Winter can be a magical time of year with its blankets of snow, chilly air, and holiday magic. For travel nurses, it can also mean more job opportunities, but you’ll need a bit of extra preparation. We offer these hacks if you’re thinking about a cold weather travel assignment.
The next 13 weeks can be an incredible adventure if you’re prepared. Even though it might seem like you’ll be going from home to work and back, you will need winter clothes and shoes, as well as equipment for outdoor activities like skiing or snowboarding. If you have your car, you must ensure it is prepared for winter, including an emergency kit, blanket, and ice scraper.
Cold Weather Hacks for Travel Nurses & Travel Healthcare Professionals
As always, we encourage you to talk to your recruiter. Let them know where you’d like to work this winter. Ask about the weather, which may differ from past assignments, and what to expect when working in a colder climate. If you’re coming from a mild weather place like Florida or southern California, you may need to buy winter clothing and shoes, adding to your packing list and expenses.
- Layer Clothing: Long sleeves under short sleeves, light jackets under a winter jacket, and extra socks will improve your comfort and mobility. It may be freezing when you leave for work, but you will warm up as the day progresses. It is better to have too many layers than not enough. Make sure you have ease of movement so can drive, walk, and work comfortably.
- Pack Winter-Specific Footwear: There’s nothing worse than cold or wet feet except cold AND wet feet. Invest in waterproof winter shoes that support your feet, keep you safe on snow and ice, and protect you from damp and cold. Your tennis shoes from California aren’t going to work well in freezing weather!
- Use a Humidifier to Combat Dry Air: In Arizona, we use humidifiers all year because it’s so dry! No matter where you are in the winter, the air is less humid than in the warmer months. Asking Santa for a humidifier is a great idea! Your nasal passages will thank you.
- Stay Hydrated Despite the Cold: Grab your favorite water bottle or cup and stay hydrated! Are you tired of plain water? Add Crystal Light and get sipping! Just because the air is colder doesn’t mean you need less water. You may even need more because the air is so dry.
- Plan for Delays and Weather Disruptions: We recommend a dry run to work before your first day to all our travel nurses. Remember that the weather will affect your commute time. Black ice, fog, snow, and accidents will make your commute longer. Check real-time GPS for delays and plan your commute accordingly.
- Keep a Winter Car Emergency Kit: Invest in winter-friendly tires, windshield wipers, and snow chains. When the weather gets snowy and icy, you will be grateful to have the proper equipment for your vehicle. Keep blankets, ice scrapers, freeze-proof windshield wiper fluid, shovel, and an emergency kit in your car. Even if you’re just commuting from work to home, you may need these items.
- Opt for Housing Near Your Facility: If possible, find housing close to your workplace. You will avoid the delays caused by the weather. If you’re not used to driving in cold weather, it will help your anxiety. AB Staffing has housing specialists who can help you find proper housing.
- Prepare Meals in Advance: Slow cookers are your wintry weather friend. Soups, stews, and sauces can be made in advance. You will have meals ready when you arrive home and can snuggle right in with a warm meal. Also, the aroma from home cooked meals is welcoming and can make your home away from home feel familiar.
- Use Warm-Up Tricks for Your Commute: Whether you warm your car seats, wear a warming jacket and gloves, or wear two pairs of socks, get and stay warm up on your commute. Before you leave the house, consider exercises like stretching or walking in place to get your body ready. Start your car to get the heat going, and the windows defogged and/or scraped before leaving. This will keep you alert and your car ready for the commute.
We always want you to be as safe and warm as possible! While winter can be a magical time, it is also necessary to prepare yourself and your vehicle. We hope these cold weather hacks for travel nurses help you on your next assignment.
Interested in learning where we have opportunities? Check out the AB Staffing Job Board. We look forward to working with you.
