Is anyone traveling with a minor? Question about traveling housing and insurance

[AimERRN]

I would like to start traveling this summer, but as I delve deeper into the logistics I am beginning to question if it's a good idea or not. I am a single parent and will be traveling with my teenage son. When I mention this to agencies they are encouraging that this is still doable (which of course is their job). I tell them I am going to require a two bedroom apartment and will pay the difference... But they aren't able to tell me how much that is going to be? And then I am also to assume I will be paying some additional fee to furnish that room? Has anyone ever stayed in a two bedroom place? Is it a lot more?I was also wondering about insurance. How does that work when you have a dependent? Do you just carry private? I really want to do this and have been toying with the idea for a few years. I do not, however, want to take a huge pay cut to do so.

[79Tango]

Ive stayed in lots of 2X2 Apts. Bringing your son is doable but instead of offering to cover the difference you should be asking how much they pay for housing stipend. That way you can set a budget for yourself and maximize your $$. Rental prices change all the time, and sometimes you can get a 2bedroom for the price of a 1 or vice versa. They cant tell you how much it costs but they dont know themselves. The best thing to do is research the areas you are talking about traveling too and get a grasp of the rental market. Check craiglist or the homeway sites for fully furnished.

As far as Insurance, most companies have it but you need to realize that its 1way or the other you are paying for it. Whether its taken out of your check or you get a really low hourly amount. Find out what the monthly cost is and maybe shop that against a private policy. Good luck

[AimERRN]

I called around and private insurance isn't nearly as much as I thought it would be. It isn't fantastic insurance by any means, but we aren't chronically ill people.. so it should be fine.

I have been preparing for this (traveling) for a year, but as the go date gets closer my anxiety rises. It is such a huge leap from what I am used to. I love where I work now, but the pay is horrible and the area isn't much better.

Trying to find your own housing seems complicated. Do places rent furnished apartments, or do you then have to go through a rental company? The last traveler at my hospital was placed in a completely empty 2 bedroom apt. I don't know what the agency thought he would sleep on..but they expected him to figure it out.

[caliotter3]

I once looked into renting furniture for a new apartment and quickly decided that it was too expensive. For the short stay of a travel contract, and if you don't mind spartan living, a couple of air mattresses might do or fold out beds. You would be surprised what you can get used to if you want to.

[AimERRN]

It would have to be a really good air mattress. I'm a little "aged" to get a decent nights sleep on something filled with air.

Another q: if you take the housing stipend.. how does that show up on your pay check? is it a separate check or so you get it in weekly increments? Is it taxed or is that part of the tax advantage program?

[caliotter3]

I'm aged too and once used an air mattress. Was quite surprised at how decent it was. Have also thrown a sleeping bag on a carpeted floor. Now that took a little more getting used to, in spite of padding. Now I have furniture and dread moving because of the furniture. So much easier to pick up and go if all you have to move can be packed in a car. BTW, I have also met traveling nurses in extended stay places. The suites are quite nice (and pricey if you stay for any length of time) but the arrangement would probably not be suitable for your son and yourself in the same room.