Digital nomads enjoying the freedom that comes with remote working. Picture: Supplied
Discover essential tips from experts on how digital nomads can stay connected and thrive while working abroad, from computer backups to using offline apps.
According to global non-profit youth travel industry membership specialist WYSE Travel Confederation, there are estimated to be between 30 and 40 million digital nomads worldwide.
The pandemic and the corresponding rise of remote work propelled a massive shift in people’s mindsets and they realised they could do their jobs from anywhere on the planet.
Remote work also allows them to enjoy a flexible work-life balance that allows them to explore new cultures and experiences.
With that being said, the digital nomad movement is highly dependent on digital connectivity.
Whether working from a beachside café or a mountaintop cabin, digital nomads need the right tools to stay online. Natascha Conradie, KnowRoaming Press Manager, offers four essential hacks to help nomads thrive while working abroad.
Computer backups
According to Conradie, working in a foreign land is exciting, but every country has its risks associated with crime.
She said this is why it is so essential for digital nomads to back up their computers at least once a week, either to the cloud or onto an external hard drive that you don’t keep on you.
“A laptop or desktop is a working traveller’s bread and butter, and having devices ‘disappear’ will incur the loss of important files and documents, not to mention essential connectivity.
“You might want to make sure you’re insured as well,” said Conradie.
Have an eSIM
Conradie highlighted that eSIM technology has revolutionised connectivity by embedding a programmable SIM directly into devices, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards. Some of the world’s biggest content creators swear by them.
Penelope Bielckus, better known as ‘The Flyaway Girl’, has travelled to Spain, Italy, Malta, Greece, France, and the UK in the past few months. She had an entire purse dedicated to SIM cards worldwide before eSIMs became available.
“When I finally got a phone that supported eSIMs and tried one, I was immediately converted.
“The ease of installing it on your phone without needing to replace the physical SIM card and then worrying about misplacing your usual SIM card is incredible. You don't need to find a store to purchase a SIM card at your destination,” said Bielckus.
Conradie noted that for the best experience, opt for a dual-SIM phone or one with multi-eSIM capabilities as these devices let you effortlessly switch between eSIM profiles, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity anywhere.
Stock up on power banks
Conradie also said that staying connected often means charging your device, so carrying a power bank will ensure your device has enough battery life.
“Work emergencies are not limited to the office and must be dealt with immediately, even if nomads work from a tropical beach bar. The ideal power bank for working travellers can offer five or more charges. The best ones can support both cell phones and laptops,” she added.
The expert also advised digital nomads to be cautious when travelling with power banks as they are not allowed in checked baggage at airports, given fears about battery discharge.
“But even carrying one in hand luggage can be a problem in some countries, which apply different size limits. Digital nomads should always check airport security policies ahead of time,” she advised.
Use apps offline
Using offline apps like Google Maps ensures nomads stay connected to critical information even when internet access is spotty. However, offline maps, such as traffic conditions, might not include real-time updates.
“Another great offline app is Apache OpenOffice Portable, which offers a word processor, spreadsheets, and even a slideshow creator.
“It allows users to stay connected to their work responsibilities without being connected to the internet. And because it is portable, no installation is necessary. This is fantastic for people on the move,” said Conradie.