It’s one of the best times of the year to explore the country, and travel nurses have the opportunity to not just visit a new place, but live there and work! Ventura MedStaff’s Director of Nursing, Amiee, gives travelers the inside scoop on what are some of our high-demand assignments, hidden gems travelers shouldn’t miss out on, and why this summer is the perfect time to travel below.
What are some of the popular destinations for travel nurses this summer?
Amiee says that this is the summer to head to the mountains! She is seeing a ton of travel nurses head to these states for hiking and beautiful scenery.
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Montana
Montana is perfect for those seeking a mountain escape with the state boasting 97 mountain ranges! Not only that, but Amiee points out that Montana is home to two National Parks! We’ve had multiple travelers say that Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park are not to be missed, especially with all the animals out and about this time of year.
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South Dakota
Have you ever wanted to see Mount Rushmore in person? Amiee says this summer is your chance! There are many travel nursing opportunities in South Dakota this summer for all outdoor lovers. Besides just hiking, there are multiple rivers and lakes located in South Dakota, perfect for fishing and kayaking. Plus, between the months of July and August, South Dakota comes to life with sunflowers all down Highway 14. It’s a sight that’s not to be missed!
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Wyoming
Amiee says that Wyoming is another hot spot this summer with great travel nursing jobs available. A family-friendly haven that has many activities that can be done during your time off. Wyoming is best known for its horseback riding opportunities and the multiple dude ranches that are set up across the state. These cowboys can put on quite a show – you won’t want to miss the Cheyenne Frontier Days Festival that takes place there every summer.
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Colorado
What’s not to love about Colorado? Amiee says Colorado is a great mountain state that also has a great city life for people to enjoy. Close to cities like Aurora and Denver, you’ll be a short drive away from a cultural mecca filled with sports, shopping, art, fine dining, and more! However, no matter what city you visit, you’ll also never be far away from the serene mountains. Travel nurses in Colorado will be able to visit downtown Denver Friday after work and hike the Manitou Springs Incline Sunday morning – it’s truly the best of both worlds!
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Washington
If summertime heat isn’t your style, Amiee recommends checking out Washington State! Still an amazing state for hiking and those beautiful mountain views without the extreme temperatures that the rest of the nation gets. Explore Pike Place Market on your days off, and enjoy the gorgeous lakes, beaches, and mountains that Washington has to offer.
Are there any hidden gems travelers shouldn’t miss out on?
Idaho
Idaho Amiee says that are a ton of openings this time of year in Idaho – and travel nurses should jump at the opportunity! Idaho is a great location for fishing, hiking, and especially white water rafting! Idaho is actually well known as the “Whitewater State,” because of its many rivers with water rapids that cater to both rafting beginners and thrill seekers.
Maine
Maine is another phenomenal state to check out this summer! With fresh lobster rolls, gorgeous coastal views, and getting to wake up every day feeling like you’re on vacation – Maine is a summer destination you don’t want to miss out on. Amiee knows that finding affordable housing in Maine for the summer can be a deterrent to some travel nurses wanting to go, but affordable housing is out there! You just have to be willing to be patient to find it. Our recruiters C.A.R.E. and are always willing to help you with housing resources and offer their best tips and tricks!
New York
New YorkThere’s finally no more snow in New York, and Amiee says travel nurses should pack their bags and explore this state while they can! Upstate New York is absolutely beautiful in the summer and there are plenty of things to do in the nice weather. The Hamptons are nearby for a beachside escape, and New York City is always a great weekend trip. Plus, Lake Erie is nearby for all of your water sports adventures.
What should travelers look at when choosing their next travel nursing destination?
Location, location, location – that’s what Amiee says is the most important thing to consider when picking your next assignment. Hospitals across the country will all have generally the same vibe, and your job won’t differ much from facility to facility. However, the things to do in the area and how you get to spend your time off will vary greatly depending on where you choose to go.
Amiee says your best move is you ask yourself, what do you like to do with your time off, and what are you trying to check off your summer bucket list? Be open and honest with your recruiter about your expectations, and only interview at places you really want to go.
Why should nurses travel this summer?
Amiee says that weather-wise – summer is the best time of year to be a traveler. No matter where you go, you’ll be able to experience that state to the fullest and see everything that the location has to offer. Leave your hometown hospital politics behind and just go back to enjoying what you do! And do it all in a beautiful new city.
As a travel nurse, you have the freedom and flexibility to go wherever you want this summer – take advantage of the opportunity. When you’re ready to start applying for your summer assignment, contact us!
