So you want to live the wonderful life of a digital nomad? Maybe you already are. Either way I have 20 tips and pieces of advice I’d like to share with you from my 5 year stint as a digital nomad from 2016 to 2020 where I lived on 4 continents and visited 22 countries.
I moved back to the United States in 2020 during the pandemic. I felt like it was time to move back to the US and stay some place for a while. The world was a bit weird then and having a homebase felt right. International trips still happen frequently throughout the year but run no longer than 3 weeks at a time.
I do have plans to continue traveling fulltime but having a big dog will stop full time digital nomad life. One day in the future I’ll return to the road but for now I’m playing fetch.
So let’s get into the 20 tips for living the digital nomad life.
What is a digital nomad?
A digital nomad is someone who can work remotely from the computer and live a location-independent lifestyle. They do not need to be physically in an office which opens up the entire world for exploration.
Ever wanted to stay in Paris for a month and get to know the local cafe scene? Maybe three months in Thailand followed by a month in Vietnam sounds like a great jumping board to life in South East Asia? Digital Nomads can do that given you can afford it and have the right passport or visas.
The flexibility of being a digital nomad allows people to explore different cultures, meet new people, and experience various locations around the world without being tied to a specific office or physical workspace. Essentially, they combine work and travel to create a unique lifestyle.
How to become a digital nomad?
How to become a digital nomad has to be the most asked question and there is no clear cut answer. However, there are many career fields and jobs that can make it possible to be location-independent. It all depends on your skill set and the value you bring to a company.
Here are a few ways people earn income online:
Freelance Writing: Content creation, copywriting, and blogging are great options for those with a knack for words. This can look like writing content for websites within your industry or realm of knowledge. Many people use websites like Upwork & Fiverr to promote themselves and earn money while traveling.
Graphic Design: Designing logos, websites, and marketing materials can be done from anywhere with a computer and design software. If graphic design is something that falls under your wheelhouse, it can definitely be a lucrative way to earn an income overseas. You also have the potential of working with other people you meet on the road who may be starting a business or needs design help. Looking on Indeed with result in many remote jobs within Graphic Design.
Web Development: Building and maintaining websites is a highly sought-after skill that can be done remotely. This is something that I do personally and has allowed me to fulfill my travel goals. My SEO Agency allows me to work from home and on the road.
Digital Marketing: Managing social media accounts, SEO, and online advertising campaigns are perfect for remote work. Digital Marketing is a great revenue source as they can be high paying jobs that do not require you to be somewhere. I find a larger percentage of digital nomads fall under the digital marketing umbrella.
Virtual Assistance: Providing administrative support to businesses and entrepreneurs from a distance. If customer support is your type of thing, many companies offer remote support jobs.
Online Teaching/Tutoring: Teaching languages, academic subjects, or specialized skills via video calls. You will find many people you meet while traveling are currently or have been an English teacher at some point. Most English teaching jobs are in person but have a host of perks like long term visa opportunities and networking. Online teaching is also an option through websites like Italki.
Software Development: Coding and developing software applications can be done from any location. I personally do not know much on this field but I do see many people working in this field around the world from coffee shops or co-working spaces. Software Development is generally much higher paying and does not require being in an office.
Consulting: Offering expertise in various fields such as business, finance, or health. Maybe you have a lot of knowledge in a specific field. You can start a consulting business and remotely coach other companies or individuals.
E-commerce: Running an online store or dropshipping business. Starting a dropshipping Shopify store is easy but getting sales isn’t. E-commerce can be insanely lucrative if done right but should be approached with caution. If you are new to the world of selling products online I’d recommend starting a store as a side project and working to scale it alongside your main job.
Translation Services: Translating documents, websites, or other content for clients around the world. If you are fluent in multiple languages, this can be a great way to earn cash while living as a digital nomad. People need YouTube videos, films, books, documents, audio, and more translated. You can find some translation gigs on Upwork.
Countries that offer a digital nomad visa.
So, now that you know what you can do to make money online, where can you go? Unfortunately, this all depends on what country your passport is issued from. For the sake of this article I’ll use an American passport for the example.
Many countries have recognized the growing trend of remote work and have introduced digital nomad visas to attract remote workers to their countries.
Top 10 countries that offer a digital nomad visa as of 2025
If you are looking for slower pace travel, getting a digital nomad visa and using a country as your homebase is a great way to take it easy and still experience digital nomad life.
