Travel nursing has become a popular career choice for healthcare professionals seeking adventure, flexibility, and new experiences. As a travel nurse, you have the unique opportunity to work in different healthcare facilities across the country, providing valuable services where they are needed most. In recent years, travel nurses have embraced a new trend: living in recreational vehicles (RVs) while on assignment. This alternative of Travel nurses RV living over traditional hotel stays offers a range of advantages that can enhance your travel nursing experience.
Before embarking on your next assignment, it’s essential to consider the benefits of RV living. By understanding the advantages this lifestyle offers, you can make an empowered choice that aligns with your goals, preferences, and well-being.
Advantages of RV Living for Travel Nurses
Flexibility and freedom
With RV living, you have the freedom to select your temporary home wherever your assignments take you. This flexibility allows you to immerse yourself in diverse communities, experience different cultures, and explore scenic locations.
Unlike generic hotel rooms, an RV provides you with the opportunity to personalize your living space. You can decorate, arrange furniture, and create a cozy and familiar environment that reflects your unique style and comforts.
Cost-effectiveness
One of the most significant advantages of RV living is the potential for substantial cost savings. Hotel stays can be expensive, especially during long assignments. By opting for an RV, you can significantly reduce your housing expenses and allocate those savings towards other aspects of your travel nursing career.
Cooking your meals in the RV kitchen is not only cost-effective but also healthier. Eating out regularly can be expensive and may not always align with your dietary preferences or restrictions. By preparing your meals, you have better control over your nutrition and can save money in the process.
Comfort and homeliness
Living in an RV provides a sense of personal space and comfort that hotel rooms often lack. Your RV can be your sanctuary, a place where you can unwind, relax, and recharge after demanding shifts. It offers a homey atmosphere that promotes well-being and a positive mindset.
As a travel nurse, being away from home for extended periods can be challenging. RV living offers a sense of continuity and familiarity, allowing you to create a home away from home. The consistency of your living space can alleviate feelings of homesickness and provide stability during transitions between assignments.
Convenience and mobility
With limited luggage space in hotels, you may find yourself leaving behind important items or constantly repacking. In an RV, you can bring all your essentials, including personal belongings, kitchenware, and even recreational equipment. This convenience ensures that you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Hotels may be located far from healthcare facilities, resulting in lengthy commutes and wasted time. RV living enables you to choose an RV park or campground near your assignment location, reducing travel time and increasing convenience. You have the freedom to move closer to your work or explore nearby attractions without the hassle of long commutes.
Health and Well-being Benefits of RV Living
Improved work-life balance
Your RV can serve as a dedicated workspace, allowing you to create a comfortable and productive atmosphere. You can set up a designated area for studying, documentation, or telehealth consultations, ensuring that you have a conducive environment for work.
Living in an RV encourages a more active and healthy lifestyle. With access to outdoor spaces, you can take advantage of nearby parks, hiking trails, and recreational activities. Regular physical exercise and exposure to nature have been proven to improve overall well-being and reduce stress.
Access to nature and outdoor activities
RV living offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Many RV parks and campgrounds are located near breathtaking landscapes, such as national parks, lakes, and mountains. You can easily explore these scenic locations during your free time, enhancing your travel nursing experience.
Imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping and having the freedom to embark on outdoor adventures whenever you please. RV living allows you to engage in activities like hiking, camping, fishing, and stargazing. These experiences not only promote physical health but also provide mental rejuvenation and a deeper connection with the natural world.
Reduced stress and relaxation
Hotels can be noisy and bustling with activity, which may not be conducive to relaxation or restful sleep. RV living offers a peaceful and serene environment where you can unwind and rejuvenate after demanding shifts. You can enjoy the tranquility of nature and escape the stresses of a busy healthcare setting.
Living in an RV allows you to reconnect with nature on a daily basis. The opportunity to wake up to stunning sunrises, enjoy picturesque sunsets, and fall asleep under a starlit sky fosters a sense of tranquility and promotes mental well-being. Nature has a remarkable ability to reduce stress and improve overall happiness.
Community and Socialization in RV Living
Networking opportunities with other travel nurses
RV parks often host communities of fellow travel nurses who share similar experiences and interests. These communities provide networking opportunities, allowing you to connect with other professionals in your field. You can exchange knowledge, share advice, and build valuable relationships.
Interacting with other travel nurses living in RVs can be an enriching experience. You can learn from their diverse perspectives, gain insights into different healthcare systems, and exchange valuable tips about various assignment locations. This sense of camaraderie can empower you on your travel nursing journey.
