How to Become a Digital Nomad and Work from Anywhere

Last Updated on October 24, 2024 by Katie

Traveling to tropical destinations, experiencing new cultures, and working from a laptop is a dream for many. And thankfully, if this is your dream, it can be a reality by reading this guide on how to become a digital nomad!

You can achieve this lifestyle by leveraging modern technology to work remotely, freeing you from traditional office confines.

Whether it’s a bustling coffee shop in the heart of Paris or a tranquil library in Kyoto, access to WiFi transforms global destinations into your personal workspace.

But, how do you make money?

Where should you travel to first and how do you meet people when you get there?

And, what things should you pack?

I understand your fears and questions, as I had them myself many years ago when I first started my digital nomad journey.

I wasn’t sure if the life was right for me, or if I would make friends, or if I would be able to make enough money to survive.

But, I decided to take the plunge anyway and went on my first digital nomad trip – solo!

And, I can say honestly, it was the best thing I ever did!

Now, I want to help you do the same.

Read on to learn how to become a digital nomad and get the best tips I wish I’d had!

 

Also read: 25 best digital nomad jobs for aspiring travelers

 

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What Exactly Is a Digital Nomad?

A digital nomad is someone who uses technology to work remotely, allowing them to live a location-independent lifestyle.

This means you are not confined to a specific geographic area and can choose where to live and work.

There are different ways to live the digital nomad lifestyle.

You can choose to stay in short-term rentals, hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs and stay short periods in each destination such as 1 or 2 months at a time before moving on.

Or, you can choose one destination and stay long term, such as 6 months to multiple years at a time, and rent out an apartment.

Another option is to rent out a van or RV and live and work in the van while traveling around the country.

 

How to Become a Digital Nomad – 7 Steps to Success

To thrive as a digital nomad you need to plan and prepare.

Follow the steps below so you can smoothly transition into a location-independent lifestyle without the guesswork I had!

 

1. Decide if the Digital Nomad Life is Right For You

Becoming a digital nomad is a significant lifestyle change that requires thoughtful consideration.

Evaluate your personal goals, career objectives, and adaptability to uncertainty.

Consider your social needs, as constant travel can lead to feelings of loneliness or lack of community.

• Reflect on your ability to manage work-life balance
• Assess your capability to work independently without direct supervision
• Determine your readiness for varying living conditions

Also, ask yourself a few questions:

• Are you able to handle a potentially unstable income and routine?
• Do you consider yourself resourceful, and self-motivated?
• Will you be able to handle moving on every 2-12 months?
• Are you ready for the shock of new cultures and traditions and ready to immerse yourself in them?

If you answered ”No” to any of these questions, you shouldn’t let it hold you back.

We can all get set in our ways and often being thrown into new conditions is just what we need to spice things up!

I loved meeting new people and experiencing new cultures, but did get tired of moving on so often after a while.

 

2. Make Plans for How You Will Make Money While Travelling

Planning your income sources is crucial before setting off.

Many digital nomads work in fields that allow remote work, such as programming, design, writing, or consulting.

The main options to make money while traveling include freelancing, remote employment, or starting an online business.

Here are a few steps to consider:

• Create a list of skills that can be monetized remotely
• Establish remote work arrangements with your current employer, if possible
• Research and explore platforms for freelancing opportunities
• Create passive income streams like eBooks, online courses, or a blog

 

3. Get the Right Gear for Digital Nomad Life

Having the right equipment is essential to thrive as a digital nomad.

Invest in a reliable laptop, noise-canceling headphones, and a portable Wi-Fi hotspot as these tools will help ensure productivity no matter where you are.

• Laptop: Choose a lightweight one with a long battery life
• Headphones: Look for noise-canceling features
• Connectivity: Invest in a portable Wi-Fi device and proper adapters

 

4. Map Out Digital Nomad Friendly Locations

Explore locations that are known to be friendly to digital nomads.

Look for cities with good internet connectivity, vibrant nomad communities, and affordable living costs. These aspects support both productivity and social engagement.

When I traveled and worked as a digital nomad, I worked on a tourist visa.

This is a bit of a grey area and you should do your homework before you get to a destination.

When asked by immigration what you are doing in that country, you should say ”tourism”.

This is technically not a lie as you will be exploring each place as you work.

However, these days, many countries are seeing the value of having nomads in their country spending money so have created ”digital nomad visas’‘.

