Take a snapshot of nurse travelers and you’ll find they represent a range of ages; inspired and motivated by many factors, from the desire to see the country to making as much money as possible.

“While it’s difficult to typecast a nurse traveler according to age, there are some motivating factors that seem to consistently strike travelers in the different generations,” says Onward Healthcare Corporate Trainer and Recruiter Cassandra Lindquist. 

“The newer nurse travelers, in their 20s or early 30s, are often more location driven. They might start off with an assignment that’s close to home and get their feet wet, or they might be enticed by traveling to far-away dream destinations. Some newer travelers may also be looking for that ‘resume builder’ location at a teaching or specialty hospital,” Lindquist adds. “The more experienced nurse traveler, who might be in her or his 40s, 50s and older, often has the experience, but might be looking to build up the retirement fund or pay for the kids’ college. We have lots of travelers who have left jobs they’ve had for decades because they’ve hit financial walls and want to finally earn a higher salary.”

But money isn’t always the motivator. Like their younger counterparts, baby boomers and their elders (known at the veteran, silent or traditionalist generation) get an insatiable desire to hit the road. Especially seasoned nurses who have been at the same jobs and places for too long have a tendency to want to get out and see how the rest of the country lives.

Hearing the tick of the clock motivated Tammy R., RN, BSN, Onward Traveler, to become a career nurse traveler with Onward Healthcare three years ago. At 41, this Mississippi Gulf Coast native has crossed the U.S. in her RV to travel assignments from the Northeast to California.

“The main reason that I got into travel, was not for money. I got into it because I don’t want to wait until I’m my mother’s age to retire and see the country,” Tammi says.

There is no one age or age group in which nurses are most likely to travel; rather, travelers represent an incredible mix of ages, according to Lindquist.

“Nurses, in general, are lured by the potential for adventure and money making that travel offers,” Lindquist says. “Even retired nurses are getting into travel. It helps them stay professionally stimulated. Many travel with their mates and visit friends and family members. It’s a great way to stay connected at any age.”

By Lisette Hilton, Featured Contributor