Portugal
Visa: Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa)
Duration: 1 year, with the possibility of renewal
Details: The D8 Visa allows remote workers to live and work in Portugal. It requires a minimum income of €3,548/month. The visa provides access to the Schengen Zone, favorable tax policies, and an affordable cost of living.
Croatia
Visa: Digital Nomad Residence Permit
Duration: Up to 12 months, non-renewable
Details: The permit allows digital nomads to live in Croatia for up to a year. It requires a minimum monthly income of €2,540. The visa offers tax benefits on foreign-sourced income and the possibility to include immediate family members.
Estonia
Visa: Digital Nomad Visa
Duration: Up to 1 year
Details: Estonia’s Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers to live and work in Estonia. It requires a minimum income of €4,500/month. The visa provides access to the Schengen Area and the possibility of becoming a tax resident if staying for more than 183 days.
Costa Rica
Visa: Digital Nomad Visa
Duration: 1 year, renewable for an additional year
Details: The visa allows remote workers to live in Costa Rica for up to two years. It requires a minimum income of $3,000/month. Visa holders can open a local bank account, are exempt from local taxes, and can import work-related items tax-free.
Spain
Visa: Digital Nomad Visa
Duration: 12 months, renewable for up to five years
Details: The visa allows remote workers to live and work in Spain. It requires a minimum income of €2,140/month. The visa offers reduced income tax rates and the possibility to bring immediate family members.
Mexico
Visa: Temporary Resident Visa
Duration: 1 year, renewable for up to four years
Details: The visa allows remote workers to live in Mexico. It requires a minimum income of $3,275/month or a maintained bank balance of $54,600 for the last 12 months. Visa holders can bring their spouses and dependents.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Visa: Virtual Work Residency Visa
Duration: 1 year, renewable
Details: The visa allows remote workers to live and work in Dubai. It requires a minimum income of $5,000/month. Visa holders have access to many resident services, including enrolling children in school and opening a bank account.
Barbados
Visa: Barbados Welcome Stamp
Duration: 12 months, renewable
Details: The visa allows remote workers to live in Barbados for up to a year. It requires a minimum income of $50,000/year. Visa holders are exempt from local income tax and can bring their spouses and dependents.
Colombia
Visa: Digital Nomad Visa (Type V)
Duration: Up to 2 years
Details: The visa allows remote workers to live and work in Colombia. It requires a minimum income of $1,100/month. Visa holders can bring their spouses and dependents.
Georgia
Visa: Digital Nomad Visa
Duration: Up to 1 year
Details: The visa allows remote workers to live and work in Georgia. It requires a minimum income of $2,000/month or $24,000 in savings. Visa holders can become tax residents if they stay for at least 180 days.
Visa-Free and Visa on Arrival Countries for US Citizens
As a US citizen, you have the privilege of traveling to many countries without needing a visa or obtaining a visa on arrival.
Here are some of the countries you can visit:
Visa-Free Countries
Europe: Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Kosovo, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Vatican City.
Asia: Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Israel.
Oceania: Australia, New Zealand.
North America: Canada, Mexico.
South America: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Peru.
Africa: South Africa.
Visa on Arrival Countries
Asia: Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Laos, Lebanon, Maldives, Nepal, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka.
South America: Bolivia.
Oceania: Fiji, Papua New Guinea.
Africa: Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia.
These options provide a wide range of destinations for digital nomads and travelers alike. Whether you’re looking to work remotely from a sunny beach or explore new cultures, there’s a destination for you. I personally enjoy Colombia, Thailand, & Portugal when it comes to longer stays.
20 Tips For Digital Nomads
Ok, now that I have talked your ear off, let’s get into the advice. Here below for 20 tips that I have learned from 5 years of digital nomad living.
1. Set a clear divide between work & travel.
Setting a clear divide between work and travel is essential to long-term success as a digital nomad. While the idea of combining work and travel is central to the digital nomad lifestyle, it’s important to maintain a balance to avoid burnout. Establishing a routine that allocates specific time for work and designated periods for exploring and enjoying new places ensures that you can stay productive without sacrificing the joy of travel.
By creating a schedule, finding a dedicated workspace, and setting boundaries, you can effectively manage your time and make the most of both your professional and travel experiences. Remember, it’s a long-term game, and finding the right balance is key to sustaining this lifestyle.