Here are a few countries that offer digital nomad visas:

• Georgia
• Croatia
• Czech Republic
• Estonia
• Iceland
• Germany
• Portugal
• Spain
• Barbados
• Bermuda
• Dominica
• The Bahamas
• Mexico
• Brazil
• Ecuador
• Colombia
• Dubai
• Taiwan
• Sri Lanka
• Thailand
• Malaysia
• Seychelles

Check out the full list of countries with digital nomad visas here.

 

5. Choose Your First Nomad Destination and Buy Flight Tickets

Selecting your initial destination sets the tone for your digital nomad journey.

Choose a place that aligns with your personal and professional needs and ensure it offers a supportive environment as you adapt to this lifestyle.

• Prioritize a destination with basic infrastructure and safety
• Search for affordable flight options in advance
• Plan accommodations that offer reliable internet and essential amenities

 

6. Secure the Right Visas, Vaccinations and Travel Insurance

Navigating legal and health requirements is essential to avoid disruptions.

Research visa laws and health advisories for your chosen destinations and ensuring you have the appropriate documentation and vaccinations will prevent complications.

If you’re unsure about vaccinations, contact your doctor for advice and they will be able to guide you.

• Check visa requirements and application processes
• Stay updated on necessary vaccinations and health precautions
• Select comprehensive travel insurance that covers remote work-related issues

 

7. Build Up an Emergency Fund Just in Case

An emergency fund provides a financial safety net while on the road.

Aim to save at least three to six months’ worth of expenses so you can cover costs if you lose freelance work or a side hustle doesn’t work out.

This fund helps manage unexpected costs, whether it’s a health issue, travel problem, or sudden income disruption.

• Calculate monthly expenses to determine how much to save
• Set up a dedicated savings account for your emergency fund
• Automate monthly savings to build the fund consistently

When I first travelled as a digital nomad, I only had one freelance writing client that covered half my monthly living costs.

So, I made sure I had enough money in the bank to pay for extra expenses while I was searching for a new client.

 

Different Ways to Make Money as a Digital Nomad

To successfully fund your lifestyle while being a digital nomad, it’s crucial to understand various options available for generating income remotely.

These options will allow you to select the ones that align with your skills and preferences, ensuring financial stability as you travel.

Here are the main options to make money as a digital nomad:

 

Freelancing

Freelancing is a flexible way to earn income, allowing you to offer your expertise to clients worldwide.

It allows you to take on projects with no fixed timeframe, so you always need to make sure you have enough work to pay the bills.

Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr can connect you with potential clients, or you can cold email businesses you want to work for.

The best freelance opportunities for beginners include:

• Virtual assistance: Check out these virtual assistant jobs for beginners.
• Proofreading: Check out these proofreading jobs no experience required.
• Transcriptionist: Check out these transcription jobs for beginners.

Other freelance options include:

• Website design
• Social media management
• Data entry
• Event planning
• Online English teaching
• Voice over
• Graphic design
• Bookkeeping/accounting
• Customer service
• Software developer
• Consulting

 

Remote Employment

Remote employment involves working for a company full-time or part time from any location.

This offers the security of a regular paycheck without needing to travel to an office.

A few common remote job roles include:

• Tech Roles: Software development, IT support, or cybersecurity positions
• Customer Service: Provide support via phone or chat
• Project Management: Oversee projects using tools like Asana or Trello
• Digital Marketing: Handle SEO, content creation, or social media for a company

Get more ideas in this guide on 45 entry level remote jobs always hiring.

 

Start a Business

Launching your own business can be a rewarding way to generate income although it comes with added risks.

Make sure you do your research and check what businesses are working and what people want to buy.

This path offers autonomy and the potential for growth if you can manage the complexities involved.

Here are a few beginner online business ideas:

• Starting an Etsy shop
• Create and sell online courses
• Affiliate marketing on Twitter or Pinterest

Learn more in this guide on automated business ideas.

 

Passive Income Streams

Building passive income streams means earning money with minimal active involvement, allowing you more freedom to explore new places.

You just need to spend time upfront creating the digital asset and then you can get paid 24 hours a day, even when you sleep.

For example, you can create digital products once, and sell them over and over again.

