Turning Travel Into a Digital Nomad Income Adventure
Traveling the world while working remotely can be very exciting. However, before you can make the leap, it’s important to prepare.
Having a stable source of income and clients is key. Also, it’s recommended that you settle any outstanding debt before your departure.
You will also need to get your documents in order and downsize your belongings to fit into a carry-on.
1. Build a Global Network
A major part of being a digital nomad is networking. Many digital nomads find their clients or projects through online forums and communities, so it’s important to build a network before you leave home. You can also seek out workshops or classes to gain more knowledge about the nomadic lifestyle, as well as network at coworking spaces to meet like-minded people.
Some digital nomads may also choose to join a network that is specific to their city or region, as they are more likely to be able to offer on-the-ground advice. For example, they can tell you if it is safe to live in a certain city or if a specific visa is required.
It is also important to prepare financially before you start traveling as a digital nomad. Settle as much debt as possible, and make sure you have a sufficient income to keep you going while you are on the road. Also, consider adjusting to a life of less, by cleaning out your belongings and cutting down on unnecessary subscriptions and habits.
2. Find Work You Are Good At
Digital nomads work remotely, so they can be located in any city or country on the globe. Some work on freelance gigs like writing, graphic design, web development, and other technical tasks. Others build ecommerce businesses, leveraging the flexibility of remote work and a global network to develop a brand that resonates with customers across cultures.
Working from home can be challenging, but it’s possible to find a work/life balance with the right support system. Coworking spaces around the world offer structure, community, and a sense of belonging, while nomad groups and events provide networking opportunities. Many digital nomads also sell their homes and other possessions to make the transition easier, which can reduce stress and financial burdens.
The biggest challenge of being a digital nomad is generating enough income to sustain the lifestyle. It’s not uncommon for new nomads to run out of money in their first few months of travel, so they have to be careful with how much they spend and where they go. This is why it’s important to save before making the leap, and also to diversify your income streams to reduce your risk of a sudden decline in income.
3. Adjust to a Life of Less
The most important thing to do before becoming a digital nomad is to have a realistic financial plan. Match your income to the cost of living in each destination and cut out the fluff (like gym memberships, expensive habits, and unnecessary subscriptions). You should also have top-rated travel health insurance like SafetyWing so that you can deal with unforeseen medical issues while on the road.
Some digital nomads choose to travel around the world in campervans or RVs, while others live on boats and cruise from port to port. Still, others follow a particular passion like surfing or chasing an eternal summer. Depending on the type of nomad you want to become, consider how long you want to travel and if you want to travel solo or with a partner or family.
It’s easy to glamourize life as a digital nomad with all those Instagram pictures showing people working from beautiful beaches or co-working spaces. But the truth is that it takes a lot of planning to get there. It’s also not for everyone, so it’s a good idea to try out the lifestyle first before committing fully.
4. Get Health Insurance
If you’re planning to travel extensively and work as a digital nomad, getting health insurance is a must. There are several plans available, from basic to comprehensive. Make sure to get coverage that will cover the places you plan to visit and any potential emergencies. You’ll also want a portable Wi-Fi hotspot that will allow you to stay connected on your adventures. There are many devices to choose from, each with its own unique perks and quirks. For example, the Simo Solis Lite is a popular choice among travelers and remote workers because of its versatility and ability to connect multiple devices. It also includes an internal SIM card and data plans that you can activate for a daily or monthly fee.
5. Get a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot
Imagine swapping the static hum of your office for the gentle lull of a beach in Australia or the quiet buzz of a cozy cafe in London. This is the life of a digital nomad, and it’s becoming more common than ever before as remote work and global connectivity improve. While the concept is exciting, there are some important considerations that must be taken into account before buying a plane ticket to the next destination.
The first is determining what work you can do while travelling. Digital nomads often take on roles like freelance writers, coaches, website or graphic designers, marketing experts, bookkeepers, and more. It’s important to find a job that can be done anywhere in the world and then learn the skills necessary to perform it.
The second is finding a place that offers good internet reliability and affordability. Look for cities that have a reputation for good connectivity and research the cost of living to make sure your money stretches as far as possible while on a digital nomad income adventure.