Working remotely from exotic locations, setting your own hours, and trading the dingy office cubicle for a beachfront co-working space sounds like the dream right? But before you quit your day job, it’s important to remember that while the digital nomad lifestyle is full of adventure and freedom, there’s also days packed with client calls, to-do lists, and projects. Sometimes it can be difficult to stay productive. I’ve put together the absolute essentials for digital nomads to stay productive and navigate the remote work world.
I’ve been working remotely for over 5 years and even in the remote jungles of North Sumatra, small towns in Mexico, and on group trips in Iraq – I still have brand collaborations, client deadlines, and meetings to virtually attend. I’m confident that after reading through the 25 Essentials for Digital Nomads to Stay Sane & Organized, you’ll feel more than equipped to grab your passport and my hand 😉 or your laptop – that’s a better idea and join the digital nomad world!
Staying Connected & Charged Up
- Wi-Fi on the Go: Let’s face it, reliable internet is at the top of the list of essentials for digital nomads. There are a few options depending on your budget:
- Mobile Hotspot: Many phone plans offer mobile hotspot functionality. This lets you connect your laptop or tablet to your phone’s data for internet access. But be mindful of data usage limitations.
- Travel Hot Spot: Invest in a portable travel hot spot like this one. This little gadget can boost weak Wi-Fi signals and even connect multiple devices at once.
- Cafes: Embrace the nomad stereotype! Many cafes offer free Wi-Fi, making them a great option for getting some work done, and getting out of bed. Please be mindful of the cafe environment when taking calls. Always remember to show your appreciation by purchasing something [a beverage, snack, or meal] every 2 hours.
- Co-working Spaces: These shared work environments are a fantastic way to meet other remote workers and collaborate. Many co-working spaces offer daily or weekly passes, so you can be flexible with your needs. They provide free Wi-Fi, kitchen amenities, and often weekly activities like yoga, happy hour, or networking events.
- Universal Power: No matter where your travels take you, you’ll likely need a universal adapter to keep your devices charged. A good travel adapter like this one will be compatible with outlets in most countries, ensuring you never get caught with a dead battery. Pro tip: Pack a small surge protector too, for added peace of mind.
- Portable Charger: A reliable portable charger is a lifesaver. It ensures you can stay connected for work, navigate an unfamiliar city, and capture all your travel memories, all without the stress of a dying phone battery.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: Noise-canceling headphones are a game changer when you’re trying to get work done in a noisy cafe or desperately need a nap on a bus or airplane. They are great for blocking out distractions so you can stay focused. A bit of an investment but worth the splurge!
Being Productive & Crushing Your To-Do List
- Project Management: Feeling overwhelmed by your workload? A project management app can be your saving grace. Free options like Trello or Asana offer features like task lists, deadlines, and collaboration tools, keeping your projects organized and on track.
- Time Tracking: Ever feel like the hours just melt away while you’re working remotely? A time-tracking APP like Toggl Track can help you understand where your time actually goes. This can be a real eye-opener and help you optimize your workday for maximum productivity. It’s also great for when you need to track time for a client or project.
- Password Management: Password managers like LastPass help securely store and manage login credentials for all your [& clients] online accounts.
- Budgeting: Living a location-independent life can be a budget challenge. Free budgeting APPs like Mint or YNAB [You Need A Budget] can help you track your expenses, set realistic spending goals, and avoid any financial surprises down the road.
Learning the Lingo Like a Local
- Language Learning: Imagine confidently ordering food or asking for directions in a foreign language in your new country. Language learning APPs like Duolingo or Babbel offer bite-sized lessons, gamification elements, and even offline access. APPS like these make it easy to learn a new language on the go.
- Translation APP: A translation APP like Google Translate can help you out when you’re in a pinch. It’s super useful to navigate conversations, connect with locals, and ask questions while in a new country.
Building a Community
- Embrace the Online Community: There are countless online communities for digital nomads across Meetup, Facebook, and WhatsAPP. These groups offer a great way to connect with like-minded individuals, share travel tips, and combat feelings of isolation.
- Schedule Social Time: Make time for video calls with friends and family back home. Plan virtual movie nights or game nights to stay connected with your loved ones.
- Co-working Spaces: These shared work environments are not only a great place to get some work done but they’re also the perfect place to meet other remote workers.
Maintaining Health & Wellness
- Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key, especially when exploring new places. Invest in a good reusable water bottle to save money, reduce plastic waste, and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. Consider an insulated bottle to keep your water cold or hot. If you’re going to a place that has questionable tap water, look for one with a built-in filter for added convenience.
- Mental Health Resources: APPs like Headspace or Calm offer guided meditations and mindfulness exercises. These are easy to use while on the go to help manage stress and anxiety.
- Online Therapy: Adapting to a new environment and routine can bring its own set of challenges. TalkSpace is the leading online therapy platform that provides access to licensed therapists via convenient online chat or video sessions. This can be a valuable resource for managing stress, anxiety, or any other mental health concerns you might encounter on your nomadic journey.
- Travel Insurance: SafetyWing insurance specifically caters to digital nomads with their Nomad Insurance. They offer comprehensive medical coverage while covering unexpected events that might disrupt your remote work, like trip cancellations due to natural disasters or political unrest. Investing in SafetyWing can provide peace of mind and allow you to focus on exploring the world. SafetyWing uses a subscription-based payment system instead of all up-front, so it’s truly a budget-friendly option!
Read the best Travel Insurance for Every Type of Traveler Here
These are the must-have essentials for digital nomads, are you looking for more resources for starting your Digital Nomad Journey? Start here with the Ultimate List of Digital Nomad Jobs and Countries Offering Digital Nomad Visas.
