Remote work has drastically increased, and while most remote workers like to stay close to home, others jump at the opportunity to work from anywhere. A new trend is those that classify themselves as digital nomads. If you work remote and are looking for ways to see the world while getting paid, here’s how to do it.
What Exactly is a Digital Nomad?
Digital nomads can work in a variety of roles. They can be full-time employees that are allowed to work from anywhere they choose, small business owners or freelancers. Some people also find work where they travel and continue that process whenever they go to a new location. Interestingly, not all
digital nomads are single without kids. Many of them are actually working professionals with children who just want to see everything the world has to offer.
How to Be a Digital Nomad
If you’re already working from home, then getting started is pretty easy. All you really need is approval from your employer, if you’re not a freelancer, and a stable internet connection. As an employee, there could be legal or tax stipulations that prevent you from going abroad. Always check with your boss prior to booking a flight.
If you’re a freelancer, you need to look for companies that embrace the digital nomad lifestyle. Most tech, copywriting and even marketing agencies have become laxer with where people work. Keep in mind that even with this mindset, you might need to show proof of a degree in that field. If you already earned your degree, submit your resume, portfolio and a brief cover letter as to why you’re a good fit. If not, you could consider going back to college. If you
cannot afford to pay out of pocket, you could apply for a student loan with a private lender. In most cases, you’ll pay less interest over the course of the loan. Once approved, you’ll be able to cover the cost of tuition and possibly save some too.
Search for Remote Positions
Even if your current place of employment or gig lets you work from home, they might not permit international travel. If they won’t relent, you can check out international job boards. You can also head over to Indeed or Monster to find remote work. Most sites let you set the parameters for a specific search.
Tips for Work and Travel
Before anything else, you need to organize your finances. Even with a good job, you need to have enough savings in the bank. A good rule of thumb is to have at least two to three months of your current monthly expenses available. You also need to plan ahead and look for affordable lodging. If you plan on staying in one place for an extended period of time, you can search for long-term rentals. Check out Airbnb and reach out to the owners. If you want to travel from one destination to another, you can look for budget-friendly hotels, hostels, or short-term furnished apartments. Also be smart with your gear,
packing for a beach vacation, and packing for a 3 month stint living away from home are two different beasts.