travel nurse salary lpn

Travel Nurse Salary: How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

• Travel Nurse Salary
• Salary Factors
• Salary by Specialty
• Highest Paying States
• Highest Paying Cities
• Top Paying Agencies
• How to Make More
• Related Careers
• Final Thoughts & Next Steps

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

The average annual travel nurse salary in the US is  $105,021 or $50/hr, according to  ZipRecruiter  as of May 2023. This is significantly higher than the average salary for registered nurses overall, which is $81,220 per year or $39.05 per hour per the BLS . 

>> Click here to see available high-paying travel nurse opportunities!

Travel nurse salaries range widely across the country, with the lowest earners making $40,000 and the highest earners making $155,500 annually!

If you are a Registered Nurse (RN) who has ever considered traveling the country and wants to know how much travel nurses earn, you’ve come to the right place! This travel nurse salary guide will explain everything you need to know about how much travel nurses can make. Including:

• Types of travel nurses who make the most money
• Travel nurse salaries by city and state incomes
• Top-paying travel nurse agencies
• How to increase your salary as a travel nurse

Popular Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs

GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals. GCU offers a full spectrum of nursing degrees, from a pre-licensure BSN degree to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program.

Enrollment: Nationwide

• MSN - Family NP
• MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP
• MSN - Nursing Education
• MSN - Health Informatics
• MSN - Public Health Nursing
• MSN - Health Care Quality & Patient Safety
• MBA & MSN - Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems
• See more GCU nursing programs

WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.

• BSN-to-MSN - Family NP
• BSN-to-MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health NP
• BSN-to-MSN - Nursing Education
• RN-to-MSN - Nursing Education
• RN-to-MSN - Nursing Leadership & Management

Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding NY, RI and CT. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.

• MSN - Psychiatric-Mental Health NP
• MSN - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care NP
• MSN - Adult/Gerontology Primary Care NP
• MSN - Pediatric NP - Primary Care
• MSN - Nursing Informatics

At Purdue Global, discover a faster, more affordable way to earn your Nursing degree. Purdue Global is committed to keeping your tuition costs as low as possible and helping you find the most efficient path to your degree.

Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.

• Accelerated BSN-to-MSN
• MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP
• MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health NP
• MSN - Nurse Educator
• MSN - Executive Leader
• MSN - Nurse Informatics

Factors That Impact Travel Nurse Salaries

It is important to remember that travel nursing salary is dependent on several factors, including:

• Nursing specialty
• Full-time or part-time employment
• The shifts you work: day shift, night shift, mid-shifts, or weekends
• Bonus income

Also, travel nurses who work holidays often receive time-and-a-half or double-time pay, and in some cases, even more!

In addition, depending on the circumstances, travel nurses may also receive “crisis” pay due to needing to fill staffing urgently. If you have the desire and flexibility to move to another city or state quickly, a “crisis” assignment might be a great option for you.

Travel Nurse Salary by Specialty

What do travel nurses do that warrants their higher salaries? While flexibility is a significant factor, your travel nurse salary will also change depending on your nursing specialty.

Travel CRNA

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are the top-paid nursing specialty. The same holds true for CRNAs who take travel assignments as well. According to ZipRecruiter , CRNA travelers earn an average annual income of $194,352 or $93/hr. The highest earners make as much as $311,500!

Operating Room Travel Nurse

Operating Room (OR) travel nurses are in high demand at various locations around the country. ZipRecruiter found that operating room travel nurses earn an average annual income of $181,460 annually or $87/hr. The highest earners make as much as $286,000.

Emergency Room Travel Nurse

ZipRecruiter reports that ER travel nurses earn an average annual income of $83,503 annually or $40/hr. However, they add that the highest earners make as much as $171,500.

Intensive Care (ICU) Travel Nurse

According to ZipRecruiter , the average annual salary for ICU travel nurses is $143,416 annually or $69/hr. However, the highest earners make as much as $263,500.

Travel Nurse Practitioner

The average travel nurse practitioner salary is $140,086 annually or $67/hr, according to ZipRecruiter .  However, salary is often dependent on location and specialty. The highest-earning travel nurse practitioners make as much as $243,500.

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Travel Nurse

NICU travel nurses earn an average income of approximately $173,017 annually or $83/hr, according to ZipRecruiter . However, incomes across the country can range widely, with bottom earners making $56,000 and top earners bringing in $281,500.

Med-Surg Travel Nurse

ZipRecruiter reports that med-surg travel nurses in the US earn an average annual income of $118,997 or $57.21/hr. However, per-hour incomes can reach as high as $134.38, depending on your location and facility.

Telemetry Travel Nurse

ZipRecruiter states that telemetry Travel nurses earn an average annual income of $124,122 annually or $60/hr. However, top earners bring in as much as $174,500.

Top Paying States for Travel Nurses

Location can make a huge difference in salary as a travel nurse. ZipRecruiter reports that the states that offer the highest pay for travel nurses include:

• New York: $128,277 annually or $61.67/hr
• Arizona: $109,776 annually or $52.78/hr
• Wyoming: $109,765 annually or $52.77/hr
• Hawaii: $109,653 annually or $52.72/hr
• Tennessee: $107,708 annually or $51.78/hr
• Massachusetts: $107,000 annually or $51.44/hr
• New Jersey: $106,901 annually or $51.40/hr
• Washington: $106,086 annually or $51.00/hr
• West Virginia: $106,044 annually or $50.98/hr
• New Hampshire: $105,438 annually or $50.69/hr

Top Paying Cities for Travel Nurses

ZipRecruiter reports that the cities that offer the highest pay for travel nurses include:

• Barrow, AK: $137,200 annually or $65.96/hr
• San Jose, CA: $133,873 annually or $64.36/hr
• Oakland, CA: $132,042 annually or $63.48/hr
• Antioch, CA: $129,387 annually or $62.21/hr
• San Francisco Bay Area, CA: $128,781 annually or $61.91/hr
• Lebanon, NH: $128,674 annually or $61.86/hr
• New York, NY: $128,277 annually or $61.67/hr
• Hayward, CA: $127,865 annually or $61.47/hr
• Vallejo, CA: $127,791 annually or $61.44/hr 
• Seattle, WA: $127,691 annually or $61.39/hr

Top Paying Agencies for Travel Nurses

There are multiple top-paying travel nurse agencies across the US. It is important to remember that your pay package depends on several factors, and income may vary widely depending on location and the needs of the facility. When a healthcare facility has more urgent needs for travel nurses, the pay ranges typically increase.

>> Related: Travel Nurse Requirements

Aya Healthcare

Aya Healthcare is one of the largest travel nurse agencies in the country, and they offer a wide range of travel nurse opportunities for various nursing specialties and allied healthcare positions. 

Fusion Medical Staffing

Fusion is another large nurse travel agency with many opportunities for nurses to choose their top travel destinations. Their website reports that one of the biggest perks of working with them is that they offer dedicated contacts available every day and night, 24/7.

Axis Medical Staffing

Axis Medical Staffing has won awards for “Best Customer Service” by Verywell Health and “Top Travel Nursing Company 2022” by Travel Nursing Central. 

Travel Nurse Across America

The TNAA website boasts highly skilled recruiters, housing experts, and clinical and quality insurance that prepares their travel nurses for success. 

Gifted Healthcare

Gifted Healthcare is another large travel nursing agency that reports that they aim to open the door to the right opportunities for their clinicians. In fact, their website reports that 90% of travel nurses report that their assignments aligned perfectly with their skills and expectations. 

TotalMed Staffing

Headquartered in Appleton, WI, TotalMed Staffing has several other locations across the country, such as California, Illinois, Tennessee, and North Carolina. They serve various types of healthcare facilities across the country.

Ventura Medstaff

Ventura Medstaff prides itself on integrity. Their website makes it easy to find a match for various types of healthcare specialties in the right location and facility across the country.

Tailored Healthcare

The Tailored Healthcare website reports that travel nurses are rewarded professionally with high-paying travel assignments, Platinum Shield Benefits, and everything paid for upfront. In addition, the company celebrates its nurses year-round with praise, gifts, and best-in-class bonuses.

Titan Medical 

Titan Medical Group states that they help their clients “find your place.” They feature various jobs on their website daily and make it easier for clients to find their next travel assignment.  

MedPro Healthcare

Medpro Healthcare offers incredible benefits, including competitive compensation, travel reimbursement, health insurance, short and long-term disability, 401K, Continuing education, and even referral bonuses.

How to Increase Your Salary as a Travel Nurse

No matter where you live and work as a travel nurse, there are often opportunities to increase your salary.

Be Flexible With Your City and State

When you live and work in a city with a higher cost of living, you will also be compensated at a higher rate. For example, travel nurses who work in areas such as New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Seattle will earn significantly more income than travel nurses who choose to work in lower-cost-of-living areas. 

Consider Your Specialty(s)

If you have been cross-trained in more than one nursing specialty, you may want to see which specialties pay the most through your travel agency. For example, if you usually work as an ICU nurse, but a facility has crisis needs for telemetry nurses and will pay top dollar for that specialty, then you may want to consider accepting that travel assignment. After all, these are temporary assignments, and if you decide you don’t like them, you won’t have to stay for long.

Ask About Per Diem Daily Pay

Many nurses qualify for additional per diem pay for travel nurse housing , incidentals, and meals during their travel assignments. Talk to your travel agent to see if this applies to you.

Choose Shifts Wisely

Career and travel nurses are typically paid a few dollars more per hour for working less desirable shifts such as night shifts, mid shifts, and weekends.

In addition, travel nurses who work holidays often receive time and a half or double time pay!

Talk About Bonuses

Your travel agency will need to explain your bonus structure, as they can differ from agency to agency. However, here are a few of the different types of bonuses you may be eligible for as a travel RN:

• Agency bonus: Added pay from your travel agency
• Retention bonus: Your agency will often pay you a fee for referring your nurse and allied healthcare professional friends to their agency.
• Retention bonus: Agency-paid bonuses for nurses who continue to accept travel bonuses from the same agency.

Find Crisis or Strike Pay

Healthcare facilities in dire need of nursing staff during a public healthcare crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic or during a nursing strike, often will pay travel nurses significantly higher wages than during non-dire times. Talk to your travel agency to find out where the most significant staffing needs are. 

