Digital Nomad Office: The must and the must nots
As a digital nomad, having a reliable and efficient office setup is crucial. Here are some essential items to bring with you on your travels, as well as some things to leave behind.
What to bring:
Router: I can’t stress this one enough. Having your own router allows you to connect all of your devices automatically. Save time settling in by removing the need to reconnect each device in every new location. Nomad win: having your own password-protected router adds an extra layer of security to your work documents. Plus, you can also get better upload and download speeds by using your own quality router.
Monitor: Traveling with a monitor can boost your productivity over working on a small laptop screen. When traveling, I wrap mine in a blanket to keep the screen scratch free.
Keyboard & Mouse: Another set of items on the essentials list. Pack a wireless keyboard and mouse that you can keep plugged in and easily set up.
Docking Station: A docking station is a game changer for any caproate employee. They have gotten small and convenient enough to make the must-have list.
Notebooks, Post-its, and Basic Office Supplies: Keep your supply limited, but don't hesitate to travel with the things you use every day for work, including a mouse pad.
Extension Cord/Power strip: It makes it easy to plug in your monitor, docking station, and other devices you may need. Sometimes the closest plug to the workstation isn’t close enough and you’ll find yourself buying one anyway.
Laptop(s): The flexibility and freedom a laptop provides are essential for the nomad life. Don’t hesitate to travel with more than one if you’re like me and your professional and personal one must remain separate.
Laptop Charger: Ensure you have both your travel charger and your docking station charger with you or you’re shit out of luck.
Headset or Speaker: Depending on your needs, one or both of these may be required. A speaker that stays set up on your work station and a headset in your bag is my power move.
Laptop Bag: Opt for a backpack with multiple compartments and a padded section for your laptop. This will make it efficient to pack up and go while protecting your office between moves.
What to leave:
Desktop Computer: These are bulky and create unnecessary challenges.
Modem: Internet should always be included if utilities are provided, and thus the modem.
Furniture: Look for furnished rentals that come with a workstation or office. If its not available, find cheap alternatives on Facebook Marketplace or "Buy/Sell Free" groups for the area you're in. You can also ask the landlord about potentially supplying something. Worst case scenario: dining room table.
Desk Accessories: While they may be nice to have, desk accessories such as organization tools and whiteboards take up too much space and are not practical when traveling.
Optional:
Webcam: If your company does not provide one, consider bringing a small webcam that is easy to pack and of better quality than the one on your laptop.
Mobile Hotspot: Has its benefits but you can also use your phone.
