Thinking about becoming a digital nomad? Read this first.
Does the term, “digital nomad” conjure visions of backpacking, beaches, and great food? Me too, but there’s more to it than that. A lot of boring stuff, aka planning, has to be done before you take your work and life out on the road. Below, are just a few things to consider before you start your adventure.
Find locations you can actually work from
This, like many other variables, is something you can try to plan for but may take some trial and error. Sometimes we take WiFi for granted, so don’t assume you’ll have connectivity wherever you’re headed.
Research for hotspots near your destination. This will be difficult in some places, but any homework you do ahead of time will save you from being stressed out because you can’t find a place to touch base with your client. Online communities like Nomad List, provide some golden nuggets like this.
Work where you won’t be distracted
Great, you know there’s WiFi where you’re headed, but will you be able to get work done without being distracted by the new noises, smells, and shops? Do some detective work to find cafes, coworking spaces, office space you can sublet for a day, or use Airbnb.
Andrew Henderson, from Nomad Capitalist, urges you to have a place you call home in one or two places once you have some experience under your belt. It’s a genius idea. You won’t waste time looking for amenities, you’ll know you can get work done, you can have a place to store stuff, and it’s nice to go somewhere familiar from time to time.
Take advantage of perks
All that travel can get expensive. Take advantage of all the ways you can save so you can use that money elsewhere. Sign up for credit cards that give you rewards, cash back, etc., find an airline you love and sign up for their frequent flier program, and look for other ways you can save while you’re living your dream.
Check out the links to the resources at the end of the article for the best credit cards and frequent flier programs.
Get your finances in order
This is a big one — something you have to do long before you even think about packing your bags. If you’re a freelancer, you’re probably used to having some cash stashed away. If you’re not, it’s so important to have money kept back for the times in between clients and unexpected circumstances.
Finding ways to make multiple streams of income is just as important as saving. Passive income is even better. There’s a lot of competition out there. If you don’t have regular clients, times can get pretty stressful worrying about where your next client is going to come from. Broadway Leads is a great resource for supplying leads to developers who work remotely.
The resources below will help you prepare, contain input on destinations from other digital nomads, will connect you to the nomad community, and provide some info on ways you can save money while traveling.
Resources:
17 Best Resources for Digital Nomads
