Top Travel Nurse Resumes: Examples and Tips for 2025

Learn how to create a standout travel nurse resume with examples, formatting tips, and essential certifications to land your next assignment.

  • Free MS Word Downloadable Resume
  • Free Resume Samples
  • ATS Friendly Resume Examples
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Introduction

A career as a travel nurse is fast-paced, flexible, and full of opportunities—but before you land that next assignment, you need a resume that proves you can hit the ground running. Unlike a traditional nursing resume, a travel nurse resume must highlight your adaptability, certifications, and ability to adjust quickly to new hospital settings. Recruiters and agencies often skim dozens of travel nursing resumes in minutes, so your document has to stand out immediately.

What You’ll Learn in This Article

In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to create a standout travel nurse resume, including:

  • A step-by-step process to write your resume with confidence.
  • A travel nurse job description resume section with real examples.
  • 3 examples each for summary, skills, work experience, and education.
  • The most effective resume keywords and action verbs for travel nursing.
  • 4 Ready to copy-paste resume TA Nurse Examples
  • FAQs that answer common concerns, like how to put travel nursing on a resume.

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to write a travel nurse resume that gets noticed by agencies, clears ATS filters, and lands you contracts—whether you’re an experienced registered nurse or a travel nurse with no prior experience.

Travel Nurse Resumes

  • Provided direct patient care across Med-Surg and telemetry units during multiple short-term contracts.
  • Adapted quickly to new EHR systems, facility protocols, and hospital environments.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to deliver safe and effective care.
  • Ensured compliance with all travel nursing job description requirements, including rapid orientation and floating across units.

Travel Nurse Resume Template

This is resume template for Travel Nurse Resume. This resume template for Travel Nurse resume is ATS Friendly adn HAve a balanced appraoch

Why this resume is good:

  • ATS-friendly & clear: simple format with strong section headers.
  • Certifications upfront: RN license, BLS, ACLS, PALS easy to spot.
  • Travel-focused: shows adaptability to multiple hospitals & EMR systems.
  • Balanced experience: combines travel assignments with staff nurse stability.

Travel Nurse Resume Example | Text Sample

Contact Information
Jane Doe, RN, BSN
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: janedoe@email.com
Location: Austin, TX
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/janedoe


Resume Summary
Compassionate and adaptable Travel Nurse with 4+ years of experience in ICU, ER, and Med-Surg units. Skilled in rapid onboarding, patient-centered care, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Licensed in compact states and certified in BLS, ACLS, and PALS. Dedicated to delivering consistent, high-quality care in diverse healthcare settings.


Licenses & Certifications

  • Registered Nurse (RN) – Compact State License
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) – American Heart Association
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) – American Heart Association
  • Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) – American Heart Association

Work Experience

Travel RN – Med-Surg & Telemetry
Aya Healthcare | Multiple Assignments | 2021–Present

  • Delivered safe, evidence-based patient care for a caseload of 6–8 patients per shift.
  • Adapted to multiple EHR systems (Epic, Meditech, Cerner) with minimal training.
  • Collaborated with physicians and nurses to ensure compliance with hospital protocols.
  • Consistently praised for flexibility and ability to float across units.

Travel RN – Emergency Room
Cross Country Nurses | Los Angeles, CA | 2019–2021

  • Managed critical patients in a Level I Trauma Center with high patient volume.
  • Assisted in stabilization of trauma patients, code responses, and rapid triage.
  • Delivered quality care while maintaining patient safety during short-term contracts.

Education
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
University of Texas, Austin – 2018


Skills

  • Clinical: IV Therapy, Ventilator Management, Wound Care, Triage
  • Technical: Epic, Meditech, Cerner, Telemetry Monitoring
  • Soft Skills: Adaptability, Communication, Teamwork, Quick Learning

Why the above Example is good:

  • Clear and ATS-friendly: Simple layout, easy to read, keyword-rich.
  • Strong summary & skills: Highlights adaptability, certifications, and clinical expertise up front.
  • Tailored experience: Emphasizes short-term contracts, EHR flexibility, and floating across units.
  • Certifications upfront: RN, BLS, ACLS, PALS make compliance obvious to recruiters.

