Most contracts are usually for 13 weeks. There are a lot of them that are also 8 weeks and some even for 4 depending on the situation. For example back in Sept when Florida had 3 hurricanes all in a row, 20 Florida Hospitals were looking for RN's and were accepting any length of contract. It all depends on the need. Most contracts will include a payrate up front, travel reimbursement to and from your assignment, health insurance, and a private 1 bedrm or a shared 2 bedrm apt depending on what your situation is. Definitely do a lot of research because there are a lot of companies that seem to have higher payrates but they take it out of your housing and put you in a bad area, or they offer a great rate and then cancel your contract midway. Also check out your health insurance benefits. Some companies don't offer health insurance for 90 days, others have a high deductible of $500-$1000 before you can even go see a doctor. Research at this point is your best bet.
IF you are interested in receiving a packet on my company , please feel free to e-mail me or call me at the below number and I will send you out an information packet on my company. You are wise to be weary, because there are a lot of fly by night travel companies that are here today and gone tomorrown and you do need to be careful. Hope this helped.
Marci