Summer Travel Tips: The Ultimate Guide for a Smooth and Successful Assignment

by | Jun 27, 2025 | Blog, Travel Tips

Summer Travel Tips: The Ultimate Guide for a Smooth and Successful Assignment

Summer is one of the busiest and most exciting times for traveling medical professionals. With increased patient volumes, staff vacations, and seasonal health concerns, hospitals and clinics across the country are eager to bring in skilled healthcare travelers. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or gearing up for your first summer assignment, this guide will help you make the most of your experience—on and off the clock.

1. Start Now—Flexibility Is Your Superpower

While the ideal time to secure a summer travel nurse contract is 2–3 months in advance, it’s not too late to land a rewarding assignment.

Many facilities are still filling urgent, last-minute openings due to evolving staffing needs. At ARMStaffing, we can place qualified nurses and allied healthcare travelers in as little as 2 weeks—especially if your credentials are ready.

To increase your chances:

  • Stay open to a variety of locations, not just popular summer destinations.
  • Be flexible with shifts, start dates, and specialties.
  • Consider high-need roles or short-term contracts, which often come with higher pay and quicker placement.

2. Keep Credentials Current

Ensure your licenses, certifications (BLS, ACLS, etc.), and health records are up to date. Facilities often need to fill positions quickly. Having your paperwork ready allows you to be submitted and cleared faster than others still completing requirements.

3. Know Your Contract Inside and Out

Before signing, carefully review the terms of your travel contract. Clarify anything that’s unclear with your recruiter.

Double-check for:

  • Overtime and holiday pay rates
  • Shift schedules and float expectations
  • Cancellation and extension policies
  • Guaranteed hours
  • Approved Requested Time Off (RTO) in writing

4. Find Comfortable, Safe Housing

Where you stay can make or break your assignment experience. Start your housing search early and use trusted platforms like:

  • Furnished Finder: A top choice among travel nurses, offering fully furnished rentals near hospitals.
  • Airbnb & Vrbo: Flexible monthly rentals (ask for extended stay discounts).
  • Facebook Groups: Join travel nurse housing communities to find vetted listings.
  • Extended Stay Hotels: Great for short-term assignments or while you secure long-term housing.

Pro Tips:

  • Verify listings with photos or virtual tours.
  • Map your commute to the facility.
  • Ask about parking, utilities, Wi-Fi, and pet policies.

5. Pack Smart for Summer

Keep your packing light, practical, and assignment-ready.

Essentials:

  • Lightweight scrubs & comfortable shoes
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, reusable water bottle
  • Work documents and IDs

Nice-to-haves:

  • Swimsuit, hiking gear, bug spray
  • Light jacket for cool evenings or chilly hospital environments

6. Have a Transportation Plan

Your commute matters—plan ahead based on your location.

  • Driving? Get your car serviced before you hit the road.
  • Flying? Research public transportation or rental car options. Some areas may not be rideshare-friendly.

7. Explore Your New City

Make the most of your time off by discovering your new surroundings. Create a summer bucket list and set a budget for fun. Don’t forget—many attractions offer healthcare worker discounts, so always ask!

Helpful Tools:

Online Resources:

  • Eventbrite – Local events, festivals, and workshops
  • Facebook Events – Community happenings and live music
  • TripAdvisor – Top-rated attractions and hidden gems
  • Yelp – Restaurants, coffee shops, and seasonal activities

Apps to Download:

  • AllTrails – Find local hiking and biking trails
  • Roadtrippers – Plan scenic drives and roadside stops
  • MedVenture – Connect with other healthcare travelers

8. Document Your Journey

Share your travel nurse experience through photos, videos, blogs, or social media. Not only is it a fun way to remember your assignment, but it also helps build your professional brand and network with other travelers.

It’s Not Too Late to Travel This Summer

Summer is a rewarding and exciting time for healthcare travelers. With a little preparation and a flexible mindset, you can still land a fulfilling contract—even mid-season.

ARMStaffing is here to help you find the perfect fit. From last-minute placements to housing support, we’ve got your back every step of the way.

Ready to start your summer travel nurse assignment? Apply now with ARMStaffing and start your next adventure!