Consider Looking at Different Agencies

If you are ever disappointed with your travel pay or hear through the grapevine that other agencies pay significantly more, consider looking at different agencies. It is also wise to build relationships with other travel nurses so you can talk freely about what to expect at different agencies.

Consider Finding Your Own Housing

Many agencies offer a housing stipend and then secure your housing for you. However, if you find your own housing, you may be able to find something less expensive and pocket the rest of the money.

>> See more travel nurse salary tips in How to Make the Most Money as a Travel Nurse

Salaries of Related Nursing Careers vs. Travel Nursing

The following are salaries of non-traveling nursing specialties, according to ZipRecruiter:

• NICU Nurse : $136,592 annually or $66/hr
• Surgical Nurse: $120,699 annually, or $58/hr
• Postpartum Nurse: $108,952 annually or $52/hr
• Telemetry Nurse: $95,179 annually, or $46/hr
• ICU Nurse : $92,568 annually or $45/hr
• Emergency Room Nurse : $83,503 annually or $40/hr

Travel Nurse Salary: Final Thoughts & Next Steps

The high salaries alone are enough to make dozens of nurses excited to enter travel nursing. But the perks don't stop at pay - travel nurses get to see the world, interact with patients across cultures, and enjoy non-taxed travel stipends. If all that sounds enticing to you, check out our guide on how to become a travel nurse to start your dream career today!

Travel Nurse Salary FAQs

Do travel nurses get paid well.

• ZipRecruiter reports that as of May 2023, travel nurses in the US earned an average annual income of $105,021 or $50/hr. They also add that salaries range widely across the country, with the lowest earners making $40,000 and the highest earners making $155,500 annually! 

What is the highest travel nurse salary?

• CRNAs travelers are the top-paid travel registered nurse specialty.  According to ZipRecruiter, CRNA travelers earn an average annual income of $194,352 or $93/hr. The highest earners make as much as $311,500! 

Why are travel nurses paid so much?

• Travel nurses help to fill staffing gaps and often accept assignments in areas with severe or “crisis’” nursing shortages. For their travel flexibility and ability to work in sometimes hard-to-fill areas, they are typically paid a higher compensation.

Sarah Jividen , RN, BSN, is a trained neuro/trauma and emergency room nurse turned freelance healthcare writer/editor. As a journalism major, she combined her love for writing with her passion for high-level patient care. Sarah is the creator of Health Writing Solutions , LLC, specializing in writing about healthcare topics, including health journalism, education, and evidence-based health and wellness trends. She lives in Northern California with her husband and two children. 

Plus, get exclusive access to discounts for nurses, stay informed on the latest nurse news, and learn how to take the next steps in your career.

By clicking “Join Now”, you agree to receive email newsletters and special offers from Nurse.org. You may unsubscribe at any time by using the unsubscribe link, found at the bottom of every email.

Travel Nursing Salary & Benefits 2024

If you’re looking to become a travel nurse , you probably have many factors driving your decision, from a desire to help people, expand your skills, or to simply take on a new adventure. But no matter what your motivation for becoming a travel nurse, your total compensation will vary from that of a staff nurse.

There are a lot of different factors with travel nursing that affect your salary and overall pay , like the length of the contract or your specialty. Because there are so many different factors, there can be some conflicting information about travel nurse salaries.

We’ve broken things down to make it easy for you to get the facts, including what an average travel nurse’s salary is and how much you can expect to make as a travel nurse.

Speak with a recruiter about available travel nursing assignments today!

Travel Nurse Salary Info

A good starting place to base your travel nursing salary on is the median salary figure for a registered nurse in the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for a registered nurse as of 2023 was $86,070 per year. However, because of the in-demand and transient nature of the job of a travel nurse, travel nurses can expect to make, in general, more than the average staff nurse.

For example, one survey of nurses who had found travel nursing positions using Indeed found that the average weekly wage of a travel nurse is $2,096 per week, which is approximately $114,578 per year. However, travel nurse salaries ranged from as low as $86,810 to as high as $151,227.

Keep in mind, though, that many travel nurses work different travel positions over the course of the year, so that figure can fluctuate based on the job’s conditions, any overtime, and the flexibility of the nurse’s schedule. Not to mention those non-taxable stipends. Your nursing specialty can also affect your total compensation as some hospitals may pay a premium for specific high-demand specialties .

Additional Travel Nursing Benefits

A travel nurse can expect some additional compensation that a staff nurse might not have access to, including the following:

1. Sign-on bonuses when signing with a travel staffing agency 2. Referrals if they bring other nurses onto the agency to work, and receive housing and meal allotments. 3. A compensation package for the nurse, which lists the base salary, as well as additional stipends, bonuses, and payments the nurse will receive for a total value that can be considerably higher than a staff nurse. That compensation may include the following:

• Housing , meal, and incidental stipends, which could cover a majority of your bills
• Travel expense reimbursement for getting to your new nursing assignment
• Reimbursement for things like your scrubs, books, or nursing supplies
• Bonuses (signing, referral, stay-on, or longevity)
• Health insurance, including dental, vision, and medical
• 401(k) benefits or other retirement options
• Life insurance options
• Certification and licensure reimbursement

In some cases, your stipends as a travel nurse will be just that — stipends, which means that you receive them no matter what. So, if you’re able to find cheaper housing or decide to make a diet of Ramen noodles your go-to, you have the potential to pocket the extra money as well.

Most of the time, these stipends are non-taxable, which means you don’t have to report them as additional income come April. You can also get tax breaks for maintaining your full-time home , which equates to extra money in your pocket overall.

Perks of Travel Nursing You May Not Know

It’s important to remember that although travel nursing offers a wide range of financial perks, there are so many incredible non-monetary benefits to bravely taking on a travel position!

For example, travel nursing can make you an even better nurse by exposing you to various new learning experiences in and out of the hospital. Not only are you moving to a new city or state, but you are also gaining exposure to diverse patient populations and unique hospital environments. While many career nurses work within the same unit and specialty throughout their careers, travel nurses gain exposure to as many different environments as they desire!

New clinical experiences allow travel nurses increased opportunities to learn new skills and techniques. Travel nursing may even help you better understand how to provide the highest-quality patient care more efficiently.

Here are other travel nursing perks you may not know about yet:

• Exposure to different hospital procedures and protocols
• Meet new like-minded travel nurse friends
• Build professional relationships in different hospitals and other medical facilities
• Build a more diverse resume
• Gain independence and confidence in your abilities
• Learn how to be a better team player and problem-solver
• See new places and experience different cultures
• Experience a new area without the long-term commitment
• Get out of your comfort zone and avoid career stagnation

Travel nurses get to see the nursing profession through many lenses. Who knows — maybe after your next travel assignment, you’ll take your enhanced knowledge to other healthcare facilities and wow them with your nursing prowess!

Highest Paying Cities For Travel Nursing In 2024

Some of the highest-paying cities in the country for travel nursing include the “big” cities that might pop up in your mind immediately, such as San Jose and Oakland. But there are other high-paying cities that might surprise you! According to ZipRecruiter, the top 10 highest-paid cities for travel nursing in the U.S. are:

See what positions are available for your specialties.

Highest Paying States For Travel Nurses 2024

You should also be aware that there are many high-paying travel nursing states as well. It is important to remember that travel nurse pay often depends on the current demand for nurses in that area, and that can change from year to year. According to ZipRecruiter , the top 10 highest-paid states for travel nursing in the U.S. this year are:

How You Can Make More Money As A Travel Nurse?

In addition to choosing an assignment in a high-paying location and signing with a travel agency that offers competitive rates and extra-compensation packages, there are other ways that you can earn even higher pay. For example, you could take any of the following strategies to earn an even higher travel nursing salary:

• Get additional training for an in-demand specialty. The easiest way to get training for an in-demand specialty is to seek training at the hospital where you work as a career nurse before becoming a travel nurse. Once you start traveling, it may be harder to switch specialties.
• Sign up for rapid response posting. This is when a travel nursing agency will post a position that requires a very fast turnaround to begin work, similar to being “on-call” at a staffing position.
• Work in less popular places. Many travel nurses like to travel to the beach in summer, but other areas also need help, and facilities are often willing to incentivize.
• Consider working in a strike zone. It may not be a popular choice, but hospitals that are in the middle of a strike need staffing agencies to temporarily fill nursing positions, carrying a higher wage potential for you.

Travel Nurse Salary Examples

Your total travel nurse salary will include your base pay as a nurse (the hourly wage you receive for actually working as a nurse) as well as any additional stipend pay, which may be broken down hourly, daily, weekly, or even monthly for a grand total of a “blended” pay.

Here is an example of how the blended travel nurse salary pay might look.

The specific compensation that you’ll receive as a travel nurse will be unique to you and will vary from contract to contract. If you have any questions regarding the pay for your contract, then ask your recruiter — you should have a complete understanding of your compensation before committing to a contract.

Travel Nurse Salary FAQs

The amount of money a travel nurse can make varies depending on several factors, including the specialty, location, part-time or full-time status, and years of experience. According to ZipRecruiter , as of FJuly 2024, travel nurses earn a median salary of $101,132 annually or $49 an hour. However, they also report that some of the highest-earning travel nurses make as much as $139,000 every year!

Travel nursing is worth the money if the travel situation aligns with your needs, desires, and priorities. There are many perks to travel nursing, including higher pay, the opportunity to learn and grow in diverse healthcare environments, and the freedom to travel to new locations. However, some nurses may find travel nursing difficult. Travel nursing requires a level of bravery to move into the unknown, often alone. If you find that you have difficulty adapting to new environments or don’t want to live far from family and friends, travel nursing may not be the right choice for you.

Some nursing specialties, such as intensive care, emergency room, or operating room nursing, may have higher pay rates than others. ZipRecruiter reports that as of July 2024, some of the highest-paying travel nursing specialties include: – ICU travel nurse : $126,164 annually or $61/hr – Emergency room travel nurse : $86,737 annually or $42/hr – Operating room travel nurse : $94,573 annually or $45/hr Also, states and regions may offer higher paying rates if they have a greater demand for nurses at that time.

Yes! According to ZipRecruiter , the median annual salary for travel nurses in the US is $121,710 or $59 per hour. The highest-paying travel nurses earn as much as $184,000 per year!

