Travel nursing is a demanding but rewarding career, and the best way to show appreciation for the hardworking travel nurse in your life is with a thoughtful gift. Whether it’s a practical item to make their job easier or a sentimental keepsake to remind them of their adventures, there’s something for everyone on this list of the top 14 best travel nurse gifts. From luggage and scrubs to journals and custom-made jewelry, these gifts are sure to be a hit with any travel nurse.
What are the most needed travel nurses?
Travel nurses often have to work long hours and spend time away from their families and homes, so thoughtful gifts can help boost their morale and make their time away more comfortable. Here are some gift ideas that are appreciated by many travel nurses.
Travel-sized toiletries and skincare products
Travel-sized toiletries and skincare products are a great gift for any travel nurse. These items are compact and easy to pack, making them perfect for nurses on the go. Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion, and other personal hygiene products can help make a long shift or travel day more comfortable. Skincare products, such as facial cleansers, moisturizers, and lip balms, can also be useful for maintaining healthy skin while on the road. Additionally, travel-sized toiletries can be especially appreciated by nurses who are often living out of a hotel room. These items can help make their temporary home feel more like home.
A portable charger and power bank
A portable charger and power bank is a practical and thoughtful gifts for a travel nurse. With a portable charger, they will never have to worry about their phone or other devices running out of battery while they are on the go. They can keep their phone charged during long shifts and flights and stay connected with their friends and family. A power bank is a compact, portable device that stores power and can be used to charge electronic devices, such as smartphones and tablets, when a regular outlet is not available. This can be especially useful for travel nurses who are always on the move and may not have access to a power outlet for long periods. It will also help them stay in touch with family, and friends and keep their documents handy.
A reusable water bottle
A reusable water bottle is a simple yet practical gift for a travel nurse. It can help them stay hydrated during long shifts, flights, and layovers. Staying hydrated is important for maintaining overall health, especially when working in a demanding job like nursing. A reusable water bottle is also an environmentally friendly alternative to disposable plastic water bottles, which can help reduce waste. Many water bottles now come in a variety of sizes, designs, and materials, like stainless steel, aluminum, and even insulated options, which can keep the water cold or hot for hours. Some even come with a built-in filter, making it easy for travel nurses to drink clean water even in remote locations.
Noise-cancelling headphones
Noise-canceling headphones are an excellent gift for a travel nurse. They can help block out distracting noise and create a peaceful environment, which can be beneficial during long shifts, layovers, and commutes. Noise-canceling headphones work by actively blocking out external sounds and creating an “audio cocoon” that allows the user to focus on the task at hand or simply relax. This can be especially beneficial for travel nurses who may be working in loud environments, such as hospitals, airplanes, or trains. Additionally, noise-canceling headphones can also help improve sleep quality, which is important for maintaining overall health and well-being. They can come in wired or wireless, and with the option to connect to phones, laptops, or tablets.
Comfortable and supportive shoes
Comfortable and supportive shoes are a must-have for any travel nurse. Nurses are on their feet for long periods of time and need shoes that provide good support and cushioning to prevent foot pain and fatigue. A good pair of shoes can also help prevent injuries such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and back pain. This is especially important for travel nurses who are constantly on the move and may not have access to the same amenities as permanent staff. Look for shoes with good arch support, a comfortable fit, and a slip-resistant sole. They can come in many styles like sneakers, clogs, or even slip-on. These shoes can also be waterproof and easy to clean, which is important for nurses who work in different environments, such as hospitals, clinics, or home care settings.
A lightweight and durable backpack
A lightweight and durable backpack is a great gift for a travel nurse. It can help them carry all the essentials they need for their job, including a laptop, tablet, books, and other documents. A backpack can also be useful for carrying personal items, such as a change of clothes, toiletries, and snacks. A backpack is a great option for a travel nurse because it distributes the weight evenly across the shoulders, reducing the strain on the back and shoulders. It also allows them to keep their hands free, making it easier to move around, especially when they are carrying heavy equipment or bags.
