Holiday Contract Housing for Travel Nurses

Holiday Assignment Timeline

Peak Holiday Periods

• Thanksgiving Week: Nov 20-30 (highest need)
• Christmas/New Year: Dec 20 - Jan 5 (premium crisis pay)
• Spring Break: March (trauma centers, beach areas)
• July 4th Week: June 28 - July 8 (ER/trauma surge)

Holiday Pay Premiums

Holiday contracts offer $15-35/hr more than standard rates:

💰 Example: 13-week holiday contract at +$25/hr premium = $13,000 extra over standard assignment!

Holiday Housing Challenges

Availability Issues

• Hosts traveling to see family (fewer available spots)
• RV parks full with holiday travelers
• Higher prices during high-demand periods
• Limited "last minute" options

Solutions

• Book Early: Secure housing 2-3 months before start
• Flexible Location: Willing to drive 15-20 minutes
• Offer Premium: Pay $100-200 extra to secure spot
• Long-Term Commitment: Offer to stay through February

Holiday Assignment Perks

Financial Benefits

• Premium pay rates (+$15-35/hr)
• Holiday bonuses ($500-2,000 completion bonus)
• Overtime opportunities (time-and-a-half or double-time)
• Housing stipends often increased for holidays

Professional Benefits

• High-acuity experience (busiest times)
• Impressive resume builder
• Networking with core staff
• Often leads to extension offers

Making the Most of Holiday Assignments

If Working Christmas

• Decorate your RV! Make it festive
• Connect with other traveling nurses (potluck dinners)
• Video call family during breaks
• Request New Year's Eve off (negotiate early)
• Remember: You're earning premium pay!

If Working Thanksgiving

• Many hospitals provide free Thanksgiving meals for staff
• Celebrate on your days off (Thursday or following weekend)
• Connect with local nurse community
• Some hosts invite nurses to family celebrations

Housing Tips for Holiday Contracts

Winterization (if cold climate)

• See Winter Housing guide
• Extra important if hosts are away for holidays
• Have backup heat plan
• Know how to thaw frozen pipes

Communication with Hosts

• Clarify: Will host be present during holidays?
• Emergency contact if hosts traveling
• Snow removal plan (if applicable)
• Access to propane if needed

Is It Worth It?

YES! If you:

• Want to earn 20-40% more than standard contracts
• Don't have young children or major family obligations
• Are comfortable spending holidays working
• See it as building financial future
• Enjoy making nurse-family traditions

Many travel nurses work holidays for 2-3 years, then semi-retire early or take extended time off thanks to holiday savings!