Taking your work around the world with you has never been more accessible, and therefore working while travelling abroad. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, freelancer or remote worker, ‘workcations’ mean that you don’t need to use up any free time or days off in order to explore new cultures and give in to your wanderlust. While this is incredibly empowering and exciting, it is definitely not without challenges that can seem very daunting. As a digital nomad, I have been able to compile a list of 6 top tips on how to ensure you can enjoy travelling the world while you work without most of the additional stress that might come along with it.
1. Understand and Control the Costs
Figuring out your budget is essential before committing to an extended period abroad.
Is your budget unlimited? Will you split your finances up weekly or monthly? How much are you willing to spend on accommodation?
These are all important questions to answer while planning your next ‘workcation’. Some of the cheaper locations to work include Vietnam, Belize and Prague. More expensive places to work and travel are Japan, Switzerland and California. Consider where you most want to work and then adjust your budget and priorities to fit the cost of this location.
2. Research Visas
The world is gradually opening up to remote workers and digital nomads, as countires are recognising the benefits to their economy of allowing professionals to spend extended periods of time in their cities. However, not everywhere has extended Visas to accommodate travel and work.
Countries that have implimented Digital Nomad Visas include Malta, the Bahamas and Mexico. See here for a full list. These locations will be much easier to travel to without any unexpected stress, and as such it is definitely recommended to make these the priority. However, as long as you do your research, the world remains your oyster.
3. Get Travel Insurance
Travel insurance really should be a priority when travelling for extended amounts of time, and there are lots of different options to consider which can become overwhelming. This is especially true when working while travelling abroad. A great place to start is to consider the type of insurance you need. Would you like something basic, to ensure any disruptions don’t break the bank? Or do you want to make sure that any emergencies while abroad will be covered?
Look into travel insurance companies that specialise in remote workers and digital nomads, this way you know they will have your best interests at heart and will be well versed in your needs. We reccommend SafetyWing, who have a digital nomad package for a great price, with the option of adjusting to suit your needs.
4. Guarentee Reliable Wifi
Of course, the key to successful remote work hinges on the WiFi. We have all become very reliant upon the opportunities it affords us. Making sure that you can complete your work, stay in touch with family and friends, and remain connected to the rest of the world is a non-negotiable these days. Websites such as Nomad List will let you know whether the WiFi in your chosen country will fit your needs. Other ways to ensure reliable WiFi include joining Digital Nomad specific trips such as Work From’s month long ‘workcations’ to locations such as Bali, Indonesia. We guarentee WiFi to ensure your work never suffers.
5. Pick the Right Location for You
While travel is a universal experience, individual needs are very important when looking into the best location for you. Being a female traveller can be extremely safe, but it is best to do research into various countries to check up on their laws and positions on certain topics.
TimeOut has compiled a useful list of some of the safest places for female travellers. Other things to consider are the relative distance to pharmacies or hospitals, any epidemics that may be prevalent or disability accessibility.
6. Pack Strategically
Getting ready to leave is undoubtably exciting as you plan what to wear each day, which shoes to bring and how much tech you might need. Overpacking is so easy to do, but can really affect your travel experience. Whether you decide to stay in one place or move around, packing light is always preferable.
Try to stick to a capsule, multi-functional wardrobe to save space on your clothing. In terms of tech needed for your work, keep it organised. Invest in cable bags to prevent tangling and snapping, and re-assess whether you really need a work laptop and a personal laptop. The less things to keep track of the better when you’re travelling while working abroad.
These are just some of my top tips for working remotely while you travel the world. Of course, there are always things to think about, but all of this is well worth the effort. Travelling and becoming a digital nomad is incredibly rewarding and you will create experiences and memories that will last a life-time.
