Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing in Bali, answering emails from a café in Lisbon, or brainstorming your next big project in a cozy coworking space in Mexico City. This isn’t a dream — it’s the life of a digital nomad.
Want to take your career with you as you roam the world? Then becoming a digital nomad is something you may want to look into. Digital nomads are individuals who leverage technology to work from anywhere while using the internet as their office.
There are a lot of misconceptions about digital nomadism, but it is a legitimate and growing way of life that can be extremely rewarding. In this post, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to become a digital nomad and how to make it a reality.
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Definition of a Digital Nomad
A digital nomad is someone who works remotely while embracing a lifestyle of travel and exploration, often hopping between different locations. They rely on digital tools, a strong internet connection, and a trusty laptop to get the job done—whether from a cozy café in Paris, a beachside coworking space in Bali, or a camper van parked in the Alps.
Unlike the traditional office grind, digital nomads design their lives around what matters most to them: affordability, culture, or just chasing the next great adventure. Some hit the road year-round, while others mix it up with part-time nomadism or keep a home base for added stability.
And that’s the beauty of it—you get to create a lifestyle that works for you. Some of us nomad full-time, and others part of the year. Some have a home base and others live entirely out of a suitcase. That's one of the perks of being a digital nomad — you have the freedom to craft a life that serves your unique needs and interests. After all, the only one you have to life with the rest of your life is you!
Pros and Cons of Digital Nomading
The digital nomad lifestyle is undeniably exciting, but it’s not all rooftop coworking and Instagram-worthy sunsets. 🌅 Before you pack your bags, let's weigh the upsides and challenges of a nomadic way of life.
Pros of Being a Digital Nomad:
Being a digital nomad comes with a world of perks—literally. Here’s why so many people are ditching the 9-to-5 and hitting the road:
🌟 Flexibility: Say goodbye to cubicles and commutes! As a digital nomad, your office is wherever you can find a good Wi-Fi signal, whether it’s a beachfront café, a mountain cabin, or your favorite coworking space. You get to design your ideal work environment.
🌍 Global Exploration: Why wait for vacation days to see the world? Digital nomads get to immerse themselves in new cultures, explore stunning destinations, and turn every day into an adventure—all while keeping their career on track.
⏳ Work-Life Balance: Early bird? Night owl? You’re in charge of your schedule. Tailor your work hours to match your productivity peaks and make time for what really matters—whether that’s hiking a volcano or simply enjoying a long lunch.
💰 Cost Savings: Who says paradise has to break the bank? Many nomads choose locations with a lower cost of living, letting them stretch their income further and enjoy a higher quality of life for less.
🌱 Personal Growth: Living and working in ever-changing environments pushes you to adapt, learn, and grow. From mastering a new language to navigating unfamiliar streets, the challenges of nomad life can build resilience and confidence in ways you never imagined.
The digital nomad lifestyle isn’t just about work; it’s about creating a life that feels expansive, exciting, and uniquely yours.
Cons of Being a Digital Nomad
While the digital nomad lifestyle is full of adventure and freedom, it’s not without its hurdles. Here are some common challenges to consider as you decide if this path is right for you:
🤝 Isolation: Traveling the world can sometimes feel lonely. Being away from family, friends, and familiar faces for long stretches of time can take its toll, even for the most independent spirits.
💸 Unpredictable Income: For freelancers and gig workers, income can be feast or famine. This makes budgeting and long-term financial planning a bit trickier—but not impossible with the right strategies.
⏰ Time Zone Challenges: Coordinating with clients or teams across multiple time zones can lead to late-night calls, early-morning meetings, or a lot of juggling to keep everyone in sync.
🏠 Lack of Stability: Constantly moving from place to place can make it tough to find a routine, establish long-term friendships, or feel grounded. This lifestyle is ideal for those who thrive on change, but it’s not for everyone.
📋 Limited Benefits: Traditional perks like health insurance, paid leave, or retirement plans are often unavailable for nomads, especially freelancers. This means you’ll need to plan ahead and take charge of your own benefits.
Being a digital nomad offers unmatched freedom and exploration, but it’s important to weigh these challenges against the perks. Taking a realistic look at both the highs and lows will help you decide if this lifestyle fits your personal and professional goals.
Now that you know what to expect, let’s get into some tips to kick-start your digital nomad adventure!
Step 1: Make the Decision on a Digital Nomad Lifestyle
How can you set yourself up for success in this exciting, but unconventional, lifestyle?
Consider Your Current Situation
Taking the leap into the digital nomad lifestyle starts with a deep dive into where you are right now. It’s not just about dreaming of far-off places—it’s about making sure the pieces of your life align with the freedom and flexibility of remote work.
Start by looking at your professional world: Does your current job allow for remote work? Are your skills in demand in the remote economy? And if not, how might you pivot to something more location-independent?
Next, think about your finances. Do you have a savings cushion to fall back on during the transition? Are you comfortable navigating the ebb and flow of nomadic expenses?
But it’s not just logistics—your mindset matters, too. What drives you? Are you chasing adventure, craving change, or seeking a new way to align your values with your work? Reflecting on what truly matters to you will help you shape a nomadic lifestyle that fits like a glove.
This is your foundation. Once you’ve mapped out where you stand, you’ll be ready to start building the life you want—one city, country, or coworking space at a time.
Ask Yourself if You're Willing to Make the Leap
Yes, the idea of working from a beach sounds great—but are you ready for the occasional Wi-Fi hiccup or missing your favorite local coffee shop back home? Embracing the nomadic life requires a mix of excitement and adaptability. It calls for a leap of faith and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone.
Ask yourself if you're ready for the challenges and opportunities that come with a nomadic existence. Here's a quick exercise to get you started:
📝 Digital Nomad Readiness Checklist
Ask yourself:
✅ Am I adaptable? Can I handle sudden changes in plans, like spotty Wi-Fi 🌐 or missed flights ✈️, with a cool head?
✅ Do I thrive independently? Can I stay motivated and productive without a traditional office setup or direct supervision? 💻
✅ Am I ready for adventure? Do I crave exploring new places 🗺️, trying new foods 🍜, and stepping outside my comfort zone?
✅ Can I embrace minimalism? Am I okay with living out of a suitcase 🧳 and leaving behind the comforts of home?
✅ Do I have financial stability? Can I manage irregular income 💸, plan a budget, and build a safety net for emergencies?
✅ Am I willing to build connections? Am I ready to join a global community, network 🤝, and make new friends wherever I go?
✅ Is freedom worth the trade-offs? Do I value the ability to design my life over the security of a traditional lifestyle? 🌟
Don't let it stop you if you cannot say yes to everything right now! The idea here is simply to identify things that will help you in your digital nomad journey so you can work on them.
Step 2: Research Your Current Options and Define your Skills
Becoming a digital nomad means finding work that lets you thrive from anywhere in the world. This step is all about taking inventory of what you bring to the table and matching it with opportunities in the remote work landscape. Here’s how to get started:
What Are Your Skills?
Take a moment to reflect on your strengths and expertise. What are you really good at? Writing compelling copy? Designing jaw-dropping graphics? Coding like a pro? Skills like these are in high demand in the remote economy. Even if you don’t have a "techy" background, you might be surprised how transferable your existing skills are—whether it’s project management, customer service, or teaching.
Pro Tip: If there’s a skill you’ve always wanted to learn, now’s the time! Online courses and certifications can open doors to new opportunities in fields like digital marketing, UX design, or content creation.
Identify Potential Gigs
Once you’ve mapped out your skills, start exploring what’s out there. Check out remote job boards like We Work Remotely or freelancing platforms like Upwork and Fiverr to see what kinds of roles align with your expertise. Prefer something more stable? Research companies offering fully remote positions or talk to your current employer about transitioning to a remote setup.
The key here is to find gigs or jobs that fit your strengths and lifestyle, ensuring a steady income while you embrace the freedom of working from anywhere.
Consider Going Freelance
Freelancing can be a game-changer for digital nomads, offering ultimate flexibility in choosing your projects, clients, and hours. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re drawn to autonomy and want to align your work with the nomadic ethos, it might be your golden ticket.
Start by exploring platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Toptal to understand the demand for your skills and get a feel for the freelance world. From here, you can set up a profile, start applying for gigs, and build a portfolio that will attract even more clients.
Step 3. Secure remote work
Finding remote work is a cornerstone of the digital nomad lifestyle. It’s how you support your travel dreams while maintaining the flexibility to explore the world. Here’s how to land a job that lets you work from anywhere:
Use Online Platforms to Find Location Independent Jobs
In the world of remote work, online platforms are your best friend. Websites like Upwork, Freelancer, and RemoteOK are treasure troves of opportunities, offering everything from freelance gigs to long-term contracts in fields like writing, design, programming, and marketing.
For a more curated experience, check out remote-specific job boards like We Work Remotely or FlexJobs. These platforms focus on connecting you with companies actively seeking remote talent, making it easier to find roles that align with your skills and lifestyle goals.
Pro Tip: Stay active on LinkedIn and join remote work communities online. Networking can often lead to opportunities that don’t show up on job boards!
Ensure Your New Job Can Be Done Anywhere
Not all remote jobs are created equal. When considering a role, make sure it truly fits the digital nomad lifestyle. Look for positions where success is measured by your output rather than your physical location.
Whether you’re freelancing, working for a remote-first company, or building your own online business, prioritize roles that give you the freedom to work from any corner of the globe. This way, you’ll be free to choose inspiring backdrops for your “office,” whether it’s a coliving space in Bali or a camper van in New Zealand.
It's important to check with employers and clients on any restrictions around travel. Some companies are sensitive about their devices crossing borders or servers being accessed from out-of-country. Others allow remote work only for a limited time each year. You don't want to find this out the hard way, when you're already off on your nomad journey. Ask for their policies, and if you're a freelancer or consultant, make your own.
Digital Nomad Job Examples
The possibilities are endless for digital nomad jobs from a freelance career as an independent worker to digital marketing, customer service, or web development under an employer. You can also take on starting an online business as an entrepreneur or set up different streams of passive income. To learn more about how to become a remote worker and the type of work available, check out this blog post.
Step 4: Prepare Your Life for the Nomadic Lifestyle
Before you pack your bags and hit the road, take some time to set up the foundations for a smooth transition into digital nomad life. From paperwork to possessions to building a support network, a little preparation goes a long way.
Make Sure You Have an Address
Even as a globetrotter, you’ll need a reliable address for official matters like legal documents, banking, and correspondence. A virtual mailbox service can be a lifesaver, giving you a stable address to receive mail and even forwarding it to you wherever you are. Alternatively, a trusted friend or family member can serve as your home base for mail and admin tasks.
Pro Tip: Many virtual mailbox services also scan your mail so you can access it digitally, making it even easier to manage on the go.
Decide What to Do With Your Possessions
Living a nomadic life means you’ll need to pare down your belongings to the essentials. Embrace minimalism by selling, donating, or storing items you don’t need. Think about what you can realistically take with you and what you’ll want to keep safe for the future.
Sell or Donate:
Give your things a second life and earn a little extra cash for your travels.
Store Smart:
Look into secure storage options for items you want to keep but can’t bring along.
The lighter your load, the easier it is to move from place to place—and to truly enjoy the freedom of the nomadic lifestyle.
Create a Network of Friends
One of the best parts of being a digital nomad is joining a global community of like-minded adventurers. Start building your network before you hit the road!
Start out on a community trip like Hacker Paradise or at a purpose-built coliving-coworking property like an Outsite so you can meet some people and dip your toes into the nomad lifestyle with others.
Join online forums, social media groups, and use apps like Nomadago to connect with other nomads.
Attend meetups and events designed for remote workers and travelers.
Keep in touch with people you meet on the road—they’re often a wealth of knowledge and support.
Having a strong network not only makes it easier to adjust to new places but also gives you a sense of belonging no matter where you are in the world.
Step 5: Make a Budget
Financial planning is the backbone of a successful digital nomad lifestyle. By understanding your expenses and income, you can set realistic goals and navigate the ups and downs of remote work with confidence. Here’s how to get started:
Estimate Your Living Expenses
Before you hit the road, research the cost of living in your potential destinations. Factor in essentials like accommodation, food, transportation, and unexpected expenses. Don’t forget to account for:
Currency exchange rates 💱
Travel insurance and healthcare 🩺
Monthly subscriptions (Netflix, Spotify, cloud storage) 📱
Pro Tip: Use cost-of-living calculators like Numbeo to compare destinations and set your budget accordingly.
Calculate Your Earnings
Take a hard look at your income streams. If you’re keeping your current job, what will your salary look like after taxes or potential currency conversions? For freelancers, consider the ebb and flow of client work and project income.
Questions to ask yourself:
Is your income steady enough to support your travel plans?
Do you need to adjust your rates or take on additional clients?
Are there new skills you can learn to boost your earning potential?
A clear understanding of your income helps you align your travel goals with financial reality.
Get a Credit Card With Travel Rewards
A good travel rewards credit card can be a game-changer for digital nomads. Look for features like:
No foreign transaction fees 🌎
Travel insurance for peace of mind ✈️
Cashback or points on flights, accommodations, and everyday purchases 💳
Pro Tip: Research cards that match your spending habits, and use rewards to offset costs like flights or hotels.
Build a Financial Safety Net
The nomadic lifestyle is full of excitement, but it’s also unpredictable. A solid financial safety net is your best ally for navigating unexpected challenges while staying focused on your journey.
Start by saving enough to cover three to six months of living expenses. This cushion can help with:
Unplanned medical costs 🩺
Gaps in income or delayed payments from clients 💸
Emergency travel back home or to a new location ✈️
For freelancers, this step is even more crucial since income can fluctuate. Set up an emergency fund in an accessible account, and contribute to it regularly to ensure you’re ready for anything life on the road throws your way.
With a financial buffer in place, you can focus on embracing the freedom of the digital nomad lifestyle without the stress of “what if” hanging over you. Peace of mind goes a long way in making your adventure truly sustainable. 🌟
Step 6: Choose a Location
Selecting where to live and work as a digital nomad is one of the most exciting—and strategic—parts of the journey. It’s not just about picking between city lights or sandy beaches; it’s about finding a location that aligns with your professional and personal needs. And remember, you only need to have a starting point.
Decide which Time Zones Work
Time zones can make or break your workflow as a digital nomad. Start by considering where your clients, team, or company headquarters are based.
Will you need regular overlap for meetings?
Are asynchronous work schedules an option?
How will your chosen time zone affect your personal productivity?
Choosing a destination that allows for reasonable overlap with your professional network ensures smooth communication and minimizes stress. For example, Bali might be dreamy, but working on EST hours from there could mean late-night calls that disrupt your routine.
Nomad Friendly Locations
Look for cities or regions with strong digital nomad communities and the infrastructure to support remote work. Key factors to consider:
Reliable, fast internet 🛜
Coworking spaces and colivings 🏢
Cost of living 💸
Safety and healthcare access 🩺
Some popular nomad hubs include Lisbon, Medellín, Chiang Mai, and Tulum. These locations offer a mix of affordability, vibrant communities, and top-notch amenities for remote workers.
