Travel Tips

Be in the know before you go. The following are a series of travel tips from experienced healthcare travelers to help you plan for your travel assignment.

Please your travel tips and suggestions for this section. We welcome your input!

• Plan your trip - If traveling by car, use Mapquest, Google or Yahoo Maps to calculate the mileage, stops you may want to make along the way, and budget for the trip. Use one of the weather sites like weather.com to find out the forecast or use DOT.com to check out the road conditions.
  
• Plan for your free time – Learn about your new destination and the interesting sights and events that may be scheduled during your assignment.
  
• Arrive early – If possible, try to settle in at least a couple of days prior to the start of your assignment to set up your new home. Use the time to stock the frig, make a trial run to the facility during your scheduled commute time, scout the neighborhood and relax.
  
• Tap into available resources – One of the best ways to learn about a new city is to drop by both the visitors and convention bureau or touch base with a concierge at a local hotel. Check the local Chamber of Commerce web site as a possible resource for up coming calendar of events and places of interest.
  
• Furnished does not always mean complete – Typically, furnished or executive apartments will have very little or no linens available for your use. Be sure to come prepared with adequate linens for your stay. You may want to bring some personal items such as a clock-radio, family photos, your favorite comforter, small items that will help you feel more at home. If you are traveling with your pet consider bringing their food and water dishes and bedding. Your recruiter can confirm details about what is provided.
  
• Space is at a premium – Use large vacuum seal bags to pack bulky items to reduce the size significantly. The bags are reusable and a great space saver.
  
• Other house wares – Pack items such as kitchen wares in large plastic containers. The containers are durable, easy to label and easy to pack. If you have certain cooking utensils that are must haves, such as a wok or espresso machine, be sure to pack them. Specialty items such as these are not standard in a furnished apartment.
  
• Get the details on housing – Ask exactly what is provided. Certain items such as televisions, stereos, extra parking spaces, or pets may not be included in your housing arrangements. Know before you go so you can plan accordingly. If you want an “extra”, ask your recruiter. It may be available for a small deduction from your paycheck or be included as part of your housing package.
  
• If you prefer to pack light – Consider buying any necessities at a thrift store or discount store upon your arrival
  
• A laptop is a lifeline – Having a laptop computer will allow you to do online banking and bill pay, stay in touch with family and friends, and access information from the agency.
  
• Direct Deposit – Most travelers prefer direct deposit to ensure secure and timely deposit of their payroll checks into their accounts. If for some reason there is as problem with a direct deposit, it is easily resolved, unlike checks lost in the mail.
  
• Maintain a file with all your professional credentials and travel with it – Often, a hospital may ask for a particular credential while you are on assignment. It is also helpful to have all necessary documents available when looking for your next assignment.
  
• Keep records about assignment details – Write down the particulars of your assignment including the supervisor’s name and title, correct facility name, address and phone number. This information is critical to updating your travel resume and references.
  
• Safety first – When traveling, be careful to secure any valuables in the trunk of your car. Don’t tempt opportunistic thieves.
  
• What clothing to pack – Regardless of checking out the weather at your new destination, Mother Nature or energy conscious facilities can be unpredictable. It easier to dress in layers rather than single heavy items to stay comfortable. Plan on taking outfits that can be easily dressed up or down. When packing, do not fold clothing; lay it flat in the suitcase. It takes up less room and will not wrinkle as much. Pack the suitcase as tightly as possible. This also reduces wrinkles.
  
• Rain Days and Mondays – Don’t forget an umbrella
  
• Uniforms – Ask what the dress code is for your assignment including color of scrubs, footwear, and if you need to provide your own stethoscope. If you wear jackets, ask if there are any restrictions on color or patterns.
  
• Traveling with children – Try to limit each child to one or two special toys.
  
• Medical emergencies – Include detailed contact information for physicians, prescription medications and important medical history in case of an emergency. It is also a good idea to travel with basic first aid items such as disinfectant, bandages and gauze.
  
• Four legged friends – If traveling with pets, confirm that the housing arrangements are pet friendly. They too should travel with one or two favorite toys or treats. Include contact information about the vet including phone number, pet prescriptions and special medical or dietary needs in case of an emergency.
  
• Stain treatment – Purchase a small stain stick to treat stains until you can have the clothing properly laundered.
  
• Public Transportation – if traveling by train or plane, keep in mind weight restrictions on luggage and any TSA rules for toiletry articles. When flying, use a carry on with any essential items – medications, toiletries, change of clothes, under garments and a set of scrubs in case your luggage is lost or delayed.
  
• Film – If you are traveling with undeveloped film, ask that it be hand checked. Airport x-ray machines will ruin undeveloped film.
  
• Make a List- Making a list of the items you are brining makes packing easier and more efficient. And when the assignment is over that same list can be used to insure you don’t forget to repack those important take home items.