2. Travel at a healthy pace.
Traveling at a healthy pace is essential for maintaining a balanced lifestyle. It’s important to avoid the temptation to constantly move from one destination to another without allowing yourself time to truly experience and enjoy each place. By spending longer periods in each location, you can immerse yourself in the local culture, build meaningful connections, and reduce the stress and exhaustion associated with frequent travel. Additionally, staying in one place for a while allows you to establish a routine and find a stable work environment, which can enhance your productivity and overall well-being.
Ultimately, traveling at a healthy pace ensures that you can savor your journey, create lasting memories, and sustain your digital nomad lifestyle in the long run. I know it’s easy when you first start to hit up many places in the first few months, which can be fine! Maybe you are searching for that one place you want to call home for a bit longer? When you find it, think about sticking around for a couple weeks before jumping to the next place.
I guarantee this will help with the eventual burnout of constant travel, juggling time zones, and finding new places to stay.
3. Be aware of time zones.
Considering the time difference between you and your work or clients is often an overlooked aspect to digital nomadism. Living in Bangkok is cool but you know what’s not cool, 3am client calls. That stuff sucks. When looking for a place be mindful of the time difference. I personally like Central & South America for the sole fact they align with the USA’s time zones. Even being in Western Europe isn’t too bad of a time difference. However, when you are in Asia it can be a bit difficult.
Google Calendar is pretty useful for gaging time zones or you can use tools like this Time Zone Converter.
4. Don’t forget to log off.
Don’t forget to log off. In the digital nomad lifestyle, it’s easy to blur the lines between work and personal time, especially when your office is wherever you open your laptop. Make it a priority to establish clear boundaries and set specific times to disconnect from work. By logging off and stepping away from your screen, you give yourself the opportunity to recharge, explore your surroundings, and enjoy the experiences that come with being a digital nomad. Remember, balance is key to maintaining your well-being and sustaining this adventurous lifestyle. So, take time to unwind, savor the moments, and embrace the freedom that comes with your journey.
5. Visas and time in a country.
Understanding visas and the amount of time you can spend in a country is crucial. Different types of visas, such as tourist visas, digital nomad visas, temporary resident visas, long-stay visas, and permanent resident visas, each come with specific durations and requirements. Tourist visas typically allow stays of 30-90 days, while digital nomad visas can range from 6 months to a year, often with the possibility of renewal.
Temporary resident visas generally last for 1-2 years and can be renewed, whereas long-stay visas and permanent resident visas have varying durations and requirements. It’s essential to research the specific visa requirements for each country you plan to visit, as they vary widely. Many countries offer online applications and detailed information on their immigration websites, making it easier for digital nomads to plan their travels and work legally in different locations.
If you are looking to hop around and explore the globe, most of the time the tourist visa/visa on arrival is sufficient. If you are looking to stay longer in certain countries but only want to use the tourist visa, you will discover the wonderful world of visa hopping.
6. Airbnb vs Short-Term Lease vs Hotel
Airbnb
Airbnb is great if you want flexibility and a homey feel. You can find anything from a cozy room to a whole house, usually in cool neighborhoods. It’s perfect for living like a local, and you get amenities like kitchens and laundry, which is a bonus. Just watch out for those service fees; they can add up, especially for longer stays. I’ve used Airbnb around the world and have had mixed results.
Short-Term Lease
A short-term lease is your best bet if you’re planning to stay put for a while. These usually come fully furnished with all utilities included, making life a breeze. You get a more stable environment and often access to amenities like gyms or pools. Many times you can speak with Airbnb owners offline and do a deal for less than their Airbnb rate for a signed 3 month lease or whatever the duration they offer may be.
Hotel
Hotels are the go-to for convenience. You get housekeeping, room service, and a 24/7 reception desk. Ideal for short stays or when you just want everything taken care of. Plus, they often have gyms, business lounges, and restaurants. The catch? They can be pricey, especially for long-term stays, and might not feel as cozy as an Airbnb or a short-term lease. Depending on the country, nice hotels can be inexpensive. However, it can be your best bet to start off in a new city at a hotel while you decide if you want to stay longer.
