If you’re a registered nurse (RN), you’ve probably heard all the talk about travel nursing.
It’s an excellent career choice, especially for those who love exploring new places, helping people in need, and making new connections along the way.
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and an aging population, healthcare organizations all over the country are facing a tough time finding enough nurses to fill their positions.
To make matters worse, a study by the National Council of State Boards in Nursing revealed that about 100,000 RNs called it quits in the last two years because of burnout, stress, or retirement.
That’s a lot of nurses leaving the workforce!
That’s where travel nursing comes to the rescue! It’s becoming popular because it helps healthcare facilities find nurses faster, ensuring better care for patients.
If you’re considering giving travel nursing a shot, we think you ought to know all the perks that come with this gig.
Check Out 6 Awesome Benefits of Being a Travel Nurse
1. Job Security
The world will never stop needing RNs to fill positions. Without dedicated and qualified nurses like you, healthcare organizations would fall apart. So, as a travel nurse, you can feel pretty darn secure about your job prospects.
We came across an article from BetterUp that mentioned how job insecurity can lead to feelings of stress, depression and a lack of mental fitness. Feeling insecure in your role could even mess with your self-esteem and confidence.
One of the sweet perks of travel nursing is that there will always be new opportunities for you to seize. Your future is looking pretty bright.
2. Discover New Places
Travel nursing is all about exploring new places. If you’re a travel-loving soul, this gig will be an absolute dream come true for your career.
And according to an article on Travel and Leisure, traveling can improve your health, reduce stress, enhance creativity, boost happiness and sleep and lower your risk of depression. Why not take advantage of your nursing background and combine it with traveling to reap these benefits?
3. Build Your Professional Network
Building a professional network is key.
Through travel nursing, you’ll rub elbows with tons of other amazing RNs, in addition to other healthcare professionals, leaving you with a diverse, well-rounded network.
As you go from one facility to the next, you’ll meet people from all walks of life. And that is a golden chance to connect! Add them on LinkedIn, and follow them on Instagram.
There are so many fun nurses on Instagram sharing the ups and downs of nursing life. This connection is what keeps us sane and you never know what opportunities will arise from this network.
4. Scheduling Flexibility
This career gives you some amazing flexibility with your work schedule. You’ll keep pretty busy while on assignment, as you’re there to fill their staffing holes.
But the cool part is that once your contract is up, you get to call the shots. Renew or explore other opportunities. You could even take extended time off.
Allowing you time to recharge, spend time at home with family and friends, take that extended vacation you so deserve, or engage in continuous learning or volunteering.
Helping you maintain a healthy work-life balance.
5. High Compensation
Let’s talk money!Travel nurses make some great money.
According to Indeed, travel nurses tend to earn higher salaries than staff nurses, making around $133,376 annually. And you’ll likely score some tax-free benefits for lodging and travel if you’re traveling outside your home state.
You might be eligible for extra incentives, depending on the healthcare facility and assignment, like sign-on bonuses, airfare reimbursements and more.
6. Serve Vulnerable Populations
But many nurses would agree that one of the best parts is that you get to help those who need it most. You chose to become a nurse because you have a passion for helping others.
And many times travel nurses end up in areas with severe shortages. Meaning you’ll be making a real difference in people’s lives, often, serving the most vulnerable populations.
Knowing you’ll leave a significant impact on people’s lives can help you feel more fulfilled in your role and may convince you to continue down the path of travel nursing.
Is Travel Nursing Right for You?
Now that you know some of the key benefits to reap as a travel nurse, what are you waiting for?
If you’re interested in finding your next position or want to discuss your career goals with seasoned travel nurses, we’re here to help!
At MSP Healthcare, we’re dedicated to helping YOU land your dream job. Give us a call or text us at 504-226-7720 to learn more about your travel nursing positions.
