If you’re a digital nomad thinking about traveling and working, in this episode I explore 12 years of experience working from LOTS of different kinds of places.
From RV travel, working from hotels, cruise ships, coworking or coliving spaces, homesteads, to being a digital nomad abroad – these are the pros and cons of each with helpful tips to consider so you can make the best choice possible.
Start with Key Questions to Ask Yourself as a Digital Nomad
1. Understand Your Work Style
- Question to Ask: What kind of worker are you?
- Why It Matters: Your work environment plays a significant role in your productivity. Some people thrive in bustling, noisy environments, while others need absolute silence. Understanding whether you can work amidst distractions or need a quiet, controlled space will help you choose the right location for your remote work.
2. Assess Your Connectivity Needs
- Question to Ask: How connected do you need to be?
- Why It Matters: Reliable internet is crucial for most digital nomads. Consider how much you need to be online. If your work requires constant connectivity, ensure your chosen location has strong, stable Wi-Fi. If your work is more flexible, you might enjoy locations with less reliable internet but more scenic or adventurous settings.
3. Evaluate the Seriousness of Your Work
- Question to Ask: How serious is the work you’re doing?
- Why It Matters: The importance and complexity of your tasks should influence where you choose to work. If you’re launching a major project or have a lot of responsibility, you might need a more stable, professional environment. On the other hand, if your work is less intense, you might enjoy more relaxed, unconventional locations.
4. Consider Your Timeframe
- Question to Ask: How long do you have to work remotely?
- Why It Matters: The duration of your remote work period will impact your location choice. Short-term stints may allow for more adventurous, less stable environments, while long-term stays might require a more comfortable and consistent setup.
Get Digital Nomad Insurance with SafetyWing
Safety Wing is a must-have for any digital nomad, offering comprehensive travel medical insurance designed to keep you covered while working and exploring the world.
Whether you’re hopping between countries or working from a cruise ship, Safety Wing provides flexible plans starting at just a few dollars a day, ensuring you’re protected no matter where your journey takes you.
With the added benefit of travel insurance, covering everything from trip delays to lost baggage, Safety Wing allows you to focus on your work and adventures without worrying about unexpected setbacks. Start your coverage whenever you need it, even while you’re already traveling, and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re safeguarded by a provider that understands the unique needs of remote workers.
Pros and Cons of Where to Work From as a Digital Nomad
Here’s my take on the pros and cons of different digital nomad setups based on my own experiences:
RV Life: Living and working from an RV gives you incredible flexibility to move around and explore. However, staying connected can be a real challenge, and trust me, working from a moving vehicle isn’t always smooth sailing—motion sickness is a thing!
Hotels: Hotels are my go-to for reliable Wi-Fi and private spaces where I can get serious work done. But the downside? They can be pricey, so it’s not always the most budget-friendly option.
Cruise Ships: I love working from cruise ships for the unique environment, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Wi-Fi on board can be hit or miss, and let’s be real—the vacation vibes around you can be a big distraction when you need to focus.
Co-Working Spaces: Co-working spaces are awesome for fast internet and a professional atmosphere. But they can also get expensive, and the quality can vary a lot depending on where you are.
Working Abroad: When it comes to working from another country, it’s crucial to understand the local culture, language, and infrastructure. Being prepared for things like time zone differences, staying safe online with a VPN, and adjusting to a new environment will make all the difference in your digital nomad journey.
Bottom Line
Choosing the right setup as a digital nomad depends on your work style, connectivity needs, and the environment you thrive in. Whether you’re in an RV, a hotel, a cruise ship, or a co-working space, each option has its pros and cons.
It’s essential to consider how serious your work is, how long you’ll be remote, and how well you can adapt to new environments, especially when working abroad. The key to success is tailoring your digital nomad experience to your specific needs and being prepared for the challenges that come with each setup.
About the podcast
Everyday Badassery is a travel podcast of inspirational stories to help you be just 1% more badass than you were yesterday. This episode is part of the creator series, where you’ll find helpful tips and interviews with creators that will help you to be just 1% more badass as a travel creator or small business.
Find the creator series starting with the intro at episode 80.
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