by Beth Harner | Apr 14, 2025 | Uncategorized
What to Bring (and Leave Behind) on Your Travel Healthcare Assignment
As a healthcare traveler, packing efficiently can make or break your experience at a new assignment. Whether you’re a travel nurse, respiratory therapist, or any other traveling healthcare professional, knowing what to bring (and what to leave behind) is essential for a smooth transition. This comprehensive healthcare traveler packing guide will help you prepare for your next adventure without overpacking or forgetting crucial items.
Before You Pack
Before diving into our packing recommendations, keep these tips in mind:
- Check with your housing provider to confirm what’s already included in your accommodations
- Connect with your recruiter about any facility-specific requirements
- Research the location’s climate for the duration of your assignment
- Consider the length of your contract when deciding how much to bring
Room Essentials
Your temporary housing is your sanctuary after long shifts. Make it comfortable with these essentials:
- Bedding for standard/queen size bed (check with housing provider for size)
- Pillow(s) from home (an overwhelming favorite “must-have” item among travelers!)
- Throw blanket(s)
- Washcloths + towels
- Area rug (for comfort and noise reduction)
- Desk/floor lamp for additional lighting
- Storage bins or collapsible organizers
- Portable fan
- Curtains or blackout shades (tension rods only if renting)
- Room decorations (photos, small plants, etc. to make it feel like home)
- Removable hooks/Command strips
- White noise machine (especially for day sleepers)
- Travel alarm clock or smart device
“Pack special ‘homey’ items like pictures, candles, and favorite blankets to combat loneliness.” — L.P., RN
Kitchen Essentials
Even if you plan to eat out frequently, having basic kitchen supplies will save money and provide comfort:
- 2-4 plates + bowls
- Cups + mugs
- Silverware set
- Basic cookware (1 pot, 1 pan)
- Cooking utensils
- Food storage containers
- Travel mug or reusable water bottle
- Reusable grocery totes
- Basic spices and cooking oils
- Coffee maker or other must-have small appliance
- Dish soap and sponge
- Dish towels
- Zip-top bags and aluminum foil
Personal Care + Supplies
Maintaining your well-being is crucial for healthcare professionals working demanding shifts:
- Toiletries/hygiene items
- First aid kit with common medications
- Prescriptions + refills (or know local pharmacy options)
- Insurance cards and medical information
- Sufficient work uniforms/scrubs
- Clothing hangers + appropriate clothing for climate
- Laundry detergent + dryer sheets
- Laundry basket or bag
- Basic cleaning supplies
- Professional license and certification documents
- Employment documents
Electronics
Stay connected and entertained during your assignment:
- Computer + accessories
- Grounded 3-prong power strip
- Surge protector/extension cords
- TV + streaming device (if not provided)
- HDMI cable
- Headphones (noise-canceling recommended for shared housing)
- Phone charger (consider extras for work bag)
- Portable battery pack
- Small Bluetooth speaker
General Preparedness
Be ready for anything your assignment might throw at you:
- Backpack or work bag
- Stethoscope and personal medical equipment
- Notebook and pens
- Professional references or pocket guides
- Portable lunch bag/cooler
- Rain jacket
- Umbrella
- Appropriate shoes for weather conditions
- Reusable water bottle
- Small emergency kit (flashlight, batteries)
- Basic tool kit
- Debit/credit cards (notify banks of travel)
- Small safe for valuables
- Local maps or travel guides
What’s Often Provided (But Confirm First)
Many furnished housing options for healthcare travelers include:
- Bed frame + mattress
- Basic furniture (couch, chairs, dining table)
- Dresser or clothing storage
- Desk or work surface
- Basic kitchen appliances (refrigerator, microwave, stove)
- Waste baskets
- Basic window coverings
- Television (in some accommodations)
“You’ll find various levels of furnished housing, but always pay attention to details,” cautions Alexa F. When searching for accommodations on platforms like Furnished Finder, she recommends knowing your must-haves ahead of time. For her, amenities like a washer, dryer, and dishwasher are essential.
What to Leave at Home
Save space and avoid potential issues by leaving these behind:
- Excessive decor or large art pieces
- Items that require permanent installation
- Valuable or irreplaceable belongings
- Large appliances
- Extensive book collections (consider e-books instead)
- Full-sized luggage (store collapsible bags instead)
- Excessive clothing (pack for the season with laundry in mind)
“Pack light and only bring essentials. You’ll be surprised by how much you can live without.” — Alex, radiologic technologist
Packing Tips
- Pack in containers that can double as storage during your assignment
- Create a digital inventory of what you brought to each assignment to refine your packing strategy over time
- Ship bulky items directly to your housing rather than transporting them
- Invest in quality multi-purpose items that serve multiple functions
- Join local buy-nothing groups for temporary items you might need
Remember that each assignment is unique, and your packing needs will evolve with experience. Start with the essentials and adjust as you learn what works best for your travel lifestyle.
Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Travel Nurse Housing – Uniti Med – Everything you need to know about finding the perfect temporary housing
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About Uniti Med: As a leading healthcare staffing company, Uniti Med is known for its outstanding culture and dedicated professionals. We specialize in travel nursing, locum tenens, and various healthcare sectors, fostering meaningful relationships with both our clients and employees. Recognized on multiple prestigious lists—including SIA’s 2024 Best Staffing Firms to Temp for and Best Staffing Firms to Work For—Uniti Med is committed to making a lasting impact in the healthcare industry. In 2024 Uniti Med joined the GQR.
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by Beth Harner | Apr 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
We are proud to share that our company has been named the No. 3 fastest-growing private company in the Midwest by Inc. as part of its 2025 Inc. Regionals awards.
This recognition is a testament to the incredible dedication, innovation, and perseverance of our entire team. Each year, Inc. honors the most dynamic private businesses across the country that are driving growth and making a measurable impact in their industries and communities. To be ranked in the top three across the entire Midwest region is a significant milestone and one we are deeply honored to achieve.
A Reflection of Our Team and Mission
This achievement underscores the strength of our mission, the clarity of our vision, and the exceptional efforts of our people. Our continued growth is driven by a commitment to delivering meaningful value to our clients, fostering a strong company culture, and remaining agile in a rapidly evolving business landscape.
We recognize that accolades like this are not earned in isolation. They are the result of an entire organization working in alignment—with shared values, consistent focus, and an unwavering belief in what we’re building.
“This milestone shows the power of what’s possible when exceptional people unite with purpose and clarity. We are incredibly proud of our team. Because of their passion and commitment, we’re able to deliver an outstanding experience to our candidates and clients we serve.” – Chris Sund, COO & President of Uniti Med.
Gratitude to Our Clients and Partners
We are immensely grateful to our clients and strategic partners for placing their trust in us. Your support and collaboration have been essential to our success, and we remain committed to exceeding expectations in the years ahead.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate this moment, we are also looking forward—with renewed energy and focus. This recognition is not an endpoint, but a milestone in our broader journey. We remain committed to scaling responsibly, innovating continuously, and making a lasting impact in the markets we serve.
Thank you to Inc. for this recognition and to everyone who has contributed to this achievement. We are just getting started.
by Beth Harner | Mar 31, 2025 | Uncategorized
April is Occupational Therapy Month—a time to recognize and celebrate the dedicated professionals who help people of all ages engage in meaningful activities.
The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) commemorates the month with events and activities that raise awareness of the profession. This year’s theme, “Occupational Therapy: Inspiring Hope, Changing Lives,” highlights the vital role OTs and OTAs play in improving lives.
Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants make an incredible impact, empowering individuals to participate in daily tasks despite injuries, illnesses, disabilities or other challenges. Keep reading to explore the vital role of occupational therapists, how they enhance independence and improve quality of life, and why travel occupational therapy offers a rewarding career path.
The Vital Role of Occupational Therapists
Occupational therapists are skilled health care professionals. They help people across the lifespan participate in necessary daily activities. Moreover, they work with diverse populations in various settings. This includes children with developmental delays, adults recovering from injuries, individuals managing chronic conditions, and older adults facing age-related challenges. Additionally, OTs and OTAs address physical, cognitive, psychosocial and sensory components of performance. As a result, clients achieve independence and satisfaction in all aspects of their lives.
Enhancing Independence & Improving Quality of Life
The ability to engage in meaningful daily activities is essential to health and well-being. Therefore, occupational therapy practitioners analyze the relationship between goals and barriers. Through personalized assessments and intervention strategies, OTs and OTAs provide crucial support. Consequently, individuals can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. This might include returning to work after an injury, learning self-care skills or joining community activities.
For those facing physical, cognitive or emotional challenges, occupational therapy offers practical solutions. Furthermore, it provides pathways to greater independence. OTs and OTAs empower clients to adapt to their circumstances. Subsequently, clients develop the skills needed for everyday living. By addressing barriers to participation, therapists help children succeed in school. Similarly, they help adults maintain productive employment. Likewise, they enable seniors to age in place safely. Hence, the quality of life improves significantly for clients and their families.