Here are a few more passive income ideas for digital nomads:

• Invest in stocks, real estate, or cryptocurrencies.
• Create and selll eBooks online
• Start a blog and earn passive income from ads and affiliate sales
• Sell digital planners on Etsy
• Sell digital stickers on Etsy
• Take surveys that pay money instantly
• Make money online with ChatGPT AI

 

How to Choose a Digital Nomad Destination

Choosing the right destination is crucial for success as a digital nomad.

You should prioritize aspects like favorable visa regulations, reasonable cost of living, and reliable internet connectivity to ensure a smooth experience while working remotely.

Take a look at the following things to consider to help you choose your first nomad destination:

 

Researching Nomad-Friendly Locations

Digital nomads need a location that supports both work and lifestyle.

Start by exploring cities known for their remote work communities. Some of the best cities for digital nomads include:

• Chiang Mai, Thailand
• Bali, Indonesia
• Medillin, Colombia
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Bansko, Bulgaria
• Mexico City, Mexico

This list is not exhaustive and the amount of nomads in these areas will change each year, so it will pay to do research before you go.

Other things to research include:

• Community: Look for destinations with established expat communities
• Amenities: Ensure access to essentials like healthcare, supermarkets, and cafes
• Culture: Consider cultural fit and recreational activities available

Websites like Nomad List also provide valuable insights about popular nomad locations.

 

Visa Regulations and Legal Requirements

Understanding visa rules and legalities in potential destinations is paramount.

Some countries offer special visas for digital nomads.

• Visa Type: Research countries offering digital nomad or long-stay visas.
• Duration: Check the allowed length of stay and conditions.
• Legal Compliance: Ensure your work and residency comply with local laws.

Consult embassy websites or legal advisors to understand specific requirements.

 

Cost of Living Considerations

You must evaluate how affordable your chosen location is which involves comparing everyday expenses to your budget and income.

Things to consider include:

• Housing: Compare rent or accommodation costs in different areas.
• Food and Transport: Analyze costs of groceries, dining, and public transport.
• Healthcare and Insurance: Factor in medical insurance and healthcare costs.

 

Internet Connectivity and Workspaces

Reliable internet access is non-negotiable for digital nomads as if you don’t have it, you can’t work and make money.

I have experienced no or painfully slow internet many times when I was a digital nomad and I can say – it’s sooooooo frustrating!

Investigate the quality and availability of internet in potential destinations.

Things to look at include:

• Internet Speed: Check average internet speeds through online databases.
• Workspaces: Evaluate availability of coworking spaces or cafes with stable Wi-Fi.
• Mobile Connectivity: Ensure good cellular data coverage for backups.

 

Finding Digital Nomad Accommodation

As I already mentioned, it’s up to you what type of accommodation you stay in as a digital nomad.

If you want budget options I recommend hostels and cheap guesthouses, although be aware you will have less space and privacy to work.

But, you can always go to cafes and co-working spaces if you need.

If you have more money, you can choose to stay in Airbnb homes and hotels, which give you a bit more privacy and quiet space.

Use these sites to find accommodation as you travel:

• Booking.com
• Hostelword.com
• Couchsurfing
• Airbnb

 

Things to Do Before Leaving Home

Preparation is key to enjoying your time as a digital nomad.

From financial planning to cultural awareness, taking the right steps before you leave can make your journey smoother and less stressful.

 

Save Enough Money

Before setting off as a digital nomad, it’s crucial to have enough savings.

Consider the cost of living in your initial destinations, including accommodation, food, transportation, and tours.

For example, in places like Cambodia, if you eat local food and get budget accommodation you can live on very little.

Here is a breakdown example for 1 day:

• Accomodation: $10/day
• Food: $3 a meal x 3 = $9/day
• Drinks: $5

Total for 1 day when not travelling: $24

Work out how much you think you will spend each day and multiply this by 30 to get the costs of your monthly expenses.

But, remember to do your research for the place you are going to.

A general recommendation is to have at least three to six months’ worth of expenses saved up as this cushion can give you peace of mind and flexibility.

 

Pack the Essentials and Put the Rest in Storage

Packing efficiently is essential for a nomadic lifestyle.

Begin by listing essentials, such as technology, converters, clothing suitable for a variety of climates, and necessary toiletries.

Minimize what you bring to avoid extra baggage fees and to keep your belongings manageable as you travel.

For items you won’t need frequently, consider long-term storage solutions.

