You haven’t even started your assignment yet, and already you’re stressed? That’s because you’re missing these 5 game-changing essentials.
(Links included to the exact ones I use—don’t wait until you’re 5 shifts deep and losing it.)
1. The Phone Charger That Could Save Your Life
Let’s start with the one item you’ll use every single day—and notice the second you forget it.
A dead phone while navigating to a new hospital, trying to get an Uber, or stuck in an unfamiliar area? Not cute.
➡️ Must-have: This ultra-slim power bank with built-in cords
✅ Fits in your scrub pocket
✅ Charges 3x faster than the cheap ones
✅ Has saved me more than once on night shifts
2. The Best Bag for Meal Prep, Meds & Weekend Trips
A lunchbox isn’t enough. You need something that:
- Keeps food cold
- Stores meds or snacks securely
- Doubles as a day-trip bag on weekends
➡️ Recommended: This insulated cooler backpack
✅ TSA-friendly
✅ Wipes clean easily
✅ Saves you $$ from buying hospital cafeteria food
3. The White Noise Machine That Saves Your Sleep
You’re staying in weird apartments, hotel rooms, or maybe even hospital housing. One loud neighbor = no rest.
➡️ Must-have: This travel-size white noise machine
✅ Blocks out hallway noise
✅ USB rechargeable
✅ Doubles as meditation or focus sound during breaks
4. The One Site You Should Book With Every Weekend
You didn’t move to Phoenix or Miami or Portland just to work. But planning day trips on your days off feels like another job.
➡️ Easy button: Viator’s “experiences near me” section
✅ Filter by time, price, or rating
✅ Most things under $50
✅ I once found a sunset kayak tour that changed my whole week
Trust me—booking just ONE experience on days off makes the whole assignment feel worth it.
5. The Weekend Warrior Bundle
If you do nothing else, pack this one bag in your trunk or closet:
- Comfy shoes
- Travel-size toiletries
- A bathing suit
- Power bank
- Sunglasses
- Book or Kindle
- This weekender duffel bag with a shoe compartment
That way, when you find a last-minute deal on Trips.com, you can say yes without overthinking.
Bonus: The One Thing I Regret Not Buying on My First Assignment
I cried in the break room more than once. I was burnt out, lonely, and constantly second-guessing my decision.
If I had started journaling from the beginning, I’d have processed it better.
➡️ Try this: Travel nurse-specific journal
✅ Prompts for gratitude + growth
✅ Track new skills & stories
✅ Helps you reflect and reset between contracts
🔗 More Must-Reads for Travel Nurses:
Looking to feel more prepared and confident before your next assignment? These guides are packed with practical tips, Amazon essentials, and time-saving hacks:
🧳 Your No-Stress Travel Nurse Packing Guide: 21 Essentials You’ll Regret Forgetting
Avoid last-minute panic with this essential checklist designed specifically for travel nurses.
🛏️ Housing Hacks for Travel Nurses: 15 Finds That Instantly Make Any Place Feel Like Home
Turn even the most temporary space into your comfort zone with these practical, affordable items.
🗺️ Your Ultimate 4-Day Getaway Itinerary for Travel Nurses (Amazon Picks Included)
Recharge between contracts with a quick, curated escape—without the stress of planning.
TL;DR: Don’t Wing It. Get These Before You Regret It.
Here’s your cheat sheet to actually enjoy your next assignment:
🛒 Shop the Essential Travel Nurse Kit →
🌎 Book Local Weekend Experiences with Viator →
🧳 Get the Best Travel Deals on Trips.com →
Trust me—your future self (and your sanity) will thank you.
