For over fourteen years, I’ve embraced a career path that many only dream of – life as a travel X-ray and CT technologist. When I first heard about the possibility of moving to a new location every 13 weeks, immersing myself in diverse cultures, and embarking on exciting adventures while working, it almost seemed too good to be true. Coming from a small town in Northeastern Pennsylvania, the allure of experiencing new horizons was strong. It was during my time in X-ray school that I had the chance to speak with a traveling US tech, and their experiences sparked a realization: “Could I really do this?” Just a year after graduating and gaining essential full-time experience, I decided to explore the world of travel radiography. Within a fortnight, I found myself interviewing for a position in Connecticut. I handed in my notice and began preparing for a life-changing experience. Connecticut, being relatively close to home, felt like a safe first step – a comforting thought in case things didn’t pan out as expected.
Packed with what felt like three carloads of belongings, I set off to Connecticut for my inaugural travel assignment, rental car keys in hand. I had been assured that my housing would be furnished, but a part of me remained skeptical until I actually arrived that weekend. The five-hour drive to central Connecticut was filled with anticipation. Upon receiving our apartment keys, we began to unpack, and it dawned on us that the term “furnished” was no exaggeration. The apartment was comprehensively equipped with multiples of everything – pots, pans, dishes, towels, and sheets. My accommodation was excellent, conveniently situated near the hospital, and in a safe and peaceful neighborhood. The work itself was familiar, mirroring my previous role, just with different colleagues and a different shift. After the initial weeks, and the relief of receiving my first paycheck, I was completely sold on the travel tech lifestyle. The assignments flew by, one after another, and here I am, over 14 years later, still passionate about this career.
Living out of two suitcases and two carry-on bags for three-month stints has become my norm. Over the years, I’ve experimented with packing strategies, from overpacking “everything but the kitchen sink” to meticulously “counting everything out.” I’ve finally found a balanced approach. My packing rule is simple: if it’s essential for surviving a week of work, it gets packed. It’s crucial to pack enough essentials to avoid immediately searching for laundry services within the first few days of arrival. The initial week should be focused on acclimating to the new job and facility, not stressed about mundane tasks. I also strategically divide my clothes between suitcases, a safeguard against losing everything if one bag goes missing. Furthermore, I always pack a set of scrubs in my carry-on – you never know when they might be needed.
My extensive travels have allowed me to experience a wide array of cultures across the United States. Among these, my time spent in the Hawaiian Islands and Alaska stands out as the most exceptional. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting incredible people, some of whom have become my closest friends to this day. However, it’s important to remember that Hawaii, despite its idyllic image, is not just sunshine and beaches for working professionals. A travel X-ray tech in Hawaii still works 40+ hours a week, fulfilling their professional responsibilities. The unique perk is experiencing a new environment and lifestyle outside of work. Both Hawaii and Alaska are home to warm, welcoming communities that make newcomers feel instantly at home.
Of course, my journey as a travel X-ray tech has had its share of challenges. There have been off-shifts, sleepless nights, and long, demanding days. Yet, in retrospect, it has been an overwhelmingly positive and fulfilling experience. I’ve undoubtedly invested blood, sweat, and tears into my career, but the rewards have been immeasurable. The cornerstone of my success has been hard work and unwavering commitment to every facility I’ve worked at. Leveraging my expertise and confidence in my skills, I strive to be a valuable and contributing member of every team. This approach has led to an exceptional career – one I wouldn’t trade for anything.
My experience with Aureus Medical Group has been particularly seamless. The transitions between assignments, navigating mid-assignment periods, and concluding assignments have all been managed with remarkable efficiency. I’ve never felt overwhelmed by uncertainty or anxious about what lies ahead. My experience, skills, and a flexible, open-minded approach to locations and shifts have enabled me to move from one assignment to the next with minimal downtime. For anyone considering a career as a travel X-ray tech, I wholeheartedly recommend taking the leap. It’s a path filled with professional growth, personal enrichment, and the chance to see the world while doing what you love.
