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To become a digital nomad is to seize the opportunity for freedom and adventure that many only dream of. Embracing the digital nomad lifestyle allows you to break free from the societal expectation of leading a traditional life to explore the world while working.
Whether you’re interested in securing a digital nomad visa, finding digital nomad jobs, or learning from a digital nomad example, this guide is designed to help you navigate the planning and preparation to becoming a successful nomad. We’ll explore the best digital nomad websites, discuss how to work as a digital nomad, and provide practical insights for anyone looking to start this journey.
By the end of this post, you will be able to answer the following questions: how to become a digital nomad with no experience, how to really become a digital nomad, can you legally be a digital nomad, can anyone become a digital nomad, and how do I start working as a digital nomad.
This post is all about the steps to become a digital nomad and trhive when starting a full-time travel lifestyle.
How to Become a Digital Nomad: Meeting Other Nomads
Connecting with like-minded people is an essential component of the digital nomad lifestyle. It allows you to gain and give advice, be inspired, build a community, collaborate, and stay accountable. The best part of networking with other nomads is the friendships you’ll gain along the way.
Reaching out to other digital nomads might be awkward at first. Honestly, it feels that way, regardless of the profession or lifestyle. But once you start making those connections, you’ll find that most people are happy to share their experiences, tips, and advice.
I’m not saying you won’t get ghosted or that everyone will talk to you for free, but I am saying that the more you connect with other nomads, the more guidance you’ll receive, which will help you navigate the challenges of a mobile lifestyle.
Where to Meet Other Nomads:
Co-working Spaces:
These are popular spots for digital nomads to work and meet. Look for spaces that host events or workshops where you can connect with others. Many co-working spaces, such as WeWork in various cities worldwide, offer daily or weekly social events where you can make connections.
Nomad Communities and Meetups:
Platforms like Meetup and Facebook groups are great for finding local gatherings of digital nomads. Websites such as Nomad List also offer forums where you can find meetups happening around the world. Attend these events to share experiences and learn from others in the community.
Nomad-Friendly Cities:
Some cities have become digital nomad hubs, such as Chiang Mai, Bali, and Lisbon, where you’ll find a strong community of nomads. These cities often have vibrant social scenes and offer opportunities to meet other travelers through activities like hiking, yoga classes, or language exchanges.
Building a network of nomads can be incredibly valuable. This network of nomads can offer advice and support, but they can also introduce you to potential work opportunities or collaborations. By actively seeking out these connections, you’ll gain friendships and experiences that will last a lifetime.
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How to Become a Digital Nomad: Making Money
In order to maintain any lifestyle, you must have the money to do so. To become a digital nomad, you must figure out how to sustain yourself financially while traveling full-time. Luckily, multiple ways to earn an income support the digital nomad lifestyle.
Finding the job that fits your needs can take some experimentation and lots of determination! Here are some of the most common options:
Remote Work:
Many companies offer remote positions, allowing employees to work from anywhere worldwide. If you’re currently employed, consider talking to your company about the possibility of doing fully remote work.
When discussing the possible switch, make sure you highlight the benefits of working virtually, such as increased productivity and flexibility.
If they seem apprehensive, offer to do a trial run for a few days or weeks so you can demonstrate how you will continue to meet your responsibilities from a remote location while working from different places.
If you’re wondering, “how do I start working as a digital nomad,” keep reading.
Freelancing:
Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer provide opportunities to offer your skills in writing, design, programming, marketing, and more to clients worldwide.
Freelancing allows you to choose your projects and work on your terms. So, make sure you build a strong portfolio that showcases your skills and maintains strong client relationships. This is essential for securing a steady stream of projects.
Virtual Business:
Financial and location independence are the goals of all digital nomads, and for that reason, most of them start their own online businesses. The possibilities are endless, whether it’s e-commerce, online coaching, or content creation.
When deciding what business you want to start, consider what skills or passions you have that could be turned into a business. For example, if you’re skilled at graphic design, you could create an online store selling digital products like logos or templates. You can become a virtual assistant if you are super organized and have strong management skills.
If you’re interested in freelance work, check out Fiverr!
✓ Use your skills to make money, create your own hours
✓ Empower yourself to travel; life-changing possibilities
Investing:
Many nomads have multiple streams of income, such as real estate, stocks, and online courses. Consider creating a passive income stream through investments when embarking on a nomadic lifestyle. These can generate income without requiring physical presence.
