Are you a travel nurse considering the option of getting an RV for your assignments? It’s been a growing trend in the last few years. While the travel nurse RV life may seem like an exciting and convenient choice, there are certain factors that you should carefully consider before making a decision of nomadic living while on a travel job.
Being a travel nurse already involves a lot of planning and adaptability, so traveling in an RV can offer a unique and flexible lifestyle that aligns well with the demands of your profession. However, it’s important to assess whether this choice is suitable for your individual circumstances and preferences.
Before you embark on the journey of purchasing an RV for your travel assignments, there are several crucial aspects that you need to take into consideration. From the practicalities of RV living to the financial implications, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision, and that’s what we’ll do today.
The Pros of RV Living as a Travel Nurse
If you’re considering RV living as a travel nurse, there are several advantages we can point to right away.
You’ll certainly have a large degree of freedom, not worry about living arrangements, and get reduced transportation costs, just to name a few before we detail some of the top benefits of using an RV on a travel nurse assignment.
Taking Your Home With You
Travel nursing can be made even more convenient and enjoyable by taking your home with you in an RV.
One of the hardest aspects of a travel nurse career is having to adjust to a new home every few weeks. But with a home on wheels, you move from one assignment to another easily without the hassle of packing and unpacking. Don’t wonder how the bed will be, what appliances to buy for your Airbnb’s kitchen, or the state of the bathroom.
Savings: Pocket More of the Housing Stipend and Save on Transportation
With an RV, not only do you enjoy the flexibility and convenience of traveling as a nurse, but you can also save more of your tax-free stipends for housing and cut down on transportation costs.
One of the biggest advantages of RV living is the potential for significant savings. Instead of spending a large portion of your housing stipend on expensive living arrangements like rentals or hotels, you can use it to cover the cost of your RV and campground fees, which can be significantly cheaper in the long run.
You might also be able to eliminate the need for daily commuting, saving you both time and money on transportation expenses if you can park your RV near your assignment location and easily travel to and from work without the hassle of traffic or long commutes.
Bring Your Family Along
RV living brings the opportunity to travel with your family or spouse, as it can be an adventure every few weeks, during the summer break, or because the entire family works and learns remotely.
Among the many benefits are:
- Create lasting memories.
- Sense of togetherness.
- Educational opportunities for your children.
- Support system while traveling.
Embrace the opportunity to travel, explore, and grow as a family.
Avoid Packing and Unpacking for Each Assignment Location
One major advantage of RV living as a travel nurse is the ability to avoid the hassle of packing and unpacking for each assignment location. As a travel nurse, your career takes you to different cities and hospitals on a regular basis. With a traditional housing setup, you’d constantly be packing and unpacking your belongings, which can be time-consuming and exhausting.
However, when you choose to live in an RV, you have the luxury of bringing your home with you wherever you go. You can simply drive your RV to your new assignment location and settle in without the need to pack or unpack. This not only saves you time and energy but also provides a sense of stability and familiarity in an otherwise constantly changing environment.
Easily Take Your Pets
When you embark on a new travel assignment, your pets can join you in the comfort of your own home on wheels.
Traveling can be stressful for animals, but with an RV, they can have a familiar and secure environment throughout your travel assignment.
It can also save costs by not paying for pet boarding or looking for only pet-friendly accommodations while giving you flexibility and convenience to explore new places with your furry friends.
Come Across Other Travel Nurses on RV Campgrounds
RV living as a travel nurse offers the unique opportunity to connect with and meet other travel nurses on RV campgrounds. Being surrounded by like-minded individuals and experienced travel nurses who share similar experiences can create a sense of community, camaraderie, and support during your assignments. You can exchange travel nurse RV tips, stories, and advice and even form lifelong friends.
Meeting others from the travel nurse community on RV campgrounds can provide valuable insights into different assignments, locations, and facilities. It allows you to expand your professional network and potentially discover new opportunities.
Moreover, having fellow RV travel nurses nearby can be helpful in case of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances. They can offer assistance or guidance when it comes to RV repairs, navigating the local area, or dealing with seasonal weather changes.
