Travel Therapy Benefits for New Grads 

Ah, graduation! One of the greatest joys of your newfound life. Graduation is a major milestone that opens up a whole world of opportunity, new friends, and new experiences. 

But it can also be a time of uncertainty. Many new grads find themselves wondering what to do next, and how to best take advantage of their newfound freedom. There is anxiety, too, about finding a job and starting a career. 

One way to ease your transition into the “real world” is to consider travel therapy. Travel therapy is exactly as it sounds, the opportunity to travel and work as a therapist simultaneously. 

There are many benefits to travel therapy, especially for new grads. Plus, you’ve now gained a lot of the life skills that will come in handy on the road. Here are just a few of the benefits of travel therapy for new grads. 

Do Travel Therapists Get Paid More? 

One of the most common questions new grads have about travel therapy is whether or not they will get paid more. The answer is a resounding yes! 

In fact, travel therapists typically earn 10-20% more than their counterparts who work in traditional settings. This is because travel therapy companies are able to offer higher salaries, as they are reimbursed by the facilities they staff. 

This higher salary can go a long way in offsetting the costs of travel, and can help you save up for your next adventure. 

Reasons Why Many New Grads Find Travel Therapy So Appealing 

1. It’s a great way to explore different parts of the country (or world). 

Let’s face it, travel is such a privilege. Many people never get the chance to experience different cultures or explore different parts of the world. As a travel therapist, you’ll have the opportunity to do both, and learn about yourself and the world around you along the way. Travel is a fantastic way to expand your horizons, and there’s no better time to do it than when you’re a new grad. 

The world, at this point, really is your oyster. That’s why travel therapy is especially beneficial for new grads. 

2. It’s a great way to gain experience. 

As a new grad, you likely don’t have a ton of experience under your belt. That can make it difficult to find a job, especially in a competitive market. Travel therapy can give you the experience you need to make you a more attractive candidate for future jobs. 

In addition, travel therapy can give you the opportunity to try out different settings and populations and figure out what you like (and don’t like) before you commit to a more permanent position. 

3. It can be a great way to make money. 

Money can be tight after graduation, especially if you’re still paying off student loans. Travel therapy can be a great way to make some extra money, and a good deal of travel therapy positions offer stipends and bonuses that can help offset the cost of travel. 

4. It can help you figure out what you want to do with your life. 

Many new grads find themselves at a bit of a crossroads after graduation. They’re not quite sure what they want to do with their lives or what they want their career to look like. Travel therapy can help you figure out what you want by giving you the opportunity to try out different settings and populations. 

5. It can be a great way to network. 

As a new grad, you likely don’t have a ton of connections in the healthcare world. Travel therapy can be a great way to meet new people and network with potential employers. 

6. It can be a great way to learn new things. 

Travel therapy can be a great way to learn new things, both about yourself and the world around you. You’ll have the opportunity to learn new clinical skills, and you’ll also learn about different cultures and populations. 

7. It can be a great way to find a job. 

Many new grads find that travel therapy is a great way to find a job. Because travel therapy positions are often short-term, they’re often easier to get than permanent positions. In addition, many travel therapy companies will help place you in a job after your assignment is complete. 

Things To Consider 

If you’re weighing the pros and cons of becoming a travel therapist, you should consider the following: 

• Are you comfortable with change and ambiguity? 
• Do you like to meet new people and learn about new cultures? 
• Are you adaptable and resourceful? 
• Are you comfortable working long hours, often on your feet? 
• Do you have experience caring for people with diverse needs? 
• Are you comfortable working in different settings? 
• Do you have a passion for travel? 

And there are more technical aspects to think about:  

• Do you have the proper credentials and licenses to practice therapy in different states? 
• Do you have the necessary malpractice insurance? 
• Do you have a way to transport your therapy equipment? 
• Do you have a place to stay while you’re traveling? 
• Do you have adequate confidence in your abilities and skillset? 
• Do you have a solid understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding the practice of therapy? 

If you answered yes to most of these questions, then a career as a travel therapist might be a good fit for you. 

The Bottom Line 

Travel therapy isn’t for everyone. There is a lot to gain, but also, the path isn’t always easy or straightforward. You need to be prepared for the ups and downs. But, if you can make it work, it can be an amazing way to really see the country, meet new people, and get paid to do it. The key is to do your research, know your options, and be prepared for anything.