Busting the Top 7 Travel Nursing Myths

Have you ever dreamed of a career that seamlessly weaves your love for nursing with your insatiable wanderlust? Travel nursing is the answer to that dream, offering a chance to touch countless lives while exploring the world. However, like any great adventure, the path to becoming a travel nurse is shrouded in misconceptions. In this blog, we will dispel the top 7 travel nursing myths and reveal the truth about this incredible profession.

Fact: This couldn't be further from the truth! While travel nurses move from one assignment to another, they typically have 13-week contracts, giving them plenty of time to explore their new surroundings and make friends. They have days off, just like any other nurse! Travel nurses can use their time off to explore, socialize, or relax like anyone else.

Fact: Travel nursing is for everyone, regardless of age, relationship status, or family dynamic! Countless travel nurses are married, have children and/or pets, or are nearing retirement age. Some travel with their families, turning each assignment into a new adventure for everyone, while others opt to travel solo and have their families visit them during their assignments.
 

Fact: Employers value travel nurses for their adaptability, diverse skill set, and broad range of experiences. Far from being seen as job hoppers, hospitals perceive travel RNs as dedicated professionals who bring fresh perspectives and valuable workplace experience. Many travel nurses find that their background helps them secure permanent positions if they settle down later.

Fact: Travel nurses can actually make more money than their staff nurse counterparts! They often receive competitive hourly rates, plus additional benefits such as tax-exempt stipends. While pay rates can vary depending on the location and specialty, many travel nurses can make more money than they would in a permanent position. 

Fact: Travel nurse agencies often offer reimbursements for travel and housing! Most other agencies advertise these reimbursements as "free." However, before offering you your pay package, they deduct a portion of it to create a reimbursement fund that is used as a buffer for any reimbursements you may ask for later. In short, they allocate your money but call it a "reimbursement" or a "bonus."

At FlexCare, we can reimburse you for anything you need, such as license and certification fees, housing, travel expenses, etc. However, it's important to note that these reimbursements will reduce your weekly pay, as they are deducted from your initial "pot of money." Would you rather get the most money up front each week or have FlexCare allocate some of it as a reimbursement instead?

Fact: While travel nursing comes with its unique challenges, like adapting to new environments and working with diverse teams, the rewards far outweigh the stress. Travel RNs gain invaluable experience, create lasting friendships, and have the chance to explore new places, all while pursuing their passion for nursing. Many travelers find that the personal and professional growth they experience more than compensates for any stress they may encounter.

Fact: Whether you are a traveler or not, floating is a reality of nursing. Hospitals and healthcare systems are constantly trying to manage their resources efficiently, and this can sometimes mean moving nurses around to different areas to meet patient needs. As a result, floating may be required occasionally, but you are not more likely to float simply because you’re a travel nurse.

If you're ready to embark on your journey as a travel nurse, FlexCare is here to help you make it the adventure of a lifetime. Our mission is to improve the lives of everyone we touch by delivering premier staffing solutions with integrity and transparency. Since its inception, FlexCare has intentionally established foundational pillars to support this mission, including our 'High-Pay, Hassle-Free' philosophy, our S1NGLEPOINT Recruiter model, and our proprietary job matching and assignment management technology, FlexCare 360. As a result, industry authorities like BluePipes, Staffing Industry Analysts, and Travel Nursing Central continually recognize FlexCare as a top healthcare staffing company.