Explore New Cities and Areas Whenever You Want
City assignments with traditional housing options can sometimes be limiting because you can’t go out and explore the region or nearby suburban cities or major cities without having to rent a car or spend time on public transit. With an RV, you don’t have to worry about that, and you can:
- Expand your horizons.
- Embrace the adventure and visit a local state or national park.
- Connect with locals.
- Discover hidden treasures locally.
You get a sense of freedom that can’t be replicated with traditional housing.
Take More Jobs in Rural Areas and Explore the Outdoors
Taking more jobs in rural areas and exploring the great outdoors is one of the many benefits of living in an RV as opposed to a traditional travel nurse housing option.
As a healthcare professional who desires to serve others, the opportunity to work in rural areas allows you to make a significant impact on underserved communities.
Living in an RV also provides you with the flexibility to easily move between different locations, giving you the chance to experience the beauty of nature and explore new outdoor activities.
Whether it’s hiking through scenic trails, fishing in tranquil lakes, or simply enjoying the peace and tranquility of nature, the RV lifestyle allows you to immerse yourself in the great outdoors.
Important Considerations and Challenges of RV Life
When considering RV life as a travel nurse, there are several important considerations and challenges to keep in mind.
Choose the Right Type of RV for You
Choosing the right type of RV for your travel nurse adventures can make all the difference in your overall comfort and convenience on the road. As you embark on this exciting journey, consider the following when selecting your RV:
- Motorhomes
These all-in-one vehicles offer the convenience of mobility and easy setup, making them a popular choice for travel nurses. They come in various sizes, from Class A to Class C motorhomes, providing different levels of amenities and space. They’re more expensive to maintain but also is the one that does the most for your freedom and comfort.
- Travel Trailers
If you prefer a separate vehicle for towing, a travel trailer offers flexibility and affordability. A travel trailer comes in different sizes and layouts, allowing you to choose the one that suits your needs and preferences.
- Campers
Compact and lightweight, campers are ideal for solo travel nurses. These versatile units are easy to maneuver and provide essential amenities for a comfortable stay.
- Towables
For those who already own a vehicle, towables such as fifth wheels or pop-up campers can be attached and towed behind, giving you the freedom to explore.
Consider your budget, lifestyle, and travel preferences when selecting the right RV for your travel nurse adventures. Remember, finding the perfect fit will enhance your overall experience on the road.
Consider the Weather at any Assignment Location
As someone who desires to serve others, it’s important to be prepared for any weather conditions that may arise.
Whether you’re heading to a warm and sunny destination or a place with unpredictable weather patterns, it’s important to have the right gear and equipment to handle the elements. Make sure to pack appropriate clothing for different seasons, including rain gear and warm layers.
Additionally, consider the impact of extreme weather events such as hurricanes or snowstorms, and have a plan in place to ensure your safety. Modern RVs come with plenty of amenities to keep you warm or cool. Still, they don’t all fare well in extreme heat or freezing temps.
So don’t go and accept a travel nursing assignment in Florida or the Gulf Coast during hurricane season, for example, or go to North Dakota with your RV during mid-winter or park in rural California during the forest fire season.
Parking and RV Camping Is Not Always Available
As a travel nurse living the RV life, you may encounter the challenge of finding available parking and RV camping options. This can be especially difficult in popular destinations or during peak travel seasons.
Here are a few important considerations and challenges to keep in mind:
- Limited availability: RV parks and campgrounds may fill up quickly, especially in populated cities or states with minimal campgrounds, so planning and making reservations in advance is essential.
- Parking restrictions: Some cities and neighborhoods have restrictions on parking RVs, so be sure to familiarize yourself with local regulations during your Google search of campgrounds.
- Cost: RV camping daily rates can vary greatly depending on the location and amenities offered. It’s important to budget accordingly and factor in these additional expenses.
- Alternative options: If traditional RV parks are full, consider other options such as state or national parks, boondocking, or joining an RV club that offers additional camping options.