Travel nurses typically receive a base salary along with other benefits, which may include: – Stipends for housing, meals, and incidentals – Travel expense reimbursement to your new location – Reimbursement for scrubs, books, or nursing supplies – Bonuses (signing, referral, stay-on, or longevity) – Health, dental, vision, and medical insurance – 401k or other retirement options – Life insurance

Overall, travel nurse pay depends on the terms of their employment agreement. However, travel nurses can typically expect to receive various benefits and compensation packages, including housing accommodation , travel expenses, retirement benefits, medical insurance, and sometimes even certification and licensure reimbursements. In some cases, travel nurses may have to cover some of their own expenses. Or they may receive a stipend to offset their living expenses.

Travel nurses often get paid more than staff nurses because they help healthcare facilities fill urgent staffing needs and maintain safe staffing levels to ensure the highest level of patient care. They’re also flexible and willing to work in a variety of locations and positions that staff nurses may not be willing to work. Hiring managers use higher pay rates, sign-on bonuses, and other incentives to attract more experienced nurses to travel to their locations for a specified period of time.

Make all the right career moves!

Don't miss out on your adventure., learn more about travel nursing.

Highest-Paying Travel Nurse Assignments

Travel Nurse Salary Guide | 2024

Is Travel Nursing Dead? A Look At Travel Nursing In 2024

8 Hotel Discounts For Travel Nurses 2024

The Ultimate Travel Nurse Salary Guide: 4 Million+ Jobs Analyzed (July 2024)

We aggregated more than 4 million travel nursing salaries from the past 4+ years. Now we're revealing pay rates and job trends nationwide in our interactive pay explorer!

Average Pay (per week) $2,112.24 Based on 2,719,085 jobs analyzed across all travel nurse specialties , nationwide

Travel nursing by month (pay and count), best travel nursing agencies 🚀.

• Highest Paying
• Host Healthcare 50,000+ jobs $132.73 above average
• Premier Healthcare Professionals 50,000+ jobs $78.72 above average
• Epic Travel Staffing (formerly Emerald Health) 50,000+ jobs $70.19 above average
• Aureus Medical Group 50,000+ jobs $61.54 above average
• MedPro Healthcare Staffing 50,000+ jobs -$9.21 below average
• TotalMed 50,000+ jobs -$34.02 below average
• Triage Staffing 50,000+ jobs -$100.73 below average
• Job Availability
• Aequor Healthcare 50,000+ jobs -$102.03 below average

Top Locations Nationwide

• California 50,000+ jobs $227.80 above average
• New York 50,000+ jobs $212.93 above average
• Massachusetts 50,000+ jobs $198.74 above average
• Illinois 50,000+ jobs $76.03 above average
• Ohio 50,000+ jobs $36.58 above average
• Washington 50,000+ jobs $23.10 above average
• Virginia 50,000+ jobs -$32.64 below average
• Texas 50,000+ jobs -$180.77 below average
• Pay is standarized to 36 hour per week.
• For agency and metropolitan area ratings, results are compared against average for specialty and state. Nationwide average pay used if no state is selected. Top paying agencies and metro areas with less than the median job count for the category are excluded.
• View all footnotes

Want to see how your travel nurse salary stacks up in this unpredictable travel nurse job market?

How about making sure you're getting the higher compensation you should be in our challenging career?

You're in the right place to get all your questions answered about travel nurse pay.

Welcome to our  interactive pay explorer - with auto-updates every month!

Since September 2019 , we've been continuously tracking travel nurse pay packages.

View our full history of pay insights using the toggle in the right-hand corner of any of our graphs in this article.

More than four million jobs analyzed and four years later, we're proud to bring you objective overviews on the travel RN job market you can't find anywhere else.

Get the full scoop in this ultimate guide:

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

• What Is An Average Travel Nurse Salary?

Why Do Travel Nurses Make So Much?

Is travel nursing worth it, get a travel nurse pay breakdown.

• The Highest Paying States for Travel Nurses
• The Highest Paying Travel Nurse Specialties
• How to Find the Highest Paying Travel Nursing Jobs

How To Find The Best Paying Travel Nurse Agencies

Do travel nurses earn more money than full-time registered nurses? Overall, definitely!

Keep in mind: Travel nurses make higher salaries on average.

Your potential average annual income will depend on demand for your nursing specialty and where you work.

The averages you see below are measured across all specialties and locations nationwide for a general comparison.

Average Travel Nurse Salary vs Staff Nurse Salary

The average hourly pay for full-time staff RN's in the U.S. is $39.05, or $1,561.92 per week, according to the most recent 2022 US Bureau of Labor Statistics registered nurse occupational outlook .

The average hourly rate for travel nurses is $64.58, or $2,324.92 per week, according to our Ultimate Travel Nurse Salary Guide in September 2023.

The average hourly wage for a travel RN is $25.53 higher than staff nurse pay, and the average salary per week is $736 more .

Extrapolating to compare the average annual salary of a staff nurse vs travel rn pay, the difference is significant, with travel nurses' average annual salary reaching upwards to $30,000 more.

We calculated the average annual salary for travel nurses for only 48 weeks a year. Travel nurses need time off to organize and move to new assignments.

In short, high demand = higher compensation.

We're all aware many healthcare facilities nationwide are experiencing "nursing shortages". Registered nurses are retiring and/or leaving the bedside altogether, a trend sped up by the pandemic.

It's estimated that by 2025 the US will have a staffing gap of 200,000-450,000 nurses . In other words, 10-20% of direct-patient care nursing jobs will be unfilled.

With nursing skills like ours in high demand, we deserve higher pay. Not to mention the inherent stress we put up with in our challenging career.

Travel nurses earn more competitive wages by having the adaptable skills necessary to fill critical staffing needs and provide meaningful patient care in a pinch with minimal to no orientation.

These critical needs are often on less desirable shifts, so preparing yourself to work night shift would open up more travel nurse job possibilities.

Healthcare facilities entice nurses with more competitive wages due to the extra hardships we take on with the lack of job stability while searching for new jobs every 13 weeks. There's also the lack of a consistent job benefits package and the inconveniences of travel costs and time.

If you're looking to get more satisfaction in your nursing career, it could definitely be worth it.

It turns out it really is better to be a travel nurse than a staff nurse. A sweeping study analyzing feedback straight from our fellow nurses confirms it.

Nurses working in travel nurse jobs are more satisfied than permanent staff nurses in key areas:

• better job satisfaction
• less work-related stress
• feeling safer on the job
• more employer support
• higher compensation

Working in a travel nurse job isn't easy, but it could elevate your bedside nursing practice and give you more control in your nursing career.

You'll have to decide if the pros outweigh the cons for yourself. The standard contract is only 13 weeks, so I recommend every nurse give it a try.

Pro tip: You should definitely take the time to research what to expect before you commit to a travel nurse job.

Understanding how travel nurses' higher wages breakdown will help you compare pay offers and spot the jobs that are worth your relocation.

Travel nurses are typically hired as contracted temporary employees of travel nursing agencies, getting paid on a weekly basis to work in a variety of healthcare facilities.

The most common travel nurse contracts offered are for hospital inpatient units in a healthcare facility. These contracts usually commit you to work:

• 12 hours/shift
• 3 shifts/week
• 36 hours/week
• 13 weeks total
• 468 work hours total per contract

Our  interactive pay explorer  above standardizes all travel nurse wage data around the average 36-hour weekly pay packages.

See A Pay Package Example

Here's an average travel nurse pay package offer for a Medical-Surgical Nurse working 36 hours/week:

• $400 M&IE (Meals & Incidental Expenses) - per Week
• $3,200 Housing Stipend - per Month
• $750 Travel Reimbursement - One Time payment
• $30 Base Rate - Hourly pay rate

It's confusing!  ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Let's break this offer down to view your pay per week and per hour. Convert all parts of your travel nurse wages to a standardized hourly rate, then combine to calculate.

Your "M&IE" (meals & incidental expenses) payment is meant to cover your living expenses and daily (diem) meal costs on assignment.

Your housing stipend covers your temporary housing in your assignment location. Remember you should be maintaining housing in your permanent tax home, as well.

Many travel nursing offer travel reimbursements to help offset the higher cost of life on the road.

Be aware you may have more living expenses coming out of your travel nursing paycheck, based on what employment benefits package you accept:

• Taxes based on your permanent tax home rates
• Agency health insurance - health benefits can start at $20/week
• Agency 401k retirement plans

Ask your agency what other benefits they provide and how those affect your pay package.

Taxable vs Tax Free Pay

Following on from our pay example above, your travel nurse pay is made up of a taxable hourly wage and tax free income.

Notice that more than half of this pay package is tax free pay. Ka-ching!

Your tax free stipends, or "Per Diem" pay, are based on daily maximum rates set by the government.  Check  gsa.gov's Per Diem rates  for your next contract location.

Travel nurses are eligible for Per Diem tax free stipends when working away from your permanent tax home. When receiving tax free pay you MUST duplicate living/housing expenses, required per IRS rules.

This means paying fair market prices for both your accommodation at your travel nursing assignment, AND maintaining your own housing at your permanent tax home.

Many agencies also offer travel reimbursements to help you get money back you spent on travel expenses moving between assignments.

Pro tip: You can still "travel nurse" while living in your own housing at your permanent tax home. The difference is your income will be fully taxed, and you won't be eligible for the the tax free travel nursing pay.

Highest Paying States for Travel Nurses

Which states are really worth the higher cost license fees? Our map shows the highest paying states for travel nurses over the past 12 months.

To view the highest paying states averages since  September 2019 , use the toggle in the right-hand corner of any of our graphs.

These averages would include crisis rate market fluctuations.

Highest paying states for travel nurses. Standardized to 36/hour week contracts to compare data accurately.

For more specific travel nurse salary by state, see our table below with detailed pay trends and job availability.

We've included the  standard deviation . This shows you how 68% of pay offers spread above and below the average travel RN rates.  Picture a bell curve.

For example, 68% of California travel nurse salaries are $2,537.01 +/- $681.08 = pay range of $1,855.93 - $3,218.09.

The 'job count' column gives you a snapshot of each state's job availability.

Curious what the market looked like pre-COVID19?

