The ability to earn a living while traveling is an attractive scenario for many people. Those with the opportunity to do so are commonly referred to as digital nomads, in reference to the fact they’re probably working online via laptop and smartphone.
While it’s a very alluring lifestyle to those bitten by the travel bug, living as a digital nomad is often easier said than done. After all, most of us have been raised and conditioned to live and work in a single location. Whether we realize it or not, switching to a perpetual life on-the-go typically takes some time and effort to adjust to accordingly.
The more convenient a digital nomad can make his or her experience, the more likely they are to take to the nomadic lifestyle as a fish does to water. With this in mind, let’s take a look at ways to make nomadic living more convenient:
Fully-Furnished Apartment
When we think about moving, we tend to think about lugging our sofas, beds, and other furniture from one place to another. It’s the sort of thing that easily gets in the way of the nomadic lifestyle. But what if you didn’t need to move heavy furniture when switching locations? It’s possible thanks to services like Landing, which specialize in providing people with fully-furnished apartments for rent without long-term lease agreements. Simply become a member, find an available dwelling, and move in with nothing more than one or two pieces of luggage.
Reliable Workspace
The ability to earn a living as a digital nomad can be easily put into jeopardy by being unable to connect to the internet or find a place to comfortably work. Similar to the benefits of a fully-furnished place to live, nomads can find ready-made workspace available through various services across multiple cities. These coworking offices come with comfortable workstations, reliable internet access, and accommodations such as water and coffee.
Social Media
Opting for the nomadic lifestyle is a typically solo affair. Extended time away from family and friends can take its toll on your emotional wellbeing, making it difficult at times to stay happy and productive. While not a replacement for encounters in the flesh, staying in touch via social media is a great way for digital nomads to avoid the blues associated with extended isolation from those closest to them.
Minimalist Mindset
As the saying goes, “The more stuff you own, the more your stuff owns you.” With this in mind, digital nomads should make an effort to keep the amount of stuff they have to a minimum. This includes clothes, gadgets, and other items. Aim to limit yourself to the equivalent of one checked bag and one carry-on backpack of belongings while traveling. Not only does this reduce the amount of stuff you have to lug around, but it also makes it easier to book flights since you’re not worried about luggage requirements.
Friendly Demeanor
“You catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar” is another saying that – no pun intended – should stick to the minds of digital nomads. As a stranger in a strange land, you’ll undoubtedly find yourself in need of help and assistance from locals. Being friendly and upbeat will make it more likely to get the help you need. A bitter or entitled attitude will rarely be an asset. While it’s not a guaranteed method of winning people over, it’s the best chance you have when interacting with unfamiliar people in unfamiliar places.
Those who love the idea of traveling to exotic places around the world are increasingly making it happen by living as digital nomads. It’s a worthy pursuit, but not without its challenges. Taking steps to make your nomadic life more convenient is one of the best ways of making it a lifestyle you latch onto versus one you regret.