Embarking on a Digital Nomad journey is a big move and might be a little scary as it’s a complete lifestyle change. There are many things to prepare before you can pack your bags and start discovering the world, and how do you know exactly what to pack as a digital nomad? Well, from personal experience I can understand if you’re feeling unsure and maybe even a bit anxious or stressed about what to bring along and what to leave behind, but that ends here ‘cause I’m about to share all the packing essentials you’ll need as a digital nomad!
While the following aren’t the exact items I pack this list includes everything I consider as digital nomad must haves.
1. A Practical Suitcase (and maybe a carry-on)
Having the right suitcase is a game changer and the number one basic for a successful travel experience since of course, you’ll pack your whole life in that rectangle.
A durable and useful suitcase will allow you to have smoother trips. Minimalist packing is suggested for digital nomads but if you want to add some extras then take space and pockets into consideration. Any good suitcase is easy to pull, fits everything you need and has good quality.
I’ve tried different ones, both carry-on and checked bags, and so far my favorite ones are part of a Nautica set I got about 7 years ago. I couldn't find said set online but I found this great carry-on also by Nautica. If you're only looking to travel with a carry on there's also this highly popular multi-purpose bag that internet users seem to love thanks to its versatility and capacity.
2. Laptop, phone, and camera
As a digital nomad there's no way you'll be able to travel without your computer and phone, perhaps the camera isn't an essential if you're okay with capturing memories with your phone but otherwise a small compact camera will definitely be a must-have.
Chances are 100% of your remote work will depend on your computer and phone to send mails, have online meetings, etc. So it's important to keep in mind that having a good equipment is quintessential to be able to get everything done related to work. Since I work in the audio-visual field I prefer MacBooks a thousand times over HP's or any other Windows equipment, but if you only have to work in accounting, or any other field that doesn't require a heavy-load laptop you'll probably be fine with the latter or even an iPad and a keyboard.
Now if you're looking for a way to capture photos and videos with something other than your phone then you can always get an old digicam on Facebook Market or a thrift shop for around $20 - $50 USD or the famous Canon G7x.
3. Cable/Tech Organizer
If you prefer to have your tech accessories organized then a cable organizer will be your new bestie. I always hate looking for my charger or headphones all over my luggage so I know this tool will be something that will save you from stress and mess as you'll be able to keep your computer and phone chargers here along with your mouse and other tech tools.
4. Backpack(s)
You have your suitcase and carry-on, but what about a backpack for daily use? If you want to work from a coffee, shop, take a break by the beach or go on a day trip somewhere you'll need a backpack or bag to carry your belongings.
5. E-reader/iPad
If like me you love books and can't imagine your life without reading then the best option will be an E-Reader or a Kindle. If you have an iPad you can always use the iBooks app to read your favorite books and avoid spending extra money and the hassle of carrying around an extra device, but if you don't and want to have something to read at all times then you should get a Kindle. I love physical books but on these cases I'm glad there are digital options because I know buying paperbacks along the road wouldn't be ideal.
6. External Hard Drive and/or USBs
Backing up your photos, work, and other important files as you go is something that everyone who works remotely should do, so an external hard drive and/or usb is a must pack item for digital nomads.
I personally have had bad experiences with hard drives because they always end up now working at some point and have noticed that USB's (specifically the 64gb Kingston one) is way better and more durable than the hard drives I've had, I get that this isn't the best option as you'd have to buy several USB's if you have a lot to back up but I'd definitely consider having one "safety-net" USB to backup your most important files. On the other hand, I've read and seen content creators are starting to go for External SSD Solid Hard Drives as these are more safe and reliable.
7. Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is something you'll want to do no matter where you are. Reusable water bottles are great allies for travelers because you can get water jugs at grocery stores for your accommodation or the road and use the water from these to fill your bottle, some countries also have free water stations. The best water bottle option for digital nomads and travelers will preferably be made of stainless steel to avoid any accidents and keep the drinks warm or cool; I've used a very thick glass bottle and everything's been fine but If you don't trust glass then go for stainless steel.
8. Universal Travel Adaptor
Landing somewhere new without being able to charge your gear is something no digital nomad wants to experience so to avoid this simply get a universal travel adaptor, it will allow you to charge anything and everything with peace of mind in any country.
9. Laundry Bag
I don't know about you but I always hate when my dirty laundry mixes with the clean one because there's nothing in my suitcase to divide them, well if that's your case too then a laundry bag kit will solve this.
10. Padlock
Lastly a digital nomad packing list has to include a padlock, especially if you're planning on staying at a hostel, the first time I stayed at one I had one and I was really glad because I was able to safely store my valuable belongings in a locker thanks to it. You might not use it, but you never know.
