Graduating from PT school is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with big decisions. If you’re wondering how to launch your career, travel physical therapy is hands down one of the best options. Higher pay, incredible flexibility, and the chance to gain unmatched experience—all while exploring new places—make it an unbeatable choice.
Still on the fence? Let’s break down why starting as a travel PT can set you up for success from day one.
Why Travel PT is the Smartest Move for New Grads
1. Earn More, Faster
Most new grads take permanent jobs with salaries in the $65k-$80k range, but as a travel PT, you can make $1,800–$2,500 per week after taxes. That’s nearly double what you’d earn in a traditional setting. Adjusting for the lower taxes you pay as a traveler, you’ll be making the equivalent of around $120,000 a year. Paying off loans? Saving for a house? Want to travel Europe? Travel PT fast-tracks your financial goals.
2. Gain Valuable Experience in Record Time
Want to specialize but aren’t sure in what? Travel PT lets you try multiple settings—outpatient, SNF, home health, hospitals—without committing long-term. You’ll develop a diverse skill set, making you a stronger and more adaptable clinician. Employers love well-rounded PTs, and travel gives you that edge.
3. Ultimate Flexibility & Work-Life Balance
No other PT job gives you this much control. Want to take a break between contracts? Done. Want to spend a summer working near the beach and winter in the mountains? Easy. With travel PT, you build your career on your terms while avoiding burnout.
4. No Workplace Politics
Office drama? Micromanaging bosses? Not your problem. As a traveler, you show up, treat patients, and move on to the next adventure. If a clinic is the right fit, extend. If it isn’t the right fit, you’re only there for a few months.
5. Adventure While You Work
Why stay stuck in one place when you can explore the country and advance your career at the same time? Travel PT lets you work in dream locations—whether it’s the mountains of Colorado, the beaches of California, or a city like Denver, San Francisco or Dallas. Every contract is a new adventure.
Debunking the Myths About Travel PT for New Grads
“I need mentorship first.”
This is one of the biggest misconceptions. Many clinics have experienced PTs who are happy to help, and you can find mentorship through online groups, courses, and even your recruiter’s network. Plus, the hands-on experience you’ll gain by jumping into diverse settings is invaluable.
“Travel jobs don’t hire new grads.”
Completely false. Plenty of contracts actively seek new grads—especially in oupatient, Skilled Nursing Facilities, rural hospitals, and home health. The key is to be flexible with locations and settings. Once you get your first contract, it’s smooth sailing from there.
“Traveling is too complicated.”
It might seem that way at first, but once you get the hang of licensing and finding contracts, it’s a simple process. There are tons of resources to help guide you with housing and licensing. Recruiters can guide you through most of the heavy lifting with licensing and, securing housing is easier than ever with apps like FurnishedFinder. Use the resources available to you to help sort out logistics so you can focus on what matters—your career and your travels.
Take the Leap – You Won’t Regret It
If you want a career that pays better, offers more freedom, and gives you diverse experience, travel PT is the best move you can make as a new grad. You’ll grow faster, see more places, and set yourself up for long-term success—all while enjoying the ride. If you do end up not liking it, you can always stop travelling after your first contract and find a permanent staff position.
Ready to start? Get in touch with a recruiter and take the first step toward an exciting career as a travel PT!
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