7. Meet people & combat loneliness.
Oh boy. Nobody told me that I’d eventually end up feeling lonely more often when traveling the world by myself. Meeting people and combating loneliness is super important for your mental health while living as a digital nomad and, well, life in general. I didn’t start feeling lonely until around three years in. I got to a point where I’d be somewhere insanely beautiful and had nobody to share the excitement with. It was still cool, but after a while, it took a toll on me. It’s actually one of the reasons I moved back to the states.
A few ways to combat loneliness include joining local groups and meetups, hitting up coworking spaces, or staying in hostels to meet fellow nomads or travelers. Don’t forget about language exchange events, volunteering, and taking classes – all great ways to connect with others. And, of course, stay connected with friends and family back home to keep your support system strong.
8. Secure important documents and make sure passport is in check.
It’s important when starting your journey as a digital nomad that your passport is valid for enough time and you have plenty of pages to fill with stamps. The last thing you want to do is return to your home country and go through the process of a passport renewal when you could have done it prior to your departure. Keep in mind some countries that require a visa can use an entire page in your passport instead of 1/4 of a page. This can fill up your available pages quite quick if you are not careful. I’ve had to return to the US and get a new passport due to running out of available pages. I guess that is a good problem to have. 🙂
9. Home country bills, responsibilities, & Jury Duty
If you are choosing the digital nomad life, chances are you won’t have rent or a mortgage. However, you may have a storage unit or other recurring bills that still need to be handled. Make sure everything is in line prior to your departure to minimize any headaches. This includes automating payments, notifying your bank of your travels, and ensuring your credit cards or financial tools work internationally.
Which leads us to the dreadful Jury Duty. I’ve indeed had to fly from Colombia to Denver to attend Jury Duty. I was able to extend my date a bit, but regardless, you will need to attend if called upon. Keep this in mind as a possibility and make sure you have the funds to get back home when needed. It’s also worth considering setting up USPS mail-forwarding or using a trusted friend or family member’s address for any official correspondence—this way, you don’t miss important notifications like Jury Duty. Planning ahead can save you from unexpected hassles.
10. Get a VPN
Getting a VPN is especially important in certain countries where internet freedom is restricted or where public Wi-Fi security may be a concern. For instance, in countries like China, many popular websites and apps (such as Google, Facebook, and YouTube) are blocked, so a VPN can help bypass these restrictions and access content freely. Similarly, in Russia, internet activity can be monitored, and a VPN can provide a layer of privacy.
In Turkey and Iran, access to certain websites and social media platforms may be restricted, making a VPN a valuable tool for maintaining access. Whether you’re traveling to these regions or just want to browse securely on public networks, having a VPN is an essential tool for staying safe and connected.
In my experience the only time I needed a VPN was in China & Thailand. So, it’s not 100% necessary but is a solid option if needed.
11. Learn basic local language
Learning a bit of the local language goes a long way, and honestly, it’s not as intimidating as it sounds. You don’t need to be fluent, just pick up a few key phrases like “hello,” “thank you,” “how much does this cost?” and “where’s the bathroom?” (trust me, that one’s a lifesaver). Not only will it help you navigate daily life, but locals usually appreciate the effort and are way more likely to help you out. Plus, it’s a fun way to connect with the culture and might even spark some good conversations. Apps like Duolingo or Google Translate make it super easy to practice.
I find just trying to speak and going out of your way to learn by making mistakes and talking to locals is a solid way to learn a language. It’s a bit embarrassing at first but just know that nobody cares and they are most likely happy that you are even trying in the first place.
12. Coworking places and coffee shops
If you are like me, I prefer to work mostly outside of the house. Often, I’ll settle into a coffee shop for a few hours—while being mindful of their business, of course. It’s always good to buy a drink or snack and not overstay your welcome. The vibe can be inspiring, and the change of scenery helps boost productivity. If you’re planning to stay in a city for a bit longer, a coworking space can be a fantastic option.
They’re often affordable, offer fast and reliable Wi-Fi, and create a professional environment to get things done. Plus, many coworking spaces host events or happy hours, making it easier to network and meet like-minded people. Rotating your work environment not only keeps things fresh but also helps you explore the city while staying productive! You are there to experience the city anyways not the wall of your hotel or Airbnb.
If you are in Medellin, Colombia my favorite coworking spot is Co-Work LatAm or many of the free co-working stations they have set up at El Tesoro Mall.