Travel RN Resume Template

  • Delivered high-quality critical care in ICU and ER units as part of 13-week travel assignments.
  • Managed ventilators, administered emergency medications, and stabilized trauma patients under pressure.
  • Documented patient outcomes and coordinated with physicians during acute interventions.
  • Demonstrated travel registered nurse job description duties by adapting to high-volume emergency departments.
This is Travel RN Resume template. This template is Modernd

Why This Resume Works:

  • ATS-Friendly Format: Simple design, clear headers, and bullet points ensure it passes Applicant Tracking Systems.
  • Certifications First: RN compact license, BLS, ACLS, and PALS are listed prominently for quick recruiter screening.
  • Travel-Focused Experience: Highlights multiple assignments, EMR adaptability, and team collaboration — core skills for travel nurses.
  • Balanced Work History: Combines travel RN flexibility with staff RN stability and recognition (award for excellence).

Travel RN Resume Example | Text Sample

Contact Information
Sarah Johnson, RN, BSN
Phone: (555) 987-6543
Email: sarah.johnson@email.com
Location: Denver, CO
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sarahjohnson


Resume Summary
Dedicated Travel RN with 5+ years of experience delivering high-quality patient care in ICU, ER, and Med-Surg units across multiple facilities. Skilled in rapid adaptation to new hospital settings, managing diverse caseloads, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Licensed in compact states and certified in BLS, ACLS, and TNCC. Committed to providing patient-centered care and exceeding expectations during short-term contracts.


Licenses & Certifications

  • Registered Nurse (RN) – Compact State License
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) – American Heart Association
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) – American Heart Association
  • Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC) – ENA

Work Experience

Travel RN – Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
Aya Healthcare | Dallas, TX | 2022–Present

  • Delivered critical care for 4–6 ICU patients per shift, managing ventilators, drips, and post-operative recovery.
  • Adapted to new EHR systems (Epic, Meditech) within days of onboarding.
  • Collaborated with physicians and rapid response teams during emergency interventions.
  • Recognized by supervisors for quick integration and clinical excellence.

Travel RN – Emergency Department
Cross Country Nurses | Chicago, IL | 2020–2022

  • Triaged and stabilized high-acuity patients in a Level I Trauma Center.
  • Administered emergency medications, monitored vital signs, and assisted with trauma resuscitations.
  • Supported travel nursing job description requirements by floating to multiple ER units.
  • Achieved patient satisfaction scores above hospital average.

Travel RN – Med-Surg/Telemetry
AMN Healthcare | Phoenix, AZ | 2018–2020

  • Managed a caseload of 6–8 patients per shift in a fast-paced Med-Surg unit.
  • Monitored telemetry patients, administered medications, and educated families on treatment plans.
  • Floated across multiple units as needed to meet staffing shortages.
  • Consistently praised for teamwork and adaptability.

Education
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
University of Colorado, Denver – 2017


Skills

  • Clinical: IV Therapy, Ventilator Management, Emergency Response, Wound Care
  • Technical: Epic, Meditech, Cerner, Telemetry Monitoring
  • Soft Skills: Adaptability, Communication, Team Collaboration, Rapid Onboarding

This example is ATS-optimized, uses resume keywords (ICU, ER, Med-Surg, patient care, EHR systems, adaptability, certifications), and demonstrates short-term contract success — exactly what recruiters expect for a Travel RN.

Travel Pediatric Nurse Template

  • Cared for pediatric patients in general wards and PICU settings under multiple travel contracts.
  • Educated families on treatment plans and provided emotional support to children.
  • Assisted with pediatric IV therapy, wound care, and immunization programs.
  • Fulfilled travel pediatric nurse assignments by integrating quickly into child-focused healthcare teams.
This is Travel Pediatric Nurse Resume Template which highlights Family centered care and specialized focus for patient

Why this resume is good:

  • Specialized Focus: Highlights pediatric-specific skills like IV therapy, immunizations, and PICU care, making it stand out from general nursing resumes.
  • Family-Centered Care: Emphasizes communication and education for parents, which is critical in pediatric nursing.
  • Travel Readiness: Mentions compact state license, multiple facilities, and adaptability to EHR systems — all essential for travel roles.
  • Balanced Skills: Combines clinical expertise, technical proficiency (Epic, Cerner), and soft skills like empathy and cultural sensitivity.