Below is a compilation of the states that offered the higher pay from  September 2019 - March 2020 . Compare this list to our above map and table to see what difference crisis rates made.

Top 5 Highest Paying States for Travel Nurses (Pre - Covid19)

• California Consistently has the best pay and the most jobs by a long shot. Both inside and outside of the pandemic.
• New Jersey Solid opportunities for both pay and job availability.
• Washington D.C. Great income, but fewer job openings.
• Alaska Decent pay and lots of jobs, despite reputation for low rates. Current rates lower than pre-covid19.
• Connecticut Regularly pays above average with frequent job openings.

Highest Travel Nurse Salaries by Metropolitan Area

Not sure which areas of the country pay great for travel nurses?

We've got a summary here to get you started. Get even more location-specific data on high paying opportunities using our interactive pay explorer .

Top 5 Highest Travel Nurse Salaries by Metropolitan Area

Go after high pay AND lots of job openings in these locations:

• California Holds 9 of our top 10 spots for highest-paying metro areas
• East Coast New York City-Newark, Boston, Philadelphia, Washington DC
• Pacific Northwest Seattle-Tacoma, Portland
• Midwest St Louis, Chicago
• Arizona Phoenix, Tuscon

Pro Tip: Investing in a California license is worth your time and money if you're looking for LOTS of high-paying job options.

Highest Paying Travel Nurse Specialties

Feast your eyes on the largest travel nursing specialty comparison available including more than  130 specialties . Our interactive table shows nationwide pay averages including  standard deviation  for you to get an accurate overview of the highest paying specialties.

We removed specialties with very low job counts and supervisory roles. This keeps our data relevant to the travel nursing specialties with high pay AND regular job availability.

For a different view, we've got an interactive bubble chart displaying the highest paying travel nurse specialties by their job availability. Hover over the bubbles to identify the specialties.

Not all nursing specialties have a regular high need for travel nurses. For example, RN's in Electrophysiology Lab (EP Lab) regularly have higher pay offerings, but don't have the plentiful job options that ICU or L&D nurses have.

Pro tip: If you aspire to work consistently as a travel nurse, gain experience in a specialty with higher job availability.

I repeat: Higher demand = Higher compensation.

How To Find the Highest Paying Travel Nursing Jobs

How can you cut through the lowball offers to find and land the best paying travel nurse salaries? We started StellarNurse to help you.

After analyzing the market for 4+ years, here's our best advice:

• Use our interactive pay explorer to check pay trends, job availability and best agencies for your specialty
• Check out the newest & highest-paying travel nursing jobs to get an objective overview on your best current opportunities
• Message agencies anonymously on our StellarNurse jobs marketplace, focus on agencies that pay best and have lots of jobs for your specialty
• Keep current state licenses for the locations that have your specialty's best pay and highest job availability
• Breakdown pay packages to weekly or hourly income to accurately compare job offers
• Prioritize high pay - above personal convenience, best locations, nicest recruiter or agency loyalty
• Move fast for Crisis or Rapid Response rate offers

In a nutshell, stay flexible. The best offers are competitive and often need help fast. Be ready to adjust plans quickly, coordinate with a new agency or arrange travel to an unexpected location.

Bonus tip: If you like your agency, tell fellow travel nurses. Make an easy $500-$1,000. Every agency offers referral bonuses if a nurse you referred works with them too.

With more than 500 agencies posting travel nursing jobs daily it’s overwhelming to find which ones might be the best travel nurse companies for you.

After analyzing 4 million jobs over the past 4 years, we’ve organized our data to help you make informed decisions on which agencies to prioritize contacting first.

Find the best paying travel nurse agencies for your specialty and preferred locations. Use the filters to see which agencies have the most jobs available.

Refer back to our interactive pay explorer for in-depth pay trends on the best travel nursing agencies for your specialty and locations.

StellarNurse answers three important questions you should consider in your travel nurse agency choices.

Which travel nurse agencies have:

• The highest paying jobs for your specialty?
• The most jobs available for your locations?
• The benefits you’re looking for?

More questions you should consider when choosing a travel nurse agency are:

• What sets this agency apart?
• What agency resources are available if you have issues?
• How responsive is this agency?

Furthermore, find unbiased reviews to guide your choices.

Since I prefer to read reviews directly from my fellow nurses, here's where I look:

Bonus tip: You can message recruiters anonymously on the StellarNurse jobs marketplace totally risk-free. Get all your questions answered before giving up your contact info.

Our Data Sources

All our data is publicly available on the named travel nursing agency's website or Google jobs listings.

Methodology

We'll be publishing more technical details on our GitHub in the near future.

Dropping the Mic 🖐🎤

We can't wait to hear your success stories - Tell us how our travel nurse salary interactive pay explorer has helped you.

Did we miss any questions you have about finding how much travel nurses can make?

Connect with us on Instagram and Facebook so we can add your requests to future updates.

Share with your registered nurse friends so they can see their earning potential too!

Your days of being underpaid are over.

Bring evidence-based practice to your job search. Land the highest paying travel nursing jobs based on objective market overviews.

Traveling LPN Jobs: A Breakdown of Responsibilities, Requirements, Salary & More

LPN travel jobs offer just the right blend of adventure, excitement, and personal growth. 

With opportunities to explore new destinations, work in all sorts of medical settings, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of patients all across the country, you’ve got nothing to lose — and an exciting career to gain.

In this article, we unpack the details you need to know to become a traveling LPN, including the necessary skills and educational requirements plus potential salary, benefits, job demand, and more. 

Buckle up and get ready for a thrilling journey into the world of traveling LPNs!

Table of Contents

What is a travel lpn.

• What Does a Travelling LPN Do?

3 Great Benefits of Travel LPN Jobs

Commonly asked questions about lpn travel jobs.

• What Skills Do I Need To Apply for LPN Travel Jobs?

What Qualifications Are Required for LPN Travel Jobs?

Where do travel lpns make the most money , find the lpn travel job that’s right for you with pronto.

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs), sometimes referred to as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), are healthcare professionals responsible for basic patient care and comfort. 

An essential part of a quality patient experience, LPNs work directly under doctors and registered nurses (RNs) and are frequently their patient’s main point of contact. 

Travel LPNs work temporary assignments and may be in remote destinations away from the traveler’s home, or they may be contracted positions in their local area.

Explore the exciting possibilities of LPN travel jobs with Trusted Nurse Staffing with a Pronto job search !

What Does a Travelling LPN Do? 

Travel LPNs are responsible for:

• Patient care – Including monitoring patient’s status, checking vital signs, feeding patients, and helping with eating, dressing, and bathing
• Communication – Including maintaining clear lines of communication between patients, their families/caregivers, and medical care team members
• Medical records – Including ensuring everything is clear, accurate, and up-to-date
• Clinical skills – Including inserting IVs and catheters
• Patient education – Including providing ongoing patient support
• Medication administration – Including oral, topical, and injection medication

#1: You Get to Travel

The obvious perk to LPN travel nurse jobs is the opportunity to see the big, beautiful USA. 

When you’re a traveling LPN, you get to decide exactly where you want to work. 

Are weekends in a tent in the mountains of Colorado your vibe? Want to relax your time off away on a sunny Florida beach? Or would you rather stay a little closer to home to be near friends and family?

No matter your choice, LPN traveling jobs give you the freedom to enjoy life and select your working destination. 

#2: You Have Flexibility

LPN travel jobs also give nurses the ability to choose both their assignments and the medical facilities where they work, including:

• Hospitals, including local, state, and private
• Nursing facilities
• Residential care facilities
• Home healthcare services
• Doctors’ offices

Another great thing about travel LPN jobs is getting to choose where you want to work and the time frames you want to work in. 

Want to make your high school reunion in August? No problem, just take the month off. Is your family traveling over the summer? You can take a break between assignments. Do you need to take a week off for your favorite cousin’s wedding? Piece of cake.

LPN travel jobs allow you to schedule time off any time you need to so you can live your life on your terms. 

#3: You’ll Pad Your Resume

When you accept a traveling LPN job, you’ll be able to experience the nursing profession in ways staff nurses are unable to do — which means adding out-of-the-box skills to your resume. 

LPN travel jobs allow you to take assignments in various healthcare facilities, including hospitals, residential facilities, doctor’s offices, and home health. 

You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to network with a range of other healthcare professionals and gain valuable skills in dealing with a variety of patients, physicians, and fellow nurses.

Looking for an exciting adventure as an LPN travel nurse? Trusted Nurse Staffing has you covered! 

We are experts in finding LPN travel jobs in top facilities across the country. Simply use our Pronto job search to find available travel nurse assignments and pack your bags!

What Skills Do I Need To Apply for LPN Travel Jobs? 

To find success as a traveling LPN, you’ll need to excel in: 

• Compassion – LPNs must be caring and empathetic to the patients they serve.
• Communication – LPNs must be able to effectively convey information to patients, their families, and their care teams.
• Attending to details – LPNs have to pay attention to even the tiniest details to ensure their patients receive the right care at the right time.
• Interpersonal skills – LPNs must be experts at building the rapport required to interact with patients and other healthcare providers.
• Multitasking – LPNs are usually assigned multiple patients with a variety of health needs. 
• Physical stamina – LPNs must be able to perform a variety of physical tasks, including bending over patients for an extended time.

How Long Is a Typical LPN Travel Job Assignment?

A typical travel LPN job assignment lasts 13 weeks, but positions ranging from between 8 and 26 weeks are also common. 

Where Do Traveling LPNs Work?

Traveling LPNs have the opportunity to provide care for people in a wide variety of settings that include:

• Private practices
• Outpatient clinics
• Home health agencies
• Skilled nursing facilities
• Nursing homes

While the requirements will vary from state to state, becoming a licensed practical nurse is a relatively quick and easy way to begin a nursing career. 

The most common qualifications and procedures for becoming a traveling LPN include:

• Earning your high school diploma or GED
• Completing an LPN training course that covers theory and practical nursing skills. 
• Passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses ( NCLEX-PN ) to ensure you have the skills and knowledge to work safely as a nurse.

The process to become an LPN takes around a year. Once you’re a licensed LPN, you’ll need to gain 1 to 2 years of clinical experience before hitting the road as a traveler. 