Label storage boxes clearly for easy retrieval when needed. Prioritize high-quality, versatile items that serve multiple purposes.

 

Get Your Documents in Order

Having all necessary documents prepared and organized is vital before you leave.

This includes your:

– Passport

– Visas

– Driver’s license

– Digital copies of important papers

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay and check visa requirements for each country you plan to visit.

Consider subscribing to services that help manage and update you on any changes to travel requirements.

Keep both physical and cloud-stored copies of all critical documents for easy access and backup.

 

Read About Your First Destination’s Culture and Beliefs

Understanding the culture and beliefs of the first country you will travel to enhances your travel experience.

Research local customs, religious practices, behavioral norms, and etiquette so you don’t offend any of the locals.

Being informed helps you avoid misunderstandings and demonstrates respect for the community.

This respect and curiosity can foster positive relationships and enrich your experience as you integrate into a new environment effectively.

 

Pros and Cons of Digital Nomad Life

Adopting a digital nomad lifestyle offers significant flexibility and opportunities, yet it also presents challenges.

Here, we explore both sides to help you decide if its right for you.

 

Pros

• Flexibility: You can set your work schedule and choose where you want to work, from a beach in Bali to a café in Paris. This level of control over time and location enriches your life with unique experiences.
• Cultural Exposure: Constant travel exposes you to diverse cultures, languages, and perspectives. This not only broadens your horizons but can also inspire creativity and innovation in your work.
• Minimalist Lifestyle: Moving frequently encourages a minimalist approach, helping you focus on essential belongings and reducing clutter.
• Networking Opportunities: You’ll have ample chances to meet other digital nomads and local entrepreneurs, which can lead to exciting collaborations or friendships.

 

Cons

• Isolation: The nomadic lifestyle can be isolating, especially if you find it challenging to establish a routine or struggle to make long-term connections in new places.
• Work Challenges: Reliable internet and suitable work environments aren’t always guaranteed, making remote work difficult in some locations.
• Health Maintenance: Staying healthy on the road can be a challenge, with varying healthcare standards and access. Adapting to new diets and exercise routines in each locale requires extra effort.
• Unpredictable Relationships: Constantly moving can make it difficult to maintain relationships, both romantic and platonic, due to physical distance.

 

FAQS – How to Become a Digital Nomad

Are you ready to dive into the nomad lifestyle?

Or, you may have a few questions before you set off. See below:

 

What equipment do digital nomads need?

To work efficiently on the road, you need a reliable laptop, a portable hotspot for internet access, and quality headphones.

It’s also helpful to have a comfortable backpack for your tech gear and a sturdy power bank.

But, in regards to clothes – I say pack light as you will end up wearing the same comfortable few things mostly.

I gave loads of clothes away when I last travelled as they were weighing me down and so much I didn’t use!

 

How much does it cost to be a digital nomad?

Costs can vary widely based on location, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

Budgeting typically includes travel, accommodation, and living expenses and initial setup might involve investing in remote work essentials like technology and insurance.

Check this guide to compare the cost of living in 500 cities as a digital nomad.

 

Is it legal to be a digital nomad?

The legality of working remotely depends on visa regulations in your chosen location.

Some countries offer digital nomad visas which allow you legal residence while working remotely.

It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with local laws and ensure compliance to avoid potential legal issues while living abroad.

 

What are the highest paying jobs for digital nomads?

High-paying digital nomad careers often include roles in technology and creative industries.

These jobs might include software development, digital marketing, graphic design, and consulting.

Freelancing in specialized fields can also provide lucrative opportunities, but, you will need the skills to get these high paying freelance jobs.

 

Final Thoughts on How to Become a Digital Nomad

Now you know the steps on how to become a digital nomad, it’s over to you to make it happen.

My first adventure travelling was backpacking round SE Asia, where I saved enough money to travel for a few years without working which was awesome.

I ended up in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, where I ran out of money and got a job teaching English.

In the 2.5 years I was there I met two girls who were freelance writing and travelling as a digital nomad, which led me to take a writing course and become a freelance writer.

By taking this course I was able to make money writing and extend my trip and left Cambodia to travel for another year.

I encourage you to invest in freelance skills that will pay you back in the future.

Or, set up a money-making side hustle so you can make money wherever you have an internet connection!

By doing this, you will never have to be tied to an office again and can travel and work where you please.

Happy travels!