Travel Pediatric Nurse Example | Text Sample

Madison Smith, RN, BSN

215 Greenfield Drive • Charlotte, NC 28202 • (704) 555-2198 • madison.carter@email.com • linkedin.com/in/madisoncarter


Professional Summary

Compassionate Travel Pediatric Nurse (RN, BSN) with 5+ years of experience providing patient-centered care to infants, children, and adolescents in hospitals across the U.S. Skilled in acute pediatric care, family education, and adapting to new hospital systems. Licensed in Compact States with current BLS, ACLS, and PALS certifications. Recognized for building trust with families and delivering high-quality nursing care in diverse settings.


Licenses & Certifications

  • Registered Nurse, Multi-State Compact License
  • Basic Life Support (BLS), American Heart Association
  • Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), AHA
  • Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), AHA
  • Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN), PNCB

Core Skills

  • Pediatric Acute & Critical Care
  • Medication Administration & IV Therapy
  • Growth & Development Assessments
  • Pediatric Emergency Care
  • Family & Patient Education
  • Infection Control & Safety Compliance
  • EMR Systems: Epic, Cerner, Meditech
  • Team Collaboration & Rapid Onboarding

Professional Experience

Travel RN – Pediatric Unit / PICU
Aya Healthcare | Multiple States | Jan 2020 – Present

  • Completed 12+ pediatric travel contracts in children’s hospitals and community medical centers.
  • Cared for patients ranging from newborns to teenagers with acute, chronic, and post-surgical conditions.
  • Managed caseloads of up to 8 pediatric patients per shift, ensuring accurate medication administration.
  • Collaborated with pediatricians, child life specialists, and families to support holistic care.
  • Adapted to new EMR systems within one week at each assignment.

Staff RN – Pediatric Unit
Levine Children’s Hospital | Charlotte, NC | Jul 2017 – Dec 2019

  • Delivered compassionate bedside care to children with respiratory illnesses, cardiac conditions, and trauma.
  • Assisted in reducing hospital-acquired infection rates by improving compliance with hand hygiene protocols.
  • Provided family-centered education to improve post-discharge care adherence.
  • Awarded “Nurse of the Month” (2018) for excellence in pediatric patient care.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Nursing | Chapel Hill, NC | May 2017


Professional Affiliations

  • Society of Pediatric Nurses (SPN), Member
  • American Nurses Association (ANA), Member

Why This Resume Example Works:

  • Certifications (PALS, CPN) highlight pediatric specialty.
  • Experience section quantifies assignments and patient load.
  • Shows travel adaptability + permanent role stability.
  • Emphasizes family-centered care — crucial in pediatrics.

Travel Labor & Delivery Nurse Template

Why This Resume Works

  • Specialty-Focused: Tailored to Labor & Delivery with relevant skills and certs (NRP, RNC-OB, C-EFM).
  • Quantified Impact: Uses numbers (120+ deliveries/year, 15+ contracts) to show results.
  • Balanced Career Path: Combines travel assignments (adaptability) with staff RN experience (stability).
  • Credibility Boost: Includes awards and professional affiliations (AWHONN, ANA).

Travel Labor & Delivery Nurse Example | Text Sample

Emily Carter, RN, BSN
742 Willow Lane
Austin, TX 78701
emily.carter@email.com | (512) 555-2367
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emilycarter


Resume Summary
Compassionate and adaptable Travel Labor & Delivery Nurse with 6+ years of experience supporting women through pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care in diverse hospital settings. Skilled in high-risk deliveries, neonatal resuscitation, and patient education. Licensed in compact states, certified in BLS, ACLS, and NRP. Dedicated to delivering safe, patient-centered care while adapting quickly to new teams and workflows.