Is There a Demand for Traveling LPNs? 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) employment of licensed practical nurses is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032 , which is faster than the average for all occupations.

The BLS estimates approximately 54,400 openings each year for LPNs, with many of those openings stemming from the need to replace workers who change careers or retire from the healthcare field.

Recent earning reports reveal that the median annual wage for LPNs is around $59,730 , with pay varying as follows, depending on the industry the LPN chooses to work in:

• Government – $63,340
• Nursing and residential care facilities – $61,690
• Home healthcare services – $58,620
• Hospitals, including local, state, and private – $54,490
• Doctors’ offices – $51,820

Are you ready to jump into an exciting world of travel nursing jobs for LPNs?

Trusted Nurse Staffing makes it easy! All you have to do is:

• Sign up for our Pronto job search. 
• Get connected with a recruiter, who will be there to help and answer any questions 24/7. 
• Search on Pronto for LPN travel jobs that meet your specific qualifications, interests, and needs.

As an Allied Health travel LPN with Trusted Staff Nursing, you’ll be matched with your very own dream team of experts to assist you with:

• Compliance – Your team will keep you up-to-date on all necessary facility-specific testing and licensing requirements — and they’ll also take care of your licensing and testing costs!
• Payroll – While this is often a huge hassle for many LPNs at larger agencies, at Trusted Nurse Staffing we have a dedicated payroll team on call to answer your payroll questions.
• 24/7, ongoing support – We’ll answer questions and advocate for you throughout your travel LPN job and help you land your next assignment when the time comes.

When you make the choice to travel with Trusted Nurse Staffing, you’ll also get exciting perks like: 

• A cool welcome box
• $1500 bonus for referring your friends or a facility we aren’t already working with
• Ambassador program where you can get rewarded for creating content
• And so much more

Search today for travel LPN jobs with Trusted Nurse Staffing!

Recent Posts

• How Much Money Can a Traveling Nurse Anesthetist Make? A CRNA Travel Nurse Salary Breakdown
• Beyond the Clinic: How To Become a Traveling Nurse Practitioner
• Travel Nursing and Student Loans: Repayment and Forgiveness Options
• Overcome New Travel Nurse Anxiety With These Helpful Tips
• How To Improve Leadership Skills in Nursing and Take Your Career to the Next Level

By continuing to use our website, you are consenting to Cookies being placed on your device. If you do not want Cookies placed on your device, we suggest you exit our website

Unlocking LPN Travel Job Opportunities and Pay

Table of Contents

This article focuses on the opportunities and the earning scope in the field of LPN (Licensed Practical Nurses) Travel Jobs. As travel nursing continues to grow as a profession, LPNs are increasingly exploring this exciting career path. This guide delves into understanding the role of LPNs, the financial aspects of LPN travel jobs, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on these positions.

Understanding the Role of Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN)

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), also known as Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) in some states, are an integral part of the healthcare system. LPNs provide basic nursing care and work under the direction of registered nurses and doctors. Their duties focus on fundamental aspects of nursing.

{{cta-light-with-image}}

An Overview of LPN Duties and Responsibilities

The core responsibilities of an LPN include:

• Monitoring and recording vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, pulse, and respiration
• Administering medications, treatments, and injections
• Changing bandages and inserting catheters
• Collecting samples for testing and performing routine laboratory tests
• Feeding patients and assisting with bathing, grooming, and dressing
• Documenting provided care and updating patient charts

LPNs provide basic bedside care to patients of all ages in various healthcare settings. Their duties require compassion, attention to detail, stamina, and effective communication skills.

The Education and Training Required to Become an LPN

LPNs must complete a 1-year certificate or diploma program at a technical or vocational school. Coursework covers anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, nutrition, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, and other foundational nursing topics.

After graduation, candidates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) to obtain their license. LPN training is less extensive than that of registered nurses, but allows graduates to enter the nursing workforce quickly.

The Various Fields and Settings Where LPNs Work

LPNs have versatile careers and work in diverse healthcare environments such as:

• Nursing care facilities
• Assisted living centers
• Private homes
• Physician offices

LPNs provide fundamental bedside care across settings under RN and physician oversight. The high demand for LPNs reflects the vital role they play in delivering patient care.

Exploring LPN Travel Jobs

The pros and cons of lpn travel jobs.

Travel nursing allows LPNs to take temporary contract assignments around the country. Some key pros and cons include:

• Higher pay rates than staff positions
• Furnished housing and paid travel expenses
• Opportunities to explore new locations
• Gain experience with different patient populations and healthcare settings
• More flexibility and career control
• Frequent relocations
• Less job stability than permanent roles
• Short contracts ranging from 8-26 weeks
• Need to adapt to new environments and policies
• Less guidance as an independent contractor

Weighing these factors allows LPNs to determine if travel nursing aligns with their lifestyle, career goals, and financial needs.

How to Find LPN Travel Job Opportunities

Resources for finding LPN travel positions include:

• Travel nursing agencies like Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health
• Professional associations like the American Nursing Association
• Social media groups for travel healthcare workers
• Staffing agencies that work with healthcare employers

LPNs should research multiple agencies to compare pay packages, benefits, recruiters, and reviews. Legitimate agencies will learn about your skills, preferences, and career goals to find suitable assignments nationwide.

The Typical Contract Length and Expectations for LPN Travel Jobs

Most contracts last 8-26 weeks. Shorter assignments allow flexibility while longer ones enable more stability. Expectations typically involve:

• Arriving ready to work with proper licensure and immunizations
• Adhering to employer policies and procedures
• Working the full assignment duration barring exceptional circumstances
• Giving adequate notice before leaving an extension
• Maintaining professionalism when on assignment

Understanding contract durations and workplace expectations is key for a smooth travel nursing experience.

The Financial Aspect of LPN Travel Jobs

Understanding the pay structure for lpn travel jobs.

LPN travel nurses are paid on an hourly basis according to the local market rate, demand, specializations, and shift differentials. Pay packages include:

• Hourly base wage
• Overtime eligibility
• Bonuses and differentials
• Travel reimbursements
• Housing and meal stipends
• Health/dental insurance
• Retirement benefits

Agencies provide customized pay packages to attract top talent. The tax-free stipends enable nurses to earn more take-home pay.

Average Pay Rates for LPN Travel Nurses

According to surveys, LPN travel nurses earn an average weekly salary of $1,250 - $1,500. This translates to around $30 - $37 per hour based on 40 hours per week. With overtime, this hourly rate can be higher. Top earners make $1,800 - $2,000 weekly or $45 - $50 hourly.

Actual incomes vary based on assignment location, credentials, experience, and overtime. The highest paying states include California, New York, Massachusetts and Oregon.

Factors Influencing LPN Travel Job Pay

Elements impacting LPN travel nurse pay include:

• Geographic location
• Cost of living
• Nursing shortages
• Specialized skills like ICU or OR experience
• Additional certifications
• Years of experience
• Shift differentials for evenings, nights, weekends
• Overtime eligibility and hours worked

Understanding pay determinants helps LPNs strategically find lucrative travel opportunities.

Continual Professional Development and Growth in LPN Travel Jobs

One of the biggest advantages of LPN travel jobs is the opportunity for continual learning and professional development. As licensed practical nurses travel to new facilities and locations, they are exposed to different protocols, technologies, patient populations, and workflows. This diversity of experience allows LPNs to expand their clinical skills and leading to increased competence and confidence.

Being immersed in new hospitals and healthcare systems also encourages LPNs to stay up-to-date on the latest industry practices and innovations. Traveling LPNs may receive additional training at each new facility, learning how to operate new equipment and perform new techniques. This ongoing education ensures they remain highly-skilled throughout their careers.

The nature of travel nursing also pushes LPNs to improve their communication abilities, flexibility, time management, and other soft skills. Adapting quickly to new environments and teams is crucial. As a result, most traveling LPNs become adept at building rapport with diverse colleagues and patients.

Many travel LPN positions allow nurses to gain experience in specialized departments and facilities such as ICUs, ORs, pediatric hospitals, and major medical centers. This exposure allows travelers to identify interests and specialties they may wish to pursue long-term.

In addition to hands-on experiential development, some travel companies offer monetary bonuses or scholarships to help fund continuing nursing education and professional certifications. This financial assistance makes ongoing learning more accessible.

The Experience and Skills Gained from LPN Travel Jobs

There are certain technical and interpersonal skills that LPNs can expect to refine through travel nursing assignments. These include:

• Proficiency with electronic medical records systems and new medical technologies
• Administering intravenous therapy, central lines, and PICCs
• Providing basic post-op care, drain care, and wound care
• Monitoring telemetry units and caring for critical patients
• Customer service skills and bedside manner
• Cultural awareness and competence
• Flexibility, adaptability, and managing change
• Self-sufficiency and resourcefulness
• Time management and organizational abilities

Opportunities for Further Training and Education

Many LPNs pursue travel nursing as a means to advance their education and career prospects. The higher pay and flexible schedule allow travelers to achieve personal and professional goals.

Some common educational advancement options for travel LPNs include:

• Earning an RN degree through an LPN-to-RN bridge program
• Pursuing a bachelor's of science in nursing (BSN) for broader knowledge
• Obtaining specialized nursing certifications (chemo cert, ACLS, PALS, etc.)
• Enrolling in an accredited online MSN program to become an APRN
• Completing training to transition into other healthcare roles like medical technologist or nurse educator

The Prospects of Career Advancement in LPN Travel Nursing

The skills, experience, and connections gained through travel nursing can certainly open doors for long-term career advancement. Many traveling LPNs strategically use the role to progress toward their professional goals.

Common career advancement paths include:

• Gaining expertise in a niche specialty like oncology, pediatrics, or orthopedics
• Training into advanced practice as a nurse practitioner or CRNA
• Transitioning into nursing leadership roles like charge nurse or supervisor
• Moving from bedside nursing into case management, informatics, education, or other focuses
• Obtaining an RN license and pursuing higher designations like CEN or CCRN
• Joining a preferred hospital system after making connections as a traveler
• Using the higher wages to fund further college degrees and training

The possibilities are truly wide-ranging for LPNs who leverage travel opportunities strategically. The experience can be a stepping stone to long-term advancement.

