How to Become a Travel Nurse in 2025: Requirements, Pay & Tips
- Christiana John
- Sep 19
- 4 min read
The demand for nurses in the United States continues to rise, and with it, opportunities for healthcare professionals looking for adventure, flexibility, and higher pay. Travel nursing has become one of the most attractive career paths for nurses who want to explore new places, gain diverse clinical experience, and enjoy competitive compensation packages.
But with new regulations, shifting pay structures, and growing demand in 2025, how do you actually become a travel nurse? This guide breaks down the requirements, pay expectations, pros and cons, and tips for success, and explains how platforms like Jento Solutions can help you find the best travel nursing jobs across the U.S.
What is a Travel Nurse in 2025?
A travel nurse is a licensed nurse (RN or LPN) who takes short-term assignments at hospitals, nursing homes, or healthcare facilities across different states. Assignments typically last 8 to 13 weeks but may extend longer depending on facility needs.
In 2025, the demand for travel nurses is driven by:
Ongoing nurse shortages (projected to reach 1 million by 2030).
High turnover from burnout.
Regional shortages where certain states have more open jobs than others.
Facility reliance on agencies to quickly fill gaps.
Requirements to Become a Travel Nurse in 2025
To work as a travel nurse, you’ll need to meet a few standard requirements:
1. Nursing License
You must hold an active RN or LPN license.
Nurses in Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) states can practice across 40+ states without additional licensing.
If traveling outside the compact, you’ll need to apply for state-specific licenses.
2. Clinical Experience
Most facilities require at least 1–2 years of bedside experience before accepting travel nurses.
Specialties in high demand: ICU, ER, Med-Surg, OR, Pediatrics, and Long-Term Care.
3. Certifications
Basic Life Support (BLS) is required.
Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and other specialty certifications may boost your opportunities.
4. Health Requirements
Updated physical.
TB test or chest X-ray.
Proof of immunizations (MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, Flu, COVID-19, etc.).
5. Compliance Documents
Background check.
Drug screen.
Skills checklist (often required by staffing agencies).
How Much Do Travel Nurses Get Paid in 2025?
Travel nurse pay varies by specialty, location, and facility demand. In 2025, here’s what you can expect:
Average Weekly Pay: $2,200–$3,500 per week.
Annual Equivalent: $90,000–$130,000+.
High-Demand Specialties (ICU, OR, ER): $3,500–$4,500 per week.
Low-Cost States: Lower pay but more affordable housing.
Crisis Assignments: Higher pay rates for urgent staffing needs.
Pro Tip: Don’t just look at hourly rates, consider housing stipends, travel reimbursements, and tax-free allowances.
Pros and Cons of Travel Nursing
Pros:
Higher pay compared to staff positions.
Flexibility to choose when and where to work.
Opportunity to explore new cities and states.
Gain diverse clinical experience.
Networking and professional growth.
Cons:
Frequent relocations (not ideal for everyone).
Uncertain job security after assignments.
Away from family/friends.
Need to adapt quickly to new environments.
Licensing hurdles if not in a compact state.
Keep Digital Copies of Your Credentials: Always have your license, certifications, and health records ready.
Be Flexible with Location: The more open you are to different states, the more opportunities you’ll find.
Stay Organized: Use a planner or apps to track assignments, housing, and expenses.
Work With a Trusted Agency: Agencies like Jento Solutions ensure compliance, quick onboarding, and reliable pay.
Prioritize Self-Care: Travel nursing can be exhausting; balance is key to avoiding burnout.
Why Choose Jento Solutions for Travel Nursing?
At Jento Solutions, we don’t just connect you to jobs, we partner with you throughout your travel nursing journey.
Here’s what makes us different:
Fast Onboarding: Get placed in days, not weeks.
Competitive Pay: Transparent rates with no hidden deductions.
Flexibility: Per diem, block scheduling, or long-term assignments.
24/7 Support: Real humans ready to help, anytime.
Whether you’re an RN, LPN, or CNA, Jento Solutions helps you land assignments that fit your lifestyle and career goals.
Conclusion
Becoming a travel nurse in 2025 is one of the most rewarding career paths for adventurous and ambitious healthcare professionals. With high pay, flexibility, and endless opportunities, it’s no surprise that more nurses are exploring this route.
By understanding the requirements, preparing your documents, and choosing the right staffing partner, you’ll be ready to thrive in the world of travel nursing.
Ready to explore travel nursing opportunities? Visit JentoSolutions.com to get started today.
FAQs About Travel Nursing in 2025
Do I need to be an RN to be a travel nurse?
No. While RNs have the widest range of opportunities, LPNs and CNAs can also find travel assignments.
How long are travel nurse contracts?
Most are 8–13 weeks, but some facilities extend contracts up to 26 weeks.
Can I choose where I want to work?
Yes. Travel nursing allows you to select preferred states, cities, and facilities — depending on availability.
Is housing included in travel nurse pay?
Many contracts offer housing stipends or employer-arranged housing. Always clarify before signing.
Can new nurses become travel nurses?
Most agencies require 1–2 years of bedside experience before placing new nurses in travel roles.
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