How to Become a Digital Nomad: Part 1
I’ve recently wondered, with so many remote workers nowadays, why people aren't traveling as much as I am. One reason that comes to mind is complexity and I’ll address other reasons in future posts…
Here are some tips for successful remote work:
Have a SOLID internet connection: Remote work is the lifeblood of the nomad lifestyle so you need a reliable connection. You should have at least 50 to 100 Megabits per second (Mpbs) download speeds and at least 10 Mbps upload speeds. Most places have good download speeds but lack the necessary upload speeds. The level of speed you require will depend on whether you're communicating via voice meetings, chat, or email.
Have multiple ways to connect to the internet: If your location's internet becomes unreliable, make sure you have backup options. For example, use your Google Fi account to set up a hotspot from your phone and as a last resort, download the Airalo app and use a digital sim card to connect. Here's a great guide on how to evaluate different ways to connect to the internet:
Have great audio: Even if you're allowed to work remotely, poor audio quality can stress you and your coworkers out. If you use Microsoft Teams in particular, this microphone works really well and is a top option to consider. While it might look a bit dorky, these bluetooth headsets work really well and you can find them here on Amazon: Link*
Always keep things charged up: If you have an opportunity to charge your devices, always do it, no matter where you are. You never know when you're going to be without power. Your backpack should be able to sustain itself for hours.
Back up your data!: Either keep your files in the cloud or store multiple versions of them on different devices. You never know when something is going to get stolen/combust/break/self-destruct… Don’t forget, that’s your work lifeblood!
Find a quiet place to take a call🤫: Look for empty rooms, cafes, stairways, vacant hallways, and sometimes even nicer smelling bathroom stalls to take a call. Make sure to choose the most quiet location possible to avoid disturbing others on your call.
Safety: Never let your guard down because if anything happens, you might be all alone...😬Know how to protect yourself and consider taking self-defense classes. For me, I don’t need self-defense classes. My parents are Jamaican which has 2 benefits: 1. I’m naturally crazy and prone to violence calm in tense situations. 2. I’m skilled with a machete in negotiations.
Know yourself: Cater to your normal routine in order to reduce stress while traveling. For instance, after searching for and finding a suitable housing area (i.e. nice and safe), my priority is locating the nearest gym with excellent equipment that can provide a quality workout. Only after finding the gym do I pick a place to stay. Why? Because I’m aware that skipping a good workout will make me unhappy. While your relationship with the gym may differ, the key to comfort is to plan your travel around your regular habits and incorporate them. Give this a try and you might build a permanent home in your travel destination.
Have travel insurance: Getting sick while traveling sucks! My day one readers might remember what happened to me in Puerto Vallarta when I went scuba diving. Having peace of mind and access to medical care are essential. I recommend that you consider purchasing travel insurance before embarking on your trip. Personally, I use Safety Wing as my insurance because the plans are flexible. You can easily insure a 1-week trip for like $11 dollars which is less than the cost of a cocktail at the bar. - Here’s the link*
*Affiliate links
Are you interested in becoming a digital nomad?