13. Understand tax implications
Understanding tax implications is a crucial part of the digital nomad lifestyle. As a U.S. citizen, you are required to file taxes on your worldwide income, no matter where you live or work. However, there are ways to potentially reduce your tax burden. For instance, the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) allows you to exclude up to a certain amount of your foreign income from U.S. taxes if you meet specific criteria. One of these is the Physical Presence Test, which requires you to be physically present outside the U.S. for at least 330 full days in a 12-month period. Essentially, if you’re out of the country long enough, you may be able to take advantage of this exclusion.
Keep in mind, though, that you still need to file your tax return to claim it. Additionally, some countries have tax treaties with the U.S. to avoid double taxation, but it’s essential to research the tax laws of the country you’re living in. Since tax rules can get complicated, consulting a tax professional who understands expat or digital nomad taxes is a smart move to stay compliant and make the most of these benefits. Since I would pop into the USA a few times a year, I still had to pay my full federal and state taxes.
14. Banking and ATMs
When it comes to banking and ATMs as a digital nomad, having the right setup can save you a lot of hassle and unnecessary fees. One of the best ways to avoid ATM fees is by using a bank like Charles Schwab, which refunds ATM fees worldwide and doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. Multi-currency accounts, like those from Wise (formerly TransferWise), are another great option, allowing you to hold and exchange multiple currencies at competitive rates.
Before traveling, notify your bank of your plans to prevent your cards from being flagged for suspicious activity, and always have a backup card in case one gets lost or blocked. When withdrawing money abroad, opt to be charged in the local currency instead of your home currency to get better exchange rates. Stick to ATMs that are part of global networks like Visa Plus or Mastercard Cirrus for lower fees, and avoid using ATMs in high-traffic tourist areas as they often have extra charges. With the right banking setup and a bit of planning, you can keep your money safe and accessible wherever your adventures take you!
I personally used Wells Fargo & Charles Schwab and never had any real issues. Make sure to utilize credit cards when paying for things at restaurants or stores to avoid any issues with scams or stolen card information. The last thing you want is your debit card compromised when abroad. Getting a new card mailed to you in another country can be a bit difficult as I found out the hard way when my card info was stolen from an ATM in Porto, Portugal.
15. Create a “Home Base” plan
Having a home base can make all the difference when you’re living the digital nomad life. It gives you a sense of stability and community, even if you’re frequently on the move. For me, Medellin, Colombia, was my home base for three years. Because I was on a tourist visa at the time, I could only stay in the country for six months out of the year. This meant I had to leave after three months, so I’d do “visa runs” to places like Mexico for a week before returning for another three months. After using up my six months, I’d spend the next few months exploring Europe or visiting other countries before heading back to Colombia when my stay was reset (Jan 1st it resets). These trips were part of the rhythm of my nomadic lifestyle.
Even with the restrictions, calling Medellin my home base brought a lot of comfort and familiarity. I built a friend group, got to know my neighbors, and found my favorite spots around the city—it truly felt like home. Looking back, if the digital nomad visa had existed then, I would have absolutely taken advantage of it to make my time there even more seamless. A home base doesn’t tie you down—it creates a foundation you can always come back to while still embracing your adventurous lifestyle.
16. Dating as a digital nomad
This is always a popular question. What does dating look like when you’re always on the move or can’t stay in a country permanently? Honestly, it can get pretty exhausting. Sure, you can have some amazing relationships with incredible people, but the reality is, if they are a local, they probably won’t be able to travel like you do. Plus, let’s be real—you’ll likely be heading to a new city before too long. For me, the relationships I had were short and, in the end, kind of sad. You meet great people, make awesome memories, and then it’s time to say goodbye. It’s just one of those tough parts of living the digital nomad life.
This doesn’t mean you can’t find a way to stay in a country and continue your relationship or they may be able to come with you. You also may meet another digital nomad who can tag along and lives the same lifestyle you do. I’ve seen all of those scenarios. I wish you the best of luck and hope you find love where ever you may be.
17. Mastering the art of packing
Discovering your ideal luggage situation is necessary for minimizing headaches along the way. I travel with carry on only. This not only ensures my bags don’t get lost or stolen, but allows for easy traveling and reduces my airline costs. My perfect combination is:
- Camera backpack for all of my electronics and expensive items. I’ve gone through many bags but my current favorite is the WANDRD PRVKE camera bag.
