different travel nurse agencies

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The Best Traveling Nurse Services to Work for in 2024

The travel nursing agencies we recommend for your next short-term post

Traveling nurses often find working in different parts of the country or even the world exhilarating and fulfilling. Many agencies focus on matching registered nurses (RNs) with short-term working opportunities in various healthcare specialties and settings across the United States and internationally. Healthcare facilities in the U.S. rely on travel nurses to meet the demand for nurses, which is expected to soar by 275,000 between 2020 and 2030.

Travel nurses can gain new experiences and perspectives by exploring other healthcare systems and connecting with other providers, says Rachel Norton , BSN, RN, a clinician support manager at Vivian Health , a national travel nurse hiring marketplace.  We reviewed more than 20 agencies and studied hundreds of reviews to create this list of the best travel nursing agencies. We considered factors such as company quality, customer service scores, company reputation, wage ranges, housing options, and benefits.

• What to Know Before Speaking With a Travel Nursing Agency
• Average pay rates: Pay rates vary by agency, location, and assignment. Travel nurses often work with multiple agencies simultaneously to find the best assignments and pay rates.
• Benefits package: Ensure the agency's comprehensive benefits meet your needs. Benefits may include health coverage , dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, 401 (K), vacation time, and education reimbursement.
• Housing options: Determine if the agency provides housing or assists with finding housing.
• Reputation: Check out online reviews and ratings to understand the agency's reputation. Talking to other travel nurses who have worked with the agency is also a good way to get first-hand information.
• Specialty assignments: Agencies can help place you in an assignment that matches your specialty, interests, and skills . Some facilities accept travelers into new specialties or a float pool that covers multiple units as long as they have prior travel nursing experience. This is a bonus for those who wish to explore new areas of nursing.
• Flexibility: Agencies offer a variety of assignment lengths and locations, so you can choose an assignment that fits your lifestyle.
• Perks and discounts : Travel nursing agencies often offer free or reduced-cost continuing education courses, travel expenses, gym memberships, completion bonuses, and other perks.
• What Healthcare Providers Want You to Know
• In-demand fields: Staffing agencies report high demand for critical care, medical-surgical nurses, emergency room staff, and labor and delivery staff.
• Finding housing: Your agency will either have housing available for you or will reimburse you for your housing expenses. If you choose to secure your housing, most agencies will give you a stipend to help offset the cost of rent and utilities. Talk with your agency recruiter about your housing options and what will work best for you.
• Contract length: Some travel nursing opportunities can be as short as eight weeks, while others can last up to six months. There are often options and offers to extend assignments, too.
• Preferred experience: Most agencies require new travelers to have recent experience as a nurse—meaning you can't become a travel nurse right out of nursing school. A year or two of experience is commonly required. A qualified nurse may also need more experience to work in the intensive care unit (ICU) or another specialty area.
• You pick your location: Yes, and that's generally a benefit of the job. Some agencies work to assign candidates throughout the United States, while others place travel nurses internationally. Before deciding to work with an agency, it makes sense to find out where they place travel nurses if you have a specific placement location.
• Best Overall: Triage Staffing
• Best for Sick Pay: Aya Healthcare
• Best for Education: Travel Nurse Across America
• Best Customer Service: Axis Medical Staffing
• Best Track Record: FlexCare Medical Staffing
• Best Newcomer: Advantis Medical
• Best for Benefits: RN Network
• Best Recruiters: Host Healthcare
• Best for Recent Graduates: Fusion Medical Staff
• Best Job Board: TotalMed
• Our Top Picks

Triage Staffing

Aya Healthcare

Travel Nurse Across America

Axis Medical Staffing

FlexCare Medical Staffing

Advantis Medical

Host Healthcare

• Fusion Medical Staff
• See More (7)
• Compare Providers

Best Overall : Triage Staffing

• Pay: Hourly wage paid weekly, overtime, bonuses, per diem
• Housing: Tax-free stipend or company-secured housing for 13 weeks
• Benefits: Health coverage, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, 401(k) with company match, vacation, education reimbursement
• Contracts nationwide: Yes

Triage Staffing tops our list because it provides a higher hourly wage and more frequent bonuses than its competitors. Additionally, the agency offers extensive perks, like tuition reimbursement and 401(k) on the first day.

Contracts available in all 50 states

Insurance available on first day

Paid by direct deposit each week

Dedicated support team available 24/7

Reports of poor weekend support for billing issues

Must have 2 years experience for most positions

Triage Staffing , founded in 2006, is considered by industry professionals as one of the most well-rounded travel nurse agencies among the companies listed here and in general. The company was recognized in 2023 by Inc. Magazine and Staffing Industry Analysts (SIA).

The company, which currently has about 1,500 employees, is based in Omaha, Nebraska, and has an impressive rating on Glassdoor .

Triage Staffing specializes in helping nurses and healthcare professionals find 13-week assignments across the U.S. The company strives for transparency and "to build relationships deeper than simple business transactions." Those who are hired are paid weekly (based on an hourly wage) via direct deposit.

The benefits package includes a wage, overtime, bonuses, per diems, and a housing stipend. Triage will also help its travel nurses find housing, if that's their preference. Health insurance is provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield, and those hired get dental insurance, vacation time, and a 401(k) plan.

Best for Sick Pay : Aya Healthcare

• Pay: Hourly wage, overtime, bonuses, per diem, stipends when called off
• Housing: Tax-free stipend or company-secured housing
• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance; 401(k) with company match; sick pay; wellness and fitness programs; employee assistance programs; tuition reimbursement; loan forgiveness options

Of the many benefits Aya Healthcare offers, one makes it stand out from other agencies: providing sick pay should you become ill during an assignment. You can rest assured knowing if you get sick, Aya will support you through recovery.

Benefits include sick pay (after 90 days)

Offers local and nationwide travel assignments

Requires only 1 year of experience

Insurance coverage for you and your dependents from day 1

Complaints about communication during recruitment

Large agency size might be challenging

401k eligibility begins after 4 consecutive months of work or 1 year after hiring

Aya Healthcare is one of the most talked-about travel nursing agencies around, literally. A 2017 independent study analyzed the frequency of top travel nursing companies mentioned by users on social media sites. The study concluded Aya Healthcare is the most frequently referenced in user comments.

Aya Healthcare is also one of the only travel nursing agencies that have sick pay, which begins accruing on the first day of an assignment. Nurses can earn one hour for every 30 hours worked, but it can't be used until after at least 90 days after their start date.

In addition to its rare sick pay policy, the company boasts comprehensive benefits. Travel nurses working for Aya Healthcare can start contributing to a company-matched 401k plan after four consecutive months of work for the agency, or one year after their hiring date. It also promises to cover or reimburse nurses for the cost of licensure and help them navigate and expedite the process in the states where they are assigned. Aya Healthcare offers discounts, wellness, and nutrition plans in addition to its medical, vision, and dental benefits, which are available to nurses (and their spouses and children) from their first day with the company.

Aya Healthcare has a strong online presence, including a blog and active social media accounts on nearly every contemporary platform. Its website proudly displays several company awards and accolades, including the Joint Commission's Golden Seal of Approval. The agency has placed thousands of travel nurses and allied workers nationwide and offers a program for  travel nursing from Canada .

Best for Education : Travel Nurse Across America

• Pay: Hourly wage paid weekly, overtime, bonuses, per diem (guaranteed)
• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision coverage; liability insurance; 401(k) with company match; sick pay; travel reimbursement; free continuing education; mental health resources; employee assistance program; chaplain assistance program

Travel Nurse Across America (TNAA) offers comprehensive benefits; however, its continuing education programs are what really sets the agency apart. Thanks to a partnership with Aspen University, the agency helps you earn your BSN with tuition reimbursement upon completion.

RN to BSN tuition reimbursement

RN specialty exam/recertification reimbursements

Insurance coverage available on first day

Offers free mental health resources

Per diem guarantee

Unable to see pay rates on the site

Large agency size might feel less supportive

Travel Nurse Across America (TNAA) had the highest average score when analyzing the top 10 travel nurse agency lists across several well-known sites.

Founded in 1999 in North Little Rock, Arkansas, this company was present on three "Top 10" lists in 2019, a notable feat that speaks to its history of satisfaction. According to BluePipes, TNAA was among the top 10 travel nursing agencies, one of the biggest (in terms of company size) on its 2022 list.  

TNAA uses a full-team approach to assist travelers, with specialty staff equipped to handle a variety of needs, including housing experts and clinical leadership, This agency also offers a wide array of benefits, such as low census pay, tuition reimbursement, and paid licensure fees prior to travel. Overtime is included in the payment for any extra hours worked and in every state, paid sick leave starts to accrue from day one.

TNAA also partnered with Aspen University, so individuals can get their Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 12 months. Upon completion, TNAA will even reimburse tuition expenses. It also offers reimbursements for recertification fees to certain eligible nurses.

Best Customer Service : Axis Medical Staffing

• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision coverage; 401(k) with company match; state license reimbursement; transportation stipends; continuing education

With around-the-clock support 365 days a year, Axis Medical Staffing has one of the best customer service reputations in the industry. It offers a wide array of benefits, including healthcare coverage and company-matched 401(k) plans.

Dedicated support team available 24/7/365

Wide variety of specialty contracts

Offers company matching 401(k) with immediate vesting

Can submit questions to real travel nurses

Provides quick email responses

Pays for housing and assists in securing it

Not transparent about pay rates

Doesn't include paid sick leave in benefits

User reviews for Axis remain the highest on this list. Formed in Seattle, Washington, in 2004, Axis provides several coveted benefits, including payment of paid personalized housing options (with pet deposit costs covered by the agency), as well as immediate vesting in its company-matched 401(k) plan.

This agency regularly features a new  Traveler of the Month nurse on its blog. Additionally, the Axis website has a page dedicated to Ask an Axis Travel Nurse , which features an easy submission form where a nurse can answer all your questions.

This encouraging way of connecting can provide novice or even seasoned travelers with a trusted source in the form of a nursing peer who has traveled with this specific agency several times, instead of hosting an impersonal message board. Axis also offers a live chat feature that's easily accessible on the homepage. These features earned Axis the top spot on BluePipes Best Travel Nursing Companies list in 2022.

Axis promises reimbursements and benefits similar to other companies, but it is not immediately clear from the company's website whether it offers paid sick leave.

Best Track Record : FlexCare Medical Staffing

• Benefits: Health coverage, dental and vision coverage, 401(k) with company match, state license reimbursement, transportation stipends, meals and incidentals stipend, rental car, travel reimbursement, continuing education, license reimbursement

Boasting more than 50 industry awards, including BluePipes’s 2022 Best Travel Nursing Companies list, FlexCare Medical Staffing has a track record of exceeding expectations and fulfilling its promises to traveling nurses.

Award-winning, highly reputable agency

Single point of contact for all your needs

Outstanding benefits

Features a referral program

Have to make an account to view wages

BluePipes refers to FlexCare Medical Staffing as the "most decorated travel nursing agency of all time," with more than 1,727 reviews reported. This agency obtained a gold finish on Travel Nursing Central’s 2019 list of top travel nursing companies and has consistently placed since 2014. FlexCare has also been on the Highway Hypodermics list since 2011.