While investing does come with risks, it can be a powerful tool for financial growth if approached wisely. Educate yourself on different investment strategies by conducting research and consult with financial advisors if needed.
Incorporating multiple income streams is a smart approach for digital nomads. By diversifying your income sources, you can create a stable and flexible financial foundation that allows you to travel freely and pursue your passions.
Avoid falling into the false mindset about passive income. It is not passive; it takes time, energy, and work to build up and maintain your passive income.
Infographic suggestion: Visual representation of income streams for digital nomads, highlighting remote work, freelancing, virtual businesses, and investing.
These are my personal opinions only, not financial advice. Always consult a professional in the area for your particular needs and circumstances before making any professional, legal, financial, or tax-related decisions.
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How to Become a Digital Nomad: Budget and Savings
Financial planning is essential for a successful digital nomad lifestyle; honestly, it’s necessary for any lifestyle.
I highly recommend that you have a clear understanding of your financial situation and a well-thought-out budget before starting a digital nomad lifestyle.
But how?
Well, keep reading to find out some ways to plan your finances.
Calculate Your Current Monthly Budget:
The first step to creating a budget is determining how much you spend.
Create a list of all your fixed expenses (costs the same each month), such as rent, insurance, car payments, savings, etc. Then, track your spending for a week or two to determine all your variable expenses (things that change), like groceries, gas, and entertainment.
After your tracking period, write down all your monthly expenses and determine all your essentials and things that you can cut out. Whatever the total is, that’s your monthly budget.
Remember, understanding your financial baseline will help you make an informed decision about your future expenses. It will also help you form healthy financial habits to ensure a seamless transition to the digital nomad lifestyle.
Calculate Your Travel Budget:
I know creating a nomad budget along with your current budget sounds like an extra step, but trust me, it’s essential. By understanding how much money you will be spending during your travels, you can effectively plan and save for those expenses.
Research accommodation, transportation, food, and activities costs in your ideal destinations. Make sure to account for potential expenses like travel insurance, visa fees, and currency exchange rates.
Websites like Numbeo, Nomad List, or Expatistan are fantastic resources that will give you valuable insights into the cost of living when you become a digital nomad.
Save a 3 to 6-Month Nest Egg:
Having a financial cushion is crucial for unexpected expenses or emergencies, but it’s even more important when you become a digital nomad. It’s recommended that you save 3 to 6 months’ worth of expenses, but I believe in saving the highest amount possible.
I am a part-time nomad preparing to become a full-time traveler within a year. Building a nest egg has been challenging at times, but it is more than worth it. Yeah, there have been sacrifices, like skipping that Amazon purchase, but the peace of mind it gives is invaluable.
Having a financial safety net allows you to handle unexpected situations without turning your life upside down, which is important when living the digital nomad lifestyle.
If you need help staying organized, check out Sunsama!
✓ Optimize your time
✓Work-Life Balance
✓ life-changing possibilities
Smart Spending Tips:
- Use budgeting apps: Apps like Mint, or You Need a Budget can help you track your spending and achieve your financial goals.
- Optimize your expenses: Look for ways to cut unnecessary costs, such as cooking meals at home more often or choosing budget-friendly accommodations.
- Take advantage of travel rewards: Use travel credit cards to earn points or miles for future flights and accommodations. I only recommend this if you are disciplined enough to pay the entire amount before the end of the payment cycle.
By creating a detailed budget and prioritizing savings, you can navigate the uncertainties of life on the road with confidence and focus on enjoying your travels and exploring new opportunities.
These are my personal opinions only, not financial advice. Always consult a professional in the area for your particular needs and circumstances before making any professional, legal, financial, or tax-related decisions.
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How to Become a Digital Nomad: Logistics
Handling logistics efficiently is vital for maintaining a smooth transition into the digital nomad lifestyle. If you’re like me, then you have a backup plan to your backup plan, so you know the importance of being well-prepared. If you aren’t like me and just want the basics, this will still help you become a digital nomad.
Understanding the logistics that go into a full-time travel lifestyle can prevent unnecessary stress and help you thrive during your journey.
So, what logistics do you need to consider when transitioning into the digital nomad lifestyle?
Digital Nomad Lifestyle Mailing Address:
Even as nomads, we can’t avoid physical mail, even though I personally would love it!
Setting up a virtual mailbox service that provides a permanent address is a must! By utilizing a virtual mailbox, you can continue receiving mail and packages hassle-free.
Consider Anytime Mailbox or Traveling Mailbox. They offer services like digital scanning and forwarding options that allow you to manage your mail online. Some services even allow you to shred or discard unwanted mail remotely.
