Life as a travel nurse can be hectic. Moving from location to location and setting up temporary headquarters often means packing lean and filling in the gaps in amenities at any provided housing. Travel nurse Kathryn Lynn Trammel advises most destinations provide the basics for living, such as a kitchen with small appliances and a furnished living area.
Discrepancies start to appear for little things like pots and pans or cooking utensils, dishes, and more personal items like linens. Beyond filling in the gaps for the most basic of requirements, other essential items are needed to make a move, particularly for an extended stay.
Kathryn Lynn Trammel’s packing list:
Essential documents
Put together a small lockbox or portfolio containing your essential documents to take from place to place. This can include either your original documents or certified copies of your birth certificate, a social security card, insurance documents, and, when needed, a passport. These items are frequently needed for identity verification or emergencies, making it important to keep them close. If you travel with copies, ensure someone you trust has access to the originals if they are required.
Surge protector
Kathryn Lynn Trammel advises that many hotel rooms and small apartments now feature more plug-ins and charging options. However, it’s still best to be prepared with a carry-along surge protector to help charge your portable devices, such as a phone, tablet, and computer. Choose a surge protector with USB charging spaces to maximize your access in cramped quarters.
Comfortable linens
Few travel nurse accommodations outside of actual hotels come with basic linens like sheets and pillowcases due to hygiene issues. However, bringing your own when possible is still a good idea to ensure you stay comfortable. Invest in a quality set of sheets in your favorite thread count, a nice comforter, and plush towels to meet your needs on the road. You can use vacuum sealer bags to maximize storage and throw the items in the dryer for a few minutes upon arrival to sort out any wrinkles.
Hobby items
During downtime, you may enjoy exploring your new temporary home, but days off will also demand rest and relaxation. Bring the tools of your favorite hobby and some basics, such as an e-reader or tablet. Also, consider packing some easy-to-manage tools for mini workouts at your personal headquarters, such as resistance bands and a yoga mat.
Personal touches
When you are away from friends and family, it can get lonely. Adding a few personal notes from home, such as a favorite throw, pillow, or some framed photos, can brighten up a temporary room or apartment and make it feel homey for your stay, according to Kathryn Lynn Trammel.
Clothing for various occasions
While scrubs are a go-to for new gigs, pack an assortment of clothing items for everyday activities and basics. Add a couple of pairs of pajamas, plenty of underwear and socks, a workout or walk-ready outfit, a few casual options, and something a bit dressier should you opt for fine dining or a night out. Include versatile shoes that can work across numerous outfits.
Laila Azzahra is a professional writer and blogger that loves to write about technology, business, entertainment, science, and health.