Packing Like a Pro: Essential Items Every Travel Nurse Needs
Master the art of efficient packing and never find yourself unprepared at a new assignment again. We’re covering everything from must-have professional gear to comfort items that make any place feel like home.
Starting a new travel nursing assignment is exciting, but packing efficiently can make or break your experience. Whether you're heading to a 13-week assignment across the country or taking a local contract just a few hours away, having the right items packed and organized will set you up for success from day one.
After working with hundreds of travel nurses at Geaux Care Staffing, we've learned what separates the packing pros from those who end up scrambling to buy essentials in an unfamiliar city. Here's your ultimate packing guide to ensure you're prepared for anything your assignment throws your way.
The Golden Rules of Travel Nurse Packing
Before we dive into specifics, remember these key principles:
Pack for 2-3 weeks without laundry access (you might not find a washer/dryer immediately)
Prioritize versatile items that work in multiple situations
Invest in quality luggage with wheels and compression features
Keep important documents easily accessible but secure
Plan for the unexpected – weather changes, extended assignments, social events
Professional Essentials: Your Career Toolkit
Uniforms & Scrubs
8-10 sets of scrubs in facility-approved colors (navy, ceil blue, and black are universal)
2-3 sets of business casual clothes for orientation and meetings
Comfortable, supportive nursing shoes (2 pairs minimum)
Compression socks (multiple pairs – your legs will thank you)
Cardigan or jacket for varying hospital temperatures
Professional Documentation
Physical copies of licenses and certifications in a waterproof folder
Digital copies stored on secure cloud storage and USB drive
Updated resume and reference list
Compact portfolio folder for orientation materials
Professional ID badge holder and retractable badge reel
Medical Equipment & Supplies
Stethoscope (invest in a good one – it's your most important tool)
Penlight and extra batteries
Trauma shears
Multiple black and blue pens (hospitals eat pens for breakfast)
Small notepad for jotting down important information
Calculator or smartphone with calculator app
Personal hand sanitizer and lotion (hospital-grade sanitizers can be harsh)
Documentation & Legal Essentials
Critical Paperwork
Passport and driver's license (originals and copies)
Social Security card
Birth certificate
Nursing license (compact license if you have one)
BLS, ACLS, PALS certifications as applicable
Immunization records
Background check results
Housing agreement and contact information
Financial Documents
Banking information and checks
Credit cards (notify banks of travel plans)
Emergency cash ($300-500 for unexpected expenses)
Insurance cards (health, auto, professional liability)
Technology & Communication
Essential Electronics
Smartphone with reliable service plan
Portable phone charger/power bank
Laptop or tablet for staying connected and completing online training
Universal phone charger and adapters
Headphones for downtime and phone calls
Apps to Download Before You Go
Navigation apps (Google Maps, Waze)
Hospital-specific apps (Epic, Cerner, etc.)
Local weather and traffic apps
Food delivery and grocery apps
Banking and financial apps
Comfort & Personal Items
Clothing Essentials
Weather-appropriate clothing for your destination
Workout clothes (gyms are great for meeting people and staying healthy)
Sleepwear and comfortable loungewear
One "going out" outfit for exploring nightlife or nice dinners
Undergarments for 2+ weeks
Swimwear (you never know what recreational opportunities await)
Personal Care
Toiletries for 2-3 weeks (include travel-sized backup options)
Prescription medications with extra refills
First aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, and cold medicine
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Personal hygiene products
Comfort Items
Favorite pillow or pillowcase (familiar scents help with sleep)
Cozy blanket or throw
Photos of family/friends or items that make spaces feel like home
Favorite snacks from home (especially if you have dietary restrictions)
Books, e-reader, or streaming downloads for entertainment
Kitchen & Dining Essentials
Many housing situations come with basic kitchens, but they're often lacking essentials:
Basic knife set and cutting board
Can opener and bottle opener
Measuring cups and mixing bowls
Non-stick pan and pot
Coffee maker or French press (if you're a coffee person)
Reusable water bottle and travel mug
Basic spices and condiments (salt, pepper, olive oil)
Cooler bag for transporting groceries and meal prep
Health & Wellness
Fitness & Self-Care
Yoga mat (great for hotel rooms and small spaces)
Resistance bands (compact and versatile)
Running shoes and workout clothes
Essential oils or aromatherapy items for stress relief
Journal or meditation app for mental health
Health Monitoring
Thermometer
Blood pressure cuff (if you monitor your own)
Any personal medical devices you regularly use
Vitamins and supplements you take regularly
Emergency & Safety Items
Flashlight and extra batteries
Basic tool kit (screwdriver, hammer, wrench)
Duct tape and zip ties (surprisingly useful)
Pepper spray or personal safety device
Emergency contact list with local and home contacts
Portable fire extinguisher (for kitchen safety)
Packing Strategies That Work
The Rolling Method
Roll clothes instead of folding to save 30% more space and prevent wrinkles.
