Traveling to new locations to pursue travel nursing opportunities is an exciting yet daunting task. When you’re preparing for a new travel assignment as a travel nurse across America, one important element of this journey that can easily be overlooked is the actual road trip itself.
Whether you’re driving across the country or simply to the next state, it’s important to do everything you can so you are comfortable and fully equipped for your road trip adventure.
Today, we’ll delve into how best to prepare for any length of road trip so you can create a stress-free experience en route to your destination. If you’re ready to start your new journey as a travel nurse, contact one of our helpful recruiters today!
Plan Your Route in Advance and Use GPS to Stay on Track
Planning your route in advance can make a big difference in getting you to your destination safely and efficiently. You can pre-select alternate routes around major cities to avoid heavy city traffic, or build in a stop at a scenic spot you’ve always wanted to see. You can also identify toll roads ahead of time in case you want to avoid these extra fees.
In addition, using a GPS app to guide you while on the road reduces the likelihood of making a wrong turn, especially when it comes to exiting or merging on major highways. Apps like Google Traffic and Waze can also identify patches of unexpected traffic congestion so you know what to expect on the road ahead.
With good planning, you can focus on the excitement of starting your new journey as a travel nurse across America without the added stress of getting lost along the way. It will save you time, energy, and help ensure that you arrive at your new destination with ease.
Pack Healthy Snacks and Drinks for the Ride to Help You Stay Focused
It’s important to keep yourself energized and focused throughout the long hours on the road. That’s why packing healthy snacks and drinks for the car ride is critical to your wellbeing. By opting for wholesome alternatives to sugary snacks, you can maintain a consistent level of energy and avoid sugar crashes. So before you hit the open road, take a few minutes to thoughtfully pack your snacks and drinks so you can stay alert and refreshed.
Stock Up on Entertainment: Audiobooks, Podcasts, or Music Playlists
You’re likely to encounter long stretches of time on the road, so stocking up on entertainment is essential to help keep you engaged and stimulated. Whether you prefer audiobooks that transport you to another world, podcasts that capture your attention, or personalized music playlists that speak to your soul, having a variety of options to choose from is key. By immersing yourself in stories, music, or conversations, the hours on the road will fly by..
Make Sure Pet Supplies are Accessible if Bringing Your Four-Legged Companion Along
As a travel nurse across America, hitting the open road can be both exciting and challenging. If you have a furry companion joining you on your journey, ensuring they have what they need is essential for a comfortable and safe trip. Remember to pack their favorite toys to keep them entertained during long stretches of driving, and be sure to have plenty of food and water on hand to prevent any unexpected pit stops. With a little preparation, you and your pet can hit the road with confidence, ready to take on all the adventures that await.
Ensure Your Vehicle is Road-Ready
Before embarking on a long journey, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape. Checking your oil levels, ensuring that your tire pressure is optimal, and examining other aspects of your car can significantly reduce the chance of a breakdown on the road. And even if you do everything right, the unexpected can still happen. That’s why it’s crucial to have a roadside assistance phone number identified ahead of time in case you experience any kind of emergency like a vehicle breakdown or flat tire. If you take the time to prepare your vehicle and make sure you’re ready for anything, you won’t be left scrambling if something unexpectedly goes wrong.
Have an Emergency Kit with Essential Supplies
You never know what kind of unexpected situations may arise on a long road trip. Road closures due to a major accident or a vehicle breakdown can completely derail your driving plans. That’s why having an emergency kit packed with essential supplies is crucial. From first aid items to extra food and water, these supplies could potentially mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major crisis. Take the time to assemble an emergency kit before hitting the open road. It may seem like a hassle now, but you never know—it could save you a lot of stress and worry down the line.
Schedule Regular Stops into Your Driving Plan
While you may be focused on getting to your next destination, it’s important to remember to take breaks and avoid getting too drowsy behind the wheel. One way to do this is by scheduling regular pit stops along the way. By incorporating gas stations and rest stops into your driving plan, you can ensure that you always have a designated place to take a break and refresh yourself. Don’t wait until you’re already feeling tired – plan ahead and stay alert on the road.
Hit the Road as a Travel Nurse Across America!
Taking a road trip to your new travel nurse job across America can be an exciting experience. With the proper planning, a bit of bravery, some organized packing, and preparing for the unexpected, you will be ready to take on this adventure with confidence.
Research the details, be mindful of potential risks along the way, enjoy small moments that can’t be recreated, and don’t forget to take pictures! If you haven’t already begun looking for that perfect nursing opportunity at your destination city, now is a great time to do so—contact a recruiter today.
