How to be a Digital Nomad

If 2020 taught us anything, it’s that people DON’T believe in washing their hands. Just kidding. It actually taught us a lot of things – like you can get used to wearing a face mask. You can binge watch just about anything if you’re bored enough. And if you’re a person who works on a computer for a living, not only can you work from home…you can work from ANYWHERE! Let me share with you some things I’ve learned along the way. Here’s how to be a digital nomad and not lose your mind!

Get a Travel Monitor

If you have a laptop, that’s good. But having a travel monitor with your laptop is EVEN better. Here are some things to consider:

• Weight – The lighter the better, since you’ll be carrying with you around the world.
• Power and video connections – Many travel monitors run on USB3 for both power and video connections. Before you buy one, make sure that’s compatible with your laptop. If not, you’ll need one that has a power supply and an alternate video cable like HDMI.

This model has been with me since January 2021 and is still going strong! On Amazon: Amazon.com: C-FORCE Portable Monitor, 15.6” 1080P FHD Laptop Monitor USB C HDMI Computer Display HDR Eye Care External Screen for PC Mac Phone Xbox Switch PS5 : Electronics

Get Some Noise Cancelling Headphones

It’s okay if you want to get the ones that make you look like you’re directing traffic on a runway but I’ve opted for the AirPods from Apple. They are low profile and their noise cancelling game is strong. They let my family live their normal lives while I pretend to be a professional business person. On Amazon: Amazon.com: Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) Wireless Earbuds with Lightning Charging Case. Spatial Audio, Sweat and Water Resistant, Up to 30 Hours of Battery Life. Bluetooth Headphones for iPhone : Electronics

Get a Rolling Laptop Bag

You DO NOT want to risk having your livelihood in a checked bag that gets tossed in the belly of a 737. You also do not want to carry a 25 pound bag around an airport. I just picked up this gem. It’s lightweight and can stack on my checked bag. On Amazon: Amazon.com: VANKEAN Rolling Laptop Bag Women with Wheels, 15.6 Inch Rolling Briefcase for Women, Water Repellent Overnight Rolling Computer Bag with RFID Pockets for Travel Business Work School, Black : Electronics

Get a Wireless Mouse and Keyboard

Nothing will bring on carpel tunnel faster than typing for days on end on a straight laptop keyboard. Not to mention what will happen to your mental health if you try to use the built in eraser style mouse. Get a wireless mouse and keyboard and don’t forget to pack an extra pair of AA batteries. On Amazon: Amazon.com: Logitech MK270 Wireless Keyboard And Mouse Combo For Windows, 2.4 GHz Wireless, Compact Mouse, 8 Multimedia And Shortcut Keys, For PC, Laptop – Black : Electronics

Remember – Cord Management is a Must

Not only do you need to make sure you have charges for everything that’s wireless, you’ll want to have:

• An extension cord because not every table can be near an outlet.
• A multi-plug power strip because you have lots of things that need power.
• An Ethernet cable just in case you have wi-if issues and you have an important meeting with your managers at 8am, the morning you arrive in Key Largo.

Have a Strong Virtual Background Game

Unless the place you’re sitting in is either beautiful or generic, think about having a background that is inviting. I’ve actually read that having plants in your background make you seem approachable and that having books in the background, makes you seem smart. I have a background that looks like the Bat-cave with a T-Rex in it but I only bust that out for special occasions.

Armed with knowledge and some good gear, you’re ready! Get out there and do your thing while having a baguette in Paris or some Pho is Thailand. And if you enjoyed these travel tips, check out the rest of our collection!

You can also subscribe for free! You’ll get first looks at new posts and exclusive subscriber only content.