The Impact of COVID-19 on LPN Travel Job Opportunities

The increasing demand for lpn travel nurses during the pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a huge surge in demand for travel nurses, including LPNs. Hospitals and medical facilities have been overwhelmed with critical patients, causing severe staffing shortages.

Traveling LPNs are being recruited at unprecedented rates to fill gaps and provide frontline care. Their flexibility makes them invaluable for adapting to rapidly changing healthcare environments.

In many regions, monthly salaries and hourly rates for traveling LPNs have increased significantly. Hospitals understand the vital need to incentivize travel nurses to take assignments during this health crisis.

There are abundant opportunities nationwide for LPNs willing to take COVID-related contracts. Experience caring for respiratory patients is especially desirable currently.

The Challenges Faced by LPN Travel Nurses During COVID-19

Despite the urgent need and plentiful incentives, COVID-related travel assignments present significant challenges and risks.

LPN travelers face extremely stressful working conditions in overwhelmed departments and makeshift ICUs. The patient loads are staggering and medical status changes rapidly.

There are also challenges in dealing with inconsistent protocols and processes as facilities adapt on the fly. Travelers must quickly acclimate to unfamiliar environments.

Of course, LPNs choosing COVID assignments take on increased personal health risks. Access to proper PPE is not always guaranteed. The mental toll of this work is extremely taxing as well.

However, the bonuses and career experience can make the hazards worthwhile for some traveling LPNs. There are always opportunities to take lower-risk contracts too.

The Safety Measures and Support for LPN Travel Nurses in Times of COVID-19

Ethical healthcare staffing agencies take steps to protect and prepare nurses taking COVID assignments. This includes:

• Increased pay, bonuses, and premiums for pandemic contracts
• Guaranteed access to PPE per CDC guidelines
• Assistance with lodging, transportation, and meals
• Mental health resources, counselors, chaplains, and peer support
• Virtual training on COVID treatment protocols
• Hazard pay for high-risk ICU and ER assignments
• Adjustable contracts allowing early cancellation if conditions become unsafe
• 24/7 access to clinical supervisors and travel coordinators

With proper precautions and support, LPNs can safely use their skills to provide high-quality care during this critical time and advance their careers.

GET STARTED IN

Land your dream job faster when you travel with us. Get started with top local and national travel nurse jobs in On Demand.

Similar Posts

Understanding the earning potential: a comprehensive guide to surgical tech salaries, the comprehensive guide to travel ot pay, cath lab tech travel job outlook & salary: what to expect, view top jobs in.

Search, apply and be the first in line for your dream job today.

Apply to Top Jobs in

Get Started in

Take Control of Your Career with

LPN Travel Nurse Salary in the United States

How much does a lpn travel nurse make.

• Paid Annually
• Paid Monthly
• Paid Semimonthly
• Paid Biweekly
• Paid Weekly
• Paid Hourly

Cascade Health Services - Kiowa, KS

LPN Travel Nurse

Samaritan Nursing and Rehab - West Bend, WI

Blue Point Healthcare Center - Baltimore, MD

Cumberland Healthcare Center - Cumberland, MD

Best-Paying Cities for LPN Travel Nurse

Best-paying states for lpn travel nurse, frequently asked questions for lpn travel nurse, average lpn travel nurse pay vs. other jobs, relevant jobs of lpn travel nurse.

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

Average Pay for Travel Nurses

Travel nursing pay explained, highest and lowest paying states for travel nurses.

• Highest Paying Travel Nurse Specialties
• Ways to Increase Pay

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Travel nursing offers a unique work experience with the opportunity to earn above-average hourly wages. These wages may even exceed those of other registered nurses (RNs) with the same education and credentials.

Travel nurses are typically employed by travel nursing agencies and work assignments across the country wherever nurses are needed. Because each assignment is different, the total annual income for travel nurses can vary significantly. Factors include the details of the pay package, where the assignment is located, and nursing specialty.

On this page you will find the most recent information about travel RN salaries, benefits, specialties, and the states with a high demand for travel nurses.

Fast Facts About Travel Nurses

• Travel nurses generally earn as much or more than staff nurses with the same experience and qualifications.
• Lodging reimbursement and tax advantages impact travel nursing salaries.
• The most in-demand travel nursing specialties include labor and delivery, emergency room, and medical-surgical/telemetry.

The average travel nurse salary varies greatly depending on the work assignment. Depending on travel location, these practitioners can earn between $3,000 and $7,000 per week, averaging a 36-hour work week. According to Vivian , a healthcare jobs marketplace, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), travel nurses earn jan average of $2,183 per week, while RNs earn a mean hourly wage of $42.80. However, aspiring travel nurses should note that living on the road leads to additional personal expenses, so the increase in pay accounts for living accommodations.

Max Weekly Pay

Average Total Weekly Pay

Source: Vivian , September 2023

Travel nurse pay differs from full-time nursing positions because agencies offer hourly rates for each assignment, meaning RNs can shop around and find opportunities with ideal pay. In contrast, RNs working full time at hospitals, physicians’ offices, and other facilities usually rely on raises or additional education to increase their earning potential.

Practitioners considering this role also need to explore what take-home pay looks like for travel nurses . Nursing agencies set their own conditions, so pay packages vary. For instance, organizations may offer an hourly base pay with additional stipends to cover housing or meals, while other companies may offer a higher hourly rate to account for additional expenses.

Travel nurse salaries vary by state and region. Locations in need of RNs typically offer more competitive wages. In fact, the popularity of a particular region can influence travel nurses’ earning potential. Less popular locations may pay more, while desirable locations may pay less. Likewise, states with a higher cost of living offer higher wages relative to living costs.

According to 2023 data from Vivian, the top-paying states for travel RNs included New Jersey , California, and Alaska. Practitioners also want to consider the highest-paying specialties to determine earning potential which may vary by state. The following section includes the top specialties in demand.

Highest Paying Travel Nurse Specialities

Typically, nursing specialties that lack licensed practitioners offer more pay than other specialties, which further increases earning potential for travel nurses. Higher acuity facilities also offer higher pay, as they need skilled practitioners who can meet their patients’ needs. Here are five in-demand specialties for travel nurses.

Labor and Delivery

Emergency room, medical-surgical/telemetry, critical care – intensive care unit, operating room registered nurse, 4 ways to increase pay as a travel nurse.

While travel nurse pay may exceed traditional full-time RN salaries, travel nurses can additionally increase their earning potential by considering factors like demand for specialties, understaffed or unpopular shifts, and locations in need of skilled RNs.

Travel nurses should examine the full benefits package to determine if jobs can provide sufficient take-home pay. For instance, regions with a high cost of living may impact how much practitioners actually earn if stipends do not cover all costs.

Frequently Asked Questions: Travel Nursing Salaries

How much does a traveling nurse make per year.

Travel nurse salaries vary significantly, especially since the outbreak of COVID-19. Factors that can influence earning potential include geographic location and specialty. However, travel RNs should anticipate working 46 weeks a year and earning about $2,183 on a weekly basis .

Do travel nurses get paid more?

Travel nurses typically earn more than full-time salaried RNs because they often take job assignments where there is a nursing shortage. Travel nurse agencies also pay practitioners by the hour and offer additional benefits, including housing and meal stipends.

Is travel nursing worth the money?

Travel nurses generally earn more than salaried RNs. However, practitioners should consider their lifestyle as well. For instance, an RN with a family may not feel the additional pay outweighs time at home, while another practitioner may find the pay suitable and enjoy the travel opportunities.

Do travel nurses get time off?

Travel nurses often do not receive time off since they work hourly and take temporary job assignments. While assignments vary, travel nurses should plan to work for 8-26 weeks at a time. Most travel nurses schedule time off between job assignments.

Learn More About Travel Nurses

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree.

Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you.

AI in Healthcare: Fundamentals for Nurse Educators

Artificial intelligence in nursing education is lagging. Find out recommendations and applications for nurse educators to utilize AI in the nursing curriculum.

Nurse Practitioner Ranked Top Healthcare Job for 2024

Social Media and the Nurse Educator: How Nursing Educators Can Use Social Platforms More Effectively

Travel Nurse Pay & Benefits

Understanding Travel Nurse Salary and Your Benefits Package

How much do travel nurses make?

There are many factors to consider when talking about how much travel nurses get paid, including:

When looking to optimize pay, it’s important to understand that pay packages differ based on specialty and location. For instance, a travel L&D nurse in California will make a different amount than a travel med-surg nurse in Kentucky.

Many travel nurses bounce around between states — sometimes even between specialties — and will be paid differently from assignment to assignment. You may also be eligible for housing, meal and incidental stipends to reimburse you for actual expenses incurred while on assignment. Your recruiter will discuss all these details with you during your search. Your recruiter will work diligently to find you positions that meet your financial goals. Keep in mind that flexibility during your job search with location, shift and other factors usually results in the potential of higher paying opportunities.

Log in and view pay packages and facility information for all jobs.

Travel Nursing Benefits with Aya

You can enroll and contribute to your 401k on the first of the month following eligibility, which is working 4 consecutive months or one year from your original hire date (with at least 1,000 hours worked). After a year (with at least 1,000 hours worked) you’re eligible for matching!

Medical Plan

A comprehensive medical, dental and vision plan from the first day you start an assignment with Aya Healthcare. You also have the option to add a spouse and/or dependents to your plan!

Sick Pay While on Assignment

You’ll start accruing sick time on the first day of your assignment and earn 1 hour for every 30 hours worked which you can start to use after 90 days.

Perks & Discounts

Wellness and fitness programs (like free virtual meditation and yoga) employee assistance programs (including clinical escalation if your work environment could be improved) and so much more.

Aya Scholars Program

This is the industry’s only clinical ladder program for travel nurses. In exchange for dedication to professional development, Aya Scholars candidates may be eligible for reimbursements for tuition and a specialty certification exam.

Where can I make the most money as a travel nurse?

Like we mentioned earlier, quite a few factors affect your pay, including specialty and location. But like with any job, you need to consider more than just pay. When evaluating an assignment, you should also consider the cost of living in the area. You can rely on your recruiter and the rest of your Aya Healthcare team for valuable advice to help you make the best career choice for you.

