Designing a lifestyle that works the best (and most!) for you isn’t always easy. Maybe you dream of traveling the world, working remotely from exotic locations or creating a better work-life balance.
Luckily, we live in a world where technology allows us to connect and collaborate with people all around the world in real-time. That also means we don’t have to be tied down to one geographical location. If you dream of an ultra-mobile lifestyle, here are three easy steps you can take toward becoming a digital nomad and creating the lifestyle of your dreams.
Get a (Good) Smartphone
Digital Nomad Tip #19: When Good Smartphones Turn Bad
There are tons of smartphones on the market, and we all have a preference for Android or Apple. Whichever you would die for, make sure your carrier has an extensive network to accommodate any location you may choose. Check to ensure that your phone has enough storage to keep the most necessary items at hand and functioning properly and verify that your phone plan has unlimited data and bandwidth.
If you’re planning to do a lot of overseas travel or long-term work from abroad, instead of paying for an international plan with your home country carrier, which can be quite pricey, opt for an unlocked phone and purchase local SIM cards at each of your destinations.
And to keep that bad boy alive? Get supplies that really work. Sure, you can charge your phone or tablet with your computer, but it’s usually pretty slow. Bring along mophie products, which pack a lot of power and will charge your device quickly to make sure you’re available to your co-workers, family and friends. Getting yourself set up and making a few upfront investments will help keep your expenses low while you’re on the move.
Live in Comfort, Anywhere
How to Survive Being a Digital Nomad
Your new lifestyle isn’t confined to just one city, state or country. If you live in the United States, plan to travel to your favorite cities or dream destinations while you’re settling into the life of a nomad. Since you’ll have purged most of your belongings and creature comforts for this transition, shop for affordable, furnished housing options to travel in comfort. This is also a great option for those looking for a stop-over in the States or if you’re returning from a recent trip abroad.
Travel abroad opens up your world to new perspectives and experiences. When traveling abroad, choose locations, such as India, Thailand or Peru, that have low costs of living so you can make the most of your income.
Keep Time
How One Digital Nomad Took Control of Her Time
As a digital nomad, you may need to be available for meetings across a variety of time zones. Save yourself time (and a serious headache) by installing a World Clock widget on your calendar. This feature will allow you to set your local (home) time zone and add your current location to the list.
Earning a living as a digital nomad encompasses many career paths. Many nomads have their own business or product. Others provide professional services, like freelance writing, photography, web design or digital marketing. Few even make ends meet by obtaining odd jobs at each of their destinations. Discover how successful digital nomads have made the lifestyle work for them, and find insights, inspiration and a look at the life you’ve been daydreaming about.