Licenses & Certifications

  • Registered Nurse (RN) – Compact State License
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) – American Heart Association
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) – American Heart Association
  • Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) – AAP
  • Electronic Fetal Monitoring (EFM) Certification

Work Experience

Travel Labor & Delivery Nurse
Aya Healthcare | Dallas, TX | 2022–Present

  • Supported 25+ births per month in high-acuity settings, including C-sections and high-risk pregnancies.
  • Collaborated with OB-GYNs, anesthesiologists, and neonatal teams to ensure safe deliveries.
  • Monitored fetal heart rates, maternal vitals, and labor progression using EFM.
  • Adapted to new EHR systems (Epic, Cerner) within days of onboarding.

Travel Labor & Delivery Nurse
Cross Country Nurses | Phoenix, AZ | 2019–2022

  • Assisted in more than 200 deliveries across multiple facilities, including Level I and Level III hospitals.
  • Educated patients and families on prenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum care.
  • Provided emotional support and advocacy for mothers during labor and recovery.
  • Floated across postpartum and women’s health units to meet staffing needs.

Staff Labor & Delivery Nurse
St. David’s Medical Center | Austin, TX | 2016–2019

  • Managed patient care throughout labor, delivery, and recovery phases.
  • Assisted with epidural administration, inductions, and emergency interventions.
  • Recognized for strong teamwork and patient satisfaction scores above hospital average.

Education
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
University of Texas, Austin – 2016


Skills

Clinical: Labor & delivery support, fetal monitoring, IV therapy, neonatal resuscitation, postpartum care
Technical: Epic, Cerner, Meditech, fetal monitoring systems
Soft Skills: Patient education, adaptability, empathy, family communication, teamwork

Why This Resume Works

  • Targeted Summary: Immediately highlights years of L&D experience, high-risk deliveries, and key certifications (BLS, ACLS, NRP, EFM).
  • Certifications Up Front: Lists labor & delivery–specific credentials that recruiters scan for, showing readiness for assignments.
  • Detailed Work Experience: Uses action verbs (supported, collaborated, monitored, educated) and quantifiable impact (e.g., “25+ births per month,” “200+ deliveries”).
  • Travel-Friendly: Shows adaptability with multiple facilities, floating across units, and quick onboarding into new EHR systems.
  • Balanced Skills Section: Separates clinical, technical, and soft skills, proving she’s not just clinically competent but also adaptable and team-oriented.

Ready to Land Your Next Job?

Don’t let your resume get lost in the stack. Build a professional, ATS-friendly resume that highlights your leadership, achievements, and industry expertise.

How to Write a Travel Nurse Resume

Resume Summary with Examples

Your resume summary is the first thing recruiters see, so it should capture your adaptability, clinical expertise, and readiness for short-term contracts. Keep it concise (2–3 sentences) and keyword-rich.

Example 1: Experienced Travel Nurse with Multi-State Licensure

“Experienced Travel Nurse with 7+ years of clinical practice in ICU, ER, and Med-Surg units across multiple states. Skilled in rapid adaptation, EHR systems (Epic, Meditech, Cerner), and patient-centered care. Licensed in compact states with certifications in BLS, ACLS, and PALS.”

Example 2: Travel Nurse with Strong Adaptability and Patient Care

“Compassionate Travel RN with 4+ years of experience providing high-quality care in diverse hospital settings. Recognized for adaptability, teamwork, and consistent performance in short-term contracts. Proficient in IV therapy, wound care, telemetry monitoring, and patient/family education.”

Example 3: Entry-Level Travel Nurse (No Experience, but Certified)

“Newly licensed Travel Nurse with BSN and Compact State License, eager to contribute to healthcare teams nationwide. Certified in BLS and ACLS, with strong skills in patient assessment, communication, and rapid learning. Excited to begin career in travel nursing and bring dedication to patient safety and quality care.”

Skills Section For Travel Nurse

The skills section of a travel nurse resume should highlight a balance of clinical expertise, technical knowledge (EHR systems), and soft skills like adaptability. Here are three examples tailored for different types of applicants.

