Over 300 million people work remotely. As working outside of conventional workplaces has become more commonplace, many of us are capitalising on opportunities to travel more. If you plan to take a working vacation, or you’re a fan of working while globetrotting, this guide will help you minimise travel stress.
Research destinations in advance
Finding a destination that suits your requirements and preferences is key if you’re working while travelling. Many of us rely on secure, reliable, and fast internet access, for example. While much of the world is well-connected, getting off the beaten track can pose challenges for digital nomads. It’s important to research locations in advance of booking flights or accommodation. Make sure you have access to everything you need to complete your work to-do list. If you want to combine work with more intrepid adventures and activities, you can always move from cities and large towns to more remote places afterward.
Figure out the logistics of getting around
It’s helpful to have an idea of how you’ll get from A to B and how you’ll work in different cities, states or countries. Whether you’re flying into Boston, Madrid, Wellington or Buenos Aires, take your time to research how to get from the airport to your next destination, where to store your luggage, and how to move around if you’re planning to visit different areas. You can look for bag storage in Boston, get information about airport transfers in Spain, or access bus and train timetables for major cities in New Zealand and Argentina online via city guides, transport authority websites, and travel blogs and forums. Being organised can help you save time and money. It will also allow you to start working promptly once you arrive.
Establish a timetable
Some people have total flexibility when it comes to designing their schedule, but often, there are factors to consider when changing your base, for example, the time zone and finding working hours that suit colleagues or clients. It’s crucial to think about this before deciding where to travel. If you can only contact clients during specific times, for example, you don’t want to base yourself in a city where your normal working hours will be during the night. Plan a timetable and itinerary that allow you to achieve both your work and travel objectives. It’s wise to take your time doing research before committing to a destination and to liaise with your employer, colleagues, and clients. You don’t want to waste the opportunity to take breaks and see more of the world by being stuck at your computer or glued to your phone during what should be free time.
Working remotely affords many of us more opportunities to travel, but balancing work and exploring different places isn’t always easy. To minimise stress when working remotely, it’s a good idea to research destinations carefully, check you have access to everything you need, and figure out how you’ll get around. It’s also helpful to establish a timetable that works for you and to communicate and liaise with clients and colleagues before you travel.
