When I was starting out as a digital nomad, I knew I wanted to be able to work comfortable from hotels, cafés, and campervans. And to do that I needed some essentials. Through trial and error, I’ve put together a complete list of the essentials you need as a new digital nomad.
Though you don’t want to be carrying around too much when you’re constantly on the go, there are some things and gadgets that are well worth it. They’ll make your work more comfortable, more effective, and more stylish.
Read more: How to become a digital nomad (and work from your dream destinations)
If you don’t feel like investing in too many things and gadgets to begin with, you can start with just a laptop. With that being said, I was happy that I had everything from the beginning. So keep reading to learn what essentials you need as a new digital nomad.
*This post may contain affiliate links, which means I will receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.
Find the right laptop for you
Your laptop will undoubtedly be your most important possessions as a digital nomad. This is where you get all your work done, save and edit your cool travel pictures, and perhaps you also write a blog in your free time, or catch a show on Netflix during rainy days.
It’s the most important of the essentials you need as a new digital nomad, and when you have it, you can easily start your travels and add more essentials as you go.
The ideal laptop will vary depending on your needs. I love my MacBook Air because it’s compact, stylish, fast, and it connects to my iPhone.
Sit comfortably
When you work from various locations, you can’t always be sure of the conditions. Will you be able to stand? Is the table tall enough? How can you place your laptop?
I try to get ahead of some of these issues by simply making sure I’ve taken all the steps I can to stay comfortable and maintain good posture. I carry around this small, foldable laptop stand. It’s cheap and weighs next to nothing.
Furthermore, I’ve had mine for over a year with no problems. Besides a laptop, a laptop stand is one of the first essentials you need as a new digital nomad.
If you’re not moving around as much, you can invest in a more stylish option like this one. But it weighs more and takes up much more space.
Make writing and editing easier and quicker
You obviously have a keyboard and a mousepad on your laptop. But you won’t regret carrying around a small wireless keyboard and a mouse. It allows different sitting positions and enables you to sit further away from the screen which can be nice during a long day of working.
I use the Logitech MX Keys Mini for Mac and my Magic Mouse. I also carry around a regular mousepad that I just roll up and stuff in my backpack.
My work is completed much faster (especially during editing) with an actual mouse instead of the laptop mousepad. When choosing a mouse and keyboard, focus on good quality and weight. And keep them wireless for easy use and storage.
Tune everything out
Just like space, you can’t control the environment around you when working from coworking spaces and cafes. Sure, you can choose to work from places that are quiet, but you can never predict if a large family with children come by to eat, or if a large group working together case some noise.
So, get yourself some noise cancelling headphones to be productive anywhere. And avoid being over stimulated. I also use them nonstop when flying.
The Bose Quiet Comfort 45 is an excellent option for great sound and effective noise cancellation.
If you prefer the trendier option, Apple’s AirPods Max also offer noise cancellation.
Lastly, the sound afficionado will enjoy the beautiful and powerful headphones from Danish sound brand Bang & Olufsen. There’s currently a great deal with 25% off for the Beoplay HX via this link.
You can also opt to spend more and get the crème de la crème with the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 Premium Comfortable Wireless Active Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones.
Pack up all your remote work essentials
Having all the remote work essentials is great, but you need to be able to pack and carry them around effectively. Otherwise, it’ll just be a hassle.
The Ramverk Backpack from Db Journey is an excellent option with many different pockets, lots of space, and a lightweight design.
If you’re looking for a more economic option, I’ve used the Haglöfs Unisex Large Backpack for years with no issues. It’s also good for hiking.
I’ve put together a complete list of essentials you need as a new digital nomad, ready to shop on my Amazon Storefront: Julie Astrid Thomsen Travel – Amazon Storefront.
If you’re looking for more packing inspiration, you can find everything I pack as a backpacking digital nomad here.
Read more:
How to become a digital nomad (and work from your dream destinations)
Top 15 best things to do in Sydney in 2023
Complete guide: how to plan the best East Coast Australia road trip