Hard Skills (Clinical & Technical)

  • ICU & ER patient care
  • IV therapy & medication administration
  • Ventilator management
  • Telemetry monitoring
  • Wound care & infection control
  • EHR systems: Epic, Meditech, Cerner
  • Trauma stabilization
  • Pediatric & geriatric care

Soft Skills (Interpersonal & Behavioral)

  • Adaptability to new hospital environments
  • Cross-functional teamwork
  • Communication with patients & families
  • Problem-solving under pressure
  • Time management in high-acuity settings
  • Leadership and mentoring
  • Quick onboarding and flexibility

Unique Skills (That Differentiate Travel Nurses)

  • Rapid adjustment to diverse workflows
  • Multi-state/compact nursing licensure
  • Floating across units with minimal orientation
  • Cultural sensitivity in varied communities
  • Managing patient loads in short-term contracts
  • Crisis response in understaffed facilities
  • High comfort with frequent relocation and new teams

Work Experience Section For Travel Nurse

Your work experience is the backbone of your travel nurse resume. Focus on short-term contracts, adaptability, and measurable impact. Use action verbs and highlight specific unit types (ICU, ER, Med-Surg, Pediatrics).

Example 1: Travel RN – ICU
Aya Healthcare | Dallas, TX | 2022–Present

  • Delivered critical care to 4–6 ICU patients per shift, including ventilator management and post-op recovery.
  • Adapted quickly to new EHR systems (Epic, Meditech) with minimal training.
  • Collaborated with physicians and rapid response teams during emergencies.
  • Consistently recognized for clinical excellence and quick integration into hospital teams.

Example 2: Travel RN – ER/Med-Surg
Cross Country Nurses | Chicago, IL | 2020–2022

  • Triaged and stabilized patients in a Level I Trauma Center ER.
  • Managed a Med-Surg caseload of 6–8 patients per shift, ensuring quality and safe care.
  • Floated across multiple units during staff shortages while maintaining patient satisfaction.
  • Delivered on all travel nursing resume job description requirements, including rapid onboarding.

Example 3: Travel RN – Pediatrics (Fresher Example)
AMN Healthcare | Phoenix, AZ | 2019–2020

  • Provided compassionate care to pediatric patients in general and PICU units.
  • Educated families on treatment plans and supported child comfort during care.
  • Gained hands-on experience in IV therapy, wound care, and immunization administration.
  • Demonstrated adaptability as a travel nurse with no experience in prior assignments.

Tips for Writing Travel Nurse Work Experience

  • Lead with the unit type (ICU, ER, Med-Surg, Pediatrics) to show versatility.
  • Highlight adaptability — mention floating across units, quick onboarding, or new EHR systems.
  • Use action verbs like delivered, stabilized, adapted, collaborated, managed.
  • Quantify where possible (patients per shift, response times, satisfaction scores).
  • Show contract nature (short-term, 13-week, multi-state) to emphasize travel nurse experience.

Education Section For Travel Nurse

Your education section on a travel nurse resume should be short, clear, and highlight nursing credentials first. Always list your highest degree, school, and graduation year. Include additional coursework or honors if relevant.

Example 1: BSN Graduate (Standard Path)
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
University of Texas, Austin – 2018

  • Honors: Magna Cum Laude
  • Clinical rotations in ICU, Pediatrics, and Emergency Care

Example 2: ADN Nurse Transitioning to Travel
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Community College of Denver – 2016

  • Passed NCLEX-RN on first attempt
  • Transitioned to travel nursing after 2 years of bedside hospital experience

Example 3: Fresher / New Grad Travel Nurse Resume
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Ohio State University – 2023

  • Relevant coursework: Patient Assessment, Critical Care Nursing, Pharmacology
  • Completed clinical practicum in Med-Surg and Pediatrics
  • Certified in BLS and ACLS prior to graduation

Tips for Listing Education on a Travel Nurse Resume

  • List your highest degree first (BSN, ADN, MSN if applicable).
  • Always include school name, degree, and graduation year.
  • Add NCLEX-RN pass info (if recent grad).
  • Mention relevant coursework or clinical rotations if you’re a fresher.
  • Highlight honors or distinctions (e.g., Magna Cum Laude, Dean’s List).
  • Keep it short and clean — recruiters care more about licenses and experience.

