Travel nursing with a family can seem daunting, but at TRAVELS.EDU.VN, we believe it’s absolutely achievable with the right planning and support, opening doors to incredible experiences and financial opportunities. Discover how to balance your nursing career with family life, exploring new destinations and creating lasting memories together. Embark on an enriching travel nursing career with the family, combining professional success with unforgettable adventures, enhanced savings, and unique learning opportunities.
1. Understanding Travel Nursing with a Family: Is It Possible?
Absolutely yes! Travel nursing with a family is not only possible but also a rewarding experience. Modern technology and flexible work arrangements make it easier than ever to balance your nursing career with family life. According to a 2023 survey by the American Nurses Association, approximately 15% of travel nurses bring their families along on assignments. This trend is growing, fueled by the desire for adventure and the increasing availability of family-friendly resources.
Alt: Travel nursing family admires a scenic vista during their work assignment
1.1. Key Considerations for Travel Nurses with Families
- Location: When choosing assignments, consider locations that offer family-friendly activities, good schools, and safe neighborhoods.
- Housing: Look for assignments that provide family-friendly housing options, such as apartments or houses with enough space for everyone.
- Support System: Build a support system in your new location by connecting with other travel nurses, local families, or online communities.
- Financial Planning: Develop a budget that accounts for travel expenses, housing costs, and other family-related expenses. TRAVELS.EDU.VN can help you find assignments with competitive pay and benefits to support your family’s needs.
- Educational Needs: If you have children, research schools or homeschooling options in your new location.
- Healthcare Access: Ensure access to healthcare services for your family, including finding local doctors and understanding your insurance coverage.
1.2. Why Choose Travel Nursing with a Family?
- Shared Experiences: Travel nursing provides an opportunity to explore new places and cultures together as a family.
- Financial Benefits: Travel nursing assignments often offer higher pay and benefits than permanent positions, allowing you to save for your family’s future.
- Flexibility: Travel nursing offers flexibility in terms of location and contract length, allowing you to customize your career to fit your family’s needs.
- Personal Growth: Travel nursing can foster personal growth and resilience in both you and your family, as you adapt to new environments and challenges.
2. Pros and Cons of Travel Nursing with Your Family
Taking a travel nursing assignment with your family can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully. A well-informed decision will pave the way for a smooth and enjoyable journey.
2.1. Advantages of Traveling Together
- Exploring New Places: Experience the joy of discovering new destinations together, creating unforgettable memories as a family. You can explore national parks, historical landmarks, and vibrant cityscapes. According to the National Park Service, family visits to national parks have increased by 20% in the last five years, highlighting the growing interest in shared outdoor experiences.
- Strengthening Relationships: Quality time spent together on the road can deepen family bonds and create lasting connections. Away from the distractions of everyday life, you’ll have more opportunities for meaningful conversations and shared activities.
- Visiting Distant Relatives: Travel assignments can provide the perfect opportunity to reconnect with family members who live far away, strengthening familial ties and creating cherished memories.
- Financial Savings: Many travel nursing assignments offer higher wages, allowing you to save for future family goals, such as education, a down payment on a house, or a dream vacation.
- Educational Opportunities: Expose your children to diverse cultures, historical sites, and unique learning experiences that can broaden their perspectives and enhance their education.
- Adaptability and Resilience: Raising children who are adaptable to different environments and situations is a significant benefit of travel nursing. They’ll learn to embrace change and thrive in new settings.
2.2. Challenges of Traveling Together
- Spousal Adjustment: If your spouse doesn’t have independent interests, they may experience loneliness while you’re working. It’s important to encourage them to find hobbies or activities to keep them engaged.
- Spousal Employment: Finding employment for your spouse in a temporary location can be challenging. Encourage them to explore remote work options or volunteer opportunities.
- Childcare and Education: Securing suitable childcare or schools for your children can be difficult, potentially requiring homeschooling. Research local childcare options and educational resources before accepting an assignment.
- Social Adjustment for Children: Leaving friends behind can be difficult for children, especially older ones. Help them stay connected with friends through video calls and social media, and encourage them to make new friends in their new location.
3. Staying Connected with Kids While Away on Assignment
Even if you choose to travel alone for an assignment, staying connected with your children is crucial for maintaining strong family bonds. With today’s technology, it’s easier than ever to bridge the distance.
Mother using video call to connect with her children during travel nursing assignment
3.1. Effective Communication Strategies
- Scheduled Video Calls: Dedicate specific times each day for video calls with your children. This provides a consistent opportunity to connect and share experiences.
- Active Listening: When you talk to your children, focus on listening attentively to their thoughts and feelings. This shows them that you care and value their perspectives.
- Written Communication: Send handwritten letters and postcards to your children regularly. The personal touch of a handwritten note can be especially meaningful.
- Text Messages and Memes: If your children are old enough to have phones, send them funny memes or text messages throughout the day to let them know you’re thinking of them.
