How to Make the Most of Your Experience Being a Digital Nomad
The digital nomad lifestyle has quickly gone from a niche trend that so-called ‘free spirits’ embarked on to a full-on mainstream way of life, thanks to the way technology has changed in recent years. The freedom to travel around the world while still maintaining a career used to be a dream for some, but now, it’s a reality. Whether you’re coding from a beachfront café in Bali or writing from a cozy cabin in the Swiss Alps, being a digital nomad offers flexibility like never before. Ahead, learn more about what it takes to make the most of your time as a digital nomad, complete with practical tips and insider tricks.
Without a doubt, picking the right destination is the first–and perhaps most important–step when it comes to being a digital nomad. Beyond the views, culinary scene, nightlife, and new culture, practical factors like reliable internet, coworking spaces, and time zone compatibility are super important–no matter what your job might be. We suggest looking for spots with strong digital infrastructure (aka places where wifi is common and reliable). Cities like Lisbon, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Medellín are popular for digital nomads thanks to affordable living options, lots of coworking spaces, and great expat communities. As for the nitty gritty, don’t forget to check visa requirements, especially for long-term stays.
While being a digital nomad gives you tons of freedom, it’s still important to have a routine. Although every day can be different (that’s traveling, after all), establishing some form of schedule will pay off in the long run. Incorporate set hours for work, breaks, and time off so you can be productive while still enjoying the flexibility. Trust us, having a routine will keep you on top of things, meaning you can get your work done while enjoying this kind of lifestyle.
One of the best parts of being a digital nomad is meeting and connecting with similar, like-minded people. Join digital nomad meetups, online groups, and coworking spaces to meet travelers and remote workers in your areas. It’s a great way to build both work and friend networks.
We can’t stress it enough–you need reliable tech gear since your work depends on staying connected. Get a high-performance, lightweight laptop that can handle your workload and back up important files with an external hard drive. Noise-canceling headphones are nice for focusing, and portable chargers will keep you powered up when you’re on the go.
Finances aren’t always fun to talk about, but they’re definitely worth the conversation. Managing your finances while you’re tromping around the world requires careful planning. Keep track of expenses to avoid overspending, especially when dealing with different currencies and fluctuating exchange rates. Also, international banking can be tricky, so consider things like digital banks that offer low ATM fees and better conversion rates. Apps like Expensify, Trail Wallet, and Zoho Expense can help track expenses and organize receipts to help you stay on top of your finances.
One of the greatest perks of being a digital nomad is the opportunity to explore new places. While, yes, you’re going to have to stay productive, be sure to explore the places you’re visiting. Make time to check out local attractions, whether historical landmarks, cool neighborhoods, or just the great outdoors. Try regional cuisine, attend local events, and learn a few phrases of the native language. Balancing work with fun is the best way to get the full experience of being a digital nomad.
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