One subject that many worry about and try to improve on is saving money. If you’re anything like me...you’re not great at it. But that’s okay because we are all here to better ourselves and our bank accounts. Lucky for you, travel nursing is a great way to make an extra chunk of change vs being a resident nurse. On your next assignment, challenge yourself to follow some of these steps and see how much dough you can save!
8 Simple Ways to Save Money as a Travel Nurse
BUDGET
This first step seems obvious and redundant. But alas, has stood the test of time as a sure way to save money. It takes some planning and discipline to stick to, but always ends up being 100% worth it. After you determine your fixed costs of living, bills, food and necessities; don’t forget to leave some cash to enjoy your travels and TREAT YO SELF.
MAKE YOUR SAVING AUTOMATIC
Before your first traveling paycheck, set up your bank account so a specified portion of your check gets transferred from your checking to savings AUTOMAGICALLY each payday! With this one step you are saving without even really trying. GOOD JOB!
CUT DOWN ON FOOD COSTS
Take a little extra time to plan and prep your meals and snacks for the week. This helps curate your grocery list and avoid the urge to order Jimmy John’s for the 10th time, spending unnecessary money. Save some money under your ‘fun’ budget for going out to eat with co-workers or friends on days off.
MAKE YOUR OWN COFFEE
Invest in a coffee maker and your favorite coffee fixins or utilize one at your facility or where you are staying. By the end of your assignment it will save you hundreds of dollars, rather than spending it on $5.00 coffee every day.
INVEST IN A REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE
This will not only be good for your pocket, but good for the environment. Cut down on plastic waste and money spent on one-use water bottles. I carry mine EVERYWHERE, never know when you’re going to be thirsty. :)
BUY GENERIC/STORE BRANDS
Generic or store brands are usually if not always significantly cheaper than brand name items. There typically isn’t much of a difference if any and is a great way to save money on shopping trips.
OPT FOR LOW-COST OR FREE ADVENTURES
No matter where your travels take you, you will be able to find cheap or free things to do. You can explore a national park, hit the beach, walk around and have a scenic photoshoot, free museums...the list goes on and on! Another option to save some money is to browse Groupon for special deals you can share with friends!
Refer your healthcare buddies and if they work a 13-week contract with OneStaff Medical, you will receive up to $500! Maybe you can even travel together!
Saving money can be fun once you get the ball rolling and often if not always involves some planning. So before you head out on your next travel assignment check out ways you can plan to save!