4 Nursing Jobs That Offer Travel Benefits
By Anita Wong, contributor
Nurses are needed around the world to keep communities safe and healthy, making it one of the few jobs that offer travel benefits as you work. If you're interested in putting your nursing skills to work in a different part of the country or world, check out some of these exciting travel nursing jobs and volunteer opportunities.
1. International development
Experienced RNs can play a role in global health policy and strategies through the World Health Organization. If you're a senior nurse with experience in practice, education or research, consider using your leadership skills to make an impact in the three-month Nursing Scholar Programme. WHO does not provide funding for participants except for health insurance.
Doctors Without Borders needs nurses to provide humanitarian assistance in countries in crisis. Nurses coordinate medical activities, supervise and train staff and help develop policy. Direct care is provided by local medical staff except in acute crises. Assignments are often 9 to 12 months minimum.
2. Disaster response
Organizations such as the Red Cross and International Medical Corps coordinate responses to earthquakes, floods, hurricanes and other natural disasters. Nurses are needed on the frontlines to help with emergency efforts both in the United States and abroad. Living and working conditions vary depending on the region's infrastructure and the level of devastation.
3. Missionary nursing
Missionary nurses work in developing countries where people may not have access to healthcare. They provide medical care and spiritual support. Responsibilities may include immunizations, treating wounds and providing education about hygiene and disease prevention. Most missionary nurses work through religious or humanitarian groups, making meaningful contributions on a volunteer basis.
4. Travel nursing
Travel nursing lets you use your RN skills to supplement staff at hospitals and medical facilities around the country. Here's how this flexible opportunity can benefit you:
Stay on your career path while you travel
You don't have to pause your career to travel. Whether you're in pediatrics, critical care or the OR, travel nursing jobs let you continue working and gaining experience in your specialty. If you'd like to try another unit, you can also speak to your recruiter about transitioning your skills.
Work where you want
Travel assignments can take you to cities or regions you've always wanted to explore. Work your way through the southern states, or delve into outdoor adventure in places such as Colorado, Montana or Utah. Sidia Strong is an ER nurse who found travel nursing jobs a great pathway to living in the Big Apple.
You can also choose the kind of facility you work in, whether it's a small hospital that may provide more responsibilities or a fast-paced, leading research hospital. Travel nursing gives you valuable experience with a variety of patients and lets you learn new practices and approaches from colleagues across the country.
Work when you want
Assignments are typically 13 weeks long. If the facility has the need, you could possibly extend your contract, or you can take time between assignments to make the most of your travel opportunities. Aaron Moore, a veteran travel nurse, planned his routes carefully when driving to his next destination. He saw many of America's national parks and landmarks while en route to a new assignment.
Enjoy generous pay and benefits
Travel nursing can be lucrative, usually providing a higher salary than permanent staff positions, free housing and stipends for other expenses. Some agencies may offer signing bonuses, overtime pay and continuing education, so be sure to confirm the details of your contract.
Take a look at the typical pay range for travel nursing jobs in your specialty.
Find travel nursing jobs at any stage of your career
Many travel RNs are recent graduates who want to see the world before they put down roots. Some have an empty nest and want to spend time near family while working, and retired RNs choose occasional assignments when it suits them. Travel nursing jobs can accommodate you wherever you are in your career or life.
Nursing is a profession that doesn't change — your focus is always caring for patients and improving health. Your skills are valuable and in demand, and you can make an impact where it's needed while enjoying personal and professional growth. Learn more about nursing jobs that offer travel benefits, and then, pack your bags and enjoy your adventure.