How Much Do Travel LPNs Make? A Comprehensive Guide to LPN Salary in Travel Nursing

Travel nursing is a thrilling and rewarding career path that offers a unique opportunity to explore different locations while providing essential healthcare services. One of the most common questions asked by aspiring travel nurses is how much do travel LPNs make? In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the salary of travel LPNs, factors that affect their earnings, and provide insights into the financial benefits of travel nursing. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting your journey, this guide will give you a clear understanding of the financial rewards of a career in travel nursing. So, buckle up and let’s dive in!

Factors Affecting LPN Salary in Travel Nursing

Location

Location is a crucial factor that affects the salary of travel LPNs. The cost of living in different areas can vary significantly, and salaries are often adjusted to reflect the local expenses. Here are some details about how location impacts LPN salaries in travel nursing:

• Higher cost of living areas generally offer higher salaries to compensate for the increased expenses. For example, major cities such as New York City and San Francisco have a higher cost of living compared to other areas, and travel LPNs working in these locations may receive higher pay rates.
• States with high demand for healthcare professionals may also offer higher pay rates. When there is a shortage of healthcare professionals in a particular state, hospitals and healthcare facilities may offer higher salaries to attract and retain talent. For instance, states like Texas and Florida have a high demand for healthcare professionals, and travel LPNs working in these states may receive competitive pay rates.
• Regional variations in pay rates can also occur within the same state. For example, rural areas may have lower pay rates compared to urban areas due to the lower cost of living. However, some rural areas may offer higher pay rates to attract healthcare professionals to work in underserved areas.

It’s important to note that location is just one of the many factors that can impact LPN salaries in travel nursing. Other factors such as experience, skills, and specialization can also play a significant role in determining pay rates.

Experience and Skill Level

One of the most significant factors affecting LPN salary in travel nursing is the level of experience and skill a nurse brings to the job. In general, LPNs with more experience and specialized skills tend to earn higher salaries. This is because they have developed a greater understanding of the nuances of patient care and are better equipped to handle complex situations.

Moreover, LPNs who have completed additional certifications or training in specific areas can also increase their earning potential. For example, LPNs who specialize in areas such as geriatrics, pediatrics, or mental health may earn higher salaries due to their specialized knowledge and skills.

Furthermore, travel LPNs who have a proven track record and positive performance reviews may have more negotiating power for higher salaries. This is because employers are often willing to pay a premium for nurses who have demonstrated their ability to provide high-quality care and have a history of success in their work.

In conclusion, LPNs with more experience and specialized skills tend to earn higher salaries in travel nursing. Additionally, LPNs who have completed additional certifications or training and have a proven track record of success may also be able to negotiate higher salaries.

Agency or Facility

The agency or facility that employs travel LPNs can have a significant impact on their salary. Some agencies offer higher base pay rates, while others provide additional benefits such as housing allowances or travel reimbursements. Facilities in rural or underserved areas may offer higher pay rates to attract travel LPNs.

Agency vs. Facility

When it comes to salary, there is often a difference between what agencies and facilities offer to travel LPNs. Agencies typically act as intermediaries between LPNs and healthcare facilities, providing benefits such as liability insurance, malpractice insurance, and continuing education opportunities. They also often provide more flexible scheduling options and may offer higher base pay rates to attract LPNs to their roster.

On the other hand, facilities directly employ travel LPNs and offer benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Facilities may also offer higher pay rates to attract LPNs to work in areas with a shortage of healthcare professionals.

Regional Differences

Location can also play a significant role in determining LPN salary in travel nursing. Some regions, such as California and Hawaii, tend to have higher overall costs of living, which can lead to higher salaries for travel LPNs. Additionally, rural or underserved areas may offer higher pay rates to attract LPNs to work in these areas.

In some cases, travel LPNs may be able to negotiate for higher salaries based on their experience, skills, and the demand for their services in a particular location.

Housing Allowances and Travel Reimbursements

Some agencies and facilities offer additional benefits to travel LPNs, such as housing allowances or travel reimbursements. These benefits can help offset the costs of living and traveling to different locations for work. Housing allowances may be based on the cost of living in a particular area or may be a flat rate. Travel reimbursements may cover expenses such as airfare, rental cars, and lodging.

