So you’ve locked in your next assignment (congrats!) and now comes the part that either excites you or fills you with dread: packing. Whether you’re a travel nurse, tech, therapist, or any other healthcare traveler, living out of a suitcase for 13 weeks is an art—and I’m here to help you master it.
🧳 1. Start with the Essentials (Yes, the Boring Stuff)
Before you even think about your fuzzy socks or your lucky coffee mug, make sure these are on your list:
License & Credentials – Copies of your RN license, BLS/ACLS cards, etc.
ID & Documents – Driver’s license, insurance cards, travel contract.
Work Essentials – Stethoscope, badge reels, pens that somehow never get stolen, a notepad.
Pro Tip: Scan or snap photos of everything and store them in a cloud folder—you’ll thank yourself later.
👚 2. Scrub Smarter, Not Harder
You don’t need 10 pairs of scrubs (unless laundry is your nemesis).
3–5 sets of scrubs in your facility-approved colors
Comfy under-scrub layers (hello, long shifts)
Non-slip shoes (if you know, you know)
A pair of backup shoes (for when it rains... or your foot sweats betray you)
Bonus: Bring at least one “put-together” outfit for unexpected work functions or spontaneous outings.
🏡 3. Create a Mini Home on the Go
Even if you’re staying in fully furnished housing, there are a few creature comforts worth tossing in your car or suitcase:
Small air fryer or mini waffle maker (game-changer)
Favorite pillow or throw blanket
Travel-sized spice kit
Your go-to mug (coffee just tastes better in it)
Remember: if you can’t live without it for 3 months, bring it. If you forgot it last assignment and cursed about it, definitely bring it.
🧼 4. Bathroom & Self-Care Survival Kit
This isn’t just about shampoo—it’s about maintaining your sanity.
Shower shoes (seriously)
Towels (not all housing provides decent ones)
Toiletry bag you can hang on a hook
Your skin/hair care staples—especially if you’re picky
And don’t forget: a few self-care extras like a candle, essential oils, or Epsom salts for soaking sore feet.
🖥️ 5. Tech & Tools That Make Life Easier
You’re not just working—you’re living.
Power strip (underrated MVP)
Portable speaker or white noise machine
Streaming stick (Roku, Fire Stick, etc.)
Laptop/iPad for charting or downtime binging
And yes, your charger graveyard deserves a new member—bring backups for everything.
📦 6. The “Just in Case” Box
AKA the stuff you hope you don’t need but probably will.
First aid kit
Basic toolkit or multitool
Rain jacket or umbrella
Extra hangers (somehow, there's never enough)
📝 Final Tips to Travel Light (or... Light-ish)
Roll your clothes to save space (and wrinkles).
Use packing cubes to stay organized.
Check housing details ahead of time to avoid doubling up on items like cookware, linens, etc.
Keep a go-bag for your first 1–2 days, just in case you don’t feel like unpacking immediately.
Packing for a 13-week assignment doesn’t have to be overwhelming—just strategic. And hey, after a few contracts, you’ll be packing like a true road warrior.