FlexCare’s website touts its  Premier Traveler Access program, offering prospective travel nurses the opportunity to unlock and view pay ranges for a wide variety of open jobs, in addition to personalized alerts via text and email. This agency explains its mission to support travelers by providing a single recruiter who is able to meet every need (termed “S1NGLEPOINT” on the website) and help simplify the entire process.

This one point of contact can advocate for the traveler, assist in searching for jobs and housing, provide a transparent and competitive salary rate, as well as ensure timely payment.

Best Newcomer : Advantis Medical

• Benefits: Health coverage, dental and vision coverage, 401(k) without company match, transportation stipends, partial license reimbursement

Advantis Medical has a nurse care team available to help you every step of the way—from setting up your profile and walking you through the onboarding process to helping you find your next assignment—making it an excellent choice for those just starting out.

Excellent reviews from its travel clinicians

Quick response times from trained care team

Has a great reputation in the industry

Site offers several communication methods

Site lacks information on benefits package

No company match for 401(k)

Founded in 2018 as a subsidiary of Advantis Global, Advantis Medical's user reviews are limited in number but are glowing regarding people's experiences with the company.

Advantis Medical recruits travel nurses and places them in top institutions across the United States. The agency offers client connections with hospitals, outpatient clinics, same-day ambulatory surgical centers, as well as skilled nursing facilities.

Advantis Medical’s specialization opportunities include placements in divisions like medical-surgical (M/S), emergency department (ED), intensive care unit (ICU), labor & delivery (L&D), and more. Its benefits include highly competitive compensation packages, direct deposit available from day one, assistance with housing options, health insurance (medical, dental, vision), and a 401(k) option.

The agency also has payment incentives for referrals. To make the process as seamless as possible, Advantis Medical has a one-minute application form which could not be any easier, especially for a traveling nurse who is always on the go.

Best for Benefits : RN Network

• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance; employee assistance program; Sanvello membership; Talkspace membership; Teladoc access; credentialing assistance; continuing education; traditional and Roth 401(k); travel reimbursement; loyalty program

RN Network provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes day-one health insurance and 401(k) options, plus additional perks like access to virtual therapy and medical care.

24/7 clinical support

Transparent about pay rate

Provides access to virtual therapy and medical care

Weekly pay via direct deposit

Completion, extension, and referral bonuses

No paid time off

Complaints of lower-paying contracts

Founded in 1998, RN Network has over two decades of experience in the travel nursing industry. Its experience shows in the company's user reviews, many of which highlight its great communication, support, and benefits.

The agency provides an impressive benefits package that includes day-one health insurance with a zero-premium option, as well as a 401(k) with company match, both traditional and Roth options. RN Network also offers access to Talkspace, Teladoc, and Sanvello's mental health app—ensuring its healthcare professionals have the mental health resources they need while on assignment.

Available contracts and pay rates are transparent on their user-friendly website, which can be a rarity in the industry. The company hires RNs, LPNs/LVNs, PCTs, and surgical techs for a variety of specialties throughout the country. Only one year of clinical experience is required, and the company offers a comprehensive onboarding program to help simplify the transition.

Best Recruiters : Host Healthcare

• Pay: Hourly wage paid weekly, plus overtime, bonuses, per diem, COVID quarantine pay
• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance; 401(k) with company match; travel reimbursement

Host Healthcare recruiters are some of the best in the business, according to clinician reviews. With exceptional customer service , the company strives to make the job hunt and placement process as smooth as possible for its candidates.

Excellent customer service

Straightforward job hunt and placement process

Offers a variety of housing options, including pet-friendly

24/7 support via multiple channels

COVID-19 quarantine pay available

Can’t view facility or pay without an account

Site lacks information on reimbursement offers

Founded in 2012, Host Healthcare is a travel healthcare staffing agency that works with some of the nation's top facilities. The company has earned multiple awards over the years, including being named one of the Top Travel Nursing Companies by BluePipes.

What sets Host Healthcare apart from other agencies are its recruiters, who are consistently praised by clinicians for their exceptional customer service. In reviews, nurses rave about their recruiters being responsive, receptive, and thorough in their onboarding and placement processes. The company also offers a variety of housing options, including pet-friendly ones, to ensure you have a comfortable place to call home while on assignment.

In addition to its comprehensive benefits package, which includes health insurance, dental, and vision coverage, Host Healthcare also offers a 401(k) with company match and COVID-19 quarantine pay. If your facility quarantines you due to possible COVID-19 exposure, the company will compensate you for the duration of your time off work.

One drawback is that the company requires users to sign up for an account before viewing facilities and estimated weekly pay . However, it hires across multiple specialties and licensure types, including nursing professionals, therapy professionals, and other allied health professionals.

Best for Recent Graduates : Fusion Medical Staff

• Pay: Hourly wage paid weekly, plus overtime, per diem, and bonuses
• Benefits: Health coverage, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, 401(k) with company match, short-term disability, travel and transportation per diem

Fusion Medical offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and transparent information about opportunities, and welcomes new graduates to sign up.

Transparent information for each job posting

Nationwide network

Attentive recruiters

Competitive pay and benefits

Open to new graduates

Per diem reimbursements may be less convenient for expenses like travel

Past complaints from LGBTQIA employees

Fusion Medical Staffing urges applicants to "choose your own adventure." With thousands of travel nursing positions across the U.S. available on its website, Fusion will definitely give you a lot to choose from.

Founded in 2009 in Omaha, Nebraska, Fusion doubled its size by 2016. The company racked up awards from Inc., People, and Staffing Industry Analysts for being among the best places to work and is rated 4.7 out of 5 on Indeed.com .

Assignments through Fusion Medical typically run 13 to 26 weeks and are available across a broad spectrum of nursing specialties. We particularly like how transparent the pay, terms, and benefits for each opportunity are on Fusion's website.

But what really makes the company stand out is its recruitment. Fusion offers 24/7 support and many of its travel nurses rave about their attentive recruiters. Fusion has a new graduate traveling medical job program recruiting nurses who have just finished training. Most travel nursing agencies require at least two years of experience, so Fusion may be a great choice if you're about to finish school and eager to see the country or aren't sure of where you want to call home yet.

Of note: Some LGBTQIA+ travelers and employees have complained of inclusivity issues and unsupportive leadership. In 2021, the company published a blog post about forming an oversight group dedicated to LGBTQIA+ inclusivity and support and alluded to its efforts to "grow" and "learn."

Best Job Board : TotalMed

• Pay: Hourly wage paid weekly, plus overtime, bonuses, and guaranteed hours
• Housing: Company-provided housing or stipend
• Benefits: Health insurance, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, 401(k) with company match, short-term disability up to 12 weeks plus up to 60% of monthly earnings

TotalMed is one of the biggest agencies in the business and has the job board to match. The company is known for making it easy for travel nurses to quickly find a new post in any state.

Large, well-connected agency with huge job board

Solid day-one benefits

Flexible housing options

Pay guaranteed

Generous short-term disability policy

Some nurses complain of long onboarding process

Pay is competitive, but perhaps not the highest of any agency

Focus on placing nurses in areas of urgent need

Few travel nursing agencies have a job board as full as TotalMed 's. The company leverages its wide network of partner hospital systems to offer nurses a plethora of assignments to choose from.

TotalMed prides itself on placing nurses and other medical workers in new postings quickly and prioritizes assigning workers to places urgently in need of additional staff. It offers a standard array of benefits, plus a pay guarantee and a generous short-term disability policy that covers up to 12 weeks of injury or illness with up to 60% of your pay.

Some travel nurses have complained of a protracted onboarding process, but once the initial paperwork is out of the way, most seem very happy with the company's efficiency and the quality of its recruiters. Its pay may not always be the highest of any agency, but travel nurses working with TotalMed still enjoy the benefit of payment guarantees and the confidence that a new job will almost always be available, and fast. TotalMed also goes a long way to smooth out the transition process by organizing and covering the cost of any licensing and certifications its travel nurses may need, as well as offering reimbursement for pesky costs like new scrubs.

Compare the Best Travel Nursing Agencies

VERYWELL Health / Design by Amelia Manley

U.S. Department of Labor. U.S. Department of Labor announces $80M funding opportunity to help train, expand, diversify nursing workforce, address shortage of nurses .

Healthcare Research & Analytics. Social listening: Evaluation of travel nurse companies: Analysis of travel nurse sentiment towards travel nurse companies .

BluePipes. Best Travel Nursing Companies 2022 .

Travel Nursing, Allied & Per Diem Jobs

Plus permanent, float pool and in-house agency jobs directly from leading healthcare systems

Katherine P., Social Worker

The largest digital platform directly connecting you with leading healthcare facilities.

Whether your goal is to explore new places, boost your resume or make an impact where you’re needed most, we’ll help you find the right match.

Featured Locations

St. Louis, MO

Atlanta, GA

Seattle, WA

New York, NY

How it Works

Interested in traveling with aya just click & go..

As America's largest travel nursing agency, and a leading allied and locums agency , we make things simple. We provide you with the opportunities, resources, technology and support you need to grow your career. Traveling with Aya is as easy as 1-2-3.

• Register now and complete your profile. Be as detailed as possible.
• Log in to search jobs, view pay packages and review facility information.
• Click “I’m Interested” to let your recruiter know.

The largest travel nursing agency and healthcare staffing company

Ranked #1 by travel nurses across the nation.

Here are some of the reasons clinicians choose Aya Healthcare.

Aya has been fabulous. Their staff is timely, professional, courteous and attentive — and their pay, benefits and locations are the best. Thanks, Aya!

Ultrasound Tech

Aya's website has been the easiest for me to use and they consistently offer more competitive pay rates than other agencies for the same position.

I'm a single mom and was able to take care of my family on my own, which is awesome. I've also gained some great experiences and wonderful friends.

Privacy Overview

active travelers

Trusted hospitals, average weekly pay, (36-40hrs/week).

We’re Nurse First, a travel nurse agency. Founded by a former travel nurse, we know what it’s like to be a nurse in an unfamiliar hospital. That’s why we want to give nurses everything they need on travel nurse assignments to set themselves up for success to be happy in their life and careers.

FEATURED TRAVEL NURSING JOBS

$2,366.52 / week, cardiac stepdown, rn, hilo medical center, shift: variable (discussed in interview), start date: july 11, 2022, jacksonville, fl, $3,228.60 / week, cath lab, rn, baptist medical center - jacksonville, shift: 7a-5p, start date: june 20, 2022, top travel nurse locations.

View our top cities for travel nurses in the U.S. based on job availability.

Top Travel Nurse Specialities

Search through our list of top travel nurse specialties.

Our Advocates are on your side, every step of the way.

Instead of recruiters, we work with Advocates to make sure you’re placed in the best work environment possible. Our travel nurse job board discloses all of the information you need to make sure you’re making the right decision for you. No matter what, we’re here to help.

Travel Nurse Testimonials

Ángel santos, rn, ms/tele.

