One of the biggest advantages of being a travel nurse is the ability to travel the country and see different areas that you might otherwise not have had the chance to– while getting paid very competitive wages.
However, if you live in a warmer climate like in the south of the U.S., traveling somewhere north in winter might be a bit of a shock. Here at Ventura MedStaff, we make sure to take care of our travelers as much as possible, which is why we have compiled this list of things to consider if you if are taking a travel contract somewhere cold this winter.
Why Travel Somewhere Cold?
If you are a person who prefers the heat, you may wonder why anyone would want to travel to the cold and snow. However, there are a lot of people who love the winter and all the cold-weather activities that you can’t do any other time of year.
There are numerous places where you can experience winter sports such as snowboarding or skiing. If you have that urge in you, perhaps travel nursing is your ticket to some of the best skiing areas such as Colorado or Utah.
How to Prepare for a Cold Weather Assignment?
Once you’ve decided where you want to go, your next step should be to learn more about that location. Think about the weather there. Does it snow often and heavily? Is there wind? All of this information will be crucial in your packing plan – which you should make next.
Consider investing in proper boots that will keep you warm, as well as a winter coat that protects both from the cold and the wind. And if you plan to go skiing or snowboarding, don’t forget extra accessories like gloves, earmuffs, or a hat.
Decide How You Will Arrive at Your Destination
This is an important step, especially if you are going to a snowy area. If you are not skilled at driving on frozen roads and your car is not winter-ready, make sure to prepare it properly. For instance, having tire chains might be necessary on snowy roads.
If you don’t feel confident about driving in such conditions, perhaps you should seek an alternative way of getting to your destination. Flying is typically the fastest and safest way to travel, but you may need to use some other mode of transportation, such as a ride share or a bus. Make sure to plan ahead to avoid unpleasant surprises and expensive last-minute solutions.
How to Deal with the Cold
Once you’re actually in your new home, it’s paramount to learn how to cope with the cold. If you’re not used to it, here are a few tips:
- Make sure to find the right ratio of indoor and outdoor activities and to wear proper clothes when outdoors.
- Wearing multiple layers is one of the best ways to get warm and stay warm. This will help to trap heat between the layers and keep you warmer. Wear a base layer made of moisture-wicking material to keep your skin dry.
- Protect your extremities: Your hands, feet, and head are particularly susceptible to the cold. Wear gloves, warm socks, and a hat to keep these areas warm.
Going to explore different areas and climates is at the core of what being a travel nurse is all about. Seeing how this winter seems to be a particularly snowy one, make sure you’re ready for the cold if you happen to go to a cold area. If you are ready to start your journey as a traveling nurse, reach out to us, and one of our recruiters will help set you up for success.