Occupational therapists not only provide direct intervention but also serve as advocates. In addition, they promote accessibility and inclusion. They collaborate with other health care professionals, educators, employers and families. As a result, they create supportive environments. Besides this, OTs and OTAs play a crucial role in health promotion and prevention. Thus, people develop healthy habits and routines that support overall well-being.
Travel Occupational Therapy: A Rewarding Career Path
For occupational therapists seeking variety and flexibility, travel therapy offers an exciting opportunity. As a travel OT, you can choose your assignments and locations while gaining diverse clinical experience and exploring new places.
Travel OTs typically work short-term contracts, usually lasting 13 weeks, in settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, and skilled nursing facilities. These diverse experiences contribute to both professional growth and adaptability.
At Uniti Med, we support travel OTs every step of the way. Our recruiters help match you with ideal assignments based on your skills and preferences. We offer generous compensation and benefits, handle licensure and compliance requirements, and even reimburse for new certifications—so you can focus on providing exceptional care while enjoying the freedom of travel therapy.
A Note of Gratitude
During Occupational Therapy Month, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to all OTs. Your dedication to improving lives through meaningful occupation deserves recognition. Your unique blend of scientific knowledge, creativity, and compassion empowers individuals to overcome challenges and live life to the fullest.
Considering a career as a travel occupational therapist?
Browse OT Jobs | Talk to a Recruiter
About Uniti Med: As a leading healthcare staffing company, Uniti Med is known for its outstanding culture and dedicated professionals. We specialize in travel nursing, locum tenens, and various healthcare sectors, fostering meaningful relationships with both our clients and employees. Recognized on multiple prestigious lists—including SIA’s 2024 Best Staffing Firms to Temp for and Best Staffing Firms to Work For—Uniti Med is committed to making a lasting impact in the healthcare industry. In 2024 Uniti Med joined GQR.
by Beth Harner | Mar 17, 2025 | Uncategorized
In our ongoing series highlighting the exceptional healthcare professionals who make up the Uniti Med family, we’re thrilled to feature Jessica K, Med Surg RN, a dedicated travel nurse whose journey has taken her across the country. From pandemic response to scenic adventures between assignments, Jessie shares her experiences, favorite memories and valuable advice for those considering the travel healthcare path.
Between assignments, Jessie, a Uniti Med travel nurse, explored the beauty of Greece. Traveling has been her way to recharge and combat burnout, embracing new places, cultures, and connections along the way.
Finding Her Way to Travel Nursing
Jessie’s travel journey began like many others — during the challenging days of the pandemic in 2019-2020. Working in a hospital COVID-19 ICU in Georgia, she took her first steps into the mobile healthcare world by providing PCR and rapid COVID-19 testing for movie and television productions.
“I worked in the southeast region of the U.S. and in Chicago a number of times,” Jessie recalls. “I did have the opportunity to be on a few film sets, which was a really neat experience, but I mostly tested cast and crew members before filming began for safety and compliance.”
As testing demands decreased and facing the inevitable burnout from working in a COVID-19 unit, Jessie decided it was time for a change. She transitioned to traditional travel contracts, which have since taken her to Nashville, Tennessee; Atlanta, Georgia; Douglas, Georgia; Louisville, Kentucky; and Montgomery, Alabama.
“Nashville was definitely my favorite contract so far,” she shares. “I enjoyed my time there so much. There was a ton to do and see, and I was surrounded by mountains and a myriad of hiking trails which is my favorite place to be.”
Jessie captures a breathtaking moment from her hike in the Tennessee mountains. It’s easy to see why this travel nurse assignment was one of her favorites!
Explore jobs in Tennessee
Meaningful Connections
When asked about a favorite memory from her travels, Jessie’s response reveals the heart of a true healthcare professional.
“I think if you asked any healthcare worker, they would immediately be able to tell you about the patients or family members that have stuck with them or made an impact on their lives,” she says.
During her contract in Louisville, Jessie cared for a patient who had suffered a severe traumatic brain injury in a motorcycle accident. The patient’s family, particularly his wife and small children, remained constantly by his side.
“I developed a really sweet relationship with the family, and his kids would draw and color pictures for me any time I was assigned to his room,” Jessie remembers fondly. “The family still texts me from time to time to let me know about that patient’s progress.”
Those drawings now adorn Jessie’s refrigerator — a daily reminder that healthcare professionals can “make a difference in a person’s life and bring a little sunshine to a really tragic situation.”