Sense of belonging within the travel nurse community
The travel nursing community is known for its inclusivity and support. When living in an RV, you become part of this vibrant community. You can rely on fellow travel nurses for advice, encouragement, and emotional support. Having a network of understanding individuals who share your lifestyle can make your assignments more enjoyable and fulfilling.
The bonds formed within the travel nurse community often extend beyond assignment locations. By connecting with other travel nurses living in RVs, you have the opportunity to build lasting relationships and friendships that transcend borders and time. These connections can provide a sense of belonging and create lifelong memories.
Factors to Consider When Choosing RV Living over Hotel Stays
Personal preferences and lifestyle
Assessing the suitability of RV living based on individual preferences and comfort levels is crucial. Consider whether you enjoy a nomadic lifestyle, value adventure and exploration, and are open to the unique challenges and rewards that come with RV living. Reflect on your personal preferences for space, privacy, and the ability to customize your living environment.
Assignment duration and location
Evaluate the length of your assignments and the feasibility of RV living in different locations. Determine if RV parks or campgrounds are conveniently located near the healthcare facilities where you’ll be working. Consider the proximity to essential amenities, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, and recreational facilities.
Budget and financial considerations
Compare the costs of RV living to hotel stays, taking into account both upfront expenses and ongoing costs. Consider factors such as RV purchase or rental costs, insurance, maintenance, and fuel. Calculate potential savings by analyzing the difference in housing and meal expenses between RV living and hotel stays.
Travel nurse agency and employer policies
Review your travel nurse agency’s policies and employer contracts regarding housing arrangements. Understand any restrictions or limitations imposed on RV living by the agency or employer. Ensure that RV living aligns with their guidelines and that you can fulfill your professional obligations while living in an RV.
Challenges and Considerations of RV Living for Travel Nurses
Logistics and maintenance of the RV
Research and locate suitable RV parks and campgrounds near your assignment locations. Ensure they have the necessary amenities, such as electrical and sewage hookups. Familiarize yourself with waste disposal procedures and maintenance requirements to ensure a smooth and comfortable living experience.
Potential limitations and restrictions
Assess the available space and storage capacity within your chosen RV. Plan accordingly to ensure that you have sufficient storage for your belongings and necessary equipment. Familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of RV parks, including any restrictions on pets, noise levels, or length of stay.
Adaptation and adjustment
Be prepared for potential solitude or a lack of privacy when living in close quarters. Develop strategies to manage potential travel-related stress and fatigue. Prioritize self-care and find ways to create personal space and downtime within the confines of your RV.
Cost and How to Set Up RV Living for Travel Nurses
Is RV living cheaper than renting a room/house during a contract? Well, the cost of RV living versus renting a room or house during a travel nursing contract can vary depending on various factors. While campground monthly rates for RV living are generally cheaper than rental properties and hotels, there are additional considerations to keep in mind.
Monthly Costs:
On the surface, campground rates for RV living tend to be lower. On average, travel nurses pay around $600 per month for campground fees, with some cases as low as $480 (plus electric) in certain locations and as high as $850 in others. However, it’s essential to note that these rates can also reach as high as $1200 in specific areas, so it’s important to be mindful of the costs.
Loan Payments:
If you don’t have the funds to purchase an RV outright, you may have monthly loan payments to consider in addition to campground fees. For example, if you have a $600 monthly loan payment for your RV, along with a $550 monthly campground payment, your total monthly expense would amount to around $1200.
This can be comparable to the cost of renting a property, depending on the area and type of property. The decision between a motorhome and a travel trailer will also affect loan payments and duration, so consider your individual needs when making this choice.
The Perks of RV Living:
Despite the potential costs, RV living offers several advantages. One significant perk is having your own private space. In an RV, you have your own bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, parking space, and more.
This level of independence and privacy can be a major selling point for many travel nurses. Additionally, RV living eliminates the need to pack and unpack for each assignment. With a simple unhooking of your RV, you can easily move from one location to another, saving time and effort.
Bonus Tip:
If campground rates in your area are higher than you’d like, consider seeking alternative options. Many travel nurses have found affordable solutions by connecting with individuals willing to host them on their property. These hosts provide full hook-ups, including water, electric, and sewage. Living on someone’s property can often be cheaper than traditional campgrounds, and it comes with added benefits such as included Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and the opportunity to build connections and enjoy a sense of community.
Final Thoughts
Remember to consider both the financial aspect and the personal preferences that come with RV living when making a decision. Assess your budget, evaluate loan payment options, and explore alternative arrangements to find the most suitable and cost-effective solution for your travel nursing lifestyle.