My experience with the company has been amazing. This is my first assignment, and from day one, Nicole Jackson and Daisy Soto were excellent. They guided me through the process and were always aware that I had the necessary tools to complete the requirements to get started with my assignment. 

In my case, I applied for an assignment, and unfortunately, it was not available. Still, Nicole was constantly in contact with me, and she immediately offered me other contracts that met what I wanted. That is the reason I am here now. When I applied with other companies, I was never told when an assignment was unavailable and had to go back to the beginning again. For this reason, I recommend Nurse First Travel Agency to start your new adventure!

Shannon, RN Endoscopy

Nurse First is a great medical staffing agency. My nurse advocate, Lauren, is always timely with responses to my questions. She checks in with me regularly but isn't bothersome or pushy like some recruiters can be. Cheryl, in payroll, is also wonderful and has been so helpful throughout my contract. I appreciate that I have been paid on time every week, and there have been no discrepancies with my pay that I had to address. 

The job board for Nurse First breaks down the location, hours, and pay of available assignments, and their rates are incredibly competitive with top agencies. The company is transparent with their rates before you even show interest in a job, and you simply won't get that with some of the other agencies out there. I am very glad I found a position through Nurse First, and I look forward to continuing to work with the company in the future.

Rachel Masterson, CST

I’ve been with Nurse First for two assignments now. My first assignment with Nurse First was a six-month-long contract with Health Trust. I was skeptical about taking such a different assignment at first. I was told I would be a market float for the whole West division of HCA hospitals. Of course, in the be beginning, we had some ups and downs. But my recruiter, Lauren, worked vigorously to resolve these issues. She made it such a wonderful experience that I signed another six-month contract with this company right after. I would recommend Nurse First to my friends and colleagues because working with them is more like working with family. I feel like a person and not a number. What I enjoy most about this company is its transparency and commitment to its workers. Lauren is always prompt when getting back to me, and she always keeps it real. I can’t imagine going back and working with any other company.

Eli White, Surgical Tech

If you are looking for a company that will be straightforward, transparent, and honest with you, then you should check out Nurse First. I have been in healthcare for 20-plus years, and I can uniquely say that Nurse First is probably the most transparent company out there; it is something I’ve always looked for in an agency. The application process was relatively smooth, and while I always consider my options, I will probably stick with Nurse First for my next contract. 

Alexa Coyne, RN

I had the pleasure of working with Nurse First to obtain my travel contract in NC. I have worked with many agencies, and this one was by far the easiest and fastest at helping me get the job I wanted. 

My recruiter, Nicole, was friendly, easy to get ahold of, and kept an open line of communication throughout the whole process. Although there is no bargaining power, the pay seems to be the best—and there’s no hassle. The onboarding process was easy, and everyone I worked with was able to communicate easily through text and at hours that even a night shifter can appreciate. I am glad I was able to work with Nurse First!

Olivia Hale, RN, BSN

I've used a different agency for each of my travel contracts thus far. It can be exhausting having recruiters constantly pressure you to choose their company, but I never felt that way with Nurse First. Their onboarding process was simple, and any issues/questions I've had have been dealt with in a timely, professional manner. What also appealed to me about working with Nurse First was the transparency they provided about pay packages—and the overall take-home amount was much higher than other agencies I've worked with.

Chauner Jones, BSN

My experience with Nurse First has been a great one. I thank my traveler advocate, Trey Ringer, for assisting me with finding my next assignment. Trey has the best personality, responds quickly, and gets the job done. He gets five stars in communication, customer service, support, responsiveness, integrity, and work ethic from me. I look forward to a long-lasting work relationship with Trey and Nurse First.

Kendralyn Grant

I just wanted to take a moment to highlight one of Nurse First’s employees, Trey, the absolute best. Thanks for being awesome. He is kind, informative, knowledgeable, and, most importantly, I never felt like I was being brushed off. As I recall calling him the first time, I look back and feel like he’s been my recruiter for years. I’ve texted him several times, and not once have I had to wait on a response. In this travel nursing life, I’ve spoken to a few individuals—and he is by far the most professional one. I’m so happy to begin this journey with Nurse First, and mostly I’m glad I was lucky enough that Trey answered the day I first contacted Nurse First—and that I gained him as a recruiter. I’m very big on expressing my gratitude, and he definitely deserves kudos. I pray the world delivers a few more like him in my path in this lifetime. 

Trey rocks—and I mean that wholeheartedly.

Kathleen Tillman, RN

I have traveled for seven years and have used several different travel companies. I have repeatedly tried to find one that meets all my needs, but I always have had to compromise in one area or another. Nurse First finally ticked all the boxes on my needs list... 

(1) lots of jobs in my specialty (2) variety of locations all around the country (3) pay details listed on the website (4) day one insurance (5) a company representative that doesn't harass me like a used car salesman.

Most importantly, my paychecks are always on time and correct and include reimbursements as promised. My traveler advocate Lauren is always available and was helpful and understanding when I missed some work due to my sister passing away. Every member of the company that I have dealt with has been fantastic and responds to any questions I have quickly and professionally. It's been a great experience with Nurse First so far, and I expect to continue with them for the foreseeable future.

Melissa Marsh, RN, BSN

They have a great staff that you get to know over time and see that they value the work that you’re doing. The Nurse First team is easy to communicate with and has been able to work with me to secure jobs that fit my special needs.

Setting up a profile with them is easy! They feature the usual application skills checklist and certifications upload, but they also have a profile specialist that makes yours look perfect when you finally decide to hit submit to your desired assignment.

Ready to get started? Let’s chat!

Contact information..

• 919.887.6100

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Comparing Travel Nursing Agencies: How to Find the Best Company

Table of Contents

Are you considering starting a travel healthcare career as a nurse, but don't know where to get started? Maybe you're having trouble comparing traveling nurse agencies. Below, we review how travel nursing agencies can help you with travel nursing placement and explore what to look for when comparing travel nurse agencies.

How Travel Nurse Agencies Help You

Traveling nurse agencies help you search and land travel nursing placement assignments . Whether you are first starting your search or looking for your next travel nursing placement, your travel nurse recruiter is there to guide you every step of the way. Your traveling nursing agency is the liaison between you and the healthcare facility where you are looking to land your travel healthcare job. Besides searching for travel nursing jobs, they will also help you find travel nurse housing, and advocate for a higher base rate, or average base salary.

Importance of Travel Nurse Agencies Today

As we mentioned before, your travel nursing agency is the link between you and the healthcare facility regarding your travel nursing placement. Travel nurses are a vital part of the healthcare system, as many times they help fill gaps in patient care. When hospitals experience a high influx of patients or higher acuity in patients, this is where travel nurses are able to help. They help hospitals decrease nurse-to-patient ratios, which leads to a better quality of care and patient satisfaction. It also helps staff nurses combat burnout with the demands of higher patient acuity or assignments.

What to Look for in a Travel Nurse Agency

There are several things you should look for in a traveling nursing agency.

First, your traveling nursing agency should offer exceptional customer service right from the start. As a rule of thumb, if you apply or show interest in any travel nursing assignments, a recruiter should contact you within 24 hours (as long as it doesn't fall over a weekend). With tons of top travel nursing opportunities out there, travel nurse companies are there to help you land your next travel healthcare job.

Next, look for a traveling nursing agency that has a robust job board that offers lots of travel nursing jobs. You want to have plenty to choose from! Their job board should be transparent with job descriptions, travel nursing pay, and the hourly wage paid weekly. This way, you can compare which travel nurse agency offers competitive pay rates or has a higher base rate or lower base rate. If their site lacks information, then you will need to get as many details as possible when you speak to a recruiter .

Also, make sure the agency you are interested in has assignments throughout the country. You don't want to be limited on assignment choices! If you decide you want to go with a smaller agency, keep in mind that you may have to switch companies for future assignments if they don't have many available.

Travel nursing companies oftentimes have great benefits to offer their travel nurses. Before receiving and signing your contract, your travel nurse recruiter should be reviewing these with you and what their travel nurse agency has to offer. Many travel nurse companies also offer 24 hour customer support, an employee assistance program, hourly wage paid weekly, and other benefits.

About Health Carousel Travel Nursing

When it comes to travel nurse agencies, Health Carousel stands head and shoulders above the competition. But don't just take our word for it.

Kelli, one of our more seasoned travelers, was gracious enough to take the time to score 45 different travel nursing companies. With over eight years of experience in domestic and international nursing, Kelli has a clear understanding of what factors are in a nurse’s best interest. Kelli started working with her recruiter, Cindi Greene, in April of 2014, and we were thrilled when Cindi informed us that we made the top 5!

Kelli began her research by accessing the 300 plus rated travel nursing agencies on Highway Hypodermics and Travel Nursing Central. From that point, she reviewed about 113 different rated travel nursing agencies to ultimately compile her list of 45. This list was based on the following criteria:

1. Benefits Provided by the Agency

2. The Agency’s Website Design and Navigability

3. The Number of Job Posting

4. Job Descriptions (Average Travel Nursing Salary/Dollar Range)

The scoring system is based on a 20 possible-point scale. One of the largest healthcare staffing companies, Health Carousel Travel Nursing (HCTN) was able to earn 16 out of 20 points. The highlights that contributed to our score include our ability to provide first-day insurance coverage, weekly direct deposit, vacation pay, 401k match, industry experience, and much more!

After providing this information to Cindi, Kelly stated, “It gives you the recruiter a perspective from a traveler as we look at comparing and contrasting different agencies in our quest to find the best!” We could not agree more with this statement, and we welcome such honest feedback from our travelers. Our team is constantly striving to provide our travelers with the best possible experience and gaining this valuable insight will further propel us toward that goal.

Besides the great benefits and nationwide travel assignments, HCTN offers competitive pay rates, exceptional customer service, an employee assistance program, and 24 hour customer support. They also have resources for travel nurses, such as their travel nursing blog and the full circle of support page. The full circle of support offers education on using their resources to further their careers and maximize their benefits.

Are you interested in pursuing a travel healthcare career? HCTN, a top-rated travel nursing agency, has a robust job board with plenty of top travel nursing opportunities to choose from. With our new On Demand app, you can easily search, compare, and apply for nationwide travel assignments. You can even upload your licenses and documents!

Frequently Asked Questions

Now let's review some frequently asked questions of travel nurses.

How do I compare travel nursing companies?

As we mentioned before, take into consideration what is important to you for your future assignment. Keeping in mind that your priorities can change with each different travel nursing placement. For example, maybe the location you are traveling to is one you've really wanted to mark off your bucket list, so you are willing to accept a lower average base pay.

Which travel nursing agency pays the most?

There is no one or many travel nurse agency that pays the most or has a higher base rate than others. When comparing travel assignments, you need to weigh factors, such as average base pay, overtime and guaranteed hours, and meal and housing stipends. Remember, just because a travel nurse agency offers a lower base rate, you can make up for this with higher stipends or travel reimbursements.

Why are travel nurses getting cancelled?

This is a myth, and top travel nursing companies are not routinely canceling travel nursing assignments. If the census is low or demand has changed for a particular healthcare facility, then they will cancel as a last resort. Typically, your recruiter and healthcare facility will work to resolve this issue before it arises. But, it is important to ask before signing your travel nursing contract to see if there is a cancellation clause and the details.

