Travel nursing with an RV has so much to offer medical professionals with a desire for adventure. In addition to a lucrative and rewarding career, travel nurses can also experience many distinct locales as they pursue new job opportunities.
Despite the many great things about travel nursing as a career, it’s definitely not for everyone. This guide explains what travel nurses can expect to ensure you make the best possible decision.
How Much Do Travel Nurses Make in Texas?
Texas is a wonderful place for travel nurses, particularly when it comes to scenic beauty and attractions. It also has much to offer in terms of career opportunities.
According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly wage for a travel nurse based in Texas is $41.31. Keep in mind that wages can vary quite a bit according to certain factors, such as experience. In this case, a new travel nurse may earn $18.14 per hour, while a seasoned medical professional could receive an hourly wage of $62.26.
In addition to location and level of experience, a nurse’s wage can vary according to several other factors:
- Pay rates at specific hospitals and clinics
- Education
- Area of specialty
Because of the challenges that can accompany travel nursing, these professionals often receive higher rates of compensation when compared to nurses that work in a single location. However, you may have to deal with expenses that wouldn’t be a factor in a permanent position.
Can Travel Nurses Live in an RV?
RVs feature all the essential amenities a person needs to feel at home, including a kitchen, bathroom, sleeping area, and space for relaxing after work. Accordingly, these vehicles are a great option for nurses who’d feel dissatisfied working at the same location each day. Many travel nurses also choose RV-living for the freedom it affords. When your contract expires, you can relocate to other areas to access a greater variety of job opportunities.
Lots of people love living in a motorhome, but it can be quite a change from conventional housing. It helps to remember that there are three types of recreational vehicles, and one may be best suited to your unique situation:
- Class A – These vehicles offer the greatest comfort and typically have the most amenities when it comes to motorhomes. As a result, they’re often more expensive than other classes.
- Class B – These motorhomes are similar to vans. While they provide some amenities, they feature less space than class A motorhomes.
- Class C – Class C homes are the smallest and least expensive recreational vehicles on the market. However, they may not be suitable as a long-term living space.
In addition to comfort and design, knowing the class of an RV is also important when registering the vehicle. Proper registration is crucial to avoiding any possible legal issues, which can jeopardize your travel nursing career.
Benefits of Travel Nursing in an RV
Living in an RV while travel nursing is often more cost-effective. While most healthcare employers will provide financial support to traveling staff, these funds may be insufficient when compared to the exorbitant cost of most hotels. This is especially true if you’re bringing your family (and pets) along, as that can result in a need for multiple rooms.
Along with cost-savings, most travel nurses find having a stable living place preferable to constantly moving around. For instance, you won’t need to worry about packing and unpacking every time you move. You can also enjoy home-cooked meals in your RV, while that might not be possible in most hotels.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
Although many travel nurses enjoy living in an RV, there are a few possible downsides:
- Inclement Weather – Depending on the season, weather in Texas can offer some challenges to RV-dwellers. While comfortable, RVs may lack the protection offered by stick-built homes when it comes to high winds and torrential rain.
- Maintenance and Repairs – Along with ensuring the living space in your motorhome remains in good shape, you’ll also need to keep up on vehicle repairs. In the event your RV breaks down, you must have the funds in place to repair it before your next assignment.
- Parking Is Challenging – While a suitable RV park offers lodging, finding parking at the worksite is often difficult. You’ll need a space large enough to accommodate your vehicle, and not all hospitals and clinics can accommodate you.
Fortunately, it’s possible to overcome these and other drawbacks if you find travel nursing appealing. Planning is key, in this regard. There are lots of steps you can take before heading out on the open road to ensure the best possible experience.
How to Pursue a Career in Travel Nursing
To get started, research travel nursing to ensure you have realistic expectations. If possible, reach out to fellow travel nurses to get their insight. If you’re still interested in pursuing the career, be sure to take the following steps:
- Save up enough money to cover living expenses in case of an unexpected occurrence
- Make sure any medical requirements are up-to-date
- Consider getting specialized training to broaden your opportunities
You should also consider your living situation, which will most likely entail reserving space inside an RV park. When researching RV parks, reviewing the rates is important when it comes to budgeting. Look for locations where the level and variety of amenities match the weekly and/or monthly rates.
In the same token, crunch the numbers concerning living expenses. Along with expected costs (such utilities and food), you’ll also need to factor in costs related to fuel and vehicle maintenance.
A Home Away From Home for Travel Nurses
When travel nursing with an RV in Austin, TX, Meadow Lane RV Park is a great place to call home. Our RV park provides rest and relaxation after a long day, as well as outstanding amenities like a swimming pool, laundry facilities, and mail center. You’ll also have access to lots of fun local attractions and will be within comfortable commuting distance of many nearby cities.
Feel free to contact us for more information on rates, amenities, and reservations. We look forward to speaking with you!