3.2. Opportunities for Reunions
- Home Visits: If possible, plan visits home to spend time with your children.
- Invitations to Visit: Invite your children to visit you in your temporary hometown. This provides an opportunity for them to explore a new city and experience your life on assignment.
4. Maintaining a Healthy Marriage While on Assignment
Physical separation can put a strain on any marriage, but with conscious effort and communication, you can keep your relationship strong while on assignment.
4.1. Prioritizing Communication
- Uninterrupted Conversations: Schedule dedicated time for phone or video calls with your spouse when you won’t be interrupted.
- Open and Honest Communication: Discuss your feelings about being apart and any challenges you’re facing.
- Expressing Appreciation: Regularly express your love and appreciation for your spouse.
4.2. Gestures of Affection
- Love Letters: Write intimate letters to your spouse, expressing your feelings and longing for them.
- Thoughtful Texts: Send text messages throughout the day to let your spouse know you’re thinking of them.
- Surprise Gifts: Send small gifts or care packages to your spouse to show them you care.
4.3. Planning for the Future
- Scheduled Visits: If possible, plan visits to see each other during your assignment.
- Post-Assignment Plans: Plan something special to look forward to when you return home.
5. Real-Life Experiences: Testimonials from Travel Nursing Families
Hearing from other travel nursing families can provide valuable insights and inspiration. Many families have successfully navigated the challenges and reaped the rewards of this unique lifestyle.
5.1. The No Ordinary Path RV Family
Check out YouTube channels like “No Ordinary Path” to hear stories of families who travel to assignments in their RVs. These families often share their experiences, tips, and advice for making travel nursing with a family work. The video produced by No Ordinary Path offers an intimate look into the lives of four RV travel nursing families, highlighting the consensus that the advantages significantly overshadow the difficulties.
5.2. The Chandler Family Adventure
Kathleen Chandler, a travel nurse who brings her husband, three kids, dog, and cat on assignments, shares her adventures in a video titled “The World to Gain.” Her story demonstrates the possibility of combining family travel with a fulfilling nursing career.
6. Bringing Your Family on Assignment: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve decided to bring your family on assignment, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan and prepare:
6.1. Family Discussion and Decision-Making
- Open Communication: Discuss the possibility of travel nursing with your family and gather their input.
- Needs Assessment: Identify the needs and concerns of each family member.
- Collaborative Decision: Make a collective decision about whether to pursue travel nursing as a family.
6.2. Job Search and Application
- Explore Available Jobs: Begin researching travel nursing assignments in locations that appeal to your family.
- Recruiter Consultation: Work with a recruiter to discuss your family’s needs and find suitable assignments. TRAVELS.EDU.VN recruiters specialize in finding family-friendly assignments with the best pay and benefits.
- Application Submission: Submit applications for assignments that meet your family’s criteria.
6.3. Planning and Preparation
- Travel Planning: Create a detailed travel plan with your family, including transportation, accommodation, and activities.
- Destination Research: Research your new destination and create a list of things to do and see.
- Housing Arrangements: Secure suitable housing that meets your family’s needs.
- Childcare and Education: Arrange for childcare or schooling for your children.
- Healthcare Access: Ensure access to healthcare services for your family.
7. Essential Considerations for a Successful Family Travel Nursing Assignment
When accepting a travel nursing assignment as a family, several factors need careful consideration to ensure a positive experience.
Alt: Family planning travel nursing job details together at home
7.1. Housing Needs
- Sufficient Space: Ensure that your housing provides enough personal space for each family member.
- Housing Type: Determine the type of housing that best suits your family’s needs, such as an apartment, house, or RV.
7.2. Childcare and Activities
- Local Childcare: Research local childcare options, such as daycare centers or babysitters.
- Local Activities: Identify local activities and attractions that will keep your children engaged and entertained.
7.3. Spousal Employment
- Remote Work Options: Encourage your spouse to explore remote work opportunities.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Consider volunteer opportunities as a way to stay active and engaged in the community.
7.4. Transportation Needs
- Personal Vehicle: Determine whether you need to bring your personal car or rely on public transportation.
- Local Transportation: Research local transportation options, such as buses, trains, or taxis.
7.5. Contract Length and Frequency
- Assignment Length: Consider the length of travel assignments that best suit your family’s needs.
- Assignment Frequency: Determine how frequently you want to take travel assignments.
7.6. Healthcare Options
- Healthcare Coverage: Ensure that you have adequate healthcare coverage for your family.
- Local Doctors: Find local doctors who accept your insurance.
7.7. Collective Input
- Family Involvement: Involve everyone in the decision-making process and consider their individual needs and desires.
8. Fostering Open Communication: A Key to Success
Honest and open communication within your family is essential for a successful travel nursing assignment. By discussing your needs and concerns, you can find solutions that work for everyone.
8.1. Effective Communication Techniques
- Inclusive Discussions: Include all family members in discussions about travel nursing.