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The Best Travel Nursing Agencies

The 2021 guide to find the best travel nursing agencies.

Nowadays, registered nurses can take advantage of the opportunity to work and travel on different opportunities in the U.S. and worldwide. This can be done through travel nursing, which allows you to work in different healthcare specialties and settings. Many registered nurses that are interested in finding appealing challenges and exploration opportunities become travel nurses.

To start working in this field, you will need to state your credentials, your prior experience, and your desired placement areas with the recruiters at a staffing agency. This information is crucial compared to the requirements of the conventional hospital system, as it lets you be placed wherever you desire. When you document your information, the recruiter considers everything and grants consideration to suitable special assignments.

Based on the availability of the desired assignments, you can be allowed to travel within your niche. However, there are some instances where your path might cross into different spaces, and consideration will be given based on your desire to travel. Additionally, you will be able to take up posts that you’re qualified for.

Non-specialized assignments are usually available within the surgical field, and these can be taken up by nurses that are qualified within another field. But some of these non-specialized assignments will pay considerably less than those requiring specialized skills or specific credentials. To gain access to these opportunities, registered nurses can apply through travel nursing agencies.

But to find the right agency, you want to look for those with a good reputation. Established agencies are usually better suited as they provide the best opportunities because they are legitimate. This post will learn everything you need to know when choosing the best travel nursing agencies. We’ll also share the best travel nursing agencies for 2021.

Figure out what you need before you start looking for a travel nursing company When looking for the best travel nursing company, you first need to know what your needs are.

The following are some of the questions you should consider asking yourself when finding an agency:

• Will, you need health insurance? ·
• Do you prefer finding your own housing, or would you want your employer to do it for you?
• Do you want the company to contribute to your retirement?
• What places are you looking to travel to?
• How exactly do you plan on getting there?
• Would you work per diem?
• What to Look for When Choosing Travel Nursing Agencies?

The following are a few tips about the basics:

It’s generally much easier to have the agency set up housing on your behalf. This way, you will at least be sure that you get a safe, furnished place that’s already paid for and is close to where you’re working.

And in case you encounter any problems, all you need to do is contact the company, and it will be handled. Many nurses choose to take the housing stipend and find housing on their own instead. The housing stipend you get will depend on the city you live in and tend to be a bit more than the amount of rent you end up paying.

This is a great way to make some extra cash tax-free. The main downside is that it will be harder to find short-term housing that’s furnished. Plus, many landlords will require you to have a deposit, and if you need to extend the contract, you won’t be certain that the house hasn’t been rented out to another person.

If you’re new to the city, it cannot be easy to establish which neighborhoods are safe .

Also, note that it could be difficult to find housing if you’re traveling with your pet. In many cases, travel nurse agencies usually make prior arrangements for housing that allow pets. As a recommendation, if you intend to bounce from city to city, it’s best to utilize your agency for housing or stay with a person you know and take the stipend.

If you’re looking to stay in a new city and have familiarized yourself with its neighborhoods, it’s worth it to find your own housing.

Most travel nurse agencies usually offer health and dental insurance.

And with the enactment of the Affordable Care Act, it’s wise to research whether or not it’s cost-effective to opt for your agency’s healthcare plan or to buy one on your own through healthcare.org.

The key benefit of buying your own plan is that if you plan to switch from one agency to another, you won’t have to change your insurance.

Several smaller travel nurse agencies will provide a healthcare stipend if you don’t take up their health insurance to enable you to buy one on your own.

And as far as retirement goes, you can open your own Roth IRA and not contribute to a 401(k) if you really don’t know how long you’re going to be traveling.

Some companies can contribute to your 401(k) from day 1, while others will have you wait for as long as a year.

TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENTS

As you consult with your potential travel nurse agency, ensure that you ask them about their reimbursements for travel.

Travel costs are the amount of money it typically takes to get from one assignment to the next or from your “tax home” to your assignment location. In many cases, this is negotiable, especially when there’s a huge need in one state that happens to be across the country.

The average reimbursement is about $500. The agencies will pay you half on your first paycheck and will disburse the other half once you complete the assignment.

You get the option to either drive or fly to your next destination.

Important Concerns And Question You Should Raise Or Ask

Keep in mind that not all pay packages or benefits are created equal. It’s important to find an agency that offers pay packages, benefits, and housing specific to your needs.

WHAT DESTINATION THE AGENCY SERVES THE WHOLE POINT OF TRAVEL NURSING IS TRAVELING.

It’s therefore important to find an agency that serves the cities you want to travel to.

Some companies will claim they have contracts nationwide, but that may not be exactly the case.

If you have a specific city you want to explore or a specific hospital you’d like to travel to as it would look well on your resume, ensure that your potential agency has a contract at the location.

This is important, especially for those looking to travel to places like Alaska and Hawaii.

HOW DOES THE AGENCY BREAK DOWN ITS PAY PACKAGES?

Does the agency pay a higher base rate with lower non-taxable travel reimbursement, or does it offer a lower base rate with higher non-taxable reimbursements?

Higher base rates are better when you plan to go with company housing or buying a home soon.

If you prefer finding your own housing, a higher housing stipend might be the best way to go in case of a lower base rate.

WHAT HOUSING OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE?

Most companies usually provide a one-bedroom furnished apartment for a period of 13 weeks.

This usually doesn’t include linen, dishes, a T.V., a washer, and dryer, or a vacuum cleaner.

For those that don’t like lugging their luggage along when traveling around or paying out-of-pocket for rent and these kinds of stuff, it may be wise to ask if the agency offers any of these necessities at no extra cost.

WHAT KIND OF BENEFITS DO YOU GET?

Most companies will provide health and dental benefits, along with a retirement package.

In case you consider these benefits important, then finding an agency that provides good benefits is essential.

However, you probably won’t care much about these benefits for those who live on the edge with no health benefits.

In that case, ask the agency if they would be willing to pay a higher base rate for not taking the benefits.

WHAT KINDS OF EXTRA WORK-RELATED COSTS DO THEY REIMBURSE YOU FOR?

Some examples of extra work-related costs include Certifications, bus passes, continuing education, licensing fees, required immunizations, and uniforms.

Some companies usually have a Continuing Education (CEU) database that’s free for all their employees.

This helps to cut costs in states that require a given number to acquire or maintain a license.

These extra costs could add up over time, and it’s nice to work with an agency that looks out for your pocketbook.

THE AGENCY’S CANCELED AND MISSED SHIFT POLICIES

A missed shift refers to shifts where you called in sick, while a canceled shift is when they canceled for you for low census.

The hospital itself will mostly determine how the agency handles this, and the details will be included in your contract.

This is important because if you don’t work in travel nursing, you won’t get paid. In some cases, you might even have to reimburse the agency for housing costs. In many contracts, there are written clauses that allow you to “miss” a given number of shifts before you get penalized.

The contract may also outline the number of shifts that the hospital can cancel you for, which is usually once for each pay period. In such a case, the company won’t have you reimburse them for your housing costs.

SOME OTHER QUESTIONS YOU MIGHT WANT TO ASK INCLUDE: 

• How much will health insurance cost you?
• What will be the travel reimbursement amount?
• How often will you get paid?
• How soon can you start contributing to your 401K?
• If you don’t opt for their health insurance, will they provide a healthcare stipend?
• Will they provide a paid-time-off?
• Do they give bonuses for extended assignments?
• Do they have any bonuses available?
• Can the company contract per diem work?

What Are The Top Travel Nurses Agencies?

The following is a list of some of the best travel nursing companies to consider: all of these offer basics like benefits, housing, travel reimbursement, 24-hour customer support, and staffing in all 50 states.

Triage Staffing is one of the best companies on the list as it offers a little bit of everything. The company specializes in helping nurses and other healthcare professionals to find 13-week assignments all across the U.S. The agency strives for transparency and building relationships that “are deeper than business transactions.”

Triage pays weekly via direct deposit. The pay comes as a benefits package that includes overtime, wage, per diems, bonuses, and a housing stipend. They provide health insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield, and you also get vacation time, dental insurance, and a 401(k) plan.

2. RN Network

At RN Network, you can completely customize your pay and benefits package, though compensation will largely depend on your qualifications, geographical location, and gig details. Once employed, you will enjoy 401(k) contributions, travel reimbursement, referral bonuses, assignment completion bonuses, and generous overtime pay.

Additionally, the agency also offers day-one health, vision, and dental insurance, along with free continuing education courses, credentialing assistance, life insurance, and access to a 24/7 Teladoc telehealth platform for personal health needs.

As an RN Network Nurse, you can choose to use their housing concierge service or take a housing stipend to find living arrangements on your own.

3. Trustaff

The company was established in 2002, and it provides thousands of jobs all around the country for different specialties. They also offer benefits starting at $23 a week, licensure reimbursement, and 24/7 clinical support.

Trustaff has often appeared among the top healthcare staffing lists for quite some time and for a good reason. They are a respected industry leader for 18 years and offer some of the best benefits available.

Trustaff also holds one of the highest retention rates of all agencies owing to their emphasis on creating lasting relationships with their nurses.

With Trustaff, you will benefit from having one of the highest salaries in the travel nursing industry, at about 2-% to 30% more than other agencies.

4. Aureus Medical Group

The Aureus Medical Group stands out as one of the best agencies for new nurses. This is thanks to their medical mentoring and student outreach programs.

The agency can pair students and new graduates with mentors and employment counselors who previously traveled to be well aware of the ins and outs of the career.

This goes a long way in easing the anxiety and stress of graduating nursing school, especially for those who want to get into travel nursing right off the bat.

Aureus offers opportunities in various specialties, from surgical and medical to the cath lab. The pay will depend on qualifications, location, and the experience needed for every position.

It’s worth noting that while Aureus generally receives favorable reviews, several Glassdoor and Indeed reviews report a lack of support and communication struggles from recruiters.

5. Aya Healthcare

This is one of the largest travel agencies in the country. It offers both temporary assignments and permanent placements with hard-to-beat benefits.

If you’re looking to specialize in crisis assignments, you will find a wide range of open jobs on Aya, and you can even see the pay ranges when you create an account online.

The agency provides everything you would need as a prospective travel nurse., including a housing stipend or pet-friendly company housing, life, medical, vision, and dental insurance, expedited licensure, 401(k) matches, and carefully matched assignments to suit your needs and goals.

Axis Medical Staffing was established in 2003 in Seattle, Washington. It touts several coveted benefits, such as immediate vesting with their company-matched 401(k) plan and payment of paid personalized housing with things like pet deposit costs being covered by the agency.

The company has amassed a great reputation for taking good care of its employees. It even provides a tool on its website that allows potential employees to interact with traveling nurses and ask questions about their experience.

This way, new employees can be certain that they will get the experience they are looking for before they start working for the agency.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, it is always up to the prospective travel nurse to choose whether to commit to an agency, contract, or travel assignment. Nonetheless, some flexibility can be useful in this niche, as assignments in a requested city or specific specialty might not always be available.

