The most important things to pack for a travel nurse assignment are your documents (licences, certifications, ID, immunisation records), work essentials (scrubs, shoes, stethoscope), and a few home comforts to make short-term housing feel like home. Pack light: most assignments last about 13 weeks, and you can buy many basics locally.
Documents and paperwork
- Nursing licences (and compact licence details)
- BLS, ACLS, PALS or other certification cards
- Government ID and passport
- Social Security card or equivalent (as required)
- Immunisation records and TB test results
- Copies of your contract
- Agency and recruiter contacts
- Health insurance card
- Car registration and insurance if driving
- Digital copies of everything in cloud storage
Work essentials
- 4–5 sets of scrubs in common colours (check the hospital’s dress code)
- Two pairs of comfortable work shoes
- Compression socks
- Stethoscope
- Pen torch
- Bandage scissors
- Several black pens
- Pocket notebook
- Badge reel
- Lunch bag and reusable water bottle
- Fleece or jacket for cold units
- Pocket drug guide or app
Home comforts
- Your own pillow
- A favourite blanket
- Bedding set (if housing doesn’t provide it)
- Towels
- Blackout curtains or eye mask (essential for nights)
- White noise machine or earplugs
- Basic cooking set: one pan, one pot, knife, chopping board
- Coffee maker or travel kettle
- Photos or small decorations
- Extension lead and chargers
Health and self-care
- Prescription medicines plus copies of prescriptions
- Basic first aid kit
- Vitamins if you take them
- Workout clothes and trainers
- Toiletries in travel sizes to start
- Hand cream and lip balm
Car and travel
- Emergency car kit
- Ice scraper and winter supplies for cold destinations
- Phone mount
- Reusable shopping bags
Nice to have
- Laptop or tablet
- Streaming stick
- Books or e-reader
- Small toolkit
- Portable fan or heater
- Laundry bag and detergent pods
- Collapsible storage boxes
- A journal to note what you learn at each hospital
Packing tips
- Ask the housing provider what’s included before you go
- Use vacuum bags to save space
- Keep documents in your hand luggage or front seat
- Buy bulky items locally and donate them at the end
Related reading: How to become a travel nurse · Travel nurse pay by state