The Hidden Downsides of Travel Physical Therapy: What PTs Should Know

Travel physical therapy is often marketed as an adventurous and lucrative career path. With higher pay, freedom to explore new locations, and flexibility between contracts, it’s easy to see the appeal. But beneath the surface, there are real-world challenges that many PTs don’t fully anticipate before jumping in.

If you're considering travel PT, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. In this post, we’ll dive into the lesser-known downsides of travel physical therapy—plus some practical tips to help you navigate them. I want to share my knowledge, so you are not blindsided when you start travel therapy.

1. Frequent Relocation Can Be Exhausting

Moving every 13 weeks sounds exciting until you're packing, unpacking, and adjusting to new cities several times a year. Constant relocation can lead to burnout, especially if you're trying to coordinate housing, licensing, and logistics on your own (companies should assist you with this).

Solution: Consider spacing out contracts to give yourself a break and try to live a minimalist lifestyle. You can also try extending your contract if you are enjoying it, which will delay moving at least another 13 weeks.

2. Complex Benefits When Switching Companies

Each staffing agency offers different benefits—health insurance, retirement plans, etc—and so if you switch companies, you will have to wait until you are eligible for the new company's benefits. It can be difficult staying with the same company if your job preferences are very specific and they don't have what you are seeking.

Solution: For health insurance, consider using COBRA or an ACA marketplace plan as a temporary bridge between contracts. For retirement accounts, you can usually roll over your 401(k) into an IRA to maintain control and avoid early withdrawal penalties. In some cases, you may also be able to leave your 401(k) where it is—just check your plan’s rules and fees before deciding.

3. Maintaining Friendships and Relationships Is Tough

It’s not always easy to build or maintain close friendships when you’re moving every few months. Being away from family or a partner can also take an emotional toll.

Solution: Plan weekend visits or trips during contract breaks to reconnect in person. Some travelers also take local or regional contracts occasionally to stay closer to home. Additionally, joining online PT communities or local groups in new cities can help you make new connections and combat loneliness while on assignment.

4. Limited Time With Family

Many contracts take you far from home, and since time off between assignments is unpaid, frequent trips back home can be financially tricky.

Solution: Choose assignments within driving distance, when possible (maybe around the holidays), or plan ahead with time off during or between contracts. Travel PT should provide more total flexibility throughout the year vs a full-time job if you plan breaks intentionally.

5. Risk of Contract Cancellation

Contracts can be canceled with a 30-day notice or even sooner in some cases. This leaves you scrambling to find a new position, and possibly without income.

Solution: Always have an emergency fund (3-6 months of normal expenses). Keep your license active in multiple states to widen your job pool quickly if needed.

6. Delayed Start Dates Due to Onboarding

Things like TB tests, drug screens, and background checks can delay your start date even after your contract is signed.

Solution: Complete onboarding items ASAP. Ask your recruiter what can be done in advance so there’s no delay once you're officially booked. Check in with your credentialing specialist to see what needs to be done.

7. Risk of Not Finding a Contract

While the market has been strong since 2021, travel PT still can have a downturn. Some locations or settings may be harder to find at certain times of the year.

Solution: Stay flexible on location and setting when needed. Keep your resume up-to-date, maintain licensure in multiple states, and stay connected to 2-3 recruiters to keep your options open.

8. Inconsistent Recruiter Communication

Many recruiters manage dozens of travelers, and you may find it difficult to get timely responses, especially during your contract.

Solution: Be persistent and proactive. If communication becomes a consistent issue, consider switching recruiters or working with multiple agencies to increase your chances of being placed quickly.

9. Housing Can Be a Major Headache

Finding short-term, furnished housing can be difficult at times depending on the location and time of year.

Solution: Start your housing search before signing a contract to make sure it's feasible. Use trusted housing platforms (like Furnished Finder or Airnbnb) and always verify reviews and photos. Utilize a video walk-through of the place and make sure the landlord is using a trusted rental platform to avoid scams.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not All Bad News

While there are real challenges to travel PT, many of them are manageable with preparation and realistic expectations. The key is knowing what you’re signing up for, being proactive and adaptable to quick changes, and planning around the downsides so you can truly enjoy the perks that drew you to travel in the first place.

Whether you’re a new grad or a seasoned PT, the travel lifestyle will still be incredibly rewarding if approached thoughtfully. Despite the challenges I've faced, I plan to continue traveling as a physical therapist for at least a few more years. The pros definitely outweigh the cons!

Not sure where to start with travel PT or just want a mentor to guide you? Book a 1:1 call with me — I’ll help you get clear, confident, and ready to take your first (or next) travel assignment. https://calendly.com/masonbaker74/60min-traveptcoaching