Have you ever thought about traveling the country, all while using your nursing skills to help others? Then being a travel nurse might be the perfect fit for you! Travel nurses are registered nurses (RNs) who work at different hospitals and clinics across the country (or even abroad) on temporary assignments. It’s a great way to see new places, gain new experiences, and all while doing a job you love. This blog will walk you through the steps to becoming a travel RN, from getting your education to finding the right job. So, if you’re ready for an adventure in nursing, keep reading.
How to become a travel RN in the USA
Step 1- Earning your nursing credentials
The foundation of travel nursing lies in becoming a registered nurse (RN). This requires:
- Completing an accredited nursing program: Earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). While both paths pave the way to RN licensure, a BSN may offer broader career options and be preferred by some RN travel agencies.
- Passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN): This standardized exam verifies your competency to practice nursing safely and effectively.
- Obtaining RN licensure: Register with your state’s nursing board to practice legally within your state. For increased travel flexibility, consider obtaining a multi-state licensure through the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC).
Step 2- Building your clinical experience
Travel agencies typically seek RNs with at least one to two years of clinical experience. This allows you to demonstrate your skills, adaptability, and readiness for diverse healthcare settings. Focus on gaining experience in your desired specialty, as this expands your marketability.
Step 3- Specializations and certifications
While not mandatory, specializing in a specific area like critical care, pediatrics, or emergency nursing can significantly enhance your profile and open doors to more travel opportunities. Additionally, obtaining relevant certifications in areas like Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) demonstrates your commitment to professional development and patient safety.
Step 4- Partnering with an RN travel agencies
Travel nurses agencies like MedCadre handle contract negotiations, housing assistance, travel logistics, and other administrative tasks, allowing you to focus on patient care. Choose a reputable agency with transparent contracts, competitive pay packages, and excellent support systems. Carefully review agency reviews and consult experienced Travel Registered Nurses for recommendations.
Step 5- Start with your travel nursing journey
Once you’ve met the requirements and chosen an agency, create a compelling travel nurse resume highlighting your skills, experience, and certifications. Actively engage with your agency’s recruiters and express your location preferences and specialty interests. Be prepared for interviews and skills assessments, presenting yourself as a confident and adaptable healthcare professional.
Also read: How To Become A Travel Nurse?
How much does a travel RN make?
Travel RN salaries can depend on several factors including:
- Experience: The more experience you have the higher your chance to get good pay, the agencies mostly require 1-2 years of clinical experience.
- Specialty: The nurses who are in high demand nowadays are those who have potential experience in areas like pediatrics, or emergency.
- Location: Places play a vital role when it comes to choosing the location as a travel registered nurse, areas like California, and New York pay higher than other states.
- Contract details: Pay packages can vary depending on factors like contract length, specific facility needs, and additional benefits offered like housing stipends.
Here’s a breakdown of average salaries for Travel Registered Nurses to give you an idea:
- Weekly: As per some sources like Vivian and Ziprecruiters the average salary of the registered nurse in the USA weekly is around $2,142 – $2,340.
- Yearly: After calculating the weekly, and based on that the average salary should be yearly would be around $110,704 – $122,080.
- Per hour: Hourly rates can be divided with the weekly and coming up with the result the expected salary of each horse would be around $59 – $63.
It’s important to remember that these are just averages. Some Travel Registered Nurses can earn significantly more, especially with extensive experience, niche specializations, and taking on contracts in high-paying locations. 
How MedCadre travel registered nurses agency help
At MedCadre rn travel agencies, we understand the allure of Travel Registered Nurse: the chance to explore new cities, experience diverse cultures, and use your skills to make a difference in different healthcare settings. But we also know the journey to becoming a travel RN can seem daunting. That’s why we’re here to guide you every step of the way, making MedCadre your perfect partner for an enriching travel nursing experience. Here are MedCadre offers to Registered Travel Nurses:
- Competitive compensation and benefits: We offer competitive pay rates and comprehensive benefits packages, including health, dental, vision, life, disability, and malpractice insurance. We also provide housing options and travel stipends to ease your transition.
- Expert guidance and support: Our experienced recruiters have a deep understanding of the travel nursing industry and your unique needs. They’ll help you find the right assignment based on your skills, interests, and desired location. Plus, our 24/7 support team is always available to answer your questions and address your concerns.
- Commitment to quality: We prioritize placing you in high-quality assignments with supportive staff and positive work environments. We partner with reputable healthcare facilities across the country, ensuring you have access to the best opportunities.
- Diverse specialty options: Whether you specialize in medical-surgical, critical care, pediatrics, or another area, we have a wide range of assignments to match your expertise and career goals.
- Professional development opportunities: We’re invested in your growth as a Travel Registered Nurse. We offer continuing education courses, conferences, and other resources to help you advance your skills and knowledge.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Becoming a travel nurse is an exciting way to use your RN license to explore new places, develop your skills, and earn competitive pay. It takes dedication and preparation, but the rewards can be amazing. Are you ready to embark on your travel nursing adventure? If so, start researching travel nurse agencies and get ready to hit the road (or sky!) to make a difference in patients’ lives across the country.