Privacy Overview

25 Highest Paying States For Travel Nurses In 2023

Traveling around the country is a desirable possibility for nurses like me who want to make more money and shake up our professional life. Not only is there the potential for a higher salary, but there is also the excitement of visiting new places. Most nurses considering traveling look for the highest-paying states for travel nurses. After years of contemplation, I took a travel assignment in California because I needed to make money quickly while in graduate school and was relocating out west that year. Before I made a significant thirteen-week move across the country, I looked up “What are the highest paying states for travel nurses?” What I found after all my research surprised me! This article covers the 25 highest-paying states for travel nurses in 2023.

What is the Average Salary for Travel Nurses in the United States?

What are the highest-paying states for travel nurses, state #1: california, state #2: hawaii, state #3: oregon, state #4: massachusetts, state #5: alaska, state #6: washington, state #7: new york, state #8: new jersey, state #9: nevada, state #10: connecticut, state #11: minnesota, state #12: rhode island, state #13: maryland, state #14: arizona, state #15: colorado, state #16: new mexico, state #17: georgia, state #18: delaware, state #19: texas, state #20: new hampshire, state #21: illinois, state #22: virginia, state #23: wyoming, state #24: wisconsin, state #25: michigan, my final thoughts.

Kaliningrad Visa and Entry Requirements

Travelers will soon be able to apply for the unified Russia eVisa to visit Kaliningrad.

Travelers with a Russian e-visa can visit Kaliningrad . The electronic visa is the best option for traveling to the region.

The Russia e-visa application is online and you receive your approved visa by email , ready to travel to Kaliningrad.

This pages explains the visa and entry requirements for Kaliningrad and border crossing points with the Russia e-visa.

Do I Need an e-visa to Travel to Kaliningrad?

The majority of foreign citizens need a visa to enter Russia and Kaliningrad . The type of visa required depends on your nationality and reason for visiting.

The Russian unified e-visa is the quickest and easiest way to obtain permission to enter the Federation .

The online eVisa for Kaliningrad and Russia can be requested from anywhere in the world and does not require a letter of invitation like traditional tourist visas.

Nearly 60 nationalities can apply for a visa for Kaliningrad and the rest of Russia online .

Documents Required to Visit Kaliningrad

To complete the unified Russia e-visa application form for Kaliningrad, you need:

• Passport from an eligible country, valid for at least 6 months
• Digital, color photograph
• Debit or credit card to pay the eVisa fees
• Email address to receive the approved visa

The visa and passport are verified at the port of entry when traveling to Kaliningrad .

Kaliningrad Visa Application Online

The 3-step eVisa application for visiting Kaliningrad is quick and hassle-free:

Fill out the online Russian visa form

Pay the visa fees and submit the application

Receive the unified Russia e-visa by email

Basic personal information, passport data, and travel information is required.

How long does it take to get a visa for Kaliningrad?

Electronic visa processing is faster than applying for a traditional visa at the embassy. Most Russia e-visa applications are reviewed and approved within 4 business days.

As in some cases it may take longer, apply well ahead of their planned trip to Kaliningrad.

Russian Cities Near Kaliningrad

If you wish to visit several Russian cities on one trip, you need to cover large distances due to the size of the Russian territory. Fortunately, Kaliningrad is well-connected with an international airport and efficient railway system.

By traveling to Kaliningrad with a Russian e-visa you can visit these cities :

• Irkutsk, located in the Siberian District, can be reached by plane (over 8 hours)
• The quickest way to go from Kaliningrad to St Petersburg is by plane (about 4 hours.) 20-hour bus routes are also available
• To reach Kazan by train, visitors from Kaliningrad must stop over in Belarus and Moscow. A direct flight takes about 7 hours
• Driving from Kaliningrad to Nizhny Novgorod takes over 20 hours, while flights take 7-6 hours
• There are both direct trains (18 hours) and flights (a little over 4 hours) from Kaliningrad to Moscow
• Sochi visitors are advised to take a direct flight to Sochi airport (about 3 hours) since all other means of transportation take over 2 days
• There are no direct flights to Veliky Novgorod — passengers must take a 3-hour bus from Pulkovo airport to their final destination. Direct trains take about 24 hours
• Vladivostok is best reached by plane (12 hours)
• Visitors directed to Yekaterinburg should take a plane to Koltsovo (3.30 hours) and then a 1-hour bus to the city center
• The popular Golden Ring route can be customized depending on the traveler’s needs but is most conveniently accessed via Moscow

Can I apply for an eVisa if I’ll only visit Kaliningrad?

You can apply for the unified e-visa even if you’ll only visit Kaliningrad . You can get an e-visa to visit just one part of Russia or several different areas on a single trip.

To be eligible, you must be from an eligible country and meet the entry requirements.

The Russian e-visa is suitable for tourism, business, and humanitarian travel purposes.

Kaliningrad Entry Points With an e-visa

Kaliningrad is a major transportation hub with Baltic sea and river ports, an airport, and several train stations — it is easily reachable from abroad and other major Russian cities like Moscow and Saint Petersburg.

The Russian e-visa can be used at Kaliningrad International Airport (Khrabrovo) and maritime checkpoints in Kaliningrad city and Svetly.

You must present your valid visa and passport to immigration officials at the border .

Other entry points for Russia e-visa holders

Using the unified Russia e-visa, tourists can enter the country through any approved border checkpoint and continue their journey to Kaliningrad by road, plane, or rail.

Other major Russian entry points are:

• St Petersburg entry points
• Moscow entry points
• Sochi entry points
• Vladivostok entry points

List of Embassies in Kaliningrad

There are several consulates and embassy branches in Kaliningrad . However, please note that these may offer limited services as most foreign embassies in Russia have their headquarters in Moscow.

Armenian Honorary Consulate in Kaliningrad

• Address: Gertsen St. H.1, 236009
• Telephone: (+7) (4012) 985 266 / 5
• Email: [email protected]

Belarussian Embassy Branch Office in Kaliningrad

• Address: ul. Dm. Don, d. 35a, 236010
• Telephone: (+7) (4012) 21-44-12
• Email: [email protected]

Croatian Honorary Consulate in Kaliningrad

• Address: Pl. Pobedy 10 A ured 616-618, 236040
• Telephone: (+7) 4012 59 33 95
• Email: [email protected]

German Consulate General in Kaliningrad

• Address: Uliza Telmana 14, 236008
• Telephone: (+7) 4012 92 02 30
• Email: [email protected]

Greek Honorary Consulate in Kaliningrad

• Address: Ul. Ogariova, Building 33
• Telephone: (+7) (4012) 916 027
• Email: [email protected]

Latvian Embassy Branch Office in Kaliningrad

• Address: F. Engelsa 52a
• Telephone: (+7) 921 107 42 24
• Email: [email protected]

Lithuanian Consulate General in Kaliningrad

• Address: Proletarskaja 133
• Telephone: (+7) 4012 95 76 88
• Email: [email protected]

Polish Consulate General in Kaliningrad

• Address: Kashtanovaya Alleya 51, 236 022
• Telephone: (+7) 4012 976 450
• Email: [email protected]

• Bahasa Indonesia
• Slovenščina
• Science & Tech
• Russian Kitchen

Citizens of 53 countries can now enter Russia’s western-most region on an e-visa

On July 1, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs authorized entry into the Kaliningrad region by e-visa, according to its website.

To apply for a visa, potential visitors have to fill out an application form on the website of the consular department of the Russian Foreign Ministry and attach a photo. The application can be made no later than four and no earlier than 20 days before the expected date of entry. The visa is issued in four days, regardless of holidays and weekends.

The visa is issued for a 30-day period for stays in the region of no longer than eight days. The purpose of travel can be tourism, business, or humanitarian reasons. The visa, however, is not valid for travel to other parts of the Russian Federation. It covers only the city and region of Kaliningrad, which form a Russian exclave wedged between Poland and Lithuania, separated from the rest of Russia.

By July 4, more than 2,000 applications for an e-visa to Kaliningrad had been submitted, said Alla Ivanova, head of the regional agency for international and interregional relations.

An identical e-visa regime exists for entry into Vladivostok, via land and sea checkpoints. And since Sept. 1, 2018, the scheme been extended to airports across the entire Far Eastern Federal District.

List of countries whose citizens can apply for an e-visa to Kaliningrad: 

If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.

to our newsletter!

Get the week's best stories straight to your inbox

• Unique amber stone found in Kaliningrad Region
• Kaliningrad’s special local sites
• Capybaras in the Kaliningrad Zoo
• How to spend a fantastic day in Kaliningrad
• 3 World Cup day trips: Kaliningrad

This website uses cookies. Click here to find out more.

From Poland to Kaliningrad: car rental and insurance required

italianguy   1 | -   11 Aug 2009 /   #1 Hello everyone! I've been finding it difficult to get a car for rent allowed to go to Kaliningrad. Some car rental agencies in Krakow told me their cars cannot cross the Russian border. Do you know any car rental companies which allow me to cross the Russian border, go to Kaliningrad and go back to Poland? Thank you!

snempaa   1 | 10   5 Oct 2009 /   #2 Did you manage to find a rental company in Poland that allowed you to cross the border? Let me know, I want to do the same;)

costliest   30 Dec 2009 /   #3 Hi - what is necessary to travel by own uk right hand drive car from poland into kaliningrad I have euro light conversion kit blanking strips etc.

delphiandomine   86 | 17823   30 Dec 2009 /   #4 It's quite simple - you just need all the vehicle papers, such as MOT certificate, tax, V5, insurance documents, etc. You'll also need an International Driving Permit, and I believe that Russia is now accepting the Green Card. There's some random fees to be paid at the border, and you can expect all sorts of nonsense - but generally speaking, it shouldn't be too difficult. But are you sure you want to drive in Russia with an RHD?

wildrover   98 | 4431   30 Dec 2009 /   #5 But are you sure you want to drive in Russia with an RHD? Blimey , you don,t sell cars as well do you...? I think probably the guy does not at the last minute want to sell a car he is familiar with , and drive into Russia with an unfamiliar left hand drive car....As long as the guy is an experianced driver he should manage ok with a rhd car....I drove all over Russia . Latvia . Lithuania , Belarus , and Ukraine with a rhd car , and have driven one in Poland for five years....If you are a reasonably competant driver its possible to drive a car whatever side the wheel is on , and on either side of the road...just exercise a little more care....i suppose you are aware you will need a visa as well as all the other documents...?

convex   20 | 3928   30 Dec 2009 /   #6 I believe that Russia is now accepting the Green Card Green card isn't accepted, you can buy liability insurance at the border. You'll have to fill out a customs declaration form which was only in Russian where we crossed. You might look for a translation online before you go. They print up a customs receipt thingy that you need to show when you leave with the little exit slip of paper. If your name isn't on the registration, you need a translated and notarized power of attorney from the owner. If you don't have this, they turn you around and you get wait in line to enter Poland. Translated copies of the registration and the technical document would be a good idea too, you might be able to get across the border, but it's a fine when you get pulled over. Make a copy of the IDP and your license and give that to the police when they pull you over. Don't let some ******* traffic cop try to hold it for ransom. Beware of GAI. There are always little control points at the entrance to the cities. Remember to obey the speed limits, don't cross any solid lines no matter how faint they are, and keep your seat belt on until the cop asks you to come to his car to pay your "spot fine". Don't part with more than 1000 rubles unless you've run someone over. If they persist, ask to go to the station to pay your fine. I don't know of anyone that rents cars to Russia. You would need full coverage insurance which is ridiculously expensive in Russia. It would be cheaper to buy a beater and drive it over.

