Most people dream of one day packing up and traveling the world. Going to far-flung locations, exploring new cultures, and making memories that will last a lifetime. But life always seems to get in the way. The commitments of work and family make it difficult to justify spending weeks, months or even years wandering the globe. Not to mention the cost.
A painter working with his brush. The scenery is definitely worth some art!
But with the right mindset and strategies, it is perfectly possible to combine work with long term travel. There are many digital nomads out there who work remotely or on a freelance basis who are free to travel wherever they like and earn a living at the same time.
It sounds like a dream, but how do you make it a reality? To get you started on your journey to becoming a digital nomad, here are four tips for successfully combining work and travel.
Choose the right job
There are certain jobs that require you to be hands-on and in a fixed physical location. For example, you will struggle to be a full-time surgeon, taxi driver, or construction worker while on your travels. Yet, in this digital age, many professions can be performed more or less completely virtually. Services like copywriting, graphic design, and computer programming are just a few examples. If you already work in such a profession, you are well on your way. Yet if not, you may need to acquire some new skills before you start packing your bags. While you do that, there are still many ways you make money online while traveling. For instance, you could sell feet pics to line your pockets during lull times.Whatever your interests, there are countless online courses you can take to gain knowledge and tons of ways to pay for your studying.
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Get the right tools
As a digital nomad, you need to be able to get online and communicate no matter where you are. The majority of challenges that arise from remote work can be solved instantly by investing in the right technology. A reliable laptop and smartphone will be crucial, as will some collaboration software that lets you communicate regularly with clients, partners, or employees. You may even need to acquire a virtual address for remote use so you can still receive mail on the go. Other important tools may include cameras, universal chargers, payment processors, and a cloud-storage system.
Choose your countries wisely
Working from unfamiliar locations can present an additional challenge. You will have to deal with logistical hurdles like visa applications, varied internet access, exchange rates, and new languages. Do your research before moving onto a new location and ensure you give yourself plenty of time to settle in.
Be prepared
The digital nomad lifestyle isn’t for everyone. It often involves changing routines and working at odd hours. If you are the kind of person who prefers a fixed work schedule, it may not be for you. It’s essential that you take some time to speak to other digital nomads and understand what you are getting into. Although you will get the opportunity to travel, it won’t be all fun and games, and you will still have to work hard to earn a living.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a lifestyle with flexibility, freedom, and adventure, being a digital nomad is an excellent option. As long as you follow these four tips, you will be able to explore the world while making a living at the same time.