When choosing a backpack, look for one that is made of durable, water-resistant material and has multiple compartments to help organize items. Look for a backpack that has padded straps and a comfortable fit that can provide good back support. Additionally, a backpack with a built-in USB charging port can be a great feature for travel nurses, allowing them to charge their devices on the go.
A journal and pen for documenting experiences
A journal and pen are thoughtful and sentimental gifts for a travel nurse. A journal can be a great way for them to document their experiences, reflect on their time in different locations, and create a lasting record of their adventures. Travel nursing can be a unique and rewarding experience, and a journal is a great way to capture the memories and emotions that come with it.
A pen is also an important accessory to a journal, it will allow them to write down their thoughts, feelings, and observations with ease.
A book or e-reader for downtime
A book or e-reader is a great gift for a travel nurse to help them pass the time during downtime. Travel nurses often have a lot of free time in between shifts, and a book or e-reader can provide a welcome distraction and help them to relax and unwind. A book or an e-reader can also be a great way to escape into a different world and take a break from the stress of work.
An e-reader, such as a Kindle or a Nook, can hold thousands of books and be easily carried around, making it a great option for travel nurses. They can also adjust the text size and font, and make notes, which can be helpful for their studies or professional development.
Books can also make great travel companions, whether it’s a novel, a biography, or a self-help book, they can provide hours of entertainment and help them to learn new things. They can also pick books that are specific to the location they are visiting, to learn more about the culture and history of that place.
A portable coffee maker or travel mug
A portable coffee maker or travel mug is a great gift for a travel nurse. Nurses often have to work long shifts, and a hot cup of coffee can help them stay energized and focused. A portable coffee maker or travel mug can also save them money by eliminating the need to buy coffee at expensive cafes or vending machines.
A portable coffee maker, such as a French press or a pour-over, can brew a fresh cup of coffee in minutes and can be used with ground coffee or coffee pods. Some of them are even battery-operated, which can be convenient for travel nurses who may not have access to an outlet.
A travel mug can also be a great option, it can keep the coffee hot for hours, and many of them come with leak-proof lids, keeping the coffee spill-free. Some travel mugs also have a built-in strainer or infuser, allowing them to make tea or loose-leaf coffee.
A camera or smartphone with a good camera
There are many cameras and smartphones on the market that have good cameras for nurses. Some popular options include the iPhone 12 Pro, Samsung Galaxy S21, and Google Pixel 5. These smartphones all have high-resolution cameras with advanced features such as optical image stabilization, low-light performance, and multiple lenses for different types of photography. Additionally, many smartphones have built-in apps that allow for easy editing and sharing of photos.
A first aid kit
A first aid kit is a collection of supplies and equipment that is used to provide medical treatment in emergency situations. A basic first aid kit should include items such as adhesive bandages, gauze pads, medical tape, scissors, tweezers, a thermometer, a flashlight, and pain relievers. Additional items that may be included in a first aid kit are instant cold packs, a breathing barrier mask, a CPR face shield, elastic bandages, and a first aid manual. It’s important to note that a first aid kit should be stored in a convenient, easily accessible location, and should be checked regularly to ensure that the contents are still in good condition and that the kit is well-stocked.
A subscription to a streaming service or a gift card for a movie rental
A subscription to a streaming service or a gift card for a movie rental can be a great gift for a nurse. Streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu offer a wide variety of TV shows, movies, and documentaries that can be watched on demand. This can be a great way for a nurse to relax and unwind after a long shift. A gift card for a movie rental service such as iTunes, Google Play, or Amazon can also be a great option, as it would allow the nurse to rent or purchase and watch the movie of their choice.
A gift card
A gift card for a local restaurant or coffee shop can be a great gift for a nurse, especially if they will be working in a specific area. This would allow them to try out new places to eat or grab a drink near their work location.
Final thought
The best travel nurse gifts are those that are practical, thoughtful, and can make a travel nurse’s life on the road a little bit easier. From travel-sized toiletries and comfortable clothing to high-quality luggage and portable technology, there are many options to choose from. Whether you’re looking to surprise a loved one or simply want to treat yourself, these 14 gift ideas are sure to delight any travel nurse. So, consider one of these gifts for your favorite travel nurse and make their journey a little bit more comfortable and enjoyable.
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