Digital Nomad Lifestyle International Phone Plan:
Choose a global phone plan that fits your budget and ensures reliable communication wherever you go. Services like Google Fi, T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, and Verizon are some popular options that offer reasonable international plans.
Consider purchasing eSIM cards. They can be a great option, especially if you move quickly. Getting a new SIM card can help avoid high roaming charges and ensure good connectivity.
Digital Nomad Lifestyle Travel and Health Insurance:
Nomads are not indestructible; they are adventurous humans. So, eventually, accidents and illness will happen.
In order to protect yourself during those situations, consider getting a comprehensive insurance plan that covers travel-related risks and healthcare needs.
Companies like SafetyWing and World Nomads offer plans specifically designed for digital nomads. Ensure your policy covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost belongings, and other potential risks.
If you need help staying organized, check out Sunsama!
✓ Optimize your time
✓Work-Life Balance
✓ life-changing possibilities
Digital Nomad Lifestyle Banking:
We need to be able to access our money from anywhere, so setting up a bank that accommodates your travel is essential. Depending on the type of travel you plan on will determine how much change is necessary.
If you are a Van Lifer traveling all over the United States, opt for an institution based in the US with good online banking and little to no ATM fees. Also, notify them that you will travel a lot so they do not lock your accounts.
Trust me, you can get locked out for weeks, even months if they suspect fraud.
If you are a nomad traveling internationally, you will need to prepare more because currency exchange and accessibility become factors.
That said, opt for a bank with low international fees and reliable online banking. Consider setting up an account accommodating different currencies, real-time exchange rates, no-fee FX transactions, and great online banking features.
Regardless of the type of travel you’re doing, always notify your bank of your travel plans to prevent service disruptions and enable multi-factor authentication for added security.
Digital Nomad Lifestyle Staying Organized:
Digital document storage: Cloud storage will be your best friend as a remote worker and digital nomad! Store your important documents in a secure and accessible way with Google Drive or Dropbox.
Time zone management: Use apps like World Time Buddy to track time zones while traveling, so you can schedule meetings effectively.
Language tools: Download language apps like Duolingo or Google Translate to help you communicate in different languages.
Remember to be proactive about these logistical aspects, as they will set you up for a successful digital nomad lifestyle.
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How to Become a Digital Nomad: Downsizing
Embracing the digital nomad lifestyle means embracing minimalism and letting go of material possessions.
Let’s be honest with ourselves: We won’t be able to fit a walking closet worth of stuff, plus work and life essentials, into two large suitcases and a couple of carry-on bags.
Downsizing might seem difficult, especially if you live in a consumer society like me. But trust me when I say that getting rid of unnecessary stuff is liberating and, more importantly, helps you become a digital nomad.
Digital Nomad Lifestyle Car:
Other than your house, a car is probably the biggest thing you need to figure out what to do with. This will vary from person to person because everyone has unique plans for their nomadic journey.
If you’re a part-time nomad or plan to travel full-time for only a year, selling your car may not make sense. Consider having a family or friend look after it and ensure they turn it on weekly because you’ll need it when you return.
If you have no clue when you’ll be back, like me, consider selling or leasing your car. This will give you extra money for your new nomadic lifestyle, reduce future costs, and free you from the responsibility of maintaining a vehicle.
Remember, during the rare times you visit, you can use local transportation, get a ride from family or friends, or rent a car.
Where you Currently Live:
Digital Nomad Lifestyle Apartment:
If you’re currently renting, you have some options depending on when you want to start your digital nomad lifestyle.
- Finish your rental agreement: Waiting for your lease agreement allows you to plan and save for your nomadic lifestyle.
- Sublet or Sublease: If your lease agreement allows, consider subletting or subleasing your apartment to someone else. This option can help you cover rent costs while you’re traveling. Be sure to:
- Check Your Lease: Confirm that subletting is permitted under your contract.
- Talk to Your Landlord: Discuss your plans and get their approval.
- Consult a Lawyer: Ensure you are legally covered and understand your obligations and rights.
- Breaking the Lease Agreement: If you’re eager to start your nomadic journey and cannot sublease, breaking your lease might be an option. However, be aware of the potential costs and penalties associated with this choice. Weigh the financial implications and decide what’s best for you.