Extra Digital Nomad Must-Have: Travel Insurance
If you plan to be on the road as a long-term digital nomad then buying travel insurance will help you stay protected from any minor or (God forbids) major incidents. Again, you might never use it but it's always better to be safe than sorry.
While the following aren’t the exact items I pack this list includes everything I consider as digital nomad must haves.
1. A Practical Suitcase (and maybe a carry-on)
Having the right suitcase is a game changer and the number one basic for a successful travel experience since of course, you’ll pack your whole life in that rectangle.
A durable and useful suitcase will allow you to have smoother trips. Minimalist packing is suggested for digital nomads but if you want to add some extras then take space and pockets into consideration. Any good suitcase is easy to pull, fits everything you need and has good quality.
I’ve tried different ones, both carry-on and checked bags, and so far my favorite ones are part of a Nautica set I got about 7 years ago. I couldn't find said set online but I found this great carry-on also by Nautica. If you're only looking to travel with a carry on there's also this highly popular multi-purpose bag that internet users seem to love thanks to its versatility and capacity.
2. Laptop, phone, and camera
As a digital nomad there's no way you'll be able to travel without your computer and phone, perhaps the camera isn't an essential if you're okay with capturing memories with your phone but otherwise a small compact camera will definitely be a must-have.
Chances are 100% of your remote work will depend on your computer and phone to send mails, have online meetings, etc. So it's important to keep in mind that having a good equipment is quintessential to be able to get everything done related to work. Since I work in the audio-visual field I prefer MacBooks a thousand times over HP's or any other Windows equipment, but if you only have to work in accounting, or any other field that doesn't require a heavy-load laptop you'll probably be fine with the latter or even an iPad and a keyboard.
Now if you're looking for a way to capture photos and videos with something other than your phone then you can always get an old digicam on Facebook Market or a thrift shop for around $20 - $50 USD or the famous Canon G7x.
3. Cable/Tech Organizer
If you prefer to have your tech accessories organized then a cable organizer will be your new bestie. I always hate looking for my charger or headphones all over my luggage so I know this tool will be something that will save you from stress and mess as you'll be able to keep your computer and phone chargers here along with your mouse and other tech tools.
4. Backpack(s)
You have your suitcase and carry-on, but what about a backpack for daily use? If you want to work from a coffee, shop, take a break by the beach or go on a day trip somewhere you'll need a backpack or bag to carry your belongings.
5. E-reader/iPad
If like me you love books and can't imagine your life without reading then the best option will be an E-Reader or a Kindle. If you have an iPad you can always use the iBooks app to read your favorite books and avoid spending extra money and the hassle of carrying around an extra device, but if you don't and want to have something to read at all times then you should get a Kindle. I love physical books but on these cases I'm glad there are digital options because I know buying paperbacks along the road wouldn't be ideal.
6. External Hard Drive and/or USBs
Backing up your photos, work, and other important files as you go is something that everyone who works remotely should do, so an external hard drive and/or usb is a must pack item for digital nomads.
I personally have had bad experiences with hard drives because they always end up now working at some point and have noticed that USB's (specifically the 64gb Kingston one) is way better and more durable than the hard drives I've had, I get that this isn't the best option as you'd have to buy several USB's if you have a lot to back up but I'd definitely consider having one "safety-net" USB to backup your most important files. On the other hand, I've read and seen content creators are starting to go for External SSD Solid Hard Drives as these are more safe and reliable.
7. Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is something you'll want to do no matter where you are. Reusable water bottles are great allies for travelers because you can get water jugs at grocery stores for your accommodation or the road and use the water from these to fill your bottle, some countries also have free water stations. The best water bottle option for digital nomads and travelers will preferably be made of stainless steel to avoid any accidents and keep the drinks warm or cool; I've used a very thick glass bottle and everything's been fine but If you don't trust glass then go for stainless steel.
8. Universal Travel Adaptor
Landing somewhere new without being able to charge your gear is something no digital nomad wants to experience so to avoid this simply get a universal travel adaptor, it will allow you to charge anything and everything with peace of mind in any country.
9. Laundry Bag
I don't know about you but I always hate when my dirty laundry mixes with the clean one because there's nothing in my suitcase to divide them, well if that's your case too then a laundry bag kit will solve this.
10. Padlock
Lastly a digital nomad packing list has to include a padlock, especially if you're planning on staying at a hostel, the first time I stayed at one I had one and I was really glad because I was able to safely store my valuable belongings in a locker thanks to it. You might not use it, but you never know.
Extra Digital Nomad Must-Have: Travel Insurance
If you plan to be on the road as a long-term digital nomad then buying travel insurance will help you stay protected from any minor or (God forbids) major incidents. Again, you might never use it but it's always better to be safe than sorry.