The Uniti Med Difference
Jessie’s path to Uniti Med came through a chance encounter with a Facebook post by one of our recruiters on a nursing page for travelers.
“I was frustrated by the limited options I had with my travel agency at the time,” she explains. “I went rogue and responded to a Uniti Med recruiter’s post offering to review nurses’ resumes to help them find better assignments.”
That initial connection clicked immediately, and Jessie has been with Uniti Med ever since. She appreciates working with a recruiter who really cares about travelers and advocates for them.
Jessie also praises the entire Uniti Med team, particularly noting how they make the compliance process — often a hurdle in travel contracts — “as painless as possible.” Her satisfaction with Uniti Med is evident in her continued extensions at her current position for over a year.
“Compliance especially is always a hurdle with travel contracts but I can honestly say that Uniti Med really does make it as painless as possible,” she notes. “They found me a position that I am super happy with, and I have continued to extend with them for over a year.”
Jessica taking in the full Kentucky experience by making a bourbon barrel at Buffalo Trace Distillery. She believes every travel nurse assignment has something special to offer—if you take the time to explore.
Explore jobs in Kentucky
Advice for Aspiring Travel Nurses
For healthcare professionals considering the travel nurse path, Jessie offers this wisdom: “Give yourself some grace, especially at the beginning of your transition into traveling. The first contract is always the hardest, but once you get through that first assignment and get your ‘nursing legs’ under you, you’ll beast mode the rest of them!”
She also emphasizes the importance of exploring each location. “It’s easy to let yourself go into a cocoon when you get off work and just stay there until the next shift, and that’s okay! But, after getting some rest, go enjoy the city/town you’re in. Every place you go has something special about it if you look hard enough.”
Finding Balance Through Travel
While acknowledging the challenges of “always being the new person in a new place and being away from friends and family,” Jessie believes the benefits of travel nursing far outweigh the difficulties.
“I have absolutely loved getting to go to new places and experiencing everything they have to offer, as well as the non-work travel, I’ve been able to experience as a result of this profession,” she shares. “Traveling has been a way for me to successfully combat burnout by not only enjoying varying geographical locations but also in the people I work with and the patients I get to take care of.”
She values her experience with Uniti Med, saying, “The difference between Uniti Med and other agencies I’ve worked with is like night and day, and I couldn’t be happier with the effort they’ve put in to find the best outcome for me!”
Start Your Travel Journey
If you’re a healthcare professional interested in travel opportunities with Uniti Med, contact us today! We’ll help you find your perfect assignment and provide the support that keeps professionals like Jessie coming back.
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by Beth Harner | Feb 17, 2025 | Uncategorized
Looking for a meaningful way to give back this summer? Camp Jabberwocky and Ronald McDonald at Eagle Lake offer incredible RN summer volunteer opportunities where you can make a real difference. Whether you’re providing medical support for children with disabilities at Camp Jabberwocky or offering compassionate care to families at Eagle Lake, these roles allow you to use your skills in a rewarding and impactful way.
At Uniti Med, we believe in the power of community engagement and are here to support you in finding the right volunteer experience. These opportunities not only benefit those you serve but also offer personal and professional growth.
Camp Jabberwocky
Camp Jabberwocky, located in Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts, provides a residential vacation camp for people with disabilities while offering respite for their caregivers. The camp enriches the lives of its campers through recreation and a supportive environment that fosters independence, self-determination, and the fulfillment of human potential. It is a community built on inclusivity, love, and mutual support.
Camp Jabberwocky is seeking enthusiastic and responsible individuals to join its medical team. Volunteers play a vital role in creating a fun and safe environment where campers can learn, grow, and make lasting memories. This is a rewarding opportunity to positively impact the lives of children and adults with a wide range of disabilities.
The camp welcomes individuals interested in volunteering for one to two weeks over the summer. Free room and board are provided for all volunteers, and a small weekly stipend is available for those committing to two or more weeks.
Volunteer Details:
- Commitment: One to two weeks over the summer
- Free room and board provided
- Small weekly stipend available for volunteers committing two or more weeks
Priority weeks:
Week 2: Saturday, July 5 – Friday, July 11
Week 3: Sunday, July 13 – Sunday, July 20
Space still available:
Week 4: Sunday, July 20 – Saturday, July 26
Week 6: Monday, August 4 – Sunday, August 10
Week 7: Monday, August 11 – Sunday, August 17
Get a sense of the community by checking out the Camp Jabberwocky blog.
