Expert Tips from Digital Nomads on Working From Anywhere

Read on for essential tips on how to work remotely.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of people have transitioned to remote work this year.

Working from home—or abroad—can be a tough adjustment for those used to the structure of an office job, but digital nomads can help. Digital nomads are the laptop-toting, world-traveling entrepreneurs who chose the remote lifestyle long before a pandemic made it the norm.

“Working from anywhere isn’t just for freelancers or solopreneurs—entrepreneurs and employees can work from anywhere, too,” says Avin Kline, a longtime digital nomad and founder of eScale, an e-commerce marketing and web design agency.

That’s never been more true than this year, when legions of employees became remote workers practically overnight. Many major companies announced permanent remote work policies—some optional—and offices around the world became ghost towns.

Luckily, with more and more destinations—from Barbados to Aruba to Dubai—offering workcation perks and visas for travelers who wish to stay long-term, employees and the self-employed are realizing they can have their cake (reliable work and a steady income) and eat it, too (exploring the world on the regular).

“It’s not a lifestyle for everyone—you have to know that upfront,” says Scott Eddy, a full-time traveler and the host of Lifetime’s Video Globetrotter series. “But there’s tremendous upside if you can get it right.”

Whether you’ve chosen the remote work lifestyle, or are simply looking for tips on how to make your current work-from-home situation more pleasant, productive, and efficient, these veteran digital nomads have you covered.

1. Create a Spot in Your Home Solely for Work

Chase Dimond, an email marketing specialist who has worked from home for five years, stresses the importance of a work-life divide.

“I’ve found it to be extremely beneficial to have a spot in my house that’s specifically dedicated to working,” he shares. “I’m more productive when I repeatedly use a spot that I know is only for work.”

Aaron Nosbisch, a longtime digital nomad and digital advertising specialist, agrees. “Find a dedicated space for work, and avoid using the same [place] for recreation or other activities, especially sleeping,” he advises.

Moreover, creating a routine with your own triggers can activate a productive, focused headspace. This could involve playing a particular playlist or using essential oils for mental clarity.

If you plan on working while traveling, you’ll need to ensure your accommodations can support your work needs, meaning you shouldn’t rely on coffee shops for consistent work. Instead, opt for spaces that allow for separate workstations.

2. Top-Notch Wi-Fi is a Non-Negotiable

“Get one of the better Wi-Fi plans possible,” says Dimond. “I initially opted for the basic plan, which worked fine for a while, but once everyone else started working from home, the basic plan no longer cut it.”

Internet speed can be influenced by nearby users, especially in densely populated areas. Upgrading to higher-tier Wi-Fi plans is advisable to avoid disruptions during crucial work hours.

When traveling, ensure your hotel or Airbnb has reliable internet connectivity. Don’t hesitate to ask for proof of internet speed before finalizing your accommodation.

3. Make Exercise a Habit

“Stay disciplined with working out,” recommends Nosbisch. “Physical exercise and mental wellness are directly tied together.” Mark Miller, who has worked remotely for nine years, agrees about the importance of non-work-related activity.

Additionally, meal planning can be vital for maintaining productivity, particularly when traveling and navigating unfamiliar food options.

4. Invest in Proper Equipment and the Right Tools

One benefit of being a digital nomad is minimalism regarding equipment. Nevertheless, investing in quality tools can significantly enhance your remote work experience.

Identify your optimal “technology stack” and remain consistent with the applications you choose to utilize to streamline your workflow. Consider tools like Krisp and Slack to improve communication and focus.

Shifting towards a home office setup means investing in camera equipment, lighting, and sound tools for video calls, as they’re fundamental in remote interactions.

5. Keep Time Zones in Mind

When transitioning to remote work, consider which time zone you need to align with. Staying synchronized with clients or team members can be essential, even if it necessitates adjusting your routine.

Factor in the effects of jet lag and allow yourself ample time to adjust if you’re traveling to a new location.

6. Time Management is Everything—and So is Unplugging

Eddy highlights that effective time management is crucial for remote work success. Setting strict deadlines and maintaining a to-do list can help with organization.

Moreover, establishing a work schedule that includes time for exploration is vital for sustaining a healthy work-life balance as a digital nomad. Disconnecting from work at the end of the day is equally important to enjoy your surroundings.

As Eddy suggests, make a commitment to “show up to work every day,” and once your work is done, fully embrace your local experiences.