What better time than the summer to explore the country as a travel nurse? The roads are clear, and traveling to a new location to explore job opportunities is pleasant. However, balance is the key to a good experience at a new hospital. So, what are some tips to ensure your summer as a travel nurse is the best it can be?
Please keep reading to learn how people working in these temporary roles manage their personal and work schedules to make the most out of travel nursing positions during the summer months. Knowing how to achieve balance allows you to harness all the benefits without burnout and stress.
Travel Nurse Tips for the Summertime
If you plan to work as a travel nurse during the summer months or want to explore the possibility, then you’ll want to know why and how you can get the most out of these gigs. Use this information to help you become informed and maximize your time during the summer.
Can You Work as a Travel Nurse in the Summer Only?
Yes, you can work as a travel nurse for the summer only. Most contracts for a travel nurse only last up to 13 weeks. That means you’ll have enough time to explore a new job in a desirable location and still have time to get back to your home or pick up a new contract for the upcoming season.
It’s worth mentioning that if you find a gig you like, you can’t stay more than 12 months total in 24 months, according to the IRS, so choose your contracts carefully to avoid penalties and other issues.
Don’t Get Too Distracted
Choosing a gig as a summer travel nurse that you’ll enjoy is essential. However, be careful not to get too distracted by a location’s activities and other temptations. For example, if you choose to work at a hospital near a beach, you’ll want to be careful not to get too sunburned or exhausted from water activities before you report for a long shift there.
If you do plan rigorous activities or a night out on the town, be sure you have a day after to recover and rest up in the hours before your shift. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water too!
Know When to Accept a Contract at Another Location
Suppose you find the perfect position as a travel nurse during the summer months and decide to stay. It’s essential to know that you can only stay at a travel nursing gig for 12 months before you need to take a long break. If you accept a contract as a travel nurse in a location, you can only renew it so many times unless you decide to apply for a permanent position.
Consider Leaving for the Summer and Coming Back Next Year
If you land a position at a location you love during the summer, you can leave and potentially come back the following summer. This is especially helpful if you like the hospital and its surrounding areas for summer activities. That way, you can enjoy the excitement of summer and get paid well in the process.
Don’t be Afraid to Try a New Location
If you’re looking for a new adventure, feel free to apply somewhere that’s a little different from what you’re used to in your hometown. Perhaps you live in the South and want to see what the North offers. In that case, try visiting a scenic town with plenty to offer visitors. When you decide to work as a travel nurse, you can make lasting memories and discover what a new place is all about.
Closing Thoughts
Working as a travel nurse in the summertime can be exciting and allow you to experience new cities and towns nationwide. You can choose a spot with activities and scenery that interest you and help you learn more about what appeals to you in terms of a hospital and a city.
Work closely with your staffing agency and recruiter to find out which options are available and tell them what you’re looking for so that they can match you appropriately. It may be the perfect way to make the most out of the summer months and help you learn more about your personal preferences.