Consider Digital Nomad Visas
Many countries now offer digital nomad visas, making it easier to live and work abroad legally for longer stints of time in each place. These visas often come with perks like extended stays, simplified paperwork, and tax benefits. Popular options include:
Portugal
(D7 Visa) 🌊
Mexico
(Temporary Resident Visa) 🌴
Costa Rica
(Rentista Visa) 🌿
Research the requirements for each visa—such as proof of income or local sponsorship—to find the best fit for your goals.
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Step 7: Find Accommodations
Finding the right place to stay is key to creating a productive and enjoyable nomadic experience. Your home base should feel comfortable, offer the amenities you need to work remotely, and ideally, help you connect with the local or nomad community.
Look Into Airbnb
Airbnb is a go-to resource for digital nomads, offering flexible options for short- and long-term stays. Unlike traditional hotels, Airbnbs often provide more personalized and home-like setups, perfect for remote work. You may find it gets lonely, though, and choose to alternate solo (or couple) stays in private accommodations with colivings and community travel groups.
When searching on Airbnb, here’s what to prioritize:
Reliable Wi-Fi:
Use filters to find listings with verified internet speeds.
Workspace:
Look for places with desks or dedicated work areas.
Full Kitchens:
Save money and eat healthier by cooking at home.
Pro Tip: Book early, especially for high-demand destinations, to secure the best deals and accommodations that match your needs.
Benefits of Colivings and Digital Nomad Communities
For a more immersive experience, consider staying in coliving spaces tailored to digital nomads. These shared living arrangements combine accommodations with coworking areas, social events, and a built-in community of like-minded travelers. You can find independent colivings in many towns and cities, as well as established brands such as Outsite that operate coliving communities all over the world.
Why choose coliving?
Easy networking and collaboration opportunities 🤝
Shared resources like coworking spaces with high-speed internet 🌐
Social activities that help you feel connected and supported 🎉
Popular coliving spaces often double as hubs for digital nomads, making it easier to adapt to a new location and meet others with similar lifestyles. Explore your coliving options on the Nomadago website or in the app.
Step 8: Get Your Paperwork In Order
The freedom of the digital nomad lifestyle comes with one big responsibility: ensuring your paperwork is in check. From visas to taxes, handling the logistics upfront will save you from headaches down the road and allow you to focus on enjoying the journey.
Find Out What You Need
Start by researching the legal requirements for working remotely in your chosen destinations. This includes:
Visa regulations 🛂
Work permits 📝
Residency requirements 🌍
Check embassy websites, immigration authorities, or trusted travel resources for accurate and up-to-date information. If you’re sticking to countries that allow stays on tourist visas, the process will likely be simpler, but always confirm how long you can legally stay and whether remote work is permitted.
Obtain Necessary Visas & Permits
Many countries now offer digital nomad visas, specifically designed for remote workers. These visas often include perks like extended stays, simplified applications, and legal work allowances. Examples include:
Portugal’s D7 Visa
Mexico’s Temporary Resident Visa
Costa Rica’s Rentista Visa
Be proactive with your applications—start early to avoid last-minute stress. Stick to application timelines and ensure you have the required documents, such as proof of income, health insurance, or background checks.
Prepare for a Tougher Tax Situation
Taxes can get complicated when you’re earning income globally. To stay compliant and avoid surprises, take these steps:
Research tax obligations in your home country and the countries you plan to visit.
Look into tax treaties that may prevent double taxation.
Americans, for instance, can often reduce their tax burden through the
Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE).
If you’re freelancing or managing multiple income streams, consider consulting an international tax expert who can guide you through deductions, reporting requirements, and opportunities to save.
Pro Tip: If you’re working for a traditional employer, your tax situation might remain relatively straightforward—but it’s always good to double-check.
Step 9: Establish a Routine
The digital nomad lifestyle is all about flexibility, but a solid routine is what keeps the freedom sustainable. Having structure in your day will help you stay productive, maintain work-life balance, and enjoy all the perks of your new surroundings without feeling overwhelmed.
Create Your Work Schedule
Start by identifying your most productive hours and aligning them with your work responsibilities. If you’re collaborating with teams or clients across time zones, plan for overlapping hours to ensure smooth communication.
Here’s how to build a schedule that works:
Set regular working hours to create consistency. 🕒
Schedule breaks to recharge and explore your surroundings. ☕
Block off “deep work” time for tasks requiring focus. 💻
Pro Tip: Use tools like Google Calendar or time-blocking apps to manage your day and avoid overcommitting to work.
Continue Routines from Home
While life on the road offers plenty of newness, sticking to familiar routines can provide much-needed stability. Morning rituals, exercise habits, and healthy eating practices are your anchors in the whirlwind of travel.
Here’s how to integrate them:
Find a local gym or park for workouts. 🏋️♂️
Stock up on groceries and cook simple meals in your accommodation’s kitchen. 🥗
Set aside time for meditation, journaling, or any other rituals that ground you. 🧘
Pro Tip: Start each new destination by finding nearby spots that support your routines, like a grocery store, a coworking space, or a great coffee shop.
Step 10: Travel & Explore
You’ve laid the groundwork, secured your remote work, and established your routines. Now, it’s time for the most exciting part of the digital nomad lifestyle: fully embracing the adventure of travel and exploration.
Take Advantage of Every Opportunity
Every destination has something unique to offer—don’t hold back from experiencing it all. Dive into the local culture, whether it’s savoring street food, learning a traditional craft, or exploring natural wonders.
Here are some ways to make the most of your travels:
Try the local cuisine 🍜—you might just discover your new favorite dish.
Attend community events to meet locals and other nomads 🎉.
Explore hidden gems off the beaten path 🏞️.
Stepping out of your comfort zone not only creates unforgettable memories but also broadens your understanding of the world.
Stay Connected & Informed
While traveling, it’s important to stay in touch with loved ones and keep up with the details of your journey. Technology is your best friend here:
Use apps like Nomadago to connect with nearby nomads or share your itinerary with friends.
Regularly update family and friends about your adventures via messages or social media.
Research local customs, regulations, and safety tips for every destination.
Engaging with fellow digital nomads can also provide valuable insights and recommendations, making each stop more enriching and hassle-free.
Celebrate the Journey of Nomadic Living
Being a digital nomad is about more than just working remotely—it’s about crafting a life of freedom, growth, and discovery. Take time to reflect on the challenges you’ve overcome, the lessons you’ve learned, and the incredible experiences you’ve had along the way.
Whether you continue this lifestyle indefinitely or eventually settle in one spot, the skills and memories you gain will stay with you forever. So, celebrate every step of the way—you’ve earned it.
Your journey as a digital nomad is just beginning, and the world is full of endless possibilities.
Conclusion
Becoming a digital nomad is a bold and transformative choice. It’s about more than just working remotely—it’s about creating a life filled with freedom, adventure, and endless possibilities. This journey takes careful planning, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. From making the decision to go nomadic and securing remote work to building routines and finding a community, every step helps you build the foundation for a thriving nomadic lifestyle.
As you embark on this exciting path, you’ll gain more than just new stamps in your passport. You’ll experience unparalleled personal and professional growth, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and craft a life that seamlessly blends work with wanderlust.
This is your chance to design a life that’s uniquely yours—a celebration of independence, adaptability, and the joy of living on your own terms.
Ready to simplify your journey? Nomadago makes travel planning a breeze, connecting you with trusted colivings, travel-friendly tools, and a global community of like-minded adventurers. Check out a few of the features here that make Nomadago an essential app for nomads and start your adventure today!
Transparency time: This post contains affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you book or buy through them—at no extra cost to you. 🌟 We only recommend what we trust to enhance your digital nomad journey. Thanks for supporting Nomadago! 🌍
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