Travel nursing is an exciting career. It allows you to work and explore new places. But one of the biggest challenges is finding the best housing option that fits your needs and budget. You will receive a travel nurse housing allowance, which can be used to cover your housing expenses while on assignment. This guide will explore how to use your housing allowance to find the best housing option for you.
Step 1: Determine Travel Nurse Housing Allowance
To begin with, you need first to determine your housing allowance. This amount is usually included in your contract and should cover your housing expenses while on assignment. If you are unsure of the amount, you can ask your staffing agency or HR department for clarification. It is vital to mention that the housing allowance varies from employer to employer and location to location.
Step 2: Determine Travel Nurse Housing Facilities
Once you know your housing allowance, the next step is determining your housing needs. This step would lay the foundation for determining the type of housing best for you. To do so, you can ask crucial questions, such as those below.
- What do you prefer – living alone or with others?
- Do you need a private bedroom and bathroom, or are you okay with sharing space?
- What’s a better choice for you – a furnished or unfurnished apartment?
- Do you have any special demands, such as a pet-friendly apartment?
- What is your preferred location?
- Are you okay with a long commute to work, or do you prefer to live close to the workplace?
Step 3: Research Your Options
Once the travel nurse housing allowance is fixed per the contract and travel nurse housing facilities are determined per your lifestyle, it is time to start researching your options. For travel nurse housing facilities, several options are available.
- Corporate housing:
Corporate housing is a furnished apartment that is specifically designed for travelers. These apartments typically include all the amenities you need, such as a full kitchen, private bathroom, and in-unit washer and dryer. Corporate housing offers the convenience of having everything you need in one place, but it can be more expensive than other housing options.
- Extended stay hotels:
Extended-stay hotels are a good option if you prefer a more hotel-like experience. These hotels usually offer a kitchenette, private bathroom, and daily housekeeping services. The drawback is that they can be more expensive than other housing options, and you may have to sacrifice some privacy.
- AirBnB or VRBO
Consider renting a room or an entire home if you prefer to have your own space. These options allow you to have your own private space. Another upside is that these are less expensive than corporate housing or extended-stay hotels. However, choosing a reputable host and ensuring that the property meets your needs is of utmost importance.
- Roommates
If you are okay with sharing space, you can consider finding a roommate or sharing an apartment with another travel nurse. This can be a cost-effective option and is a great way to make new friends. This also lets you have a built-in support system.
Step 4: Compare Costs and Amenities
Once you go through the above three steps, you will get a list of potential housing options. Now, in this step, you need to compare costs and amenities. When comparing costs, you consider all the expenses, such as utilities, Wi-Fi, and parking, which factor in travel time and commute expenses from your place of stay and the hospital. Additionally, consider the availability of grocery stores, restaurants, and other amenities.
Step 5: Make a Decision
Once you are done with understanding your needs, looking at the options, and comparing costs and amenities, it is finally time to arrive at a decision. Choose the housing option that best fits your needs, budget, and lifestyle. It is also a good idea to get feedback from other travel nurses.
Finding the best housing option as a travel nurse can be challenging, but by using a travel nurse housing allowance and following these steps, you can find the perfect option. With a little research and preparation, you can find the option with the best travel nurse housing facilities. However, if you do not want to put much of your time and energy into this, Voysta will find the perfect safe & comfy spot on your behalf. However, they also let you find a home on your terms.
