Are you a travel nurse looking for the best opportunities? Navigating the world of travel nursing can be overwhelming, but SIXT.VN is here to help you find the perfect fit. We’ll guide you through the Top Travel Nursing Companies, ensuring you find the best support, benefits, and pay. Let’s explore your options and boost your career today with career advancement and job satisfaction.
Contents
- 1. Why Choose Travel Nursing?
- 2. What To Look For In A Travel Nursing Company?
- 3. Top Travel Nursing Companies
- 3.1. Axis Medical Staffing
- 3.2. Host Healthcare
- 3.3. Triage Staffing
- 3.4. Fusion Medical Staffing
- 3.5. Travel Nurses Inc.
- 3.6. Atlas MedStaff
- 3.7. Prime Time Healthcare
- 3.8. Medical Solutions
- 3.9. RNnetwork
- 3.10. OneStaff Medical
- 3.11. Aya Healthcare
- 3.12. Fastaff Travel Nursing
- 3.13. AMN Healthcare
- 3.14. Aureus Medical
- 3.15. Travel Nurse Across America (TNAA)
- 3.16. Krucial Staffing
- 3.17. NuWest Healthcare
- 3.18. TotalMed Staffing
- 3.19. Maxim Healthcare Staffing
- 3.20. Trustaff
- 3.21. Nomad Health
- 4. Finding The Highest Paying Travel Nursing Agency
- 5. How SIXT.VN Can Help You Plan Your Travel Nursing Adventure
- 6. Tips for a Successful Travel Nursing Assignment
- 7. Essential Documents and Certifications for Travel Nursing
- 8. Understanding Travel Nursing Contracts
- 9. Overcoming Challenges in Travel Nursing
- 10. Travel Nursing and Mental Health
- FAQ About Travel Nursing
1. Why Choose Travel Nursing?
Travel nursing offers a unique blend of professional growth and personal adventure. It allows nurses to explore different healthcare settings, enhance their skills, and experience new cultures. According to a 2023 report by the American Nurses Association, travel nursing is gaining popularity due to its flexibility and competitive compensation packages.
Benefits of Travel Nursing:
- Higher Pay: Travel nurses often earn significantly more than staff nurses.
- Flexibility: Choose your assignments and locations.
- Career Growth: Gain experience in diverse healthcare environments.
- Travel Opportunities: Explore new cities and states.
- Personal Development: Enhance adaptability and problem-solving skills.
2. What To Look For In A Travel Nursing Company?
Selecting the right travel nursing company is crucial for a positive experience. Consider these factors when making your decision:
- Reputation: Research the company’s standing in the industry.
- Support: Evaluate the level of support provided to nurses.
- Benefits: Compare health insurance, housing, and retirement plans.
- Job Opportunities: Assess the variety of assignments available.
- Pay Packages: Understand the compensation structure, including stipends and bonuses.
3. Top Travel Nursing Companies
Here’s a detailed look at some of the top travel nursing companies in the industry, based on various factors such as support, benefits, job opportunities, and overall reputation.
3.1. Axis Medical Staffing
Overview:
Axis Medical Staffing is highly regarded for its personalized approach and excellent support for travel nurses.
Pros:
- Assignments in all 50 states
- Highly rated by travel nurses
- Good payment structure
Cons:
- Healthcare benefits start the month after hire
Why Choose Axis Medical Staffing:
If you value a personal touch and adventure, Axis Medical Staffing is an excellent choice.
3.2. Host Healthcare
Overview:
Host Healthcare is known for its robust support system and extensive resources for travel nurses.
Pros:
- 24/7 support
- Day one medical coverage
- 401(k) matching
- Travel reimbursements
- Dedicated housing support team
Cons:
- Some nurses may find the extensive support unnecessary
Why Choose Host Healthcare:
Host Healthcare is ideal for those who want comprehensive support and a smooth transition into travel nursing.
3.3. Triage Staffing
Overview:
Triage Staffing emphasizes clear communication and building long-term relationships with its travel nurses.
Pros:
- Emphasis on clear and open communication
- Fun and casual culture
Cons:
- Requires two years of experience
- Casual culture might not suit everyone
Why Choose Triage Staffing:
If you value open communication and building lasting relationships with your recruiter, Triage Staffing is a great option.
3.4. Fusion Medical Staffing
Overview:
Fusion Medical Staffing is known for its fast growth and excellent workplace culture.
Pros:
- Accepts new graduates and provides a mentorship program
- Emphasis on social responsibility and volunteering
- Inclusive culture
Cons:
- Website information can be more thorough
Why Choose Fusion Medical Staffing:
Fusion Medical Staffing is perfect for new graduates looking for mentorship and a supportive, inclusive culture.
3.5. Travel Nurses Inc.
Overview:
Travel Nurses Inc. (TNI) has over 30 years of experience and offers 24/7 clinical support.