All in all, for an enjoyable travel nursing experience, it’s essential to find a travel nursing agency that suits your needs and work with a recruiter who puts your best interests at heart. Keep in mind that there’s extensive paperwork that needs to be completed to enter into the profession.

As such, making a good decision fast will mean less paperwork, and who wouldn’t appreciate less paperwork?

The best company for you is out there; we hope we’ve helped you in your journey to find them!

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The 20 Best Travel Nursing Agencies for 2023

Travel Everywhere as a Nurse

The best travel nursing agencies for many travel nurses are the ones with the highest pay and generous per diem that also offer moving resources. If you are interested in the field of travel nursing , you can look forward to attractive compensation rates and the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your travel nurse skills are in very high demand. Many healthcare facilities employ these nurses to fill their nurse staffing needs. No matter where you choose to go to school and where you intend or hope to work, you can rest assured that your nursing skills will be in high demand.

Choosing the Best Travel Nurse Agency

Does working with a travel nursing agency sound good? Well, we have made it easy for you to find the best healthcare staffing company on list of the Best Travel Nursing Agencies to work for. These top travel nursing organizations are the best-paying travel nurse agencies, and they treat their staff nurses the best. We have looked at the top travel nurse agencies to work for and rated them for things like best sick pay, best for education, best customer service, best track record, best for newcomers, and best overall for healthcare professionals.

Naturally, none of them will be a perfect fit for everyone. You will have to choose the best travel nursing agency for yourself. After reviewing our list of the top 20 best-paying travel nursing agencies and best all-around agencies and still can’t decide which is the best agency for travel nursing for you – get in touch with our team. We’ll help you find the best travel nurse agency for your career needs.

1. Aya Healthcare

Aya Healthcare has a robust online presence with a blog and active social media accounts on almost every social media platform. This travel nursing agency has pay rates that depend on the cost of living in the locations where their travel nurses work. This is not uncommon, but you should check the pay rates before you sign up for an assignment and catch your flight.

Aya Healthcare offers some of the best sick time payments of any of the travel nursing companies on our list. And in the healthcare industry, sick time pay is no laughing matter. This gives Aya a high rank in our list of the best travel nurse agencies to work for.

More: Aya Healthcare 

2. Ventura Medstaff

Ventura Medstaff has an average score well above 90%, and that’s impressive. They have glowing reviews from many of the travel nurses who work for them, and they are known for being very supportive. Ventura possibly has the most cumulative experience in their management staff compared to other traveling nursing agencies. The travel nursing company has over a century of collective experience!

This travel nursing agency has four departments for different healthcare professionals. They include LPN, Cath Lab, Therapy, and International. That makes it much easier to know what you’re applying for and more likely to fit in once you get there. It also helps ensure that the right nurses get sent to the right travel nursing jobs, which can be more of a problem than you might expect!

More: Ventura Medstaff

3. FlexCare Medical Staffing

If a track record of success matters to you, and it should, then FlexCare Medical Staffing agency is well in the running for our top pick. Founded in 2006, this travel nursing agency is the most decorated traveling nursing company of them all.

That means if you choose to work with FlexCare Medical Staffing agency, you can look forward to the distinction of working with one of the most celebrated and award-winning traveling nurse agencies out there. They provide a list of active alerts to help keep employees informed. They are also known for their transparent per diem and salary policies, and competitive pay rates for travel nurses.

More: FlexCare Medical Staffing

4. Health Carousel Travel Nursing

Yet another regular suspect on best-of lists, Health Carousel Travel Nursing, is another excellent travel nursing agency. It has been on all of the most prominent lists since 2016. Since that’s based mostly on nurses’ reviews, that means something. Having been founded in 2004, they have developed a track record for taking good care of the nurses who work for them.

This travel nursing agency also has a reputation for relatively strict hiring practices. But for high-quality travel nurses, that’s not a bad thing. Health Carousel Travel Nursing also enjoys some of the highest and most consistent patient reviews. After all, that’s really what it’s all about.

More: Health Carousel Travel Nursing

5. Fusion Medical Staffing

Fusion Medical Staffing received more than 243 reviews in 2020 alone, increasing its aggregate score to just over 93%. This travel nursing agency specializes in Long Term Care, Cath Lab, Therapy Lab, and Radiology. That’s more specialties than most healthcare staffing companies, which can be intimidating.

But in the end, it means better cross-training opportunities and higher employability rates for you and your peers. They launched their Cardipiulminary division in 2019 and their home health division in 2020. The fact that they are expanding can put pressure on nurses. But it can also mean more opportunities and better job security for those who are willing to expand into different roles. Fusion is also known for its inclusive culture. It participates in disability fundraisers, LGBTQ+ pride events, and more.

More: Fusion Medical Staffing

6. Triage Staffing

Triage Staffing is something of a jack of all trades in the traveling nursing agency category. That is, they offer almost every feature you could ask for or expect from a nursing agency. Needless to say, while they do everything, they don’t do everything perfectly.

They are widely considered to be among the most well-rounded agencies around. In addition, the agency specializes in helping travel nurses find 13-week assignments anywhere in the United States. Based in the centrally located state of Nebraska, Triage manages between 51 and 100 employees. So, when their nurse roll call is short, their management performance will be at its peak.

The Triage Staffing pay packages and benefits include a day one 401(k), housing stipend, and health insurance with Blue Cross Blue Shield. Vision and dental insurance are covered with MetLife.

More: Triage Staffing

7. AB Staffing

AB Staffing has been getting glowing reviews over the last couple of years. They too have expanded rapidly, so they are doing a good job sending the right nurses to the right jobs. That, in turn, means they are sending highly qualified travel nurses who perform well and get high customer satisfaction rates.

Their aggregate customer and employee rating comes from FaceBook, Glassdoor, and Google reviews. Their ratings have improved simultaneously as they have expanded into the private market, which is impressive. Plus, their ratings have improved on all three social media platforms.

Nurses who work with this travel nursing company also have many perks.

• 24 7 clinical staffing specialists
• Professional housing assistance to simplify your journey
• health coverage with Medical, Dental and Vision health insurance
• 401(k) and Flex Spending available
• Paid vacation time upon eligibility
• Credentialing assistance before, during and after you work with us
• travel reimbursement and Untaxed per diem
• Referral bonuses
• WEEKLY Direct Deposit

More: AB Staffing

8. Axis Medical Staffing

Founded in 2003 in Seattle, Washington, Axis Medical Staffing has to adhere to some of the industry’s most stringent regulatory compliance requirements. For traveling nurses, that can be good at times and sometimes not.

Axis really shines in its attractive benefits packages for travel nurses. Key specs pay the company offers are 401 K retirement plans, health insurance, housing benefits, and generously covered pet deposits. They have a pretty exciting program of incentivizing good employee conduct with ample rewards for their employee of the month program and others. Axis is also known for being very communicative, ensuring traveling nurses will not be left out of the loop.

More: click here for more on Axis Medical Staffing

10 Best Nursing Schools in Seattle

9. Host Healthcare

This traveling nursing agency has the highest score on several review websites, particularly the ones with the largest number of agency reviews. There’s no doubt about it,  Host Healthcare  has been growing in size, scope, and popularity over the last year. But even before this growth spurt, Host Healthcare has enjoyed a glowing reputation for treating its traveling nurses very well, ensuring they have everything they need to do a great job. They even offer their traveling nurses the expert aid of travel experience specialists whose job is to make nurses comfortable. Our only question is, why are you still here and not signing up at Host?

More: Host Healthcare

10. Fastaff Travel Nursing

Fastaff Travel Nursing gets high marks for paying well, paying on time, and ethically handling payroll. That’s important in a field rife with problems related to staff tracking, administrative complexities, and inconsistencies in corporate culture.

Employees praise it for growth opportunities, good work-life balance, and a sense of camaraderie. They have complained about assignments that are hard to fill, and it looks like mismatches are more common here than at other high-ranking travel nurse agencies. But overall, they get high marks for treating nurses well and for patient service.

More: Fastaff  Travel Nursing

11. Gifted Healthcare

100% owned and operated by nurses, Gifted Healthcare is unique in this agency category. As you would expect, the treatment of its employees has been reported as overwhelmingly positive by the traveling nurses it employs.

Created in 2006, this fairly new company is dedicated to the proposition of promoting quality healthcare by treating its employees well. They don’t pay in the top 80% of companies, but they tend to send nurses to locations where the cost of living is lower, which is both reasonable and common at the end of the day.

More: Gifted Healthcare

12. Advantis Medical

This relative newcomer to the traveling nursing agency business, Advantis Medical, has taken the opportunity to learn from the mistakes of other agencies. Still, having been founded in 2018, they have a few refinements to make. But based on their track record, it would not be unreasonable to hope they will improve where they need to. Advantis Global is their parent company and one of the nation’s leading staffing agencies for IT.

Advantis is known for placing nurses into top-tier healthcare institutions. Their expectations are high, but so are their rewards. Traveling nurses can expect to be under more scrutiny than regular nurses, but this means you will have more chances to impress- and that’s a good thing.

More: Advantis Medical

13. Health Carousel Travel Nursing

Former brands Tailored Healthcare Staffing, NEXT Travel Nursing, and Medical Staffing Options united to become Health Carousel Travel Nursing in April 2022. This combination of resources makes it easier for travel nurses to live and work the way they want.

Health Carousel Travel Nursing offers an excellent benefits package. This company supports your health, wealth, career, and life! Traveling nurses at HCTN receive excellent pay, bonuses, and per diem. Medical insurance is through United Healthcare and nurses receive Nationwide coverage from MetLife for dental and vision coverage. Additionally, HCTN provides basic group life insurance and short-term and long-term disability through MetLife. So, if you are looking for great benefits, check out Health Carousel, where they treat their traveling employees fair and equitably. Over the past few months, their scores have improved on Glassdoor, HH, and TNC. They took an honorable mention from HH.

14. Travel Nurse Across America

Of all the regular visitors to travel nursing agency top ten lists, Travel Nurse Across America has the highest average score. If you think about it briefly, that’s a pretty impressive distinction. This company in North Little Rock, Arkansas, started in 1999.

While they may not be the best, they are among the best and are more consistent than agencies that regularly outrank them. In other words, with Travel Nurse, you know what you can expect, and you’ll know where you stand. Travel Nurse Across America expects its nurses to know at least a little about every aspect of nursing – which makes sense since you will be traveling to different assignments. But don’t worry. They are good at helping nurses fill in skill gaps. TNAA offers its travel nurses a 12-month program through Aspen University to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

More: Travel Nurse Across America

15. MedPro Healthcare

Sadly, this traveling nursing agency is not as well reviewed as the ones above it. They get their highest scores in pay and benefits, but they have shown poorly in job security, advancement, management, and culture.

Overall, more reviewers gave MedPro Healthcare good reviews than bad ones, but they still don’t seem to stack up against most others on our list. They are not the worst company out there, especially since they seem to do well in employee compensation. But we do hope to see them improve in the future.

More: MedPro Healthcare

16. Aequor Healthcare

Yet another high-scoring traveling nursing agency Aequor, formerly United Staffing Solutions, remains in the low 90s in their rating marks, which is not bad.

