Winter is coming, and so are the most desirable travel nursing contracts (think lucrative “Crisis” contracts, beautiful snowy states, or warm-weather escapes). The best assignments, especially those starting near the holidays or in high-demand locations are posted and filled much earlier than you might think. This guide will cover the optimal timeline for booking, key steps to prepare, and why connecting with Focus Staff now is your competitive edge in securing your dream winter assignment.

The Ideal Winter Booking Timeline

August/September: Research & Preparation
- Action: Start browsing job boards and refining your preferences (location, shift, pay rate).
- Tip: Get your documentation (licenses, certifications, health records) updated. The faster you submit, the better your odds.
September/Early October: Apply & Interview
- Action: This is the sweet spot for securing assignments starting in December or January. This timing allows for licensing, credentialing, and travel planning.
- Focus Staff Advantage: Your recruiter is already getting early listings and can submit you before the competition.
Late October/November: Last-Minute Openings
- Action: Contracts are still available, but choice is limited. You may need to be more flexible on location or facility type.
- Warning: Expect a tighter turnaround time for credentialing.

Three Reasons Winter Travel Contracts Fill Up Fast

Holiday Season Demand: Hospitals anticipate increased patient volumes and staff PTO requests, driving up demand for travelers who can cover critical needs.
The “Snowbird Effect”: Everyone wants to escape the cold! Contracts in desirable warm states (like Florida, Arizona, or Texas) are highly competitive and disappear quickly.
Crisis/Flu Season Needs: The potential for winter weather or flu season spikes leads facilities to secure staff early as a proactive measure.

Your 3-Step Action Plan with Focus Staff

Get Your Profile Ready: Don’t wait for the perfect job. Call your Focus Staff recruiter or complete your online application today. A ready-to-go profile is crucial for quick submissions.
Discuss Your Dealbreakers: Clearly communicate your desired start date, maximum travel radius, and essential pay rate. Your recruiter will filter the early listings to bring you only the top matches.
Be Ready to Say “Yes”: When a great contract drops, be prepared to accept an offer quickly. The market moves fast, especially for winter contracts.

Don’t let your dream winter contract slip away! Contracts are being posted and filled daily. Whether you’re chasing the sun in Florida or a premium rate in a snowy state, the time to act is now. Click Here to Speak with a Focus Staff Recruiter and Secure Your Ideal Winter Assignment!