustment, traveling nurses also need to be flexible with their shifts since hospitals determine which ones they’ll offer, so it is essential to be open to working different ones. RNs can also take advantage of higher pay rates when assigned to more challenging areas or high-demand specialties like labor and delivery. However, travel nurses should carefully research their contract terms before signing a deal. A good rule of thumb is to look at the hourly rates full-time nurses in the same facilities receive and compare them to what the travel nurse agency offers. If the salary offered by a company is much lower than what a hospital or clinic offers, it’s a good idea to ask for a better rate. Many healthcare agencies will offer travel nurses a package of wages and benefits that can include tax-free stipends to cover housing, meals, travel reimbursement, per diem, bonuses, and other monetary incentives. This is typically referred to as a “blended” rate. Aside from an excellent salary, travel nurses enjoy other rewards such as amazing benefits, the chance to try new things, and career advancement.
Locations
Travel nurse jobs can be found in all parts of the country, and nurses can choose to work for a staffing agency or directly with hospitals. This allows you to work in your preferred location and at your desired time frame. Many staffing agencies offer sign-on, referral, and completion bonuses for nurses who work with them. These bonuses can be a great way to earn extra income while on a temporary assignment. High-paying travel nurse positions also often offer other benefits. For example, some nurse agencies pay for housing stipends, medical insurance, and other travel benefits. These perks can help you save money on your living expenses. Another essential thing to consider is the type of work you want. Some nursing specialties, such as neonatal intensive care, require attention to detail and specialized skill sets. If you’re not interested in this type of nursing, there may be better choices than a travel job. Travel nurses specializing in obstetrics and gynecology can find temporary RN assignments at hospitals and birthing centers nationwide. These positions involve monitoring the vital signs of both mothers and babies, administering medications if necessary, and performing routine examinations. This is an excellent opportunity to gain additional experience if you’re a skilled RN.
Contracts
Many travel nurses sign contracts to fill temporary positions that last days, weeks, or months. When the contract ends, they extend their stay at the exact location or move on to a new destination and opportunity. This type of travel can be an exciting way to explore the world and gain experience, but it can also make life easier if you’re prepared. The length of your contract can also affect how much you earn and what benefits and perks you get. If you’re looking to save money, consider taking shorter contracts. Another essential factor to consider is the contract’s guaranteed hours. This policy will determine how much you’re paid for the first few weeks. You’ll also need to be aware of overtime pay, often included in a travel nurse’s compensation package. Overtime is an excellent way to boost your salary, but check the contract details and the amount you will be paid. Some travel nurses may also benefit from signing bonuses, paid on day #1 of a new assignment or upon project completion. These bonuses can be very lucrative, especially for those interested in high-paying postings.