Most of their employees report being pleased with their experience, and their highest ratings are in work-life balance. Their lowest ratings are in job security and advancement, which is frightening. But all in all, well-qualified nurses tend to do well with Aequor.

More: Aequor Healthcare

17. Cariant Health Partners

Yet another very high-ranking agency, Cariant Health Partners, gets an average of four and a half out of five stars on Indeed and Glassdoor. The positive reviews far out-pace the negative ones, and their best ratings are in the category of pay and benefits. So, you could do a lot worse. Their lowest ratings are in job security and advancement at 3.9, which is not abysmal.

All in all, for the lowest rating category, that’s pretty high, which could mean their pay and advancement numbers are relatively stable. Their second-highest rating category is in management, which is unusual. If their employees are happy with the management, they are almost certainly doing something right.

Nurses who work 30 hours per week or more qualify for insurance benefits. In addition, they stay active for 30 days in between contracts. Below are additional benefits Carint offers.

• Medical Dental Vision insurance
• 401k with company match
• Basic Life Insurance and AD&D
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional Liability Insurance Coverage

More: Cariant Health Partners

18. TotalMed Staffing

In our browser search for this company, we saw “ TotalMed Staffing scam ” in the suggested results, which is never a good sign. However, their scores on Indeed and Glassdoor are acceptable but not great.

They get a solid 3.5 out of five on Indeed and about a 3.6 on Glassdoor. Most of their reviews are positive, and their best scoring category is in culture. Their lowest-scoring category is in job security and advancement. So it would seem that TotalMed Staffing might be an okay place to start but not the best place to end up.

More: TotalMed Staffing

19. Titan Medical Group

While most reviews for Titan Medical are positive, COVID-19 has hit Titan hard. Some of the highest-ranking reviews on sites like Indeed have highlighted problems with placement and management as the pandemic has strained resources.

However, Titan has been in the game for a long time, so it’s fair to say they are still worth a try. They get their highest work-life balance scores, which makes the poor reviews seem petty.

More: Titan Medical

20. RN Network

RN Network has more than two decades of experience in the travel nursing industry. The company hires RNs and LPNs for various specialties nationwide. Its user reviews highlight excellent communication, support, and benefits. In addition, the company offers a comprehensive onboarding program for its travel nurses.

This agency provides a comprehensive benefits package. It includes day one health insurance with a zero-premium option and 24/7 access to mental health resources. RN Network also offers a 401(k) with company match.

More: RN Network

Why Be a Travel Nurse?

For some aspiring nurses, just getting a nursing job may not be enough. Some nurses want to travel and see strange, new, and exotic locations. Others want to  go to the most needy places, as a crisis travel nurse . A nurse staffing company finds placements for nurses and allied health professionals at various healthcare facilities.

We have good news for you if you fit any of those descriptions. Traveling nurses must master additional skills, make additional sacrifices, and also can cope with different pressures compared to ordinary nurses. There are a great many nursing schools that offer specialized training and certification for nurses who won’t be satisfied staying in one location working at one facility.

Honorable Mentions

Many companies didn’t make our list. So, if you did not find a company listed above, check out one of our honorable mentions.

• AMN Healthcare
• Atlas Medstaff
• Aureus Medical Group
• CHG Healthcare Services
• Medical Solutions
• Jackson Nursing
• Krucial Staffing
• MAS Medical Staffing
• Maxium Healthcare
• Medical Edge Recruitment, LLC
• Mellenia Medical Staffing
• Nightingale Nursing
• Nomad Health
• Tailored Healthcare Staffing
• Travel Nursing Central
• Trinity Healthcare Staffing 
• Trusted Health

What to Look for in Travel Nursing Agencies

For the most enjoyable travel nursing experience, finding the best travel nursing company is important. When choosing a travel nurse agency, there are some key points to consider. Some pay better than others, or just differently. Furthermore, some travel nursing companies support their employees more than others. For example, a company that provides day one benefits is usually a great place to work!

A Tax-free stipend or company-secured housing Health insurance, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) with company match, licensure reimbursement, and recertification fees may be grouped into one big ball of benefits and compensation. So you may have to research on your own to compare apples to apples . A great way to start is to make a Pros Cons list of what you would like to have and work from there.

What Travel Assignment Destinations Does the Agency Offer?

If you want to travel, finding an agency serving the area you want to go to is essential! Research the travel nurse assignments for each agency to ensure they offer the travel assignment you want. You can find travel assignments in your specialty and narrow your search for jobs by location.

How are Pay Packages Broken Down?

Compensation packages usually consist of a base rate or salary and non-taxable reimbursements. Additionally, you should ask about overtime pay, per diem, holiday pay, and if there are bonuses for extending assignments. Also, ask how often you get paid and if any referral bonuses are available. A strong compensation package indicates the company cares about its employees!

What Housing Options do they Offer?

Travel nursing companies typically provide either travel nurse housing or a housing stipend. However, housing benefits need additional research because each location’s rental market differs. Some larger companies have housing experts on their specialty staff who assist health professionals with housing during the onboarding process.

What are the Benefits for Travel Nurses?

Typical benefits include health insurance (healthcare coverage can include medical and dental insurance), life insurance, paid sick leave, and a 401 K with a company match. In addition, you may want to know if your health benefits have mental health resources and also find out when the health coverage begins. Some companies also offer an employee assistance program and a chaplain assistance program. Also, look for a company that assigns you a point of contact with 24-hour customer support.

What Reimbursements do they Offer for Travel Nurses?

Some companies also offer reimbursements for work-related expenses. Also, look for companies that have a referral program. Below are some of the ones to ask about.

• travel reimbursement and transportation stipends
• education reimbursement or tuition reimbursement
• state license reimbursement for licensure fees
• liability insurance reimbursement if you need to carry it

Do They Have a Job Board?

A travel nurse job board is important because it allows nurses to explore short-term and long-term travel nursing job opportunities. It also allows employers to find nurses with the right skills and experience quickly and easily. Additionally, a travel nurse job board allows nurses to expand their skills and experience and explore different locations and cultures. It also allows them to find a travel nurse assignment for their needs.

The Top Agencies

Travel nursing agencies are an increasingly popular option for healthcare professionals exploring new places and finding great job opportunities. These agencies provide staff members with housing, health coverage, license reimbursement, and per diem services to help make their travel experience more enjoyable. They also provide support services such as customer service, mental health services, and 24/7 clinical support.

Staffing industry analysts have identified travel nursing agencies as one of the fastest-growing segments of the healthcare industry. Furthermore, a New York publishing family estimated that the high volume of travel nurses in the industry is expected to continue to rise. When considering working with a travel nursing agency, it’s important to understand the pros and cons. On the one hand, these agencies provide a great opportunity to explore new places and receive benefits such as housing and healthcare coverage.

On the other hand, these agencies require specialized exams for staff members and can be difficult to navigate if you’re unfamiliar with the industry. When choosing the best travel nursing company for your needs, it’s important to consider factors such as customer support, specialty exam requirements, and license reimbursement. Additionally, day one rights and 24/7 clinical support are also important to consider when finding the best company for you. Ultimately, the decision is up to you!

What is an Online Travel Nurse Community?

An online travel nurse community is a website or online forum where travel nurses can connect with one another, exchange information and advice, and share their experiences. They provide a platform for travel nurses to network, ask questions, and find support from those in the same profession. These communities also offer resources, such as job postings and travel tips, to help travel nurses make the most of their job. Do you need someone to explain a housing stipend or give you tips on maintaining your mental health? This is where you go to ask the experts.

Joining a travel nurse community like the Gypsy Nurse provides travel nurses with numerous benefits, including access to a network of experienced travel nurses who share advice and best practices, a forum to connect with other travel nurses, access to exclusive job opportunities, the ability to access travel nurse housing, and insider tips for finding the best travel nursing locations. Additionally, the Gypsy Nurse offers its members access to various free resources, such as continuing education courses, a travel nurse blog, and a library of travel nursing resources.

Professional Resources:

• National Association of Travel Healthcare Organizations ( NATHO )
• NCBSN Nurse Licensure Guidance Tool ( NCBSN )

What Is The Best Travel Nursing Agency for You?

There is no best travel nursing agency for everyone. So, it is important to research different agencies to find the one that best meets your needs. For example, if you want to earn a degree, find a company that offers tuition reimbursement. Do you prefer a housing stipend or housing options from the company? After you weigh the pros cons you can browse job listings in travel jobs in the nursing field!

Related: 

• Top 10 Cities for Travel Nursing
• 15 Highest-Paying Travel Nursing Positions
• Top 25 Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses
• Highest Paying States For Registered Nurses
• Top 10 States in Most Need of Nurses
• 30 Most Nurse-Friendly Hospitals in the United States

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What is a Travel Nurse?

As the effects of COVID on our country’s hospital system continue to unravel, the term “travel nurse” has grown in popularity, becoming almost a household term. But what is a travel nurse really?

Travel nurses are simply nurses that fill gaps in staffing needs for hospitals and facilities across the country for specific (often short) periods of time. There are travel nurses for every specialty, and there are even managerial travel nurse positions. The staffing needs may be due to a lack of experienced nurses, an expected leave of absence like maternity leave, or seasonal population fluctuations. This is where travel nurses come in, to help bridge the staffing gap while the hospital fills the open full-time positions.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that more than 275,000 additional nurses will be needed from 2020 to 2030 , which indicates the dramatic need for nurses to fill positions. Hospitals have to fill needs quickly, which is when they turn to travel nurses.

How Does Travel Nursing Work?

Hospitals and healthcare facilities work with travel nurse staffing agencies to hire travel nurses to fill their staffing needs. To obtain a travel nurse contract, you’ll need to work with an agency. There are 340 travel nurse staffing agencies in the U.S. — 110 of which are certified through the Joint Commission . While it’s not a requirement for staffing agencies to be certified, Magnet hospitals and large academic teaching hospitals generally only work with travel nursing agencies that are. It’s important to keep that in mind if you’re looking to work at those types of facilities.

There are short-term and long-term travel nursing contracts. Typically, contracts are between 8 and 26 weeks, though the most common contracts last 13 weeks. If there’s a continued need in the hospital for your current position, they may offer to extend your initial contract. Due to the ongoing nursing shortage, more and more facilities are increasingly flexible with contracts.

Ultimately, it’s up to the travel nurse to decide if they want the stability of a long-term contract or a short-term contract in order to travel around the country more. Once a contract is signed, it becomes a legal document, and ending a contract early is rarely allowed. If you’re unsure which contract length is best for you, recruiters often suggest choosing between 10- and 13-week contracts to start. You often have the option of adjusting the duration of your contract for the next assignment or extending your current one if the staffing need is still there.

Hospitals and facilities do have the option of ending a contract early if there is no longer a need for your position. This doesn’t happen often, but if it does, you unfortunately won’t be paid through the end of your contract. Your staffing agency will work to find you another position quickly, but it’s still something to keep in mind when choosing an assignment.

How Do You Become a Travel Nurse?

1. have your rn.