Pros:
- 24/7 clinical support
- Day-one healthcare coverage
- Transparent contracts
- “Furnished Finder” tool for housing
Cons:
- Requires one year of experience
- Sparse ratings on Indeed and Glassdoor
Why Choose Travel Nurses Inc.:
TNI is a solid choice if you value experience, comprehensive support, and contract transparency.
3.6. Atlas MedStaff
Overview:
Atlas MedStaff focuses on tailoring contracts to fit the individual needs of travel nurses.
Pros:
- Great insurance and benefits
- Paid private housing options
- Transparent and long-term relationships
- “Atlas Adventure” included with each contract
Cons:
- Experience may vary depending on the recruiter
Why Choose Atlas MedStaff:
Atlas MedStaff is ideal for those who want personalized contracts and unique experiences.
3.7. Prime Time Healthcare
Overview:
Prime Time Healthcare has over 15 years of experience and tends to offer above-average salaries.
Pros:
- Excellent range of benefits
- Referral bonuses
- Paid travel
Cons:
- Works with elite-level healthcare professionals
- Also fills per diem and permanent positions
Why Choose Prime Time Healthcare:
If salary is a top priority and you’re an experienced healthcare professional, Prime Time Healthcare is a good fit.
3.8. Medical Solutions
Overview:
Medical Solutions custom-tailors contracts to meet the individual needs of their travel nurses.
Pros:
- Excellent 401(k) plan
- Referral bonuses
- Loyalty bonuses
- Health benefits
- Employee assistance program
Cons:
- Customization can be overwhelming for new travel nurses
Why Choose Medical Solutions:
Medical Solutions is best for travel nurses who know exactly what they want in a contract.
3.9. RNnetwork
Overview:
RNnetwork offers the resources of a large staffing company with a personal touch.
Pros:
- Focuses solely on travel nursing
- Great compensation and benefits
- Easy-to-use job search platform
Cons:
- Experience may vary depending on the recruiter
Why Choose RNnetwork:
If you want the best of both worlds – a personal approach with extensive resources – RNnetwork is a solid choice.
3.10. OneStaff Medical
Overview:
OneStaff Medical boasts experienced recruiters and a dedication to the nurses they work with.
Pros:
- 24/7 support
- Assistance with career goals
- Helps meet travel expectations
Cons:
- Requires at least two years of experience
- Complaints of lack of cooperation between departments
Why Choose OneStaff Medical:
If you have experience and value constant support and career guidance, OneStaff Medical is a great option.
3.11. Aya Healthcare
Overview:
Aya Healthcare is one of the largest and best-known travel nursing agencies in the United States.
Pros:
- Huge selection of assignments
- Day-one benefits
- Credentialing and paperwork support
- Scholarships and education assistance
Cons:
- Size may mean less personal touch
Why Choose Aya Healthcare:
Aya Healthcare is perfect if you want access to a vast selection of assignments and robust resources.
3.12. Fastaff Travel Nursing
Overview:
Fastaff Travel Nursing specializes in “Rapid Response” healthcare staffing during crises.
Pros:
- Highest pay rates
- Access to high-demand assignments
Cons:
- Assignments can be more difficult
- Need to be ready to start within 48 hours
- Culture is more professional and less friendly
Why Choose Fastaff Travel Nursing:
If salary is your top priority and you’re an experienced nurse ready for challenging assignments, Fastaff is an excellent choice.
3.13. AMN Healthcare
Overview:
AMN Healthcare is the largest travel nursing agency, offering a vast pool of exclusive jobs and resources.
Pros:
- Free and high-quality private housing
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) and flex spending accounts
- Life insurance
- Free continuing education courses
- Mobile app for job alerts and credential management
Cons:
- Best for experienced travel nurses
Why Choose AMN Healthcare:
AMN Healthcare is ideal if you’re an experienced nurse looking for comprehensive resources and benefits.
3.14. Aureus Medical
Overview:
Aureus Medical promotes a highly personalized approach to travel nursing with dedicated recruiters.
Pros:
- Dedicated recruiter
- 24/7 support
- Long-standing relationships with healthcare facilities
- Dedicated housing and travel department
- Robust benefits
Cons:
- Large agency, so may have to deal with multiple staff members
Why Choose Aureus Medical:
Aureus Medical is a great choice if you value personalized support and long-standing industry relationships.
3.15. Travel Nurse Across America (TNAA)
Overview:
Travel Nurse Across America (TNAA) is one of the most reputable travel nursing agencies, known for its transparent company culture.
Pros:
- Great relationships with client facilities
- Clear and transparent company culture
- Assignment Benefit Summary before each assignment
- “TNAA Boost Pay” for extra shifts
- Pay protection if shifts get canceled
Cons:
- Doesn’t publish pay rates on third-party sites
Why Choose Travel Nurse Across America:
TNAA is perfect if you value transparency and clear communication in your assignments.
