There are many reasons why the digital nomad lifestyle is so appealing. When done successfully, it offers you the chance to work entirely on your own terms. This means you can choose your hours and base yourself anywhere in the world. Alongside the rise in people choosing to be digital nomads, many countries are now offering visas that accommodate this trend.
To embrace this unconventional lifestyle, you’ll need to consider the logistics, from managing your finances to staying productive while acting as your own boss.
Setting up your remote work environment
Not having a company office means you’ll have the freedom to work remotely. Once you’ve invested in a good laptop think about other ways to enhance your day-to-day routine. Virtual meeting software will help you network in a more personal way, while project management tools can help you plan out and stay on top of your workflow.
Working online means you should take cybercrime threats seriously. It may be sensible to get a VPN so you can maintain your privacy and work more securely, no matter which country you’re in. If you use trading platforms such as Tradu to manage your financial portfolio, being able to do this with a reliable and safe connection is essential.
On a practical note, try to make your workspace as ergonomic and comfortable as possible. This means investing in a laptop stand, mouse and keyboard. Fortunately, there are portable designs available, so you can travel around with ease.
Choosing the right destinations
When the world is your oyster, it can be hard to settle on where to go. Just make sure you bring practical considerations into the equation.
Base your decision around the following:
- Cost of living
- Visa requirements
- Internet connectivity
- Availability of coworking spaces
Popular and emerging spots for digital nomads include Tbilisi in Georgia, which allows Brits to spend up to a year working remotely and without paying taxes, as well as Chiang Mai in Thailand.
Managing your finances on the road
Being your own boss means managing your own finances. You’ll need to draft up a realistic and flexible budget that helps you stay accountable. Factor in unforeseen expenses that may vary from country to country. In one destination you may need to pay for specific visas or taxes, while in others, you might spend more on living costs. It’s important to review your budget regularly for this reason. Many people use digital tools and apps to track their spending.
Having insurance policies in place will help to protect you if you misplace equipment or face travel difficulties such as cancelled flights. Keep in mind that you’ll be handling multiple currencies too.
Staying connected and productive
Although your day-to-day will naturally become more fluid, it can be helpful to maintain a sense of routine so you remain focused on your work. Plus, this can help you stay on top of your wellbeing and make a big difference while you’re travelling from place to place. Of course, the goal is to see the world too, so try to strike a balance that works for you.
While some people enjoy working in cafes, others might prefer to look for a coworking space. Find an environment that helps you focus while also offering you valuable opportunities to network and make new connections. In the meantime, stay connected with those at home through video calls and social media.