The Extras
Of course, not every travel nursing job is going to have the same time frames, locations, and living conditions, so it is vital that you factor in any additional belongings that you might need to bring with you.
These might include:
- Bedding, pillows, and blankets
- Small pieces of furniture (nightstand, coffee table, chairs, etc.)
- TV
Coffee maker - Pictures of family, friends, and pets
- Books/hobby materials
Although this is a very small, concise list, travel nursing blog, The Gypsy Nurse, highlights that it is essential to make your new assignment housing feel like home, as you might be there for several months at a time.
Packing Tips and Tricks
Industry recognized authority for travel nurses, TravelNursing.com, stresses “packing light, is packing right,” and that if you are beginning your journey as an ICU travel nurse, you do not want to deal with the stressors of over packing.
What if your suitcase weighs over the limit at the airport? What if your favorite coffee maker doesn’t fit in your small coupe vehicle?
There are so many factors that go into beginning a career as an ICU travel nurse, but over packing can start you off on the wrong foot, quickly.
Once you’ve obtained everything that you need in order to begin packing, here are a few tips that I have learned through my days of traveling that I would like to share with you:
- Always roll your clothes, do not fold them.
- Pack a bag for dirty laundry.
- Keep shoes inside a plastic/disposable bag.
- Maximize your space by using packing cubes.