Clinical Essentials
Work Gear
Scrubs (5-7 sets — check facility dress code)
Comfortable clinical shoes (2 pairs to rotate)
Stethoscope (acute care, some SNFs)
Gait belt (some facilities don't have enough)
Watch with second hand for vitals
Pen light (acute care)
Therapy putty, resistance bands (optional — most facilities provide)
Documents (Digital + Physical)
Always Have Accessible
License copies (every active state)
BLS card
Immunization records
ID and Social Security card
Contract copy
Insurance cards
Tax home documentation
Tip: Keep digital copies of everything in a cloud folder (Google Drive, Dropbox). When compliance teams need documents quickly, you can share instantly without digging through physical files.
Personal Essentials
Living Basics
Bedding set (sheets, pillow, blanket — furnished rentals often have mediocre bedding)
Towels (2 sets)
Kitchen basics (chef's knife, cutting board, pan, pot — furnished kitchens are hit-or-miss)
Coffee maker or pour-over (if you're particular)
Medications (90-day supply if possible)
Laptop and chargers
Small toolkit (for minor apartment fixes)
The Golden Rule: Pack Less Than You Think
First-time travelers always overpack. You're living somewhere for 13 weeks, not moving permanently. Furnished rentals come with basics — you don't need to bring your entire kitchen.
The test: If it doesn't fit in your car comfortably (or one large suitcase if flying), you're bringing too much. You can buy cheap essentials at your destination and donate them when you leave.
After your first contract, you'll know exactly what you need. Most experienced travelers have it down to one carload or two suitcases.
Getting Ready to Travel?
Connect with professionals who specialize in placing new grad travelers.