Camp Ronald McDonald at Eagle Lake
Ronald McDonald at Eagle Lake was established in 1993 and is accredited by the American Camp Association. The camp provides residential summer programs for children who are at risk due to medical needs, economic hardship, or physical, developmental, or emotional disabilities. Through a partnership with the Lassen National Forest, the camp removes barriers, allowing children to experience the traditional camp activities that many know and love.
Located on 35 acres along Eagle Lake, just outside of Susanville, California, Camp Ronald McDonald at Eagle Lake offers a variety of activities, including kayaking, canoeing, fishing, arts and crafts, sports, outdoor and nutrition education, talent shows, and a mile of waterfront for relaxation. The campground features a dining hall, two shower houses, an amphitheater, a campfire pit, a beach volleyball court, a sandpit, a fully accessible dock and waterfront, a basketball court, and a grass playing field. With nine cabins accommodating up to 100 campers per week, it provides a meaningful and rewarding setting to give back before your next assignment.
The camp is currently seeking healthcare support for two camp sessions.
Session 1: Lassen County Kids Week (June 29 – July 3)
- Campers: Able-bodied children ages 8-12
- Responsibilities: Basic first aid and medication administration
- Environment: A relaxed, traditional summer camp experience with a small local community group
- Benefits: Lodging and three meals per day provided
Session 2: Kids and Adults with Disabilities (July 6 – July 12)
- Campers: Individuals ages 12-65 with disabilities such as autism and developmental challenges
- Responsibilities: Medication administration, first aid, and camper well-being
- Staffing Ratio: 1:4, with most campers being high functioning
- Environment: A structured yet fulfilling experience with long-time returning campers
Learn more about Camp Ronald McDonald of Northern California.
Why Volunteer?
These roles go beyond donating your time; they create lasting connections and meaningful impacts. The urgency and importance of this work make now the perfect time to secure your place in these volunteer opportunities.
About Uniti Med: As a leading healthcare staffing company, Uniti Med is known for its outstanding culture and dedicated professionals. We specialize in travel nursing, locum tenens, and various healthcare sectors, fostering meaningful relationships with both our clients and employees. Recognized on multiple prestigious lists—including SIA’s 2024 Best Staffing Firms to Temp for and Best Staffing Firms to Work For—Uniti Med is committed to making a lasting impact in the healthcare industry. In 2024 Uniti Med joined GQR.
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by Beth Harner | Feb 4, 2025 | Uncategorized
Uniti Med, a GQR company, is honored to receive ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing® Talent Award for the third year in a row, reaffirming our commitment to delivering exceptional service to travel healthcare professionals across the nation.
Outstanding Service Recognized
With feedback from 90+ travel healthcare professionals we placed in rewarding roles, Uniti Med earned an impressive 9.3 average out of 10 stars. Our travelers consistently commend our responsive, compassionate recruiters, reliable job placements, and seamless experiences. See what they have to say by checking out our traveler reviews on Uniti Med’s ClearlyRated profile.
Gratitude from Our Leadership
Uniti Med’s leadership team expressed their pride and gratitude for this achievement:
“Being recognized by with the Best of Staffing award by ClearlyRated is an incredible honor. I’m proud of our recruiters for earning this award once again! Their dedication and passion truly set us apart, ensuring our healthcare professionals receive the best possible experience.”
– Chris Sund, President & COO Healthcare
“We are incredibly proud to have such an outstanding company as part of the GQR family. Uniti Med’s recruiters go above and beyond, demonstrating dedication to their travelers. Their culture, passion, and commitment set them apart, ensuring healthcare professionals feel valued and supported every step of the way.”
– Alexis Kennedy, Chief Revenue Officer
Your Voice Matters
The survey behind this award included five key questions and an open-text section for additional feedback. We encourage our travelers to continue sharing their experiences and insights—your input is invaluable in shaping and improving our services.
Our Commitment to Excellence
Winning the ClearlyRated Best of Staffing Talent Award for the third consecutive year fuels our mission to exceed expectations in healthcare staffing. We remain steadfast in providing exceptional service, unwavering support, and unmatched opportunities for healthcare professionals nationwide.
About Uniti Med: As a leading healthcare staffing company, Uniti Med is known for its outstanding culture and dedicated professionals. We specialize in travel nursing, locum tenens, and various healthcare sectors, fostering meaningful relationships with both our clients and employees. Recognized on multiple prestigious lists—including SIA’s 2024 Best Staffing Firms to Temp For and Best Staffing Firms to Work For—Uniti Med is committed to making a lasting impact in the healthcare industry. In 2024 Uniti Med joined GQR.
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