Preparing for your first, or next, travel nursing assignment is an exciting adventure! Between researching your new city and hospital, finding the right place to stay, and planning how you’ll spend your time off, it’s easy to overlook an important step: packing the essentials.
Having a well-thought-out packing list helps ensure you’re prepared and comfortable from day one. Some items are difficult to replace, so it’s worth taking the time to make sure you have everything you need. That’s why we created this travel nurse packing list and essentials guide, so you can hit the road feeling confident and ready for your assignment.
Before You Start Packing
Before you start packing, you’ll want to figure out what’s included in your travel nurse housing. Some agency-provided housing options are fully furnished and stocked with kitchen essentials, linens, and small appliances; others might just include the basics. If you’re arranging your own place, reach out to your landlord or host to confirm what’s included so you don’t pack duplicates or forget must-have items.
Research the Location’s Climate & Your Facility
It’s also helpful to review your contract details and assignment location. Check the local climate, the hospital’s dress code, and your work schedule so you can pack appropriately for your shifts and during your time off.
Are you traveling somewhere warm or cold? If your new travel location has beaches nearby, remember to bring a bathing suit and a couple of towels. For colder areas, layers will be important for any outdoor activity such as exploring the city or enjoying winter sports. Never head to a cold travel assignment without packing your favorite winter jacket!
Reach Out for Guidance
At Gifted Healthcare, we make the travel nursing process easier by helping you understand your housing setup, connecting you with your recruiter for location-specific tips, and offering guidance on what to expect before you arrive.
Whether it’s confirming what’s included in your accommodations or sharing insights from other travelers who have worked there, we’re here to help you get prepared before you even start packing!
Find your next travel nursing adventure with Gifted Healthcare—browse open assignments and get personalized guidance from a recruiter who’s invested in your success!
Get Organized
Before you start filling your suitcase, take some time to get organized. Go through your belongings and decide what you need to bring with you, what can be left behind, and what you might want to sell or donate. Many travel nurses find it helpful to declutter before each assignment, as it lightens the load and makes packing faster and less stressful.
Once you’ve sorted through your items, start creating a checklist of the essentials you’ll need for your assignment. We’ve provided a detailed packing list below to help guide you.
Travel Nurse Packing List: By Category
Travel nursing assignments typically range from 13 to 26 weeks, which means you’ll be living and working in your new location for several months at a time. This makes it especially important to pack thoughtfully so you can feel at home.
To help make this process easier, we’ve compiled a list of the most important items to pack for your next travel nursing assignment.
Personal Items
Focus on packing the essentials—items that are important or expensive to replace while traveling. Some of these you’ll want to bring from home, while others can be picked up once you arrive at your assignment location:
- Toiletries and personal hygiene items: toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hand soap, deodorant, skincare products, makeup, lotion, chapstick, perfume/cologne, feminine products, razors, wipes, hand sanitizer, etc.
- Health: prescription medications, vitamins, supplements, etc.
- First aid items: band-aids, pain relievers, allergy medications, etc.
- Vision care: glasses, contacts, contact solution, etc.
- Hair tools: brush, comb, hair ties, clips, styling tools, etc.
- Electronics: phone, chargers, computer, tablet, earbuds, extension cord, reading light, etc.
Clothes
Pack clothes that are appropriate for your assignment location/climate, work setting, and off-duty activities like road trips, hikes, and exploring nearby cities, beaches, etc. Also, focus on items that can be layered, mixed and matched, and worn both on and off duty:
- Several sets of scrubs, depending on laundry access
- Nursing shoes/clogs and compression socks
- Jeans, t-shirts, shorts, sweaters, long sleeves, shirts, dresses, etc.
- Sandals, tennis shoes, boots, etc., depending on the climate
- Swimsuits if you’ll be near the beach
- Workout clothes if you plan to exercise
- Undergarments and socks
- Sleepwear and loungewear
- Jackets, winter coats, rain gear, etc., depending on the climate
- Hats, scarves, gloves, belts, etc.
Work Essentials
In addition to scrubs and comfortable shoes to wear on-duty, you’ll want to bring the following items (or ensure you can get them once you arrive):
- Stethoscope
- Badge reel or lanyard
- Watch with a second hand or timer
- Penlight, pens, notepad
- Pocket reference guides
- Hand sanitizer or wipes for work
- Small backpack or tote to carry essentials at work
Important Documents & Paperwork
Keep these important papers organized and accessible:
- Travel nursing contract and assignment details
- Identification (driver’s license, passport if needed)
- Nursing license(s) and certifications (e.g., BLS, ACLS, PALS)
- Immunization records and TB test results
- Health insurance card(s)
- Emergency contacts
- Car insurance, lease/mortgage, or proof of tax home if applicable
Self-Care, Hobbies & Fitness
Even though travel nursing assignments are temporary, you’ll still be living in your assignment location for several weeks or months at a time. Bringing items that help you stay active and enjoy your downtime can make your temporary home feel more comfortable.
Consider packing things that support your hobbies, fitness routine, and self-care practices so you can recharge between shifts and make the most of your free time, such as:
- Yoga mat, resistance bands, other lightweight workout gear
- Books, e-reader, magazines
- Journals or sketchbooks
- Eye mask, if you prefer to sleep in pitch black
- Sound machine to help you sleep
- Foam roller or massage ball (for muscle recovery)
- Headphones for music, podcasts, guided workouts, walks, etc.
- Reusable water bottle for work, outdoor adventures, workouts, etc.
- Fitness tracker or smartwatch
- Hobby supplies (knitting, drawing, puzzles, coloring supplies, card/board games, etc.)
- Face masks, essential oils, travel diffuser
- Portable speaker (for music while working out or relaxing)
- Compact travel pillow or blanket
Kitchen and Household Items
Consider what your housing includes and pack only what you need. Remember, you can always pick up items at a local grocery or convenience store once you arrive:
- Kitchen utensils, cutting board, can opener, etc. (many of these supplies are included in your temporary housing, so be sure to check first)
- Favorite coffee or tea, travel mug
- Non-perishable snacks
- Dish towels, sponges, dish soap, detergents
- Laundry bag or basket
- Cleaning supplies if not provided
- Reusable shopping bags
Special Mementos
Lastly, you might want to pack a few small items that make your temporary space feel like home. This can include:
- Photos, small frames/artwork
- Personal décor (candles, throw blankets, pillows)
- Favorite small keepsakes or souvenirs
- Houseplants (if allowed)
Important Reminders Before You Leave on Assignment
Before starting your travel nurse assignment, make sure your personal affairs at home are in order, especially if you plan to maintain a tax home (which is necessary for receiving non-taxable stipends). Keep documentation that shows you’re maintaining a permanent residence, such as paying rent or mortgage, utilities, and state taxes.
You’ll also want to:
- Forward or hold your mail with USPS.
- Update your billing and subscription addresses.
- Arrange for someone to check on your home, water plants, etc. while you're away.
- Let trusted family or friends know your travel dates and emergency contacts.
Taking care of these details before you leave helps give you peace of mind and keeps you compliant with travel nurse tax requirements.
Find Your Next Travel Nursing Assignment with Gifted Healthcare!
At Gifted Healthcare, we understand that travel nursing is about more than a change in scenery. It’s also about finding meaningful work that aligns with your purpose and making a difference in the lives of those you serve.
That’s why our passionate recruiters are here to support you every step of the way. They take the time to understand what matters most to you, matching you with travel nurse jobs that support your career goals and lifestyle.
You Might Also Like
