Ocean view of Kauai

Planning Ahead for Your Winter Travel Assignment

Sep 27, 2023

One benefit of being a healthcare traveler is being able to travel to desirable locations during the colder months. Planning ahead is crucial for traveling medical professionals who want to experience some warmth or hit the slopes, during their winter travel assignment. Our team is committed to assisting you in finding the perfect destination that aligns with your preferences and requirements.

We recommend that you get in touch with a recruiter at the beginning of the fall. This is a busy time of year for healthcare travel and desirable winter travel destinations. The sooner you get the ball rolling, the better chances you have at finalizing your contract, shifts, housing, and transportation.

Why You Should Start Planning Now for Your Winter Travel Assignment

There are many reasons to start planning now for your winter travel assignment.

  1. You can increase your chances of getting the desired location and assignment. Many popular destinations or high-demand positions fill up quickly, so early planning ensures you have more options.
  2. Finding suitable housing in a new location can be challenging, especially if you have specific requirements. You will have more time to research and secure your arrangements, ensuring a comfortable stay during your assignment.
  3. Travel nursing involves various financial aspects, such as budgeting, tax implications, and reimbursement policies. You will be able to better understand the financial aspects of your assignment and make informed decisions.
  4. Planning now allows you to research the facility where you'll be working and the local area. Being well-prepared can help reduce stress and improve your overall experience. Especially if you are dealing with a new climate.
  5. If you have family or personal commitments during the holiday season, it will give you time to make the necessary arrangements. If you are not able to spend the holiday's at home, we recommend making plans for yourself to avoid those holiday blues

Snowbirds travel to warmer climates during the late fall and winter periods. This creates a higher demand in hospitals and other facilities. Travel assignments can be competitive, especially for popular winter travel destinations or high-paying assignments. You can position yourself as a more attractive candidate to agencies and healthcare facilities when you plan ahead.

It is important to note that these hot locations fill up fast. If you know you want to be there after the holidays, this is the time to get ahead. Lots of travelers try and get the hot locations for January, but they can be difficult to get during those upcoming weeks because most travelers from the fall will extend for the winter months.

How to Start Planning for Your Winter Travel Assignment

Being a healthcare traveler can be an exciting career, but it does take a lot of planning. When working with a GetMed recruiter being prepared will help you secure a travel assignment in a timely manner. Having a flexible attitude is great, but having clear plans increases the likelihood of meeting your expectations for your winter getaway.

Obtaining and verifying licenses, certifications, and other credentials can take time. You can avoid delays by having it all completed in advance.

  • Have your medical vaccination records handy.
  • Make sure your certifications are up to date.
  • If traveling with pets, make sure their vaccinations are up to date.
  • Build a resume that outlines your past work experience.
  • Identify references who have supervised your work within the past two years.
  • Complete a skills checklist on our website.

It is important you have a reliable car that you can depend on throughout the entirety of your assignment. Ensure that you service your car so it can safely take you from A to B. Especially when thinking about what weather conditions you will be experiencing.

You will also want to secure housing for your stay. You will have to decide whether you want to find housing through the agency or on your own through a stipend. A Traveler's Guide to Housing is a great resource to use if you are new to healthcare travel.

Best Winter Travel Destinations for Healthcare Travelers

Is it time for you to visit somewhere warm during the winter months? Here are some places where you could start your next travel assignment and avoid the winter weather.

  • California
  • Hawaii
  • Texas
  • Arizona
  • Florida

If you are looking to embrace the winter weather, you might find value in looking into these states. As flu season approaches, hospitals and facilities will see a rise in patient numbers and a greater need for healthcare professionals.

  • Maine
  • New York
  • Massachusetts
  • Colorado
  • Illinois
  • Minnesota

If you are interested in available jobs in these areas, check out our current jobs.

To conclude, proactive planning for your travel assignment is essential to secure optimal opportunities, adequately prepare yourself, and guarantee a prosperous and gratifying experience as a healthcare traveler.

At GetMed, we know healthcare travelers have different needs. We will provide personalized help to ensure every travel assignment is successful. Our mission is to provide personalized unwavering service to our candidates and clients.

To learn more about starting your next travel assignment, visit our website. We'll assist you throughout your entire journey from start to finish.