5 things you need to know before your first co-working trip

You’re thinking of bringing your remote job with you while you travel? Here are 5 things for you to consider before jumping into your next adventure. 

Travel insurance

When travelling, a good rule of thumb is to have a plan for if an emergency should happen. One way to make sure you can travel safely is to know the emergency service number of the country you are in; 999 won’t work in Thailand! On one of your first few days at your new accommodation, have a look around your area and take note of where your closest care facility is. This could be very useful, especially if you don’t speak the native language of the country you’re in. 

Of course, the best way to stay prepared is to buy travel insurance. Most often, your provider will have a 24/7 helpline that you can call should you need help. This guarantees you can speak to someone in your language at any time you might need to. 

Packing

Packing can seem very daunting, especially if you haven’t planned your return ticket yet. How does one pack for an indefinite trip? A great rule to follow here is to pack everything you would need for one week. By sticking to this limitation, you make sure that you only bring the essential items. Bare in mind, a large suitcase is not easy to drag down the bustling streets of Hanoi on a rainy day! Stick to a rucksack you can easily transport and avoid anything you think you might not use. 

Finding Wi-Fi 

When on a co-working trip, Wi-Fi is essential in making sure you can still get your work done while you travel. There are three main places that I would recommend looking for Wi-Fi. 

Firstly, co-working spaces are ideal. They are built to help travellers stay connected, even in areas where the connection is usually unreliable. Many digital nomads will work here, helping you build connections in the common areas, while the designated quiet areas will ensure you get your work done without distraction. You do need to pay a fee to use a co-working space, but it is well worth the money. 

Secondly, public wifi can be useful should you need a place to spend a short space of time. Local cafes and even some streets have wifi for the public to access. However, there is no promise of a quiet or private space here so if you need to take a business call it might not be your best option! 

Thirdly, check your accommodation to see if they offer any amenities such as Wi-Fi. Hotel lobbies can be great, quiet areas to get some work done; and don’t forget how easy the commute is!

Making the most of your mobile phone

Most countries will offer a local SIM card in their airports. These are well worth buying. Ideally, you would be able to have both your regular SIM and travel SIM in the same phone. This would mean you can use all of your usual apps, such as WhatsApp; only changing to your local SIM should you need it to call a Taxi or make a reservation. However, some phones do not support a dual SIM. As such, carry your local SIM on you so that you can switch in an emergency. The advantage of having data during your travels includes calling local businesses and tours, staying in contact with your new friends and most importantly (in my opinion) getting around easily with Google Maps! 

Returning home will never be the same! 

While there is a lot to consider when deciding to travel and work abroad, the experience is invaluable and life changing. You will meet some of your best friends while you explore the world, and saying goodbye is never easy. Fellow travellers easily become your found family and often share a lot of similarities that brought you to your destination. 

Wanderlust will follow you home, and you will find yourself considering another few months next year! Slowing down and reconnecting with your family will be amazing, but once you realise how thrilling and easy travelling while you work can be, you’ll be itching to get back on a plane. 

WorkFrom Holidays helps remote workers take that first step into becoming a digital nomad. We can help you find your future community and take away some of that Wifi anxiety. 

We offer 24/7 access to reliable Wifi, accommodation and activities on the weekends; this way you can really make the most of this incredible experience. 

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