Overall, the agency or facility that employs travel LPNs can have a significant impact on their salary. By considering the specific agency or facility, location, and benefits offered, travel LPNs can make informed decisions about their employment and compensation.

Average Salary Range for Travel LPNs

Factors Affecting Travel LPN Salary

The average salary range for travel LPNs can vary depending on several factors, including location, experience, and agency. These factors can significantly impact the amount of money a travel LPN can earn during their assignment.

Location

Location is one of the most critical factors that can affect the salary of a travel LPN. Some locations offer higher pay rates than others due to the cost of living, demand for healthcare services, and availability of healthcare professionals. For example, travel LPNs working in urban areas tend to earn more than those working in rural areas.

Experience

The amount of experience a travel LPN has can also impact their salary. LPNs with more experience tend to earn higher salaries than those with less experience. This is because experienced LPNs have developed a broader range of skills and knowledge, which makes them more valuable to healthcare facilities.

Agency

The agency a travel LPN works with can also impact their salary. Different agencies offer different pay rates, and some may offer more competitive rates than others. Additionally, some agencies may offer additional benefits, such as housing or travel reimbursement, which can increase the overall compensation package for a travel LPN.

Average Salary Range

Despite these factors, the average salary range for travel LPNs is relatively consistent across the United States. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses was $47,430 as of May 2020. However, this figure can vary depending on the location and type of facility in which the LPN works.

Overall, the average salary range for travel LPNs can vary depending on several factors, including location, experience, and agency. However, the average salary for travel LPNs is generally consistent with the national median wage for LPNs.

National Average

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national average annual salary for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) is around $48,820 as of May 2020. It’s important to note that this figure represents the average salary for LPNs in all settings, not specifically for travel nursing.

It’s also worth noting that the national average salary for LPNs can vary depending on the region in which they work. For example, LPNs in some states, such as California and Hawaii, tend to earn higher salaries than those in other states, such as Mississippi and West Virginia.

It’s important to keep in mind that the national average salary for LPNs is just that – an average. Factors such as experience, education, and certification can all affect an LPN’s salary. Additionally, the demand for travel LPNs can also affect their salary, as employers may be willing to pay a premium for qualified professionals who are willing to travel to areas with a shortage of healthcare workers.

Overall, while the national average salary for LPNs is a useful benchmark, it’s important to keep in mind that salaries can vary widely depending on a variety of factors. As such, it’s important for travel LPNs to do their research and negotiate for fair compensation based on their experience, qualifications, and the demand for their services in a particular location.

Travel LPN Pay Rates

• Travel LPNs often receive higher pay rates compared to their counterparts in permanent positions.
• The exact pay rate can vary greatly depending on the factors mentioned earlier.
• On average, travel LPNs can expect to earn between $25 to $40 per hour, with some earning even higher rates in certain specialties or high-demand areas.

Factors Affecting Travel LPN Pay Rates

• Experience: More experienced LPNs can typically negotiate higher pay rates.
• Specialization: LPNs with specialized skills, such as critical care or neonatal nursing, may command higher pay rates.
• Location: The cost of living in the location where the travel assignment is can affect pay rates.
• Duration of Assignment: The length of the travel assignment can also impact pay rates.
• Agency or Employer: Different agencies or employers may offer different pay rates for travel LPNs.
• Shift Work: LPNs working night shifts or weekends may receive higher pay rates.

Overall, travel LPNs can expect to earn competitive pay rates that are often higher than those of their permanent counterparts. However, it’s important to keep in mind that pay rates can vary widely based on the factors listed above, and it’s important to do research and negotiate to ensure that you are being paid fairly for your skills and experience.

Additional Benefits and Perks

Travel LPNs may receive a variety of benefits and perks in addition to their base pay rates. These benefits can vary depending on the employer and the specific travel nursing assignment. Some common benefits and perks include:

• Housing and meal allowances: Many travel nursing agencies provide housing and meal allowances to help offset the costs of living and eating while on assignment.
• Health insurance: Travel LPNs may be eligible for health insurance coverage while on assignment, which can help cover medical expenses.
• Travel reimbursement: Some agencies offer travel reimbursement to help cover the costs of transportation to and from the assignment location.
• Continuing education opportunities: Travel nursing can provide opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
• Referral bonuses: Some agencies offer bonuses for referring other nurses to travel nursing assignments.
• License reimbursement: Some agencies may reimburse travel LPNs for the cost of obtaining or renewing their nursing licenses.
• Flexible scheduling: Travel nursing assignments often offer flexible scheduling, which can allow LPNs to choose the hours and days they work.
• Professional networking: Travel nursing can provide opportunities to meet and network with other healthcare professionals, which can be beneficial for career advancement.

These benefits and perks can add significantly to the overall compensation package for travel LPNs, making travel nursing a lucrative career option for many nurses.

Housing Allowance

Travel nursing agencies understand that finding suitable accommodations can be a daunting task, especially when working in unfamiliar locations. To make the transition smoother, many agencies provide housing allowances to cover the cost of accommodations. The amount of the housing allowance varies depending on the location and the agency. Some agencies may provide fully furnished housing, while others may offer a stipend for finding accommodations independently.

It’s important to note that some agencies may also provide additional benefits such as housekeeping services, utilities, and even cable and internet services. However, these additional benefits may not be included in all housing arrangements, so it’s important to check with the agency beforehand.

Some agencies may also offer relocation assistance, which can help offset the cost of moving to a new location. This may include help with finding a moving company, packing supplies, and even a small stipend to help cover the cost of moving expenses.

Overall, the housing allowance is just one of the many benefits and perks that come with being a travel LPN. With the right agency, you can enjoy a comfortable living arrangement and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your housing needs are taken care of.

Travel Reimbursements

Travel LPNs often incur significant expenses when taking on assignments in different locations. As such, many agencies offer travel reimbursements to help offset these costs. However, the specifics of these reimbursements can vary among agencies, so it’s important for travel LPNs to clarify the reimbursement process and any limitations before accepting an assignment.

Types of Travel Expenses Covered

Travel expenses that may be covered by agencies include:

• Airfare: Many agencies provide round-trip airfare for travel LPNs, although some may require the nurse to pay for the ticket upfront and submit a receipt for reimbursement later.
• Lodging: Travel LPNs may receive reimbursement for the cost of a hotel or other accommodations while on assignment. This may include taxes and fees, but again, it’s important to clarify any limitations before accepting an assignment.
• Ground transportation: Some agencies may also provide reimbursement for ground transportation expenses, such as rental cars or public transportation.

Maximizing Travel Reimbursements

To maximize travel reimbursements, travel LPNs should keep detailed records of all expenses incurred while on assignment. This includes receipts for airfare, lodging, and ground transportation, as well as any other expenses related to the assignment. It’s also important to follow any guidelines or policies set forth by the agency, such as submitting expense reports within a certain timeframe or providing documentation to support the expenses.

Tax Implications

Travel LPNs should also be aware of the tax implications of travel reimbursements. Some expenses may be tax-deductible, while others may be considered taxable income. It’s important to consult with a tax professional or financial advisor to understand the tax implications of travel reimbursements and to ensure that all necessary taxes are paid.

In summary, travel reimbursements can be a valuable benefit for travel LPNs, helping to offset the costs of travel and lodging while on assignment. However, it’s important to understand the specifics of the reimbursement policy and any limitations before accepting an assignment, and to keep detailed records of all expenses incurred to maximize reimbursements. Additionally, travel LPNs should be aware of the tax implications of travel reimbursements and consult with a tax professional or financial advisor as needed.

Health and Retirement Benefits

While salary is a crucial factor to consider when evaluating travel nursing opportunities, it is not the only aspect of the overall compensation package. Many travel nursing agencies offer additional benefits and perks to their travel LPNs, including health and retirement benefits. These benefits can greatly impact the overall value of a travel nursing assignment and should be carefully considered when making decisions about travel nursing opportunities.

