Make the Most of Summer as a Healthcare Traveler
Summer is coming! For travel nurses and healthcare travelers, it’s time to soak up everything the warm months have to offer. Whether you’re picturing lazy days by the lake, adventurous camping weekends, or sunny road trips between assignments, this is your season to relax and enjoy the flexibility that comes with the traveler lifestyle.
At TNAA, we know how important it is to plan ahead to get the most out of the summer months. Here’s your guide to making the most of summer, whether you’re on assignment, in between contracts, or planning ahead for the perfect blend of work, play, and downtime.
Plan Your Time Off Between Assignments
Being a travel nurse or allied healthcare traveler means you’re not tied to a traditional schedule—but taking time off still takes intention. Planning ahead can help you carve out the summer break you want without sacrificing momentum in your travel career.
Set Your Timeline Early
If you’re eyeing a vacation or family trip, start talking with your travel nurse agency early. Let your recruiter know your ideal end date and how much time you want off before your next assignment. The more lead time, the better your chances of finding an assignment that works with your goals.
Budget for Breaks
Since time off between assignments is unpaid, factor those gaps into your financial planning. Stashing a little extra from your last contract can give you peace of mind while you’re off adventuring or simply relaxing.
Use Gaps to Explore
Want to road trip from one coast to another? Visit national parks along your route? Stop in to see family before your next job? Use the time in between assignments to fit in much-needed fun before your next job begins.
Be Strategic With Timing
Ending one assignment just before a long weekend or big summer event gives you a built-in opportunity to enjoy festivities, without needing to miss shifts or adjust your schedule.
Enjoy the Season While on Assignment
Not all summer adventures require taking time off. With the right destination and mindset, you can enjoy the best of the season while on the clock.
Choose Summer-Friendly Locations
Work with your travel nurse agency to find assignments in summer hot spots like coastal cities, mountain towns, or destinations near lakes, rivers, or national parks. You’ll have ready-to-go opportunities for summer fun on your days off.
Here are some in-demand states in 2025 that will give you everything you want in an awesome summer assignment:
- Washington: Whether in the Puget Sound region, Yakima, or Spokane, it won’t take you long to learn why WA is so popular with healthcare travelers.
- Maine: No matter where you go, you’re in for an unforgettable time in Maine.
- North Carolina: Charlotte, Greensboro, and other spots in the Tar Heel state are perfect for summer assignments.
- South Dakota: Otherworldly landscapes and epic outdoor adventure is calling—with facilities that welcome travelers like one of the team.
Take Advantage of Your Surroundings
Healthcare travelers often land in places they may have never considered vacationing. Do some research on local trails, festivals, historic sites, or outdoor attractions. Whether it’s hiking after a shift or catching an outdoor concert, let the location work for you.
Pack for Fun
Toss in that packable hammock, portable grill, or hiking gear. A little prep can turn a regular day off into a mini vacation. Planning to enjoy your favorite warm-weather activities makes it easier to say “yes” to spontaneous fun.
Avoid the Crowds With Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
Everyone loves summer—which also means everyone’s out trying to enjoy everything you are hoping to enjoy. Those popular tourist spots can get crowded quickly. If you’re looking to enjoy your downtime without the crowds, consider the following options.
Embrace the Shoulder Season
If you have flexibility, plan your travels for late spring or early fall. You’ll still get the perks of warmer weather, but with fewer crowds at national parks, beaches, and tourist hotspots.
Explore Underrated Destinations
Skip the usual suspects. Instead of a packed beach town, head for a quieter state park or lesser-known mountain lake. Your travel nurse agency can help you find assignments in areas that are off the beaten path but still full of summer charm.
Travel Midweek When You Can
Whether you’re vacationing or exploring on your days off, hitting popular spots during the week (instead of weekends) can help you avoid traffic, score better rates, and enjoy more peaceful experiences.
Maximize Your Summer With TNAA
At TNAA, we’re here to help you build the lifestyle you want, whether that means planning the perfect summer assignment or carving out space for the road trip of a lifetime. Summer is your time to recharge, reconnect, and rediscover what you love about being a healthcare traveler. As your travel nurse agency, we’re committed to helping you make the most of every season.
We are dedicated to empowering healthcare travelers with unparalleled support and resources, helping you find assignments that fit your lifestyle and career goals. Our traveler-centric, full-service approach puts travel nurses and allied travelers first, meaning your experience and satisfaction are always our number one priority.
Ready to travel with TNAA? Check out our available healthcare travel jobs and apply today!
