Packing Essentials for a Traveling Nurse

One of the many exciting parts of a travel nursing placement is the anticipation of finally hitting the road and leaving to experience a new city…this starts with packing and making sure you’ve got everything you will need to make your placement feel like home.

The key is to not overpack. Think about what you use on a daily basis and go from there. If you don’t cook often, that probably won’t change in six weeks so you don’t need any extra kitchen tools. If you haven’t worn that one dress you have been waiting to wear for the past three years, you probably won’t wear it now. And don’t forget…if you forget something, you can always buy it!

Start by finding out what will be provided for you at your housing arrangement. If it isn’t stocked with kitchen supplies and household goods, you will need to bring those.

  • Blankets, sheet, comforter
  • Laundry basket
  • Towels
  • Cooking utensils
  • Minimal dishes (plates & bowls)
  • A pot and pan
  • Dish towels
  • Keurig/Tea kettle

Regardless of the living situation, you will definitely need clothes. Bring what makes you feel most comfortable and what you wear on a regular basis. If you are going to a city with a different climate you might have to switch some things up in your daily wardrobe.

  • Casual clothes
  • Workout clothes
  • Swimsuit
  • One or two nice outfits
  • Pajamas
  • 3-4 pairs of shoes
  • Weather dependant: raincoat, winter coat, etc.
  • Don’t forget scrubs or whatever the appropriate attire for your placement is

You can’t forget the essentials to keep you entertained, connected, and feeling right at home.  

  • Cell phone
  • Laptop
  • A book or two
  • A speaker and headphones
  • Charging cables for electronics
  • Any little decorations for your temporary home like pictures or a candle

Last but not least, make sure you have all of the important things.

  • Driver’s license
  • A copy of your nursing license
  • Car registration and insurance papers
  • Social Security card
  • Copy of birth certificate

And of course, don’t forget your stethoscope and favorite pair of Danskos.

Have questions? Reach out to your trusted Stability recruiter for more information.

 

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