Jul 23, 2025
Travel Nursing with a Family: How to Make It Work

Travel nursing is an exciting and rewarding career that offers competitive pay, professional growth, and the chance to explore new places. But for nurses with families, this lifestyle may seem more complicated than carefree. Questions about housing, schooling, stability, and work-life balance are all valid concerns—but with the right planning and the right staffing partner, travel nursing can be a fulfilling experience for the whole family.
At Aequor, we work with travel nurses from all walks of life, including many who bring their partners, children, and even pets along for the ride. If you’re wondering whether you can pursue your travel nursing dreams without leaving your family behind—the answer is yes. Here’s how to make it work.
1. Be Strategic with Assignment Choices
When you’re a travel nurse with a family, every assignment impacts more than just your career—it affects your household, too. That’s why choosing the right location is key.
Do you want to stay close to extended family? Are you looking for assignments in cities with great public schools, low crime rates, or fun family-friendly activities? Whether you’re looking for small towns with slower paces or vibrant cities with museums and parks, your recruiter can help tailor your search.
2. Secure Comfortable, Family Friendly Housing
While individual travel nurses can often stay in studio apartments or shared housing, families need more space—and often, more stability. Aequor offers housing stipends that give you the flexibility to choose accommodations that fit your family’s lifestyle, whether that’s a multi-bedroom Airbnb or a short term lease.
Tips for Family Housing:
● Use sites like Furnished Finder and VRBO to find short term furnished rentals.
● Ask landlords about nearby schools, playgrounds, or safe areas for kids to play.
● Consider bringing a few comforts from home to help your kids settle in more easily.
For more information about housing, check out our Housing Resources.
3. Manage Schooling and Childcare Options
For families with school aged children, education is a top priority. Fortunately, travel nursing doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice learning quality.
Your options include:
● Temporary Enrollment in the local public school system.
● Homeschooling, which allows flexibility with your schedule and travel plans.
● Online School Programs, which offer structured curriculums with certified teachers and progress tracking.
Travel nurses can even use their assignments as educational opportunities—visiting national parks, museums, and historical landmarks as part of their child’s learning journey.
4. Support Your Partner’s Career, Too
If your partner works remotely, travel nursing can be the perfect setup for your family. Many couples choose to travel together while maintaining two incomes.
If your partner is also a healthcare professional, they may consider traveling with you. Dual travel healthcare assignments—sometimes at the same facility or in the same city—are not uncommon. Aequor’s recruiters can help coordinate start dates and shift schedules to make it easier for couples to balance work and family time.
5. Build a Support System on the Road
Being away from extended family and long term friends can be tough—but the good news is there’s a vibrant community of traveling healthcare professionals who are in the same boat. Online groups like “Travel Nurse Families” on Facebook and regional meetup groups can provide a sense of belonging, offer local tips, and even lead to lasting friendships.
For more about support systems as a travel nurse, read our blog “Making Friends as a Travel Healthcare Provider.”
6. Traveling with Pets? Yes, That’s Possible Too!
For many families, the dog (or cat) is just as much a part of the crew. The good news is, many travel nurse friendly housing options are also pet friendly. Just be sure to factor in any pet fees or restrictions when choosing where to stay. Our blog, “Healthcare Travelers Traveling with Pets” breaks down exactly what to know when traveling with your furry companions.
7. Work with a Recruiter Who Understands Family Life
At Aequor, we know that supporting a travel nurse means supporting their entire family. That’s why our recruiters work one-on-one with you to understand your household’s unique needs—whether that means finding a contract near top-rated schools, offering flexible contract lengths, or providing resources to make transitions smoother. Get in touch with an Aequor Recruiter today to talk about your options.
It’s Not Just a Job—It’s a Lifestyle
Travel nursing with a family is absolutely possible—and it can even bring your family closer together as you explore new places, learn new things, and grow together. With the right support system and a partner like Aequor in your corner, you can create a life that’s professionally fulfilling and family focused. Browse our open positions, and connect with Aequor today to start planning your next adventure with assignments that fit your life, your goals, and the people you love most.
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