Compression Bags
Use vacuum-sealed bags for bulky items like winter coats and blankets.
Cube Packing
Organize items in packing cubes by category (work clothes, casual clothes, electronics).
Weight Distribution
Keep heavy items in wheeled luggage and fragile items in your carry-on.
Layer System
Pack a capsule wardrobe where everything mixes and matches.
Specialty Packing by Assignment Type
Cold Weather Destinations
Heavy winter coat and waterproof boots
Thermal underwear and warm accessories
Car emergency kit (blanket, ice scraper, jumper cables)
Vitamin D supplements (limited sunlight can affect mood)
Warm Weather Destinations
Lightweight, breathable fabrics
Sun hat and sunglasses
Cooling towels for post-shift relief
Electrolyte supplements for hot climates
Rural Assignments
Non-perishable food items (limited restaurant options)
Entertainment options (books, games, craft supplies)
Car maintenance supplies (longer distances between services)
Outdoor gear if you enjoy nature activities
Urban Assignments
Professional attire for city dining and entertainment
Public transportation apps and cards
Compact umbrella (useful in most cities)
Noise-canceling headphones for busy environments
What NOT to Pack
Skip These Items
Furniture (most furnished housing is adequate)
Large appliances (usually provided or available locally)
Excess electronics (stick to essentials)
Valuable jewelry (keep it secure at home)
Too many books (use digital options or local libraries)
Buy Locally Instead
Cleaning supplies (heavy and readily available)
Bulk toiletries (buy as needed)
Fresh food (shop locally for best prices)
Local guidebooks (get current recommendations)
Packing Timeline: 4 Weeks Out
4 Weeks Before:
Research your destination's climate and culture
Order any needed certifications or documents
Start accumulating travel-sized toiletries
2 Weeks Before:
Confirm housing details and what's provided
Order any specialty items you can't find locally
Begin organizing documents
1 Week Before:
Check weather forecast for packing adjustments
Confirm travel arrangements
Start packing non-essentials
3 Days Before:
Pack everything except daily essentials
Confirm all documents are ready
Charge all electronic devices
Making Your Assignment Feel Like Home
The difference between surviving and thriving on assignment often comes down to how quickly you can make your temporary space feel comfortable. Small touches like familiar bedding, favorite coffee, and photos can transform any space into a home base.
Remember, packing efficiently isn't just about fitting everything into your luggage—it's about setting yourself up for success. When you have everything you need, you can focus on what matters most: providing excellent patient care and making the most of your travel nursing adventure.
Your Partner in Travel Nursing Success
At Geaux Care Staffing, we understand that the details matter. From helping you find assignments with great housing options to providing guidance on local resources, we're committed to making your travel nursing experience as smooth as possible.
Ready for your next adventure? Let us help you find an assignment where you can put these packing skills to good use. Our team knows which facilities provide the best support for travel nurses and which locations offer the amenities that make assignments truly enjoyable.
Contact Geaux Care Staffing today, and let's start planning your next successful assignment.
Questions about what to expect at your next assignment? We're here to help you prepare for every aspect of your travel nursing journey.