Travel Nurse Resume Keywords

To pass ATS scans and catch recruiter attention, your travel nurse resume should include the right keywords. These terms highlight your clinical expertise, adaptability, and readiness for travel contracts.

Clinical & Technical Keywords For Travel Nurse Resume

  • Patient Care
  • ICU Nursing
  • Emergency Room (ER)
  • Med-Surg Nursing
  • Pediatric Nursing
  • Trauma Stabilization
  • IV Therapy
  • Ventilator Management
  • Wound Care
  • Infection Control
  • Telemetry Monitoring
  • Electronic Health Records (EHR) – Epic, Cerner, Meditech

Licenses & Certifications Keywords For Travel Nurse Resume

  • Registered Nurse (RN)
  • Compact State License
  • NCLEX-RN
  • Basic Life Support (BLS)
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
  • Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
  • Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC)

Soft Skills & Adaptability Keywords For Travel Nurse Resume

  • Adaptability
  • Flexibility
  • Team Collaboration
  • Communication Skills
  • Patient Education
  • Problem-Solving
  • Cross-Functional Teamwork
  • Cultural Sensitivity
  • Quick Onboarding
  • Floating Across Units

Travel-Specific Keywords For Travel Nurse Resume

  • Travel Nurse
  • Travel RN
  • Travel Nursing Assignments
  • Short-Term Contracts
  • Multi-State Licensure
  • Travel Pediatric Nurse
  • Travel Nurse With No Experience
  • Agency Placement
  • Travel Nursing Job Description

Ready to Land Your Next Job?

Don’t let your resume get lost in the stack. Build a professional, ATS-friendly resume that highlights your leadership, achievements, and industry expertise.

Best Action Verbs for a Travel Nursing Resume

Recruiters want to see impact, and the right action verbs make your travel nurse resume stronger. Instead of generic words like helped or did, use verbs that show responsibility, adaptability, and achievement.

Clinical Care & Patient Support For Travel Nurse Resume

  • Delivered
  • Administered
  • Monitored
  • Assisted
  • Stabilized
  • Provided
  • Supported
  • Educated

Adaptability & Teamwork For Travel Nurse Resume

  • Adapted
  • Collaborated
  • Coordinated
  • Floated
  • Integrated
  • Partnered
  • Adjusted
  • Responded

Leadership & Accountability For Travel Nurse Resume

  • Supervised
  • Trained
  • Guided
  • Delegated
  • Managed
  • Oversaw
  • Led
  • Directed

Efficiency & Outcomes For Travel Nurse Resume

  • Improved
  • Enhanced
  • Reduced
  • Achieved
  • Streamlined
  • Documented
  • Implemented
  • Optimized

Tip: Pair these action verbs with resume keywords. For example:

  • Instead of “Worked in ICU”“Delivered critical care to 6 ICU patients per shift, adapting quickly to new EHR systems.”

How To Write A Cover Letter For Travel Nurse

While not always required, a travel nurse cover letter can help you stand out by showing your personality, adaptability, and eagerness for new assignments. Keep it short (3–4 paragraphs) and highlight your key skills, certifications, and flexibility.

Cover letter For Travel Nurse Resume Example

Emily Smith, RN, BSN
123 Maplewood Drive
Denver, CO 80202
emily.smith@email.com | (303) 555-7890
September 15, 2025

Hiring Manager
Cross Country Nurses
1000 Brickell Avenue
Miami, FL 33131

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Travel Nurse position with Cross Country Nurses. With 5 years of experience across ICU and Med-Surg units, and a proven ability to adapt quickly to new hospital settings, I am confident in my ability to provide exceptional patient care on short-term assignments.

In my recent assignments with Aya Healthcare, I delivered compassionate care to diverse patient populations, floated across units when needed, and became proficient in multiple EHR systems including Epic and Cerner. My certifications in BLS, ACLS, and PALS, along with my compact state nursing license, make me ready to contribute immediately to your team.