• Plan a Road Trip
• Plan a Flight
• Find an Airport
• Where to Stay
• All Questions

Kaliningrad Travel Answers

Hi !I want to learn Russian language in Russia please tell me which university is best !I am from Pakistan and tell me how can I get admission that university? Thanks Regards , Mr Khan

Hi all !Please anyone tell me how can I get visa from Pakistan .i want to go there Thanks  Regards , Mr Khan

Hi all !Please anyone tell me how can I get visa from Pakistan .i want to go there

Hi all Hope you having good time I'm planning to visit Kaliningrad this November (2015) as Its the only time off for me from my office for a week. one of my colleagues adores kaliningrad a lot compelled me to visit. but I have few questions anyone here would answer? 1) I'm an asian/Pakistani Brown skin guy, and honestly I ve been to many places around the world and found it bit weird to be in such place where people around you all are from a total different background stares you that annoy you and you do not enjoy your days off. so how's the local behavior towards brown skininned, single tourist on his own? (I'm really sorry if that sound offensive) 2) I'm not a beach/club/pub/party kinda guy, rather trekking, landscapes, mountains, hiking alone, and discovering borders. So would it be easy to walk/trek alone in forests, mountains, fields, and wandering around the border area? having in mind that there are restricted areas for tourists. But I'd really love to visit and capture some snaps with the tri-point (lithuania-poland-and russia border. Thank you all in advance

I HAVE DUAL CITIZENSHIP RUSSIAN/UNITED STATES. PLANNING ON VISITING RUSSIA, KALININGRAD FOR ENTRANCE TO RUSSIA I'LL USE MY RUSSIAN PASSPORT. MY QUESTION IS CAN I ENTER POLAND FOR A DAY WITH A USA PASSPORT AND THEN RETURN TO KALININGRAD, RUSSIA WITH RUSSIAN PASSPORT?

Hello, I'm planning to visit Kaliningrad in july from Poland. I will only stay 1 night at Kaliningrad.

I want to go by bus Gdansk-Kaliningrad on Friday (I think that you can only pass the border during weekdays Mon-Fri) and return next day, Saturday, to Poland again by bus.

My questions are:

1.- Can I exit Kaliningrad to Gdansk on Saturday or only weekdays (Mon-Fri)?

2.- What about the safety in the city? Somebody say "be careful", others say "it's a safe city for tourists". What do you think?

Thank you very much and sorry for my English.

I am planning a trip to Kaliningrad from Gdansk, probably by bus. Plan to stay in Kaliningrad 3 nights maximum. I am a UK citizen. If I am travelling independently i.e. not with a tour company what is the best way to get a visa? We have previously travelled to Russia- St Petersburg but for a longer stay and organised our visas through the Russian consulate in Scotland. I am not sure whether visa arrangements are different for Kalinigrad / or this short stay. Please could someone advise me? Many thanks in anticipation.

Hi, I've searched to no avail (probably badly...)afetr finding an oblique reference to this, but.....Is there a ferry at any time through the year from Kaliningrad to Copenhagen? Failing this, a ferry to elsewhere? I enjoy overland (and water clearly!) travel so like making getting somewhere part of the experience. Thanks for reading.

Hi - I'm off to Kaliningrad at the end of February (23 - 27), and i'm looking at things to do while I'm there. I've seen some decent museums, plus would love to spend some time at the Curonian spit. I've not heard much about what to do in the evenings though - does anyone have any suggestions? I also wondered if anyone had any ideas about what might be happening for Maslenitsa? Finally, has anyone heard of any ideas for adventure/extreme sports activities that happen out there? Am hoping to be able to change pace after a very cultural day! Thanks!

Good day to you all I was thinking about making my first visit to the Russian Federation by visiting Kaliningrad. My plan was to get a train from Gdansk to Kaliningrad. From checking the net, i see that there are trains every morning at 6am and 8am. Is the train the better way to cross the border? As in, shorter waiting time then a bus? I was thinking 2-3 days in Kaliningrad would be enough. Can anyone advise on this? I'm not really sure what there is to see in this mysterious area. I'm big into history and historical architecture so if anyone can recommend stuff worth seeing in K. then i would be very happy. Also, after visiting, i thought i might travel on by train from there to Lithuania. Can you tell me if there is a train to Klaipeda, Kaunas or Vilnius from K.? Visa requirements, how much time should i give myself to apply for and receive my visa? I was thinking of travelling in the middle of August, so if i apply in the next 10 days, will that be enough time for all the red tape to be sorted? I don't speak any Russian so i presume i will be at a huge disadvantage if/when i do cross into Kaliningrad. Lastly, this might seem like a silly question, but is going to Kaliningrad just a bad idea and not worth the hassle? I've never been to Russia so i honestly don't know what to expect. There is precious little info about Kaliningrad to be found in books or on the net from what i can tell Thanks everyone DG

Dear Sir/Madam, Perhaps this is not the correct forum but I can find no other source of information! I am an ancient cyclist and intend to cycle from Gdansk along the coastal route E10 to Tallin but what I would like to know is if I can go along the coast/spit through Russian into Lithuania? DO I NEED A VISA and if so from where do I obtain it? Is there a way of just "turning up" and being able to pass along the coast? Or can I put my bike on a train/bus? Thank you for helping me. David Minett

I am married to an EEC citizen and still waiting for my schengen visa to be aproved but mean while i will like to see some other countries that are not in the schengen state; so i will be travelling from africa to russia with a russian tourist visa and will like to visit kaliningrad for a touristic trip with my husband who is ECC citizen. but we will love to go by road from kaliningrad to poland; i will like to know is some one is having an idea if i can accompany my husband by road to poland from kaliningard by getting a temporary visa of 48 hours at the border, is this possible for family members of ECC citizen to obtain this type of visa to accompany their families on a trip, thanks for any information

can you get from Khrabrovo Airport to Morskoe by public trasportation? if yes, could you please tell the number, how often it leaves, and how much it might cost?

This may seem like a silly question.. but is it possible to visit Kaliningrad from Lithuania on a day trip? Looking at the Eurolines bus schedule; **Klaipeda LT - Kaliningrad, RU** From Nida (LT) there is a bus that leaves at 8:09am and arrives in Kaliningrad (city) at 11:02am Then in the same day there is a bus departing Kaliningrad (city) at 16:30 (4:30pm) arriving back to Nida at 19:28 (7:30pm) In theory it looks possible.. but considering a three hour journey each way, only four hours to walk around the city, and the cost/hassle associated with a Russian visa and border formalities/delays.. etc.. Would this be worth the trouble? Is it even possible to obtain a Russian visa and/or enter the country for just a few hours?? Are there any tour companies that offer a one day trip to Kaliningrad from Lithuania? Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Many Thanks! George

Are there regularly scheduled, direct flights between Minsk and Kaliningrad? What airlines fly that route and can flights be booked online? Thanks!

Hello, VT members, please, recomend some cheap place for stay in Kaliningrad (as near to airport, as better). Thank you Letute

I´m planning on flying to Vilnius or Riga and wonder if anyone can tell me what is the easiest & most reasonable connection Vilnius or Riga to Kaliningrad. Train, bus or what have you... Cheers Anni

Hi there, As a VT'er i was wondering if anyone is passing through or local VT'er who like to have a VT meetup somewhere in the city maybe next saturday the 2nd of December. Please drop me an email if you are interested as im here for 3 weeks.

Hi there ! Does anyone have updated information on waiting times and difficulties of border crossings from Lithuania into Kaliningrad (Curanian Spit) and exiting to Poland ? I have read stories of smugglers virtually blocking the RU/PL border. I am planning to pass thru on a 48 hours transit visa and I do not plan to spend those hours in a line at the border. ;) How about going north thru Kaliningrad from Poland to Lithuania ? Thanks for any advice !

I read in the Lonely Planet guide about the Georg Ots, a boat plying the Baltic sea between St. Pete's and Kaliningrad - direct. Does anyone know what the implications of taking this boat would be on the visa situtation - ie. chance of not needing a multi-entry visa, as I wouldn't be leaving Russian territory? I have a three month, single entry business visa, which is registered in St. Petersburg. I'm travelling within Russia until the middle of August, when I have to come back to St. Petersburg to work, and then I need to get to Germany before the 1st September. This seems like an option, as apparently tickets are a mere twenty pounds sterling. Anyone any ideas / experience? Many thanks for your assistance, Tim x

Hi. Please help me I need urgently some info and, unfortunately, I can't find any info on the internet :( How much (suggested economy class) would cost travel BY BUS from Kaliningrad to Liepaja . What are the departure and arrival times from Kaliningrad Bus Station???. Please HELP! I didn't find such data on the net and I can't speak russian.

Is the Sovetsk border crossing open for all nationals? Jesper

Hey, Anybody knows what would be the name of Czerniachowsk / Tschernyachovsk / Cerniahovsk / Tserniachovsk - the city in the Kaliningrad region formerly known as Insterburg or Wystruc? I cannot find it on the VT - probbaly because of misspelling, and there is no list of all destinations any more!

Change location: