Digital nomadism has transformed the business world and our idea of remote working. Workers now have total flexibility and convenience in where they work from. Whether logging on from a faraway beach or a distant city, you can do the same work as you would in the office. And get paid for it!
In their Digital Nomads Report, MBO Partners found that over 17.3 million Americans described themselves as digital nomads. This is an increase of 131% since the pandemic, telling us just how popular digital nomadism has become. 
But this kind of work lifestyle isn’t a simple decision to make. It requires support, technology, and planning. With that in mind, let’s look at some essentials you will need to consider. From tech to pack with you on your trip to the changes businesses are facing, this is your guide to living life as a digital nomad.
Essential tech tools for digital nomads
We’ve all seen lists reminding us to pack laptop chargers and power banks, but here are three tech tips and tricks that not everyone thinks about before embarking on their remote work journey:
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Stay connected with an eSIM
Connectivity is a major problem every digital nomad will face when traveling. Without it, you won’t be able to use your smartphone or tablet to reach co-workers. The problem only grows as you visit more countries, each with local networks to navigate.
An eSIM is a convenient, flexible solution to all your connection issues. It’s a virtual SIM card that helps you change to the best local networks in your area. You don’t need to buy separate SIM cards for different countries. Instead, you can make changes all within an app, all the while avoiding costly roaming charges.
The only thing you need to do before you jet off is check whether your smartphone is compatible. Then, download an eSIM app and take out a package that suits your length of travel and data requirements.
Keep in mind that there are many companies in the eSIM industry now, making it hard to know who offers the best connectivity and reliability. It’s important to carefully read reviews and research services before making a decision.
Take this Saily review as an example. It seems that Nord Security’s eSIM service is the go-to choice for many digital nomads. With service in over 150 countries and promising 24/7 support, you can enjoy guaranteed connectivity from anywhere.
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Secure your connections with a Virtual Private Network
One major concern businesses have over remote working is cybersecurity. After all, workers might not enjoy the same security abroad as they would in the office. And more and more cybercriminals are targeting these lax digital nomads.
Thankfully, there’s an innovative solution to this. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a tech tool that protects you when online. It encrypts your internet connection, making it impossible for people to track your online activity. With a VPN, digital nomads can work on files without compromising safety or integrity.
Even on public Wi-Fi networks, a VPN acts as a barrier to protect your personal and work information. A VPN can work on many devices, protecting smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Many services also have anti-phishing and malware features, further bolstering your defenses.
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Use cloud-based tools while on the move
Cloud-based tools are a digital nomad’s best friend when traveling. Accessible via a browser, they are lightweight and easy to use while on the move. You won’t need to download huge software or carry bulky hard drives to continue working.
You only need a smartphone, laptop, or tablet for most applications. Tools like Zoom or Slack can be instrumental in keeping communication alive and file-sharing going. Others, like Google Drive, help you share files and collaborate with colleagues. Altogether, upskilling in cloud-based tools can ensure you’re productive while away.
What does the future hold for digital nomads?
The future of the global workforce is changing, with more workers choosing digital nomadism. This trend could bring significant changes for businesses, including:
- Real estate: Remote work means that businesses do not have to rent expensive offices in expensive places. Flexible co-working spaces exist worldwide and will continue to replace traditional office settings.
- Work culture: Digital nomadism offers amazing flexibility and convenience to workers. As such, fixed hours are becoming a thing of the past. This means workers can travel, explore and hone their skills. This will reduce burnout and improve job satisfaction.
- Local economies: Mixing travel and work has major benefits for local economies. Many towns and villages are investing in infrastructure to attract more digital nomads, and an increasing number of countries are expected to introduce digital nomad visas in the coming years.
Is this the end of the traditional workplace?
The rise of digital nomads is an ongoing phenomenon worldwide. Now, workers can take to the skies and explore the world while keeping up with their everyday duties. This could well be the phasing out of traditional offices.
But as exciting as remote working from around the world is, it’s not without challenges. Workers must upskill and embrace new-age technology to ensure a stress-free transition to nomadism. This includes embracing the newest tech trends to stay connected with co-workers from anywhere in the world at all times.