By considering these factors and planning ahead, you can ensure a smoother camper lifestyle experience while working as a travel nurse.
Laundry Can Be a Challenge
Finding a laundromat or suitable laundry facilities can be a challenge for travel nurses living the RV life. As a travel nurse, you understand the importance of clean clothes and bedding for your patients’ well-being. However, when you’re constantly on the move, it can be difficult to find a reliable place to do your laundry.
One option is to research and plan ahead by identifying laundromats or RV parks with laundry facilities near your assignment locations. Additionally, consider investing in a portable washing machine or hand washing items when necessary.
Don’t forget to pack laundry detergent, fabric softener, and dryer sheets to make your laundry experience more pleasant. With a little preparation and flexibility, you can overcome the challenge of finding laundry facilities while enjoying the freedom of RV life.
RV Maintenance Is Costly, and Constant
Maintaining an RV can be a costly and ongoing responsibility that requires careful attention and regular upkeep. Maintenance is often an underappreciated aspect of having a nomadic lifestyle. A successful travel nurse in the camping lifestyle will always be prepared for all RV maintenance issues.
Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Regular servicing: RVs require regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and engine checks. It’s crucial to stay on top of these tasks to ensure your RV operates smoothly.
- Closest repair facilities: RVs are prone to wear and tear, and repairs can be expensive. Budgeting for unexpected repairs and replacements is essential to avoid financial stress, and so is always knowing where the closest repair shop is. Waiting to get a hold of the manufacturer for repairs is not an option for travel nurses.
- Cleaning and sanitizing: Keeping your RV clean and sanitized is important not only for your health and well-being but also for the longevity of your RV. Regular cleaning can prevent damage and costly repairs.
- Safety inspections: Regular safety inspections are crucial to ensure the safety of you and your passengers. Checking the brakes, lights, and other essential components is vital for a safe journey.
You Can Be Limited When Exploring the City
Exploring the city while living the RV life can come with significant limitations and challenges.
As a travel nurse, it might be difficult to find a nearby campground in your temporary location, especially in busy urban areas. Limited parking spaces and restrictions may limit your options for exploring the city conveniently.
Additionally, navigating narrow streets, wasting time in city traffic, and finding suitable parking spots for a large RV can be a daunting task. While public transportation can be an alternative, it may not always be easily accessible or convenient for reaching your desired destinations.
It’s important to plan your city explorations carefully, considering factors such as parking availability, traffic congestion, and accessibility to attractions.
Questions to Ask Yourself Before Being an RV Travel Nurse
Before embarking on your journey as an RV travel nurse, there are several important questions you should ask yourself. Consider the following:
- Are you comfortable living in a small space? RVs can be cozy, but they lack the space of a traditional home.
- Can you handle the challenges of a life of travel in an RV? This lifestyle requires adaptability, as you’ll be constantly moving and navigating new environments.
- Are you self-sufficient? As an RV travel nurse, you’ll need to be resourceful and able to handle maintenance and repairs on your own.
- Do you have a support system, or are you going to be accompanied? Being away from friends and family can be tough, so having a support network in place is crucial.
- Is Your Salary Going to Be Enough? Yes, there’s a huge benefit to lowering the cost of your living expenses by avoiding rent, but there are many other costs involved with RV living that might be too much for certain assignments.
- Why are you doing this? Ask yourself the question of why you are truly doing this in the first place. Just to travel? to save lives? To save money for only a few months? The answers to “why” are crucial and ultimately help you decide whether to go and get an RV or not.
The RV Life as a Travel Nurse Can Be Exciting But Has to Be Carefully Planned
The RV life can offer travel nurses a unique and flexible way to explore different locations while maintaining a steady job.
While there are considerations and challenges to be aware of, with proper planning and preparation, this lifestyle can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.
So, if you’re ready for breathtaking views and the freedom to travel at your own pace, consider embarking on the adventure of travel nurse RV living and then contacting Stability Healthcare for your next exciting assignment.
Happy travels!