First, you must be a registered nurse to become a travel nurse — there is no additional training or education required. That said, nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) are more marketable than nurses with only an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). Most Magnet hospitals and large academic teaching hospitals want travel nurses with a BSN.

2. Experience Needed

In general, travel nurses need at least one year of work experience, oftentimes two, in their specialty before accepting their first contract. Travel nurses have a short orientation time on a new unit — typically 1-3 shifts. This orientation time is to learn the unit, experience the patient population, get to know your new coworkers and review the charting system. Time is not spent on learning basic nursing care, and for this reason, nurses must have the required experience.

3. Licensure

Travel nurses must also be licensed in the state where they’re accepting a contract. Most staffing agencies assist with this process, but it could take several weeks in order to obtain a new license, so keep this in mind when choosing your assignments. This is important if you want to travel between multiple states and accept shorter-term contracts.

Pro tip: Consider obtaining an Enhanced Nursing Licensure (eNLC), commonly known to nurses as a Compact License. This is one license that works for 39 states and means you can start assignments immediately making you more desirable for contracts.

4. Choose an Agency

It’s also important to research different travel nurse staffing agencies. Every agency provides different benefits, including health, dental, tuition reimbursement, vacation and sick time, and retirement, in addition to compensation rates. Each agency also has different agreements with hospitals, so it is advantageous for the traveler to talk to multiple agencies to increase their options. Experienced travel nurses suggest keeping a spreadsheet that includes all the benefits offered for each staffing agency as well as assignment lengths, housing and location options, and a number of available travel nursing jobs. This will help you compare multiple travel nurse companies at once. Or you’ll already have some homework done when it comes time to choose your next assignment.

Consider reaching out to other travel nurses to ask about their experiences with various staffing agencies and facilities. An experienced travel nurse can provide you with information that you may not get from a recruiter and can help guide you in what questions to ask.

How Do You Find Travel Nursing Jobs?

With the rise of travel nursing positions, there has also been an increase in accessibility to travel nursing job postings. The easiest and by far most common way to sign a travel contract is through a travel nurse agency, and we partner with several of them here at travelnursing.org. With hundreds of options available, it is important to prioritize what you are seeking most out of a contract because each company can offer a slightly different package.

Finding contracts has never been easier. There are apps and websites that allow you to compare different active posts through different agencies. It’s always important to remember why some companies are offering higher packages than others, and what benefits they may or may not be including.

From personal experience, I would recommend doing your research on which companies seem to fit your desired need, and then reaching out to 3-4 of them to begin the conversations.

One great starting spot is to look at how the companies compare with others, and there is a great chart to get you started here . This way, you have options, but you are not overwhelmed with 40 recruiters trying to get your business. They can answer the most basic questions like “what is a travel nurse?” to “what is the breakdown of a given contract,” and “what travel expenses can be reimbursed?”

Advantages of Travel Nursing

1. expand your nursing skill set and build your resume.

Working as a travel nurse gives you access to hospitals all around the country that you may not have otherwise considered. Taking a contract at a top-rated hospital boosts your resume. This nursing experience may help with graduate school admission as well as earning a staff position at other prominent hospitals. Here are some resume-building facilities to consider:

• Mayo Clinic
• Mount Sinai Beth Israel
• Cleveland Clinic
• John Hopkins Hospital
• New York Presbyterian Hospital

2. Earn a higher salary and other benefits

Between the non-taxable stipends, travel reimbursements, and other monetary incentives, travel nurses typically make more money than staff nurses. If they’re in a specialty that’s in high demand or are willing to travel to less popular places, especially at certain times of the year, the potential is even greater.

3. Travel to new and exciting places

New travel nursing assignments are available across the country every day for various specialties. And contracts are short (typically only 13 weeks), so there’s time to explore multiple locations throughout the year. If you have your heart set on a specific location and it isn’t available currently, don’t fret – chances are it will be in the future. A good recruiter can also help you find assignments in your desired destinations.

4. Personal and professional flexibility

Travel nurses have the option of taking time off between contracts to see family or travel. Some experienced travel nurses take 2-3 months before starting their next assignment due to vacation, holidays, or family schedules. It’s not a requirement to work back-to-back contracts. Also, some hospitals let travel nurses pick their own shifts and schedule, but keep in mind that this isn’t always the case. Travel nurses are hired to fill a hospital’s specific needs, and flexibility isn’t always an option.

Cons of Travel Nursing

1. live far away from close family/friends.

One of the hardest parts about traveling is the distance from family. Although it is possible to take contracts that are relatively close to home or travel to locations where family or friends might live, some travel nursing jobs take you far away from any familiar people in your life. If family or close friends are a priority in your life, this would be something to consider.

2. Harder time building roots

Although many travelers find a small community of people everywhere they live, when one is on the road and moving every few months, it is a lot harder to build deeper relationships. You could end multiple contracts with 50 new friends, but very few of them might have the depth of friendship to continue past that particular contract.

3. Loneliness

Many travel nurses take contracts by themselves in brand-new cities and locations. This can be extremely isolating and lonely at times. Those first few weeks of a contract can be full of quality alone time, and time to take some solo adventures. If this sounds daunting, find some other fellow nurses to travel with or rent a room with other nurses to ensure you have more time with others.

4. Minimal control over work schedule

Since travel nurses are essentially filling in the gaps in the schedule, many times there are no options for what shifts you will be working – rather, management simply assigns you shifts and dates. Although you have the option to request days off in your initial contract negotiations, the rest of your schedule is in the hands of your department’s management.

5. Different treatment in the hospital

Just like “nurses eat their young” is slowly becoming an outdated mantra, so is the fact that travelers are given bad assignments on a unit. However, it does still happen from time to time. Even if they aren’t intentionally giving you the harder assignments, oftentimes your abilities or qualities might be overlooked due to the label of being a traveler.

Where Can Travel Nurses Go?

Travel nurse assignments are available across the country. There are assignments in large hospitals, smaller community hospitals, and outpatient centers as well as assignments in large metropolitan cities and smaller rural towns. If you’re unsure of the type of setting or where you want to work, travel nursing gives you the flexibility to try them all.

To help narrow down the options, prospective travel nurses should determine why they want to become a travel nurse. Do you want to meet new people, travel the country, and experience life? Or do you want to earn higher pay to pay off student loans, buy a house, or just increase your bank account? Understanding the why will help you determine a location and assignment that fits your needs.

For example, Hawaii currently ranks as the lowest in affordability with the highest cost of living and the least affordable housing in the country. It’s also one of the most desirable states for travel nurses, because of the beaches, outdoor activities, and endless sun. It’s great for adventure, but you likely won’t leave the islands with a larger bank account.

California , New York, Alaska and Massachusetts are also among the least affordable in the country but are popular travel nurse destinations. California and New York generally pay the highest hourly rate for travel nurses, but when the cost of living for housing, food, and other living expenses are factored in, the take-home pay may not stretch as far as it would in a more affordable location.

A 2022 U.S. News & World Report recently looked at the top ten most affordable states in the country (listed in order):

• Mississippi
• West Virginia

A Note on Travel Nurse Housing

Travel nurses have two housing options during an assignment:

• Agency-placed housing – Generally, staffing agencies will rent one-bedroom apartments for their travel nurses in close proximity to the hospital.
• Housing stipend – A non-taxable monthly payment based on the average cost of living. With this option, it’s up to the travel nurse to find appropriate housing. Most experienced travel nurses choose this option for a number of reasons. It allows travel nurses to live with a roommate and save money, find an apartment in a different area of the city, find pet-friendly housing, or rent a larger place. If the cost of housing is over the stipend amount, then it’s the travel nurse’s responsibility to cover the rest. But if the cost of housing is less than the stipend the nurse banks the extra money.

So, what is a travel nurse to do for housing? For a more in-depth look at the breakdown of housing for travel nurses, check out our travel nurse housing guide .

Is Travel Nursing Worth It?

Travel nursing is an amazing opportunity for nurses looking to experience the country, advance their careers, and earn a competitive salary. There are positions available every day throughout the country in many different specialties. Travel nursing may be overwhelming at first, but with the support of a great recruiter and staffing agency, you’ll find a contract that fits both your needs and the hospital’s.

If you aren’t committed to a given city or region, you have the flexibility for a season to be away from family, and there are no large health limitations, I cannot recommend traveling enough.

• It gives you a broader perspective on medicine.
• You get to work alongside different cultures.
• It strengthens and pushes your boundaries in different challenging situations.
• It can bring some of the most incredible humans into your life.

Travel nursing can definitely come with challenges, but the rewards are far greater. Hopefully, the next time you sit down at Thanksgiving dinner and Uncle Bob asks you “what is a travel nurse?” you can add some personal insight and a few stories.

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Whether you’re a new or seasoned travel nurse, if patient care is your utmost priority, embark on your next thrilling journey with exceptional benefits, competitive pay, and a dedicated, supportive team by your side.

With the proper support, travel nursing Can becomes the adventure of a lifetime!

Imagine exploring new places, experiencing diverse cultures, and making a meaningful impact on patient’s lives—all while advancing your nursing career. One of the most appealing aspects of travel nursing is the opportunity to work in various healthcare settings across different cities or even countries. As you move from one assignment to another, you’ll constantly encounter fresh challenges and gain invaluable experience, both personally and professionally.

While travel nursing presents exciting fun, it is also essential to have support and guidance throughout your journey. We help you navigate the intricacies of travel nursing, ensuring a seamless and rewarding experience.

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Welcome to Travel Nurses, Inc., your gateway to exciting opportunities in the world of travel nursing! We are a dedicated team of professionals committed to connecting talented nurses like you with rewarding assignments nationwide.

Join our community of passionate travel nurses and embark on an adventure that will expand your horizons and enrich your life. Contact Travel Nurses, Inc. today, and let us help you elevate your nursing career to new heights!

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AN AGENCY YOU CAN TRUST. I was a travel Dialysis RN for almost 10 years. I've worked for every dialysis travel agency you can name. It was always a game about who could negotiate the best bill rate and who would take the smallest percentage. Travel Nurses beats the competition EVERY TIME

I’m currently on my second assignment with Travel Nurses I couldn’t have picked a better agency my recruiter they are awesome at answering all my questions and helping me get the best pay packages . I appreciate the professionalism from the staff at Travel Nurses and will continue to spread the word . Great company

Very good company to work for!! Im a new traveling healthcare worker and my recruiter is nothing but awesome!! Aaron Quiboloy has been nothing but a awesome recruiter and very responsive.

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The Lowdown on Travel Nurses Being Submitted to the Same Job by Multiple Agencies

Nearly every travel nurse will consider whether or not they should work with multiple travel nursing companies to help them land their desired assignments. Should you stick with just one company or work with several? One of the potential pitfalls of working with multiple companies is the possibility of being submitted by more than one company for the same travel nursing job. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about “duplicate submissions” so you can confidently approach this issue.

Should You Work With Multiple Travel Nursing Companies?

We conducted a survey where 53% of travel nurses said they work with more than one travel nursing company. Some might be surprised the number is so high, while others might be surprised it’s so low. We’re in the latter group. We routinely  recommend working with more than one agency .