- Duffle/backpack for all of my clothes, toiletries, and whatnot. I’ve also gone through many different bags but currently enjoy the REI Big Haul 60 Duffel.
Using this combo allows for easy travel because you can have your duffle/backpack on your back and the camera backpack on your front. They qualify as carry on, fit in most overheads, and most of the time my camera backpack passes as a personal item. I will say the above combo pushes it for what you can bring on a plane but I’ve never had a problem.
18. Understanding local healthcare systems & travel insurance
Getting a handle on local healthcare systems and having solid travel insurance is a total lifesaver as a digital nomad. Different countries handle healthcare differently—some have affordable public systems even for non-residents, while others rely more on private clinics. It’s worth doing a quick dive into how things work wherever you’re heading.
You’ll also want to know where the nearest hospital or clinic is, and it doesn’t hurt to learn a few key medical phrases in the local language (or have Google Translate ready to go). If you have prescriptions or medical needs, make sure you have an ample amount prior to traveling or at least check to see if you can obtain what you need wherever you may be going.
As for travel insurance, it can be your safety net for unexpected stuff like medical emergencies, canceled flights, or even evacuations. Providers like SafetyWing or World Nomads have plans that work well for nomads, and some even cover things like adventure sports or remote doctor consultations. Pick one that matches your travel style, whether you’re bouncing around or staying put for a bit. A little planning goes a long way, so you can focus on the fun parts of traveling without worrying about the “what-ifs.”
I never had travel insurance and got by just fine. I even had a lot of dental work done in Medellin for a fraction of the price if I was in the US. Being in another country might give you the opportunity to get medical attention that you may not be able to afford in the US. You can read a post about how I got LASIK in Medellin.
19. Mastering the art of self-discipline
I cannot stress enough about having self-discipline when living life as a digital nomad (and life in general). It’s easy to log off a bit early so you can explore, which can be fine from time to time, given you’ve completed what you needed for the day. But it can also be a slippery slope, especially when traveling alone and frequenting local bars because it’s an easy way to meet people.
It’s important not to make this an everyday habit. I often met people at bars who were on vacation and in full party mode on a random Tuesday, inviting me out—and I’d often join. At some point, I realized that THEY were on vacation, and I wasn’t, even though it often felt that way.
It’s also worth mentioning how this lack of discipline can sneak into other areas of your life as a digital nomad. Skipping work deadlines here and there or overspending on nights out can add up over time, creating unnecessary stress and setbacks. The freedom of the lifestyle is amazing, but it requires balance and accountability to really thrive. Setting boundaries with yourself—whether it’s sticking to work hours, budgeting for outings, or limiting those “vacation-mode” nights—is essential to staying grounded and making the most of the digital nomad experience.
Here are some great self help books I recommend reading or bringing with you:
“Atomic Habits” by James Clear
“Discipline Equals Freedom” by Jocko Willink
“Can’t Hurt Me” by David Goggins
“No Excuses!: The Power of Self-Discipline” by Brian Tracy
“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey
20. Planning for potential setbacks
Setbacks happen in life, so it’s good to have a plan just in case things go sideways. First off, having an emergency fund is clutch—whether it’s for unexpected flights, a health issue, or replacing something you lost. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later. It’s also a smart move to keep digital or cloud backups of your important documents, like your passport, visa, and travel insurance, so you’re not scrambling if something gets misplaced.
Flexibility is your best friend—flights get canceled, Wi-Fi goes out, and plans change. Keep a list of alternative accommodations, know your backup work setup, and have a portable hotspot or extra SIM card on hand. Most importantly, don’t stress too much when things don’t go as planned. You will end up over paying for things or getting scammed at least once. See it as part of the adventure, and just roll with it.
What did we learn?
Living the digital nomad life is as thrilling as it is challenging, and it demands a good balance of self-discipline, preparation, and adaptability. From understanding tax implications and staying disciplined with work, to setting up the right banking systems and planning for setbacks, preparation is key to thriving on the move.
Having a home base can add a sense of stability, while mastering the local healthcare system, securing travel insurance, and even picking up some of the local language can make life smoother and more enjoyable. Relationships, whether short or long-term, are part of the journey, as are those moments of reflection when you realize you’re not on vacation—this is your life. Above all, it’s about finding balance, being mindful of your habits, and embracing the unpredictable beauty of the nomadic experience. Enjoy the road and go explore the world!