• Health Insurance: Many travel nursing agencies provide health insurance coverage for their travel LPNs. This coverage can include medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as prescription drug coverage. The specific details of the health insurance coverage, such as premiums, deductibles, and copays, can vary by agency and by state. Travel LPNs should inquire about the details of the offered health insurance coverage and compare it to their current coverage or to other available options.
• Retirement Benefits: Some travel nursing agencies also offer retirement benefits to their travel LPNs. These benefits can include a 401(k) plan or other retirement savings plan, as well as employer contributions or matching contributions. The availability and terms of these retirement benefits can vary by agency and by state. Travel LPNs should inquire about the details of the offered retirement benefits and evaluate their overall value in relation to their current retirement savings plan or other available options.

It is important for travel LPNs to carefully review and compare the health and retirement benefits offered by different travel nursing agencies in order to make informed decisions about their travel nursing opportunities. The availability and value of these benefits can greatly impact the overall compensation package and should be considered in addition to the base salary when evaluating travel nursing opportunities.

Negotiating Salary as a Travel LPN

Travel LPNs have the opportunity to negotiate their salary and benefits before accepting an assignment. This can be a great way to increase their earnings and ensure that they are getting the best possible compensation for their work. Here are some tips for negotiating salary as a travel LPN:

• Research the market: Before negotiating, research the average salary for LPNs in the area where you will be working. This will give you a good starting point for your negotiations and help you to determine a reasonable salary range.
• Consider your experience and skills: Your experience and skills can be a powerful negotiation tool. If you have a lot of experience or specialized skills, you may be able to negotiate a higher salary.
• Negotiate additional benefits: In addition to salary, you can also negotiate additional benefits such as housing, travel reimbursement, and health insurance. These can significantly increase your overall compensation package.
• Be prepared to walk away: If the salary offer is not acceptable, be prepared to walk away from the assignment. There are often many travel LPN opportunities available, so it’s important to find one that offers a fair compensation package.

By negotiating effectively, travel LPNs can increase their earnings and secure the best possible compensation for their work.

Research and Preparation

Before negotiating a salary as a travel LPN, it’s important to conduct thorough research and preparation. Here are some key steps to take:

• Identify Desired Location and Specialty

The first step in determining a salary range is to identify the location and specialty you want to work in. This will help you to understand the average salary range for your desired position. For example, if you want to work in a major city like New York or Los Angeles, you can expect to earn a higher salary than in a smaller town or rural area. Additionally, if you specialize in a high-demand area like critical care or emergency medicine, you may be able to negotiate a higher salary.

• Determine Your Value in the Market

In addition to considering the location and specialty, it’s important to consider your own experience, skills, and certifications when determining your value in the market. For example, if you have several years of experience in a particular specialty, you may be able to negotiate a higher salary than a new graduate. Similarly, if you have certifications or specialized training in a particular area, you may be able to command a higher salary.

• Research Average Salary Ranges

Once you have identified your desired location and specialty, and have determined your own value in the market, it’s time to research the average salary ranges for travel LPNs in your desired location. There are several resources available to help with this, including online job boards, nursing organizations, and industry publications. It’s important to keep in mind that salary ranges can vary widely depending on the employer, so it’s important to research multiple sources to get a more accurate picture.

• Consider Benefits and Perks

In addition to base salary, it’s important to consider the overall compensation package when negotiating a salary as a travel LPN. This may include benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Additionally, some employers may offer additional perks like travel reimbursement, housing assistance, or continuing education opportunities. Be sure to research what is available and consider how these benefits and perks may impact your overall compensation package.

Overall, conducting thorough research and preparation is key to negotiating a salary as a travel LPN. By identifying your desired location and specialty, determining your value in the market, researching average salary ranges, and considering the overall compensation package, you can position yourself for a successful negotiation and secure a fair and competitive salary.