We believe travelers should work with multiple agencies for several reasons. Here are just a few:

• Increases your exposure to the job market because different travel nursing companies have access to different hospitals
• Enhances your bargaining position when you negotiate pay rates
• Ensures a higher level of service when you do it right
• Ensures that you’re able to land jobs quickly should you encounter an unforeseen issue like a contract cancellation

As you can see, there are many great reasons you should work with multiple travel nursing companies. But like most things in life, there are pitfalls to this approach. One pitfall is possibility that multiple agencies submit you for the same exact job.

What does “Submission” mean in travel nursing?

First, let’s briefly define what “submission” means in travel nursing. Many travel nurses think that they are getting “submitted” when they apply for a job on a travel nursing job board like BluePipes . This is not correct.

Find your next travel healthcare job on BluePipes!

Travel nursing agencies must have a complete “ submission profile ” in order to submit a candidate for a travel nursing job. This is because hospitals, hiring managers and Vendor Management Services will not accept a candidate for submission without a complete submission profile. A complete submission profile includes a robust resume or job application, a skills checklist and verified references at a bare minimum.

How Does A Travel Nurse Get Submitted By Multiple Agencies For The Same Job?

With that in mind, let’s take a look at the various scenarios in which multiple agencies submit a travel nurse for the same job. Knowing them will help us formulate a plan for avoiding this pitfall.

Recruiter Doesn’t Provided Name Of Hospital

First, recruiters sometimes neglect to tell travelers the name of the facility the recruiter is submitting them to. This may sound crazy to experienced travelers, who would never agree to let an agency submit them without knowing the facility’s name. However, it does happen.

Sometimes, recruiters do this purposely. The recruiter might worry that the traveler will shop around to find the job with an agency that the traveler has a better relationship with or an agency that might pay more for this particular assignment. Other times, the recruiter and traveler might forget to discuss the hospital’s name in their haste and excitement to submit their profile for what seems to be the ideal assignment in the perfect location.

The problem is that there is an excellent chance many other agencies will have access to the same job. Therefore, if the traveler and one of those agencies connect and happen to discuss the job, there is a chance that this new agency will submit the traveler a second time.

This is because it’s possible that the traveler doesn’t even consider the possibility that the two jobs are the same. Some travelers are unaware that multiple agencies work with the same hospital, so the recruiter won’t know the traveler has already been presented for a job in the same city with the same job description. It’s also possible that the second recruiter makes a convincing argument that they can figure out later whether or not it’s the same hospital; for now, they need to submit you for this hot job!

Travel Nurse Finds A Better Pay Package

Multiple submissions for the same job can also occur if a better pay package presents itself after an agency submits a travel nurse for the job. When travelers work with multiple companies or after they’ve released their contact information to multiple companies , they will undoubtedly receive calls from several agencies about jobs that meet the traveler’s job-search criteria. Commonly, these calls pertain to the same position.

Discover the ultimate travel nursing pay calculator.

When a traveler’s information is available to multiple agencies, there is potential for a recruiter to call and pitch a compensation package more favorable than the one offered by the company that has already submitted the traveler. In some cases, the second recruiter will convince the traveler to allow his company to also present the traveler. We’re not judging! Who doesn’t want more money? Plus, recruiters can be pretty persuasive.

It may surprise some to know that this can also happen in reverse. In other words, some travelers shop around for better offers on jobs for which a different agency has already submitted them. The traveler might not tell the recruiter with the better offer that another agency has already submitted the traveler for the position. Even if they do, the recruiter will most likely submit the profile if the traveler approves.

Recruiter Submits Travel Nurse Without Notification

Recruiters are always eager to submit profiles. There are two fundamental reasons for this eagerness. First, submissions are one of the key performance indicators agencies use to track and evaluate a recruiter’s job performance . Second, recruiters understand that the sooner they submit a profile, the higher the likelihood of receiving an interview and offer.

Of course, this leads to multiple agencies submitting travel nurses for the same job. In most cases, the traveler’s recruiters already know the traveler’s desired destinations and job traits. So, when a job that meets the criteria opens, the recruiters may submit first and ask questions later. Some recruiters will do this even when the traveler has asked them not to.

How To Evaluate Travel Nursing Pay

How Often Do Travel Nurses Get Submitted By Multiple Agencies For The Same Job?

As you can see, many scenarios may lead to duplicate submissions for the same job. In fact, this happens more than recruiters and agencies will let on. For example, I was a manager at a staffing firm where one of the account managers from HealthTrust, the Managed Service Provider  for  HCA hospitals , emailed a list of their “winter travel nurse needs.” The list included hundreds of jobs.

The following day, we received an email from the account manager addressed to all staffing agencies on the email list. It informed us that he had received over 1,200 submissions, and he noted that about 900 were duplicates. A whopping 65-75 percent of the profiles that agencies submitted were duplicates!

What Are The Consequences If A Travel Nurse Is Submitted By Multiple Agencies For the Same Job?

Such a high number of duplicates is most likely not the norm; however, it is undoubtedly an indication that duplicates happen often. The question then becomes, what are the consequences? It depends on the circumstances.

What Happens When There is a Vendor Management Service?

If a Vendor Management Service (VMS) is involved, there almost certainly won’t be much in the way of consequences. In case you’re unfamiliar, VMSs are essentially middle men between agencies and hospitals designed to streamline the process and help hospitals work with more agencies to fill their jobs. Estimates are that anywhere from 50-70 percent of hospitals use a VMS. You can discover more about them here .

VMSs have considerable incentives to get their clients’ jobs filled. The VMS isn’t going to reject a travel nurse just because multiple agencies submitted them. Instead, the VMS will ask the traveler which agency they want to work with and proceed from there. The VMS may even wait for the actual job offer before determining which agency the traveler prefers. The hospital will likely never know about the duplicate submission because the VMS has no reason to tell them.

What Happens When There Isn’t A VMS?

When there isn’t a VMS, the hospital works directly with agencies. As a result, the hospital will most likely recognize when multiple companies have submitted the same traveler. Different hospitals react in different ways.

The original Universal Profile and Credential Management for travelers.

Some hospitals ask the traveler which agency the traveler wants to work with during the interview. They might not even mind if the traveler doesn’t know yet. As long as the hospital finds out shortly after they offer the job to the traveler, there won’t be a problem. Meanwhile, some hospitals maintain a strict policy requiring the traveler to work with the first agency to submit the traveler. Finally, others will remove the traveler from consideration altogether.

Why would hospitals care?

Why would hospitals care about which agency the traveler wants to work with? What does it matter as long as everything resolves favorably in the end? Most often, hospitals aren’t willing to take on any extra work whatsoever. Even the conversation to determine which agency the traveler wants to work for may be too much effort in the hospital’s eyes.

In other cases, hospitals may have some distorted notion that the traveler is up to something. I have no clue what the justification for this belief is. Nor do I understand why it would even matter. Moreover, duplicate submissions are more often the agencies’ fault. However, I’ve worked with hospital representatives who have expressed this concern, so it exists.

What Is The Impact On The Travel Nurse?

As you can see, duplicate submissions have many potential consequences. However, there are only two consequences that affect the travel nurse. The first is when hospitals or VMSs have a policy requiring the traveler to work with the first agency to submit the traveler for the position. In this case, the problem may be that the traveler does not want to work with this agency, and this agency might not have the best service or pay. Second, hospitals removing travel nurses from consideration when duplicates occur is definitely a negative for travel nurses.

The good news is that neither of these scenarios happens all that often, and I think it’s fair to say that they’re pretty rare. That said, you’ll undoubtedly hear many travelers tell stories of when someone removed from consideration for a job due to duplicate submissions.

I do not doubt that such removals occur. However, I also believe that the number is slightly exaggerated, not by the travelers, of course! But by their recruiters.

Many recruiters have told travelers that a hospital removed the traveler from consideration because of duplicates when that was not the case. Why would recruiters do this?! There are two reasons.

Why recruiters say this

First, some recruiters use this to explain why a traveler didn’t get a job. Recruiters often feel obligated to provide any answer as to why one of their clients didn’t get the job. If the recruiter finds out that multiple agencies submitted the traveler, this is an easy explanation to sell.

Second, in rare cases, recruiters use this as a scare tactic to get travelers to work exclusively with them. Recruiters always prefer to be the sole source for a traveler, ensuring that they’ll be the one to get the traveler on contract and that the recruiter’s hard work pays off. Of course, none of this justifies lying to the traveler about duplicate submissions.

The good news for travelers is that most experienced recruiters don’t pull these shenanigans. Instead, it’s the rookies and folks who will undoubtedly have a short-lived career as a recruiter due to their honesty issues who most often do this. The problem is that recruiting is a high-turnover job, and travel nurses may interact with some of these folks at some point in their job search. You can view this article for more ways that travel nursing recruiters betray the trust of travel nurses .

How Can Travel Nurses Prevent Duplicate Submissions?

Now, with all that said, we don’t want to minimize this issue. There is certainly a chance that duplicate submissions negatively impact travelers. So, what can you do to reduce the chances of duplicate submissions occurring?

1) Clarify The Rules With Your Travel Nursing Recruiter

First, make it very clear to all of the recruiters you work with that they must contact you before submitting your profile for any assignment unless you have given them prior authorization. (We’ll discuss prior authorization below.) Let them know that you work with other recruiters and want to avoid duplicate submissions. Tell them you’ll fire them if they don’t respect your request. And follow through with that threat if they run afoul of your rule.

2) Be Accessible For Travel Nursing Job Opportunities

Second, respond quickly regarding job opportunities, especially during active job searches. Recruiters are telling the truth when they say it’s imperative to get swiftly submitted. You don’t want to lose that edge. So, it’s critical to be responsive regarding job opportunities.

3) Research Travel Nursing Locations In Advance

Third, always perform research in advance whenever possible. For example, if you want to take an assignment in San Francisco, California, start talking with your recruiters in advance to lay the groundwork. You’ll want to know all the hospitals your recruiters can access in that market. Then, find out the pay rates each recruiter offers at the hospitals they work with.

Free eBook: How To Negotiate Travel Nursing Pay

At that point, you could select one recruiter per hospital and give them the green light to submit your profile to a specific hospital should the ideal opportunity arise. This way, you can get your profile submitted quickly, and you stand a better chance of landing the job. The other recruiters don’t need to be informed because they should abide by your first rule – don’t submit without consent.

4) Get The Submission Details

Fourth, always request the name of the hospital before approving a submission. This way, you can ensure you don’t accidentally agree to be submitted a second time. Also, if you’re hearing about a hot job on the fly and want to shop around with all your recruiters to see who has the best rate or who might have an inside track on landing the job, then you’ll need the hospital name. This is perfectly acceptable. But remember, try to accomplish this quickly because the best jobs close quickly.

5) Keep Your Travel Nursing Recruiters Informed

Finally, let all your recruiters know when you get submitted for a job to ensure no mix-ups. This also has the added benefit of lighting a fire under their feet to find you a job!

By taking these steps, travel nurses should be able to realize all the advantages of working with multiple agencies while avoiding the pitfall of getting submitted by numerous agencies for the same job. As always, we hope you find this information helpful!

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