Thinking about travel nursing but held back by some nagging doubts? You’re not alone! There are plenty of myths out there about travel nursing that can make it seem daunting. But don’t worry—we’re here to clear things up. From questions about benefits and job stability to misconceptions about who travel nurses are and where they work, we’ve got the clarity to help you make an informed decision. Let’s debunk these travel nursing myths and show you how this rewarding career can be a perfect fit for you!
Myth 1: Travel Nurses Don’t Get Benefits
Being a travel nurse comes with some amazing perks—including benefits! Most travel nurse agencies offer competitive compensation and benefits packages. For example, Medical Solutions offers unlimited $600 loyalty bonuses, $500 referral bonuses, and a sweet company-matching 401(k) plan to help you save for the future. Plus stipends for lodging, meals, and incidentals, along with affordable health, dental, and vision insurance. You’re also covered by a free employee assistance program to support mental health and well-being. So, while you’re out there doing what you do best—caring for patients—your agency has you fully covered.
Real Talk:
“I hadn’t been home for a major holiday in two years because I was working as a perm staff. But after I started working as a traveler, I got to be home with family for the holidays.” – Mariah T., BSN, RN – Stepdown/PCU
Myth 2: Travel Nursing is Only for Young, Single People
Think again! While there are plenty of advantages to starting your travel nursing career early—like gaining exposure to new facilities, protocols, and figuring out what kind of hospital or unit you love—there’s no age limit on adventure.
Many experienced RNs start traveling later in their careers. Maybe your kids have left the nest and it feels like the perfect time to hit the road. Or perhaps you want to explore the country with your family, your pets, or a friend. No problem! Many travel nurses do just that. A great travel nursing agency will gladly help you sort out housing for all these scenarios, making sure you’re comfortable and stress-free.
Traveling can even be a fantastic way to ease into retirement. You can take an assignment, then take a few months off to relax and recharge before hitting the road again. The flexibility of travel nursing lets you craft a work-life balance that’s perfect for you!
Real Talk:
“I can’t pick a favorite assignment—for me, it’s about the people and the relationships developed over the years. I love getting calls from folks from years ago, checking in to see how I am, if I heard about the new regulations, to ask a question, or—my favorite—saying they need me to come back.” -Leigh Anne T., RN
Myth 3: High Paying Jobs Are Always the Best
High-paying jobs can be super tempting, but they aren’t always the best fit. Sometimes those big bucks come with challenges that might not be your cup of tea, like high patient loads, less desirable locations, or tougher work environments. It’s all about finding the right balance. A job that pays well is great, but it should also align with your preferences for location, work environment, and overall experience.
Think about what’s most important to you. Do you want to be near the beach, in a bustling city, or maybe closer to the mountains? Are you looking for a supportive team, a specific type of facility, or a particular patient population? Balancing these factors with a good pay rate can make your travel nursing experience much more rewarding and enjoyable.
Remember, the highest paying job isn’t always the best choice if it doesn’t fit your lifestyle or career goals. Finding a position that offers both a great salary and a positive work environment will make your travel nursing journey a fulfilling and satisfying adventure. Also, if you’re only looking at the jobs with top pay, so is everyone else! The competition for those jobs is fierce. It may be better to aim a little lower and get a job with good pay rather than repeatedly get rejected for jobs with the absolute highest pay.
Real Talk:
“I try to chase the sun. I am not a winter, cold, grey gal. Not me. I am all about the sun and heat! It makes me happy.” -Brenda K., BSN, RN
Myth 4: Travel Nurses Have No Job Stability
Fear not! If you’re open to different types of assignments and willing to do a bit of advance planning, you can definitely arrange for a steady and lucrative travel career. Many of our Medical Solutions travelers work year-round, moving from one assignment to the next seamlessly.
The beauty of travel nursing is that it allows you go where the jobs are, whether you’re chasing higher pay, lower cost of living, or going where help is needed most. Working with agencies that have jobs nationwide means you’ll always have plenty of options, keeping those assignments rolling in. Plus, having a recruiter who really gets you can make all the difference. They’ll match you with assignments based on your needs and preferences, making sure you always feel stable in your travel nursing career.
Real Talk:
“I was able to complete my practicum while traveling because my recruiter at Medical Solutions always had my back. He was able to find me assignments around Miami for 10 months so I could be near my clinical site.” – Cindy W., RN – ICU/PACU
Myth 5: Travel Nurses Are Always Alone
On the contrary! Many travel nurses form tight-knit bonds with fellow travelers they meet on assignments. Hospitals and facilities often have several travel nurses working at the same time (often from the same agency!), creating an instant network of peers who understand your lifestyle. We hear all the time from our travelers about these connections leading to lasting friendships and a support system that travels with you, assignment to assignment.
And if you’re someone who likes to travel with company, that’s totally doable! Many travel nurses bring along family, friends, or pets. Plus, traveling in pairs or trios with fellow nurses is a popular option. You can plan assignments together, share housing, and explore new places as a team.
Travel nursing can also be a great way to reconnect with old friends or family scattered across the country. Take assignments in cities where loved ones live and use your free time to catch up and make new memories together!
So, while travel nursing does offer the excitement of exploring new places on your own, you’ll never really be alone unless you want to be!
Real Talk:
“The first friend I made on my assignment in Seattle ended up being my maid of honor at my recent wedding!” -Abigail M., BSN, RN – ER
Myth 6: Travel Nurses Aren’t Treated Well by Permanent Staff
Here’s the real deal: Hospitals and healthcare facilities rely on travel nurses to fill critical staffing gaps, especially during busy times or in areas with shortages. Your skills and expertise are highly valued, and many permanent staff members appreciate the fresh perspectives and support that travel nurses bring.
Moreover, travel nurses can form strong bonds with permanent staff. Many find that by the end of their assignments, they have made lasting friendships and professional connections.
Of course, like any workplace, there can be occasional challenges. Some permanent staff might initially be unsure about working with a travel nurse, but these concerns usually fade as they see your dedication and professionalism. Open communication, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn can go a long way in building strong relationships with your new team. If you still have concerns, check out our blog on What I Wish I’d Known: Advice for New Travel Clinicians for more tips on navigating your new assignments.
Real Talk:
“Being a travel nurse – may not be for everyone, but if you have it in your heart to start this journey, I encourage you to do so. It has been the best decision I’ve made not only for my nursing career, but also for myself.” -Abigail M., BSN, RN – ER
