Safety Tips for Solo Travelers

Accepting a position as a travel nurse is an exciting opportunity to explore new places. Being a travel nurse often means that you are living and venturing out on your own.  It is important to use your best judgement in order to have a safe experience. Keep the following tips in mind to help you stay safe on your next travel assignment. 

Do Your Research

Before accepting an assignment do your research on the area you will be working and living. Check out neighborhood safety ratings and crime reports in the area on Area Vibes. 

Consider choosing an apartment or extended stay with 24 hour security. 

Utilize your recruiter to help you find safe housing. 

Have A Travel Plan

Whether you are driving or flying to your next assignment, have a plan. Consider the time of day you will be traveling and how long it will take to get to your destination. Try not to travel by car alone late at night. If you must travel overnight, plan out stops for gas and rest breaks ahead of time. Make sure you are stopping in a well lit areas that have other people around. 

Invest In Road Side Assistance

Driving in unfamiliar areas can often be intimidating especially if you have to travel a long way to your next assignment. Invest in road side assistance through your car insurance or  AAA so you will have the peace of mind knowing that if you break down or lock yourself out of your car, help will be on the way. Companies like On Star also offer directions if you get lost or emergency service while on the road with a touch of a button.

Emergency Contacts

Make sure your emergency contacts are on file at your current assignment and with your travel nurse recruiter. You want to make sure that your loved ones will be able to be notified right away in case anything were ever to happen to you.

Share Your Travel Information With Loved Ones

Make sure to let family or friends know where your next travel assignment will be. Disclose which hospital you will be working at, and where you will be living. Sharing your information will help ease friends and families minds when you are traveling alone, and add an extra level of protection for you that they know your whereabouts. 

Become Friendly With Coworkers

When you arrive to your assignment talk with the nursing staff about areas to avoid and what to be mindful of. Having a local perspective is always helpful. Exchange contact information with a few trusted nurses in case you need any advice or assistance. 

Making friends with fellow nurses will allow you to have the opportunity to explore with others experienced in the area on your days off. 

Trust Your Gut

Just like you rely on your gut instincts to know when something isn’t right with your patient as a nurse, trust your gut if something feels unsafe to you. Be mindful of where you go exploring in your downtime, and make sure your commute to work is safe. Always exercise your best judgment. 

Health Carousel Travel Nursing cares about your safety, reach out to your recruiter if you have any concerns about your safety during your next travel assignment. 

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Bio
Lauren Rivera is a nationally certified neonatal intensive care nurse with over 15 years of experience. She serves as a nurse expert offering support and educational classes for women and their families from preconception through childhood.