How To Plan for Success as a Digital Nomad
Only a few years ago, many people were not aware of the concept of a digital nomad. For some, it was nothing more than a misunderstood and strange-sounding buzzword. For the uninitiated, a digital nomad is an adult of working age who combines a love of travel while still working, to generate a liveable income that allows them to fund their worldwide journeys.
Digital nomads tend to be in their twenties and thirties. However, a broader age range is common, with some people traveling to exotic destinations while undertaking remote work in their forties and above. There are a wide range of jobs available that can be undertaken remotely.
The tech sector typically has several roles that can be worked remotely, such as web development, design, and coding jobs. However, jobs such as content creation and working as a travel blogger mean that many types of people can enjoy the digital nomad lifestyle. In this article, some key tips on how to plan for a successful life as a digital nomad will be discussed.
Chapters
Travel light but ship essentials
One of the key attributes of many digital nomads is that they travel light. This can make it far easier to move from region to region and country to country while keeping costs low. However, you may find that you need to take essential items with you that are difficult to bring on a flight at the start of your journey abroad. In such cases, it is important to search online for international courier and shipping companies such as shiply.com which have experience of moving goods over distance and offer competitive prices.
By entering a description of the goods that are needed (and specifying the dimensions and weight of the items) you will be able to receive a quick quote on the shipping price. As such courier companies operate online, it is entirely possible to ship essential items from your native country even after you have started your journey, provided you have someone to give the package to the courier when they arrive.
Consider time zones
Many inexperienced digital nomads underestimate the importance of time zones when working abroad remotely. These can be vital in determining the jobs you can comfortably undertake when working abroad. For example, if you are working for an American company that operates on Pacific Standard Time, and traveling in Tokyo, Japan, the difference is considerable as Tokyo is 17 hours ahead.
This would mean if you started work at 9 am in Tokyo, it would already be 4 pm back in the Pacific time zone, making collaboration difficult as the day progresses. Put simply, it is important to choose countries to travel around that have broadly similar time zones to the company you intend to work for or choose a company that allows you to work at a time that suits you.
No traveler wants to be in a position where they must work through the middle of the night or start their working day exceptionally early to comply with their employer’s rules. Take the time to thoroughly understand time zones and investigate companies that offer flexible working hours. This can immensely impact your quality of life as a digital nomad.
FAQ
What is a digital nomad?
A digital nomad is someone who uses telecommunications technologies to earn a living and, more generally, conduct their life in a nomadic manner. Such individuals typically work remotely—from foreign countries, coffee shops, public libraries, co-working spaces, and even recreational vehicles—to embrace a flexible lifestyle.
What are the primary benefits of being a digital nomad?
The benefits include the freedom to travel and work from anywhere, a flexible schedule, the opportunity to experience new cultures, and potentially a lower cost of living, depending on the chosen destinations.
What challenges do digital nomads face?
Challenges include finding reliable Wi-Fi and workspaces, managing different time zones, securing continual work or income, dealing with visa and legal issues, and maintaining relationships while on the move.
What jobs are suitable for a digital nomad?
Suitable jobs for digital nomads often include web or graphic design, content writing, digital marketing, IT and software development, consulting in various fields, teaching languages online, and more.
How do digital nomads manage taxes?
Digital nomads must understand the tax regulations of their home country and any country they work from. Often, they are required to file taxes in their home country and may need to navigate double taxation agreements.
What tools do digital nomads need?
Essential tools include a reliable laptop, communication apps, project management software, secure internet access via VPN, financial management tools, and digital storage solutions for backing up important documents.
How do digital nomads find accommodation?
Digital nomads often use services like Airbnb, local rental websites, co-living spaces, or extended stay hotels. Some prefer to book in advance while others find accommodation on arrival to get better deals.
What visas are available for digital nomads?
Some countries offer specific digital nomad visas that allow individuals to live and work remotely for a limited time. These visas often require proof of income and health insurance.
How can digital nomads stay productive while traveling?
Staying productive involves maintaining a routine, setting clear work-life boundaries, using productivity tools, and choosing accommodations that support a work-focused environment.
What is the best way to manage health care as a digital nomad?
Digital nomads should obtain international health insurance that covers them in multiple countries, carry a basic medical kit, and be aware of health care facilities in their current location.
How do digital nomads stay connected to family and friends?
Staying connected involves regular video calls, social media updates, and possibly scheduling visits back home or inviting friends and family to travel together for a period.
What should digital nomads consider before starting this lifestyle?
Potential nomads should consider their personal readiness for change, financial stability, how they will handle logistical issues like mail and voting, health care, insurance needs, and their long-term career goals.
How do digital nomads secure their data and devices?
Security can be maintained by using VPNs, having strong, updated antivirus software, using multi-factor authentication, and ensuring physical safety of devices through cautious handling and storage.
What are common misconceptions about the digital nomad lifestyle?
Common misconceptions include the idea that it’s always a glamorous, vacation-like lifestyle, it’s only suited for young people, it’s too difficult to manage financially, or it’s not a viable long-term lifestyle.
What are the best destinations for digital nomads?
Popular destinations include Bali, Thailand, Portugal, and Mexico, which offer a combination of good infrastructure, affordable living, and supportive communities for digital nomads.
How do digital nomads deal with loneliness and isolation?
They often cope by joining local expat communities, using co-working spaces, attending social events, and participating in online forums and networks for digital nomads.
What insurance do digital nomads need?
Besides health insurance, digital nomads should consider insurance for their equipment, travel insurance that covers trip cancellations and emergencies, and potentially liability insurance depending on their line of work.
How do digital nomads maintain work-life balance?
They maintain balance by setting strict work hours, making time for social activities and exploration, and occasionally taking complete breaks from work to recharge.
What educational resources are available for aspiring digital nomads?
Resources include online courses about remote work, books, blogs, and podcasts by experienced digital nomads, and workshops or meetups for networking and learning.
How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected the digital nomad lifestyle?
The pandemic introduced challenges such as travel restrictions and increased health risks but also normalized remote work, potentially expanding opportunities for aspiring digital nomads.
Create more and better content
Check out the following resources and Grow!