Becoming a Cross Country Travel Nurse

Being a cross country travel nurse is a challenging, rewarding experience for nurses who want to spice up their career.

Why Choose Cross Country Travel

Making the decision to become a cross country travel nurse isn't an easy one. This aspect of the nursing profession isn't for everyone, but it's a perfect fit for many. Travel nurses have an opportunity to travel all over the country rather than stay in the same hospital in the same town where they got their degree. They can often times choose their general location. Cross country travel nurses have an advantage many professionals don't have. They can find a job in an area they want to live in before they move. Most professionals can't sign up for traveling opportunities like this. They have to find a job in the area first and then move.

Becoming a cross country travel nurse also gives nurses a chance to work in different hospitals. Working in a rural hospital is much different than working in an urban one. Often times nurses won't experience both unless they're put in a traveling position.

A cross country travel nurse can also earn more money than a nurse who chooses a traditional position. For example, the Cross Country TravCorps company gives $500 to nurses when they refer new nurses to the program. Some hospitals have referral systems, but this type of incentive is frequently unique to traveling companies. These companies also give hefty signing bonuses. Nurses are in such high demand all over the country that it's possible for these companies to hand out such bonuses.

Some Things to Think About

Becoming a cross country travel nurse isn't for everyone. First of all, if you don't like to travel and prefer to stay at home, you probably shouldn't become a traveling nurse. Also, if you have a family, travel nursing might not be the way to go. Sometimes travel nurses are offered full time positions at the hospitals they visit, but that's not always the case. Moving from place to place can be hard on a young family. It requires kids to start over in school and make new friends.

Another thing to think about is that travel nursing invites all new rules and personalities into your life. This can be a good thing, but it can also be a little challenging. Each hospital has its own personality. It also has its own bureaucracy to deal with. Being a travel nurse can protect you from this. However, it can also make other nurses resentful toward you especially if you're making a higher salary. Moving across the country to be a cross country travel nurse is a big decision, so make sure to weigh the pros and cons before agreeing to leave.