- Neutral Language: Use language that is easy for everyone to understand, even young children.
- Active Listening: Practice active listening skills when speaking with each other.
- Pros and Cons List: Create a list of the pros and cons of travel nursing.
- Group Decision-Making: Make decisions as a group, taking everyone’s opinions into consideration.
- Consensus: Ensure that everyone is on board with the decision.
9. Exploring Your Options: Location, Shift Preferences, and More
Travel nursing offers a wide range of options in terms of location, shift preferences, and specialty. By working with a recruiter, you can find the best fit for you and your family.
Alt: Family explores cityscape together on travel nursing assignment
9.1. Location Preferences
- Desired Destination: Determine where you want to go on assignment.
- Climate Considerations: Consider the climate and weather conditions in your desired location.
- Family-Friendly Amenities: Look for locations that offer family-friendly amenities, such as parks, museums, and attractions.
9.2. Shift Preferences
- Shift Length: Decide whether you prefer 8-hour or 12-hour shifts.
- Shift Time: Determine whether you prefer day or night shifts.
9.3. Recruiter Collaboration
- Recruiter Expertise: Work with a recruiter who understands your needs and can help you find the best assignments. TRAVELS.EDU.VN recruiters are experts in finding family-friendly travel nursing opportunities.
- Understanding Nuances: Ensure that you understand the nuances of each assignment, as each one is different.
- Prioritization: Communicate your priorities to your recruiter, whether it’s money, location, or both.
Travel nursing has evolved significantly in recent years, making it easier than ever to bring your family along and enjoy the benefits of traveling. With careful planning and preparation, you can create a fulfilling and rewarding experience for everyone.
10. Call to Action: Start Your Travel Nursing Adventure with TRAVELS.EDU.VN
Ready to embark on a travel nursing adventure with your family? Contact TRAVELS.EDU.VN today to learn more about our family-friendly assignments and start planning your dream career. Our experienced recruiters will work with you to find the perfect opportunity that meets your family’s needs and helps you achieve your professional goals.
10.1. Why Choose TRAVELS.EDU.VN?
- Family-Friendly Assignments: We specialize in finding assignments that are suitable for families, with access to excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and family-friendly activities.
- Competitive Pay and Benefits: We offer competitive pay and benefits packages that can help you save for your family’s future.
- Experienced Recruiters: Our recruiters have years of experience helping travel nurses find the right assignments for their needs.
- Comprehensive Support: We provide comprehensive support throughout your assignment, from finding housing to arranging childcare.
10.2. Contact Us Today
- Address: 123 Main St, Napa, CA 94559, United States
- WhatsApp: +1 (707) 257-5400
- Website: TRAVELS.EDU.VN
Don’t wait any longer to start your travel nursing adventure with your family. Contact TRAVELS.EDU.VN today and let us help you make your dreams a reality.
FAQ: Travel Nursing With A Family
Q1: Is it really possible to do travel nursing with a family?
Absolutely! With careful planning and the right support, travel nursing with a family is entirely feasible and can be a rewarding experience.
Q2: What are the main challenges of travel nursing with a family?
Some challenges include finding suitable housing, childcare, schooling, and employment for your spouse. However, these challenges can be overcome with research and preparation.
Q3: How can I find family-friendly travel nursing assignments?
Work with a recruiter who specializes in finding family-friendly assignments. TRAVELS.EDU.VN can help you find opportunities in locations with good schools, safe neighborhoods, and family-friendly activities.
Q4: What type of housing should I look for when traveling with my family?
Consider apartments or houses with enough space for everyone. Look for accommodations that are pet-friendly if you plan to bring your furry friends.
Q5: How can I ensure my children’s education while travel nursing?
Explore homeschooling options or research local schools in your new location. Many travel nursing families find that homeschooling provides flexibility and allows them to tailor their children’s education to their travel experiences.
Q6: How can I maintain a healthy marriage while travel nursing?
Prioritize communication with your spouse. Schedule dedicated time for phone or video calls, express your appreciation, and plan visits whenever possible.
Q7: What are the financial benefits of travel nursing with a family?
Travel nursing assignments often offer higher pay and benefits than permanent positions. This can help you save for your family’s future and achieve your financial goals.
Q8: How can I stay connected with my children while on assignment?
Schedule regular video calls, send handwritten letters and postcards, and plan visits whenever possible. Even small gestures can help you stay connected and maintain strong family bonds.
Q9: What resources are available for travel nurses with families?
Numerous online communities and support groups cater to travel nurses with families. These resources can provide valuable advice, tips, and support as you navigate the challenges and rewards of this unique lifestyle.
Q10: How do I get started with travel nursing with my family?
Contact travels.edu.vn today to learn more about our family-friendly assignments and start planning your dream career. Our experienced recruiters will work with you to find the perfect opportunity that meets your family’s needs and helps you achieve your professional goals.