Highlighting Experience and Skills

When negotiating salary as a travel LPN, it is important to leverage your experience, skills, and certifications to strengthen your position for higher pay rates. Here are some ways to highlight your experience and skills during salary negotiations:

• Demonstrating expertise in a specific area: Specializing in a particular area of nursing, such as pediatrics, mental health, or geriatrics, can make you a valuable asset to any healthcare facility. Highlighting your expertise in a specific area can give you an edge in salary negotiations, as it demonstrates your ability to provide specialized care and improve patient outcomes.
• Relevant certifications: Obtaining certifications in specific areas of nursing, such as wound care, critical care, or cardiovascular care, can also increase your value as a travel LPN. Listing your relevant certifications during salary negotiations can help to showcase your knowledge and skills, making you a more attractive candidate for higher pay rates.
• Relevant accomplishments: Sharing your accomplishments as a travel LPN can also help to demonstrate your value and experience. For example, if you have worked in multiple states or traveled to different locations, this can show your adaptability and flexibility, which are valuable traits in a travel LPN. Additionally, sharing specific examples of how you have improved patient outcomes or contributed to positive patient experiences can highlight your skills and expertise.

Overall, highlighting your experience and skills as a travel LPN can help you to negotiate higher pay rates and secure better opportunities in the field of travel nursing. By demonstrating your expertise and value, you can position yourself as a highly sought-after candidate for travel nursing positions across the country.

Comparing Offers

When negotiating salary as a travel LPN, it’s important to compare offers from different agencies to ensure you‘re getting a competitive salary and benefits package. Here are some factors to consider when comparing offers:

• Base Pay Rate: The base pay rate is the most important factor to consider when comparing offers. It’s important to ensure that the base pay rate is competitive and reflective of your experience and qualifications. Keep in mind that the base pay rate may vary depending on the location and demand for LPNs in that area.
• Housing Allowance: Housing allowances can vary greatly between agencies and locations. It’s important to compare the housing allowance offered by different agencies to ensure you‘re getting a fair amount. Some agencies may offer a stipend, while others may provide a furnished apartment or house.
• Travel Reimbursements: Travel reimbursements can include things like airfare, rental car, and hotel expenses. It’s important to compare the travel reimbursement offered by different agencies to ensure you‘re getting a fair amount. Some agencies may also offer a travel stipend to cover additional expenses.
• Additional Benefits: Additional benefits can include things like health insurance, 401k, and continuing education opportunities. It’s important to compare the additional benefits offered by different agencies to ensure you‘re getting a comprehensive benefits package.

Overall, it’s important to carefully review and compare all aspects of the offer, including base pay rate, housing allowance, travel reimbursements, and additional benefits, to ensure you’re getting a competitive salary and benefits package as a travel LPN.

FAQs

1. How much do travel LPNs make?

Travel LPNs can make anywhere from $15 to $30 per hour, depending on their experience, location, and the specific healthcare facility they are working at. In general, travel LPNs can expect to earn higher wages than permanent LPNs due to the demand for their services in areas with staffing shortages.

2. What factors influence the salary of travel LPNs?

Several factors can influence the salary of travel LPNs, including their level of experience, the location of their assignment, the duration of their assignment, and the specific healthcare facility they are working at. Travel LPNs with more experience and specialized skills may be able to negotiate higher wages. Additionally, healthcare facilities in urban areas tend to pay higher wages than those in rural areas.

3. Are there any benefits to being a travel LPN?

Yes, there are several benefits to being a travel LPN. In addition to potentially higher wages, travel LPNs have the opportunity to work in different locations and healthcare facilities, gaining valuable experience and exposure to different approaches to patient care. They also receive travel and housing accommodations, as well as other benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

4. How do I become a travel LPN?

To become a travel LPN, you must first complete a licensed practical nursing program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). Once you are licensed, you can apply for travel LPN positions through healthcare staffing agencies or directly through healthcare facilities. It’s important to have a strong resume and references to present to potential employers.

5. What are the requirements for travel LPNs?

To be a travel LPN, you must have a current and unrestricted license in practical nursing, have a minimum of one year of experience in a relevant field, and have completed a basic life support (BLS) certification course. Some healthcare facilities may have additional requirements, such as specific certifications or training in certain areas. It’s important to research the specific requirements of the healthcare facility you are interested in working at.

LPN TRAVEL AGENCY PAY 2021