Planning for a travel nurse assignment can be challenging when you choose to go solo. When you add a spouse, two kids, and a dog to the mix, it may seem even more daunting.

<p>For many professionals who take on travel healthcare assignments, heading out to a new city is a family affair. Spouses, children, and even pets may come along on the adventure, allowing everyone to experience what the destination has to offer and keeping the family together.</p>

<p>Planning for a travel nurse assignment can be challenging when you choose to go solo. When you add a spouse, two kids, and a dog to the mix, it may seem even more daunting. Luckily, with proper planning, it is possible to bring everyone on the road with you. Here&rsquo;s how to get started.</p>

<h2>Selecting Your Housing</h2>

<p>If housing is included as part of your travel assignment pay package, you will have two options available. The first option is to work directly with our housing department, who will search out available rental properties that match your individual needs and preferences. They will complete all the necessary paperwork for you and give you any specific move-in instructions.</p>

<p>If you are more travel-savvy and comfortable doing so, the second option is to find your own housing using resources such as Airbnb, FurnishedFinders or even your connections on Facebook. Obviously, this will give you more freedom to find something that most closely matches your preferences in style, cost and location. You will usually receive a housing stipend as part of your pay package to contribute to whichever option you prefer.</p>

<p>Once you have decided which housing option to go with, you can start thinking about other considerations. For example, if you plan to bring a dog along on your travel assignment, you need to make sure that you select a housing option that allows pets. Some rentals ban pets entirely while others limit the size of dogs that are permitted to live on the property.</p>

<p>Make sure the housing option you select will suit your family&rsquo;s needs. If you have two children, then you likely need at least two or three bedrooms. Ideally, you also want to choose an option that has either a yard or a reasonable spot to walk your dog.</p>

<h2>Assessing Your Transportation Options</h2>

<p>When you want to bring the entire family along on a travel assignment, including your dog, you need to make sure you select the right transportation option. Flying is often the fastest way to reach your destination, but you will need to do more than just get tickets for your family; you also need to arrange travel for your dog.</p>

<p>You&rsquo;ll need a TSA-approved pet carrier and have to make arrangements with the airline in advance, as well as pay any additional fees, if applicable.</p>

<p>Additionally, it&rsquo;s important to note that the temperature at the airports also plays a factor in whether your pet will be able to board for safety reasons. If it&rsquo;s too hot or cold, your dog may not be able to fly, even if you already made arrangements, so make sure you have a backup plan in place.</p>

<p>If you are going to drive to your travel assignment, then you need to assess your vehicle. Not only will you be driving with four people, but there will be a substantial amount of luggage too. Plus, there either needs to be space for a pet carrier or you need an available seat and a seatbelt adapter for your dog. This ensures your pet remains safe in transit.</p>

<h2>Hotels and Meals</h2>

<p>If you decide to go the road-trip route, then you need to plan for meals and possible overnight stays. Not every restaurant or hotel welcomes pets, so do a search before your trip to find suitable places to stop. La Quinta is one hotel chain that is known for being pet-friendly, and they have locations nationwide.</p>

<p>By following the tips above, you can successfully bring your entire family with you on the road, allowing you to reach your travel assignment in one piece. If you would like to learn more or are looking for new travel assignment opportunities, the professionals at Cross Country Allied can help. Contact us to discuss your needs today and see how our expertise can benefit you.</p>

So…You’re Married with 2 Kids and a Dog. Here’s the Key to Successfully Bringing Everyone on the Road with You