Much longer than a vacation and shorter than a relocation, hitting the road with everything you need for a successful 13-week travel assignment requires planning. Make sure to include these on your list of must-haves.

#1 - Go with an open mind.
A flexible attitude will get you through those unexpected and inevitable challenges that come with any adventure.

“I always tell people getting into the travel profession that while they can count on Onward to back them when they need it, they should understand that there will always be something that doesn’t go 100% the way they want it to go. The people who have that flexible mindset often have great travel experiences, despite any hurdles they may encounter,” says Onward Healthcare Corporate Trainer Cassandra Lindquist.
 
#2 - Be comfortable in your own skin.
It takes time to become part of an established nursing team and social network; so, travelers should be prepared for some alone time.

“Travelers need to be able to operate without a lot of assistance, whether it’s on the job or during their off time. Those self-starters do well, versus people who thrive on immediate attention or appreciation,” Lindquist says.

#3 - Find out what’s included and what’s not in your housing, and pack accordingly.
Housing in an extended stay type environment includes household items, such as pots, pans, forks and drinking glasses. But housing in an apartment usually does not. Ask your recruiter whether you need to bring a blender, microwave, garbage can, alarm clock, hair dryer, etc. If you don’t want to bring everything with you, consider purchasing household odds and ends and gadgets at a discount retailer when you arrive. Some travelers purchase these items when they arrive on assignment and donate them before they leave to get the tax-deduction.

(Don’t worry about furniture. Most housing comes with all the furniture you’ll need, as well as a television. But you’ll need to bring bed linens, towels, hangers …. Don’t forget the cell phone, computer and consider bringing a scanner, which allows you to send time sheets to your recruiter without the hassle of finding a local fax machine.)
 
#4 - Keep personal paperwork within reach.
Lindquist tells travelers that they should bring copies of what they’ve submitted to Onward, including medical documentation and licensure, in case a hospital requests it. It’s also good to bring other personal information, such as bank statement documentation.

#5 - Have cash on hand.
You’ll want to bring cash along, just as you would for any long vacation. Lindquist recommends that travelers consider banking with national banks, so that they have better access to their money and ATMs from most travel destinations.

#6 - Be prepared with the essentials.
Ask your recruiter about the weather conditions at your travel destination and pack clothing that will keep you appropriately warm, cool and comfortable. If you’re driving, prepare for the road. Keep up on your vehicle’s maintenance and prepare for changing weather conditions by getting all-season or all-weather tires.

Most of all, pack a good dose of excitement for your upcoming journey!

By Lisette Hilton, Featured Contributor