With a pocket full of love and a bag brimming with curiosity, it seems like all that’s left to bring is a camera and a chocolate bar, and you’ll be all set for the journey into the unknown. So many things have become simpler with technology, including the idea of traveling the world and working on the go. All you need is a few handy skills, a strong Internet connection, and a laptop to stay connected to the world. However, as a nomad myself, I know the value of a few additional items hidden in your bag.
It doesn’t matter what you choose to do as your mobile career, or where you wish to settle for a while before your travel bug starts wiggling once more, the next set of items are truly must-haves and must-dos for any true working nomad. They’ll help you stay safe, healthy, and well-equipped throughout your entire nomadic career!
Photo by Charles Deloye
Do an internet search
Unless you’re traveling with an unlimited supply of cash, you’ll need to make sure that you are able to work online as you move through your next bucket-list destination of choice. Even in the 21st century, you’ll still come across rural areas with poor Internet coverage, which will either limit the duration of your stay or your working ability.
So, quite literally, do some homework regarding the available Internet connection in your destination. Maybe this will be the determining factor as to where you’ll stay. For example, Greece is notorious for having an unreliable Internet connection in its coastal areas and islands, so if you’re getting ready for a Greek adventure, do your research!
Photo by Salome Alexa
Look into lifestyle options
Are you a fitness freak like myself, or a lover of vegan cuisine? If you’re on your way to Portugal, for example, you might find yourself struggling to find a decent place for your veggie burger, while Scandinavian countries will have you covered.
A sturdy bag
Now that you know you’re healthy and Internet-equipped, it’s time to choose your travel piece de resistance, which is your bag! Since you’ll keep your laptop, your clothes, and other essentials in there, you should always choose a bag that is both durable, water-resistant and has enough room for all your must-haves. A compact, but still practical option for minimalist explorers can be the Lifepack bag, while there are larger options out there as well.
Photo by Florencia Viadana
Multipurpose clothes
Fashionistas may cringe at the idea of packing their basics only, but when you don’t want to stay in a single location for too long, limiting your wardrobe will make your journey a simpler one. Black, white, and other colors that are easy to mix and match are perfect, while light-weight and easy to pack are other qualities to look for in the perfect wardrobe picks.
A puffer jacket that fits into a small pouch, the likes of Uniqlo, makes traveling in different climates a dream come true. Simple tees, water-proof pants, and plenty of underwear alongside comfortable footwear should be your go-to wearables.
Reliable tech gear
In addition to your favorite laptop, phone, and camera, you should consider enriching your little techy collection with other additions that provide a smooth working experience on the go. An extra external hard drive, a portable battery, and all the charges you need should definitely be on your checklist. For those who cannot live without music, find some room for a pair of wireless earphones in your bag.
Photo by Jony Ariadi
A health check-up and habits
It may seem like an obvious, “goes without saying” tip, but it’s important to note that every avid traveler should make sure they only hit the road in excellent health. Aussies are a very health-aware nation, so for them, it’s only natural to conduct a full health and dental checkup before they travel. It is also very important to eat healthily. Having a continuous supply of healthy snacks saves you time and money.
A travel-friendly hygiene mix
I have yet to meet a devoted travel fan who still has room in their bag for a wide range of toners, cleansers, serums, and other beauty picks. If only, right? Well, although you have to let go of a complicated routine, you can still bring a few practical, also multi-purpose beauty items to stay fresh on the road.
Travel-friendly bottles mean tiny, transparent, and easy to use, so look for soap bars with ingredients you can use for your face, body, and hair, toothpaste, and a lotion that is also body and face-perfect. Multi-purpose wins every time!
Claire Hastings is a wanderer and a writer. She writes as long as she can remember, and she is very passionate about fashion, running, other cultures, and her cat.