Digital Nomad Lifestyle Homeowners:
As a homeowner, you have more responsibilities and flexibility in managing your property while embracing the digital nomad lifestyle. Here are some options to consider:
- Rent Out Your Home:
Renting your property can generate additional income to support your travels. Consider hiring a property manager to oversee maintenance, tenant issues, and rent collection, allowing you to focus on your adventures without worry. - Short-Term Rentals:
Platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo offer opportunities for short-term rentals. This option allows you to earn income while maintaining flexibility in how and when your property is used. Be sure to:- Local Regulations: Check local laws regarding short-term rentals to ensure compliance.
- Prepare Your Home: Furnish and equip your property for short-term guests to enhance their experience.
- Consider the Risk: Short-term rentals are an oversaturated market, so there may be times when your home sits vacant, and you don’t make a profit.
- House-Sitting or Home Exchange:
Consider house-sitting or home exchange options to keep your property occupied while you travel. Remember that squatters are a real problem in the US, so you don’t want to give them any opportunity. Websites like TrustedHousesitters and HomeExchange facilitate these arrangements, allowing you to find reliable sitters or swap homes with other travelers. - Sell Your Home:
If maintaining property while traveling is not feasible or even something you just don’t want to do, selling your house might be a viable option. Use the profit to fund your nomadic lifestyle or invest in assets that align with your financial goals.- Evaluate the Market: Understand current real estate trends and consult a real estate agent to assess your home’s value.
- Plan Financially: Consider how the sale proceeds will support your digital nomad lifestyle and long-term financial plans.
Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, choosing the right option depends on your financial situation, travel goals, and comfort level with managing property from afar. Consider consulting a financial advisor or real estate professional to make informed decisions that align with your lifestyle and objectives.
If you’re interested in freelance work, check out Fiverr!
✓ Use your skills to make money, create your own hours
✓ Empower yourself to travel; life-changing possibilities
Digital Nomad Lifestyle Stuff:
Storage through all your belongings and keep only the essentials. Donate, sell, or store items you don’t need to take with you. Prioritize quality over quantity when it comes to clothing, technology, and travel gear.
Of course, there will be things you’ll need to purchase, but look at it as an investment. Whatever you buy for your nomadic journey must be multi-functional items that can serve multiple purposes during your travels or provide you with a significant benefit, like noise-canceling headphones.
Minimalist Packing Tips:
- Capsule wardrobe: Create a versatile wardrobe with interchangeable pieces that can be mixed and matched for different occasions.
- Digitalize documents: Scan and store important documents digitally to reduce paper clutter.
- Use packing cubes: Organize your belongings with packing cubes to maximize space and keep things tidy.
Downsizing can be a challenging yet rewarding process. Embrace minimalism and the freedom that comes with it. You’ll find that having fewer possessions allows you to focus more on experiences and adventures rather than falling into the consumer society mentality.
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How to Become a Digital Nomad: Travel Documents
Having the right travel documents is essential for a seamless digital nomad experience. With the proper documentation, you can move smoothly between countries and avoid legal issues.
You may be thinking, “can you legally be a digital nomad?” Here’s how you can ensure that when traveling internationally:
Passport:
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. This is a common requirement for entry into many countries. Carry multiple copies, both digital and physical, in case it gets lost or stolen.
Every country has its specific entry requirements. For example, some require your passport to have blank pages for visas and stamps, a certain amount of money, and vaccines. In addition to your passport, make sure you check out their entry requirements before booking.
Visa for Travel:
Research visa requirements for your target destinations in advance. This is crucial for ensuring you have the correct documentation before departure.
Some countries offer tourist visas that allow extended stays, while others may have stricter entry requirements for digital nomads. Be aware of the limitations of each visa type, such as restrictions on work activities.
If you need a visa, start your visa applications early to avoid last-minute issues. Some visas require interviews or additional documentation, which can take time to organize. If you plan to return to a country multiple times, consider applying for a multiple-entry visa.
Nomad Visa:
What is a Nomad Visa? Several countries offer special visas for digital nomads that provide longer stays and legal work rights. These visas are designed to attract remote workers and boost local economies.
Popular Destinations: Countries like Estonia, Barbados, Croatia, Portugal, and Mexico have introduced digital nomad visas, each with unique requirements and benefits.
This post was all about the steps to become a digital nomad and thrive when embarking on the digital nomad lifestyle.
Thanks to the evolution of global work culture and digital resources, the path to becoming a digital nomad is more accessible than ever. By embracing the digital nomad lifestyle, you can unlock a world of opportunities, freedom, and personal growth.
Ready to start your nomadic journey and redefine what’s possible?
