Let’s be real—one of the biggest perks of travel nursing is getting to choose your own adventure. The idea of picking where you want to live, work, and explore sounds like a dream, right? But when it comes to that very first assignment, I see a lot of new travelers get stuck.
You want the perfect destination, the ideal contract, the dream hospital.
Here’s the truth: the secret to an amazing travel nurse experience isn’t just about picking the “right” place, it’s about staying flexible and open to possibilities. Because the places you didn’t expect to fall in love with? Yeah, those are often the ones that surprise you the most.
Be Open. Be Curious. Trust the Process.
Do you have a travel bucket list? Most of us do—and that’s amazing! I always recommend keeping a running list of cities (and even specific hospitals) you’d love to work in. Share that list with your recruiter early and often. They want to help you get there eventually.
But here’s the mentor truth: your dream city may not come calling on day one.
Your first assignment is more about getting your foot in the door, building your traveler profile, and gaining experience in a new system. That dream location might come on your second or third contract—but you’ve got to start somewhere.
And the beauty of travel nursing? Thirteen weeks goes by faster than you think!
My Favorite Assignments Were Places I Didn’t Expect
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve thought, “Well, this wasn’t on my list… but I LOVE it here.”
Some of my most unforgettable experiences happened in towns I hadn’t even heard of before submitting. The locals were kind. The adventures were unreal. The unit became like a little work family. And I never would’ve chosen it on paper.
So instead of chasing one perfect destination, chase the adventure. Try something new. Be flexible. Explore a region that wasn’t even on your radar. The flexibility is the magic.
Make That First Assignment Count
Hospitals love working with travelers who already have one or two assignments under their belt. That’s why getting that first one is so important—it opens doors.
To make it a smooth landing:
- Stick with a unit and hospital size similar to where you worked as staff. Keep some familiarity while everything else is new.
- Choose a city that feels exciting but not too intimidating. If you want to stay closer to home, just be sure to ask your recruiter about tax implications for assignments near your tax home.
- Be mindful of how many hours you’re committing to. Start with the same schedule you had as staff—you can always pick up extras if you want. Don’t burn yourself out before you get to explore your new city.
One More Thing: Get That License Early
Licensure can make or break a contract. Many hospitals won’t even consider your application unless you already have a license in that state. If you’re eyeing specific regions, talk to your recruiter and your mentor (👋) about which licenses to prioritize. And if you’re in a compact state? Even better—you’ve got options right out of the gate.
Feeling Stuck on Where to Start?
If this all sounds exciting but also a little overwhelming, I get it. That’s where I come in.
In my one-on-one mentor sessions, I’ll help you:
- Map out your travel goals and bucket list
- Get strategic with your first assignment (even if it’s not your dream location)
- Understand how to stay flexible without settling
- Prep your documents, licenses, and recruiter questions
- Walk into this new chapter with confidence and clarity
Because I’ve been the overwhelmed nurse trying to figure it all out—and now I get to help others skip the confusion and jump straight into adventure.
Watch My Free Webinar
In addition to a mentorship session with me, watch my free webinar on Finding the Best Assignments, presented in partnership with TNAA. This on-demand session breaks down everything you need to know to land the best assignments. It’s not about luck—it’s about strategy, and I am sharing tips to help you thrive!
Find Your First Travel Nurse Assignment
Don’t let the pressure of finding the “perfect” first assignment keep you from starting. The magic of travel nursing is discovering new places, people, and possibilities—and half the fun is not knowing exactly where that next door will open.
Start somewhere. Say yes to the unexpected. Stay flexible. And who knows? Your favorite place on earth might be the one you never saw coming.
Need help getting started? Book a mentor session with me and let’s figure out your first move—together.
You’ve got this—and I’ve got you. 💙 Happy Travels!