Travel Nurse
What is a travel nurse?
A travel nurse is a licensed registered nurse (RN) who works short-term, temporary assignments at healthcare facilities with staffing shortages. Travel nurses may practice domestically and/or internationally.
Travel nurses provide the same level of patient care as permanent staff nurses but enjoy added flexibility by moving between locations as healthcare needs arise. Many travel nurses hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which can increase their eligibility for assignments and specialized roles.
How does travel nursing work?
Travel nursing works through staffing agencies that partner with hospitals, clinics, and healthcare systems. Once a nurse signs with an agency, they are matched with short-term assignments based on their specialty, experience, and preferred location.
Before starting an assignment, travel nurses must hold an active nursing license in the state where they will be working. Some nurses participate in multi-state licensure agreements, which makes it easier to work across state lines.
What are the key aspects of travel nursing?
The key aspects of travel nursing include flexibility, adaptability, and professional growth.
Additionally, travel nurses can expect:
- Fast-paced onboarding: Travel nurses must quickly adapt to new teams, policies, and electronic health record systems.
- Short-term assignments: Nurses rotate through facilities for defined contract periods.
- Skill diversification: Exposure to diverse patient populations and care models helps nurses expand their clinical expertise.
- Varied work settings: Assignments may include hospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, or specialty units.
- Work-life balance options: Travel nurses can often decide when and where they work, allowing for breaks between contracts.
Who can be a travel nurse?
To become a travel nurse, individuals generally must meet the following criteria:
- Be comfortable adapting to new environments and care teams
- Demonstrate strong clinical, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Have at least one to two years of clinical nursing experience
While RNs with an associate degree in Nursing may qualify for some travel nursing opportunities, many employers prefer applicants with a BSN — especially for specialized or critical care assignments.
Why do people become travel nurses?
People choose travel nursing for a variety of professional and personal reasons, including:
- Career flexibility: Nurses can choose assignments that align with their lifestyle, schedule, and interests.
- Exploration and adventure: Travel nursing offers opportunities to live and work in new cities or regions.
- Higher earning potential: Travel nurses often earn more than permanent staff nurses due to demand and staffing needs.
- Professional development: Working in different healthcare systems helps nurses build confidence and broaden their skill sets.
- Reduced burnout: Many nurses appreciate the ability to take time off between contracts.
UB — your destination in Nursing education
Whether you’re just beginning your RN journey or are aiming to advance your practice, University of Bridgeport’s Nursing programs are grounded in real-world practice, clinical excellence, and compassionate patient care. Learn more about our Nursing programs today!
Your future starts today!
- Apply online!
- Financial aid is available, and we accept applications on a rolling basis
- We have comprehensive support services that will get you through college and into a great career