A digital nomad is a phrase for people who travel worldwide and work digitally free from the office. So it is not weird to see someone holding a Zoom meeting from their trailer overlooking a beautiful lake. Wouldn’t it be nice to end the workday by the sea or at the liveliest café in a historic city?

The basis of being a digital nomad is to fulfill all those dreams and journeys. Shortly, a cheaper and more minimalistic life awaits you, where you can continue to work wherever you are.

Traveling without interrupting their business life is the digital nomads’ most outstanding characteristic. They work in places with internet and mobile access, such as libraries, cafes, co-working spaces in their region. Digital nomads are ready to work anywhere and anytime with their laptops, tablets, or smartphone.

Becoming a Digital Nomad

Many prefer to pursue different career options and be location independent rather than working for one company for life. If you are one of them, then you are about to be a digital nomad.

The number of companies supporting this innovative group is growing by the day.  They are passionate about traveling the world. They aren’t tied to any location for their work.

So, you do not have to be a freelancer while becoming one. Some companies even offer dedicated staff for creative and productive minds who want remote work.

In other words, this way of living gives you the independence of time and place, depending on a certain amount of overtime, without being physically tied to a position.

While becoming a digital nomad, you need to

• Be a citizen of the world
• Be proficient in the English language
• Be patient and self-disciplined
• Strive for technology and innovation
• Be open to personal development
• Keep your inner motivation strong

Most importantly, don’t give up!

Saving Is a Must

Yes, saving is very important at this point. Because you may not be able to earn a regular income for a while. Part with things you no longer need, sell them if necessary.

It may also be a good idea to take out health insurance for critical situations, accidents, and illnesses. So, do not go out without travel insurance. Be sure to choose the right international debit cards and credit cards.

By taking care of yourself, you can make sure that you are safe. Since you will always be in different places, an unexpected situation can happen to you anywhere and anytime.

Don’t Give Up!

It can be more challenging than you think at first, do not give up! This is a process, and you will enjoy it more as you adapt to countries. You can build different business branches, like blogging, when your business is established.

Advantages of Working and Traveling

First, it gives you the opportunity to learn about different cultures and integrate for as long as you want. It allows you to grow. The flexibility of working conditions is also essential.

You can choose your working hours and schedule. Who doesn’t want to swim or go for a walk in nature first and then get the hard work done? That is why becoming a digital nomad is actually a growing trend.

One of the benefits of being on the road while working is the chance to experience different cultures and people. While you are in other countries, you get to learn about their work systems. 

Another benefit is that you get to meet new people all the time. This way, you can improve your communication network and your professional environment.

A life that is not bound by patterns will also increase your productivity. Who wants to spend their life in an office? It can now be easier to make your dreams come true.

No More Stress!

Of course, there is minor stress! Conflicts in the office environment, crowded buildings, or traffic jams no longer exist. The moment you decide to be a digital nomad, you create a free and peaceful world for yourself.

Besides the universal language English, you will meet many new languages and get to know people.

What Jobs Can You Do as a Digital Nomad?

To become a digital nomad, you need to be able to do your work remotely. Thus digital marketing, graphics, design, media, and telecommunications are the most suitable professions to work.

You can try to get more information by looking at online pieces of training and summits first. It is also possible to get training on digital nomadism.

Nomad Summit, held in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a great organization where you can get information about digital nomadism from experts. Digital Nomad Festival is also one of the biggest conferences. Another summit on this topic organized over the internet is Freedom Summit.

If you want help, you can also join communities like CouchSurfing or Nomadlist. Here you can get information from experienced nomads. Besides, staying connected will always work. You can also join our growing community where digital nomads share their experiences.

Some of the jobs and industries you can do as a digital nomad are:

• Digital marketing specialist
• Social media expert
• Designer
• Copywriter or blogger
• Online-offline trainer
• Consultant
• Strategist
• Project manager
• Translator
• Accountant
• Editor
• Online services
• E-commerce
• Digital advertising industry

It Also Has Its Challenges

First of all, even though it sounds very tempting, you need to meet specific requirements to become a digital nomad. For example, before you quit your full-time job, you should build a portfolio that will help you attract clients. Even if you do not have an income, you should have enough savings to get by for a few months.

You may have to cut back on your debt and expenses for a while. At least until your new business model is established. If possible, try to contact clients you can work with as a digital nomad without quitting your job.

First, make a budget plan for expenses in the countries you will be going to. It is also helpful to research the healthcare systems of the countries you have chosen. It would be best if you made a contingency plan for emergencies. 

Allergies to foods from other cultures or even getting used to new bedding can sometimes be stressful. Even tap water can be a problem. So, you may even consider taking a few bottles of water with you.

Do not forget to find out about working conditions in the countries. For example, do some research on taxes and other issues. Some nomads avoid taxes completely by becoming non-residents at home and moving to avoid being residents somewhere. Find out about the conditions in the country you are going to.

The Internet Should Be Everywhere

The biggest challenge of becoming a digital nomad is the internet. Before you set your country preferences, check the internet services of the regions. Make sure you check Digital Quality Life Index too.

Although sometimes internet packages are enough, electricity can also be a problem from time to time, especially in some Asian countries. Thus, you can resort to devices like a portable hotspot. Do not forget to consider your technological requirements.

Of course, it is nice if you can move your office to any place with the internet! With the rise of digital nomads, it is often possible to find “co-working spaces” in cities.

You can also become a member of co-working spaces, meet up with people from different fields and share ideas. If you want to work by traveling all the time, it is useful to get in touch with other nomads who live like this and get ideas.

Now sit back, close your eyes, and first imagine where you want to go. With that motivation, then create a business plan for yourself and take the steps. Here, you are becoming a digital nomad!

If you’re interested to find out more about being a digital nomad, make sure you check out our Digital Nomad Visas article as well.