3 Regrets from my First Travel PT Contract as a New Grad and what I wish I had done differently

Starting out as a new grad in the world of travel physical therapy is very exciting but can be overwhelming. The freedom, adventure, and variety that comes with travel PT contracts are huge draws, but when I look back at my first assignment, there are definitely a few lessons I wish I’d learned beforehand. These three regrets were crucial in shaping how I approach my travel PT career now, and I hope sharing them will help others avoid making the same mistakes.

1. Not Negotiating My Pay

If you're just starting out, it’s easy to assume that travel PT rates are set in stone. However, there is often wiggle room in a contract. When I received my first contract offer, I didn’t push for a higher rate like I thought I probably should have. But here’s the thing: I was a new grad, and it was during 2021 when COVID was still heavily impacting the healthcare system. Outpatient clinics, which are the most common setting for travel PTs, were facing fewer job openings due to pandemic restrictions. I felt lucky to even get an offer, so I didn’t want to rock the boat by asking for more.

Looking back, I realize that negotiating a better rate wouldn’t have hurt my chances since it’s not an uncommon practice for travel PTs to negotiate. Yes, the market was tougher, but agencies are usually willing to work with you. Don’t be afraid to ask for more. The worst thing that they say is no and even then, you still might have a shot.

Lesson learned: Always try to negotiate your contract, no matter the circumstances. You might be surprised at what you can get.

2. Not Using Furnished Finder

When I first started traveling, I used Airbnb to find housing. I chose it because I was already familiar with the platform and liked the flexibility of free cancellation. But I didn’t realize how quickly the extra fees—like cleaning charges and service fees—would add up. In the end, I paid more than I expected and ended up in a smaller space than I would have gotten through Furnished Finder.

I wish I had used Furnished Finder instead. It's a platform specifically designed for traveling professionals, with listings tailored to people like us—nurses, PTs, OTs, and other healthcare workers. The properties are typically more affordable, and you can often find places that cater specifically to travel professionals, meaning you won’t have to deal with the hassle of high fees or inconsistent quality.

Lesson learned: If you're traveling for work—especially for a few months—Furnished Finder is often a better option than Airbnb. The listings tend to be more budget-friendly with fewer hidden fees. Just be sure to do your homework: ask the landlord for a video walkthrough of the space to confirm it's legitimate. That said, I’ve personally never encountered a scam on the platform.

3. Not Getting the License Before Accepting the Job Offer

One of the biggest mistakes I made was accepting a travel PT position before securing my state license. As a new grad, I was still learning how everything worked and was just excited to get an offer. But I didn’t realize how risky it was to delay the licensing process. It could have pushed back my start date or, worse, the facility might have hired someone else if it took too long.

The licensing process for PTs can be time-consuming, especially if you need to take the state’s jurisprudence exam or are waiting for your background check results. In my case, I was lucky, and it all worked out. But it could have easily gone the other way. I’ve since learned that you should probably get the license squared away or at least start the process before accepting the offer. That way, you won’t be scrambling at the last minute and risking a delayed start.

Lesson learned: Always secure your license before accepting a job offer. While it may feel like an extra step, it saves you from unnecessary stress and potential delays. Plus, even if you don’t end up taking that particular job, the license will be ready for future opportunities in that state.

Final Thoughts

Travel PT is an incredible opportunity that offers amazing experiences, but there’s no question that it comes with its own set of challenges and risks. My first contract was a learning experience, and I’m grateful for the lessons it taught me. If you’re a new grad heading into your first travel PT contract, take my advice and learn from my mistakes. Negotiate your pay, use Furnished Finder for housing, and strive to get your state license in advance. These small steps can make your transition into travel PT life a whole lot smoother.

For more tips, insights, and a behind-the-scenes look at my travel PT journey, follow me on Instagram @thetraveldpt!

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