3.16. Krucial Staffing
Overview:
Krucial Staffing specializes in staffing healthcare facilities in urgent need of nurses.
Pros:
- Day-one benefits
- Extra benefits through Krucial’s partnerships
- Excellent housing options
- Access to high-risk, emergency areas
Cons:
- Assignments tend to be in high-risk areas
- Need to be ready to start working within 48 hours
Why Choose Krucial Staffing:
If you’re up for a challenge and want access to short-term, high-demand assignments, Krucial Staffing is a good fit.
3.17. NuWest Healthcare
Overview:
NuWest Healthcare prides itself on the quick deployment of travel nurses, typically within 72 hours.
Pros:
- Smaller feel and personal touch
- Competitive pay rates
Cons:
- Smaller number of available assignments
- Mainly staffs facilities in Florida, Montana, and California
Why Choose NuWest Healthcare:
NuWest is ideal if you’re looking to work in Florida, Montana, or California and are ready for quick deployment.
3.18. TotalMed Staffing
Overview:
TotalMed Staffing provides travel nurses to healthcare facilities and helps nurses find local jobs.
Pros:
- Large network and robust online job board
- Day one benefits
- Credentialing and paperwork assistance
- Educational and professional support
Cons:
- Some nurses have complained about a long onboarding process
Why Choose TotalMed Staffing:
TotalMed Staffing is a great option if you’re looking for a wide variety of assignments and comprehensive support.
3.19. Maxim Healthcare Staffing
Overview:
Maxim Healthcare Staffing has been around for over three decades and staffs for home healthcare and wellness services in addition to travel nursing.
Pros:
- Competitive pay rates
- Placements at some of the best facilities
Cons:
- Assignments tend to be in high-stress, high-volume areas
- Slow to resolve paycheck issues in the past
Why Choose Maxim Healthcare Staffing:
Maxim is a good fit if you’re an experienced nurse comfortable in high-stress environments.
3.20. Trustaff
Overview:
Trustaff has been matching travel nurses with hospitals for over two decades and is known for its superb communication and helpful staff.
Pros:
- Superb communication and helpful staff
- Active support line
- Health insurance
- 401(k)
- Start and completion bonuses
Cons:
- Assignment length can be inconsistent
Why Choose Trustaff:
If you value clear communication and a supportive staff, Trustaff is an excellent choice.
3.21. Nomad Health
Overview:
Nomad Health boasts one of the best and most streamlined digital marketplaces for finding travel nursing assignments.
Pros:
- Streamlined digital marketplace
- Higher-end pay packages
- Weekly pay
- Licensure reimbursement
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits
Cons:
- Poor communication reported by some nurses
- Part of a larger platform, so may get lost in the shuffle
Why Choose Nomad Health:
Nomad Health is ideal if you value a streamlined digital experience and higher pay packages.
4. Finding The Highest Paying Travel Nursing Agency
There is no single “highest paying” travel nursing agency. Pay rates depend on factors like location, specialty, and demand. To maximize your earnings:
- Research High-Demand Locations: Consider states with high needs and higher cost of living.
- Specialize: Advanced certifications and specialized skills command higher pay.
- Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate your pay package.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with industry trends and demand.
Factor | Impact on Pay |
---|---|
Location | Higher pay in high-demand and high cost-of-living areas |
Specialty | Specialized skills and certifications increase pay |
Demand | High-demand specialties and locations pay more |
Negotiation | Negotiating skills can increase your pay package |
5. How SIXT.VN Can Help You Plan Your Travel Nursing Adventure
At SIXT.VN, we understand the challenges travel nurses face when planning their assignments. From finding the right accommodation to navigating new cities, we’re here to make your journey seamless.
Our Services Include:
- Airport Transfers: Reliable and comfortable transportation to and from the airport.
- Hotel Bookings: Wide range of options to fit your budget and preferences.
- City Tours: Explore your new city with our curated tour packages.
- Local Transportation: Car rental and ride-sharing options for convenient travel.
- 24/7 Support: Dedicated support team available to assist you at any time.
Benefits of Using SIXT.VN:
- Convenience: All your travel needs in one place.
- Reliability: Trusted services for peace of mind.
- Affordability: Competitive pricing to fit your budget.
- Support: Dedicated team to assist you every step of the way.
6. Tips for a Successful Travel Nursing Assignment
To make the most of your travel nursing assignment, consider these tips:
- Plan Ahead: Research your destination and prepare for cultural differences.
- Stay Organized: Keep track of your paperwork and important documents.
- Network: Connect with other travel nurses and healthcare professionals.
- Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize your physical and mental health.
- Explore: Take time to experience your new surroundings.