I am drawn to Cross Country Nurses because of its strong reputation for excellence in patient care and its commitment to supporting travel nurses. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my adaptability, clinical skills, and dedication to patient outcomes can add value to your team.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of working with you.

Sincerely,
Emily Smith

Tips for Writing a Travel Nurse Cover Letter

  • Keep it short (3–4 paragraphs max): Recruiters are busy — get to the point quickly.
  • Highlight adaptability: Emphasize your ability to adjust to new hospitals, policies, and EHR systems.
  • Showcase certifications early: Mention RN license, compact state license, and BLS/ACLS/PALS up front.
  • Personalize for each agency or hospital: Refer to the employer by name and note why you want to work with them.
  • Include unit experience: ICU, ER, Med-Surg, or Pediatrics — make your specialties clear.
  • Mention willingness to travel: Show flexibility for assignments in different states or facilities.
  • Use action verbs: Words like delivered, adapted, supported, collaborated make your cover letter more dynamic.
  • Close with confidence: End by expressing excitement about contributing and readiness to start immediately.

Conclusion

A strong travel nurse resume can be the difference between being overlooked and landing your next assignment. By highlighting your adaptability, certifications, and patient care experience, you’ll show recruiters that you’re ready to succeed in any hospital environment.

In this guide, we covered:

  • How to structure your resume with summary, skills, work experience, and education.
  • Real travel nurse job description resume examples tailored for ICU, ER, Med-Surg, and Pediatrics.
  • Essential resume keywords and action verbs to pass ATS scans.
  • Sample text versions and a free travel nurse resume template for easy formatting.
  • FAQs on how to put travel nursing on resume and what to do if you’re a fresher.

Whether you’re an experienced RN or a travel nurse with no experience, the key is to present your flexibility, clinical strengths, and readiness for short-term contracts. With the right approach, your travel nursing resume will stand out and help you secure exciting opportunities across the country.

Now it’s your turn—download the free template, customize it with your details, and start your journey toward your next travel nurse contract today.

FAQs

1. How do I put travel nursing on my resume?

List each travel assignment under Work Experience with the facility, location, and contract dates. Use bullet points to show adaptability, patient care, and unit types (ICU, ER, Med-Surg). If you had multiple short contracts with the same agency, you can group them under the agency’s name.

2. Should I list every short-term contract separately?

If you had several contracts at the same hospital or agency, group them together. Otherwise, list them individually so recruiters can see your range of experience. Always highlight skills gained and patient outcomes rather than just contract duration.

3. What if I’m a travel nurse with no experience?

*Even if you’re a travel nurse as a fresher, you can still create a strong resume. Focus on:
*Education and clinical rotations (BSN/ADN coursework).
*Certifications (BLS, ACLS, PALS).
*Transferable skills like adaptability, quick learning, and teamwork.
*Recruiters often hire new grads if they demonstrate flexibility and commitment.

4. Do travel nurses need a cover letter?

Not always, but a short cover letter can help you stand out. Use it to emphasize your adaptability, multi-state licensure, and willingness to relocate quickly.

5. What are traveling nurses and what do they do?

*Traveling nurses (or travel RNs) are registered nurses who take temporary contracts in hospitals or clinics. Their responsibilities include:
*Delivering patient care in specialized units (ICU, ER, Pediatrics, Med-Surg).
*Adapting quickly to new hospital policies and EHR systems.
*Filling staffing shortages while maintaining high standards of care.

Should I use a travel nurse resume template?

Yes — a clean, ATS-friendly travel nurse resume template saves time and ensures proper formatting. Avoid fancy designs; instead, choose simple layouts that highlight your summary, skills, licenses, and work experience.

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  • Sergio Barnett is a seasoned resume writer and career strategist with over 10 years of experience helping job seekers craft compelling resumes and cover letters. As a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW), Sergio specializes in tailoring career documents for blue-collar and healthcare professionals, ensuring ATS compliance and recruiter appeal.

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