It is no secret that a nurse’s job is not simple, especially with the constant traveling from one hospital to another, and even state-hopping now and then.
Not to mention that around 65-80% of nurses work in 12 hour shifts, worrying about uncomfortable clothing becomes the least of their worries (Source: Nursa).
That is something that all medical professionals can relate to, and it is only natural to have a bias in regard to the scrubs and other accessories they wear at work.
For this write-up, we managed to speak to a couple of healthcare professionals who shared with us the clothing that eases their workdays.
This article includes what to bring, what to toss out, and answers the question of how your wardrobe is adapted to suit your lifestyle.
Comfort-First Scrubs That Actually Work For You
Scrubs are your uniform, but they don’t have to feel like one. You want a fit that moves with you, not against you.
Look for soft, stretchy fabric that breathes well, especially during high-stress or high-sweat shifts.
Pants that stay in place without digging into your waist can seriously change your whole day, and pockets—lots of them.
Not just front and back, but side cargo-style pockets that can hold more than just a pen or pair of gloves.
Neutral tones are always safe, but don’t be afraid of a little color or personality—just make sure it fits the dress code at each facility.
When you find a pair you love, get a few, and trust me, when you’re in a new city with no time for laundry, having backup scrubs you actually like becomes a lifesaver.
Layering Is Your Secret Weapon
You never know what kind of climate you’re walking into—weather or hospital temperature.
There could be some units that are freezing even in the summer, and others run warm year-round.
Having the right layers on hand can keep you from shivering through a shift or sweating through your scrubs.
A lightweight, zip-up jacket or long-sleeve underscrub can make all the difference, or you can look for fabric that doesn’t bunch under your sleeves or make you overheat.
A fleece or knit you can throw in your work bag and pull out when needed will save you more time than you can count.
Some layers even have antimicrobial features, which may help reduce bacteria and even boost your nursing skills by keeping you more comfortable and confident throughout your shift.
The data below states that the new nurses are predominantly working 12-hour shifts and nearly half work overtime, trends that have remained relatively stable over the past decade.
Don’t Sleep On Your Feet
If you’re going to spend more than 12 hours on your feet, your shoes better not let you down.
Good shoes can reduce back pain, save your knees, and keep you from limping home after every shift.
And when you’re rotating hospitals, you won’t always know what kind of flooring or terrain you’ll be dealing with.
You want arch support, cushioning, and something that holds up even after long-term wear.
Make sure you rotate pairs and replace them more often than you think. It’s not just about comfort—it’s about protecting your body from stress and injury over time.
The Right Sneakers For Healthcare Workers Can Change Everything
Nothing transforms a shift like a pair of sneakers that actually support you in your every shift.
Not only do they need to feel like clouds, but they should also grip hospital floors without slipping and stay breathable for long hours.
Shoes that hurt, slide, or fall apart quickly don’t belong in your rotation. You don’t need flashy, you need solid.
Something that holds up after miles of walking and quick direction changes, all while standing up to spills and splashes.
What matters here is how you feel three hours in, then six, then ten, when working and traveling.
Nurses talk about “unicorn shoes” like they’re rare—and they kind of are, and when you find yours, you’ll understand, and your body will thank you.
Underrated Essentials You’ll Wish You Packed Sooner
It’s always the small things that end up mattering most. Compression socks, for instance, don’t get enough credit.
They help with circulation, reduce swelling, and can take the edge off that bone-deep fatigue that hits by hour eight.
You don’t notice how much they help until you wear them a few shifts in a row—and then forget them one day.
Invest in a quality belt bag or small backpack that keeps your essentials nearby without adding bulk.
In addition, keep a backup pair of clean socks, an undershirt, and even deodorant in there.
Not because you’re forgetful, but because one wild shift can derail even the best morning routine.
Day-Off Clothes That Actually Let You Relax
When you’re not at work, your clothes should feel like a deep breath and give you comfort without looking like you gave up entirely.
Think joggers that still look pulled together, soft tees that don’t scream “pajamas,” and maybe one good outfit for exploring the city or grabbing dinner with a coworker.
The point is to give your mind and body a break. When your downtime wardrobe feels like a reset, it helps your whole system recharge.
And honestly, part of the fun of being a travel nurse is getting to see new places, so you should feel good doing it.
Pack Smart, Dress Smarter
Being a travel nurse means staying flexible and prepared, but that doesn’t mean hauling around a suitcase stuffed to the brim.
Choose quality over quantity, and keep the basics on rotation, find pieces that multitask, and build a work-and-life wardrobe that fits wherever the job takes you.
You can’t control every shift, but you can control what you wear into it, and that’s half the battle right there.