7. Essential Documents and Certifications for Travel Nursing
Before embarking on a travel nursing assignment, ensure you have the necessary documents and certifications:
- Nursing License: Valid and up-to-date nursing license in the relevant state.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification: Current BLS certification.
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Certification: Current ACLS certification (if required).
- Passport: Valid passport (if traveling internationally).
- Immunization Records: Complete immunization records.
8. Understanding Travel Nursing Contracts
Travel nursing contracts outline the terms of your assignment. Pay close attention to:
- Pay Rate: Understand your hourly wage, overtime rate, and any bonuses.
- Housing Stipend: Know the amount and eligibility requirements for housing stipends.
- Cancellation Policy: Be aware of the terms if the contract is canceled.
- Guaranteed Hours: Confirm the number of guaranteed hours per week.
- Benefits: Review your health insurance, retirement plan, and other benefits.
9. Overcoming Challenges in Travel Nursing
Travel nursing can be rewarding but also challenging. Common obstacles include:
- Homesickness: Missing family and friends.
- Burnout: Long hours and demanding work environments.
- Culture Shock: Adjusting to new cultures and environments.
- Licensing Issues: Navigating different state licensing requirements.
- Housing Problems: Finding suitable and affordable accommodation.
To overcome these challenges, stay connected with loved ones, prioritize self-care, and seek support from your agency and fellow travel nurses.
10. Travel Nursing and Mental Health
Maintaining good mental health is crucial for travel nurses. Long hours, demanding work environments, and being away from home can take a toll. Prioritize self-care by:
- Getting Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
- Eating Healthy: Maintain a balanced diet.
- Exercising Regularly: Engage in physical activity to reduce stress.
- Practicing Mindfulness: Use meditation and relaxation techniques.
- Seeking Support: Connect with friends, family, and mental health professionals.
FAQ About Travel Nursing
Q1: What is the typical length of a travel nursing assignment?
The typical length of a travel nursing assignment is 13 weeks, but this can vary depending on the facility and the needs of the healthcare organization. Some assignments may be as short as 8 weeks, while others can be extended for longer periods.
Q2: How do travel nurses find housing?
Travel nurses find housing through various methods. Many agencies offer housing assistance or stipends that allow nurses to find their own accommodation. Options include furnished apartments, extended-stay hotels, and short-term rentals. Some nurses also use online platforms to find housing.
Q3: Are travel nurses eligible for benefits?
Yes, travel nurses are typically eligible for benefits, though the specifics can vary by agency. Common benefits include health insurance, dental and vision coverage, 401(k) retirement plans, and life insurance. Some agencies also offer additional perks like travel reimbursements, sign-on bonuses, and continuing education opportunities.
Q4: What qualifications are needed to become a travel nurse?
To become a travel nurse, you generally need:
- A valid Registered Nurse (RN) license.
- At least one year of clinical experience in your specialty.
- Current certifications such as BLS and ACLS.
- Good standing with your state’s Board of Nursing.
Q5: How does travel nursing pay work?
Travel nursing pay consists of a combination of taxable wages and non-taxable stipends. Taxable wages cover your hourly rate, while stipends are provided for housing, meals, and incidentals. These stipends are tax-free as long as you maintain a permanent tax home and are working temporarily away from that home.
Q6: Can travel nurses bring their families with them on assignment?
Yes, many travel nurses bring their families with them on assignment. This requires careful planning, including finding suitable housing, schools, and childcare. Some agencies offer family-friendly resources and support to make the transition easier.
Q7: What is a permanent tax home, and why is it important?
A permanent tax home is your primary residence where you maintain significant financial ties, such as owning property, having family, or regularly returning to. Maintaining a permanent tax home is crucial for receiving tax-free stipends while travel nursing.
Q8: How do I choose the right travel nursing agency?
Choosing the right travel nursing agency involves several steps:
- Researching the agency’s reputation.
- Checking reviews and ratings from other travel nurses.
- Evaluating the support and resources they offer.
- Comparing pay packages and benefits.
- Speaking with recruiters to assess their communication and responsiveness.
Q9: What are the best states for travel nursing assignments?
The best states for travel nursing assignments often depend on your specialty and preferences. Popular states include California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Massachusetts, as they typically have high demand and competitive pay rates.
Q10: How can SIXT.VN assist with my travel nursing assignment?
SIXT.VN can assist with your travel nursing assignment by providing reliable and convenient travel services. We offer airport transfers, hotel bookings, city tours, and local transportation options to make your experience seamless and stress-free. Our 24/7 support ensures you have assistance whenever you need it.
Ready to embark on your travel nursing adventure? Contact SIXT.VN today to learn more about our services and how we can help you make the most of your assignment.
Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN
Let SIXT.VN be your trusted partner in making your travel nursing dreams a reality.