Are you ready for your next travel nursing assignment? But wait! What to pack? Packing right is one of the most essential part of travel nursing as it can either make or break the deal. If you don’t pack right, then your dream assignment can become stressful. Whether you are a pro at travel nursing or it is your first assignment, this blog is your go-to guide on how to pack like a pro in 2025. So, let’s see how to make Travel Nurse Packing List!
Why is a travel nurse packing list important?
Packing for an assignment is different than packing for a trip, and therefore having a solid travel nurse packing checklist is important to be organized, prepared, and comfortable. We know that travel nursing assignments are for 13 weeks and sometimes more, which means a new place, a new home, etc., for a temporary time. Not properly packing can lead to the following:
- Missed documents.
- Spending money on things you already have.
- Overpacking can be a hassle.
Therefore, it is important to have a travel nurse packing checklist to be organized and prepared all the time.
Travel nurse packing checklist 2025
Here are all the things that you will need to pack for your next travel nursing assignment.
Documents and Paperwork check list for travel nurses
One of the most essential things for travel nurses is to carry their all-important documents. The list of important documents is as follows:
- Driver’s license or passport
- Social security care
- Nursing license or compact state nursing license
- Certifications such as BLS, ACLs, etc.
- Health records
- Insurance
- Covid vaccine card
Work and Uniform Supplies Checklist
- Scrubs at least 3 to 5.
- Nursing shoes.
- Compression socks.
- Badge and ID holders.
- Stethoscope.
- Watch with second hand.
- Clipboard, pens, highlighters.
- Penlight.
- Trauma Shears.
Clothing and personal items checklist
- Weather-appropriate clothing.
- Workout clothes.
- Pajamas, undergarments.
- Jacket or hoodies.
- Flip flops or indoor shoes.
- Sunglasses, hats, socks.
- Check the weather in the city before you pack. Always pack a hoodie that you can use on a plane or in a hospital.
Toiletries and Personal Care Checklist
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, body wash.
- Razor, deodorant, skincare.
- Hair products (shampoo, conditioner).
- Hair tools.
- Medications.
- First aid kit.
Technology and Gadgets Checklist
- Phone, Charger.
- Headphones, earbuds.
- Laptop.
- Portable charger.
- Streaming device, e.g., Fire TV Stick.
- Extension cords
Mental Health and Wellness Checklist
Mental health is as important as physical health and therefore it should not be ignored. Travel nursing might seem adventurous and all, but it can be exhausting, too.
- Planner or journal to be organized.
- Yoga mat.
- Favorite candle, essential oils.
- Favorite books, games, puzzles.
- Photos of your loved ones.
Housing and Kitchen Basics Checklist
For travel nurses, housing is either provided by the facility or they are given housing stipends to rent their own. These places are either fully furnished or partially furnished. It is important to do your research before you book your place. Some of the basic household or kitchen items checklist are as follows:
- Coffee maker, Kettle.
- Cookware.
- Dish towel, sponge, dish soap.
- Meal prep containers.
- Seasonings and snacks.
- Beddings, pillows, blankets.
- Towels.
- Laundry bag, hangers, steamers or iron.
- Laundry detergent.
- Travel sewing kit.
- Mini tool kit.
- Water bottles and tumblers
Tips to pack right for a travel nursing assignment
What do I need to pack as a travel nurse? Here are some tips to pack like a pro for your travel nursing assignment.
- Always start packing one week before.
- Check the weather of the location.
- Research on the facility and ask about housing.
- Always keep a go-bag for emergencies.
- Never overpack or underpack, as it can be stressful.
- Label everything.
- Ship ahead instead of overpacking.
- Use 3 3-bag system, such as a luggage bag, a personal bag, and a work bag.
What are the different types of travel nurse housing options, and what to pack?
Different types of housing options for travel nurses are as follows:
- Agency-provided housing.
- Housing stipends.
- Fully furnished housing includes basic furniture, appliances, utilities, a dryer, and some kitchen essentials.
- You can bring your own linens, cleaning supplies and personal items.
- If you want to travel with a pet, let your agency know to find you pet-friendly housing.
- If you are getting a housing stipend, you can rent your own place. Make sure there are no hidden fees.
- To save money, you can always share housing with other travel nurses and save more.
- Always rent in a safe neighborhood and near the location.
Conclusion
What to pack for a travel nursing assignment? One of the most important questions that pops into every travel nurse’s mind. We know travel nurses live in temporary housing, and therefore it is important for nurses to know what is included so they don’t overpack or underpack, as both can be stressful. Travel nurses should always have checklists to be prepared. Travel Nurse Packing List helps travel nurses to be organized, prepared and comfortable. In this blog, we have provided travel nurses with a travel nurse essential checklist. If you are a new travel nurse or a seasoned travel nurse looking for travel nursing jobs that best match your interests, then join SkillGigs now and become part of our travel nursing world, where you can bid on travel nursing jobs that you like!
