Ever dreamed of joining that remote work lifestyle—taking your laptop to new destinations, working in a cozy spot overlooking the city or on a sunny beach?
With remote work taking off, people around the world are trading their cubicles for cafés, beaches, and short-term apartments. But making it work requires a bit of planning to stay productive and actually enjoy the adventure.
Here’s your guide to working remotely while traveling, packed with practical tips for choosing the right places to stay, staying connected, and managing your schedule.
And hey, if you need a home base on the road, Compass Furnished Apartments can give you the ideal setup!
Ready to find your ideal remote work setup? Compass Furnished Apartments has you covered.
Choosing the Right Destination for Remote Work
Not all destinations are created equal when it comes to working remotely. Choosing the right spot can make or break your productivity, so consider what makes sense for you—time zone, internet speed, and, of course, a place with the right vibe.
Top Factors to Consider
- Time Zones – If you’re working with a team, staying within a few hours of their time zone can make life easier. Look for places that won’t leave you staying up till midnight just to catch that daily meeting.
- Internet Reliability – Nobody wants to deal with buffering or dropped calls mid-meeting. Check reviews of local Wi-Fi before you go.
- Coworking Options – If you like having a change of scene or a structured workspace, look for cities with coworking spaces. It’s a great way to meet other remote workers, too!
Popular Digital Nomad Destinations for Remote Work
| City | Time Zone | Cost of Living | Internet Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lisbon, Portugal | GMT | Moderate | High |
| Medellin, Colombia | GMT-5 | Low | Moderate |
| Bali, Indonesia | GMT+8 | Low | Moderate |
| Austin, USA | CST | Moderate | High |
| Bangkok, Thailand | GMT+7 | Low | Moderate |
Setting Up a Productive Workspace
Sure, remote work sounds dreamy, but let’s be real: without the right setup, it’s hard to stay focused. So, whether you’re in a hotel, café, or a cozy furnished apartment, here’s how to make it work.
Essential Gear for Remote Work
- Laptop & Portable Monitor – Your laptop is a given, but a portable monitor can change the game if you’re juggling multiple projects.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones – Stay in the zone, even if there’s a festival or construction outside.
- Ergonomic Gear – A foldable laptop stand, travel keyboard, or mouse can help you avoid the dreaded neck and wrist strain.
- Power Bank and Universal Adapter – Don’t get stuck with a dead battery mid-day! Keep your devices charged with a power bank, and bring an adapter to be ready for any outlet.
Top 5 Must-Have Gadgets for Remote Work
- Portable monitor
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Travel-friendly ergonomic setup
- Power bank and universal adapter
- Reliable laptop stand
Staying Connected
The reality of remote work? You’re only as good as your internet. Slow Wi-Fi or unreliable connections can throw off your entire day, so make sure you’re set up for success.
Tips for Reliable Internet
- Check Wi-Fi Quality Before You Book – A place might look beautiful online, but double-check Wi-Fi reviews from past guests.
- Local SIM Card or Portable Wi-Fi – Keep a SIM card with data handy or invest in a portable Wi-Fi device so you’re covered no matter where you land.
Communication Tools
Stay in touch with apps like Zoom, Slack, and Google Meet. Keep them updated on your phone and laptop so you’re always ready for that last-minute call or quick check-in. These tools make it easy to join meetings, chat with your team, and share updates from wherever you are, so you never feel out of the loop while on the road!
Time Management Hacks
Remember: you’re not just working; you’re also exploring. Balancing work with sightseeing requires a plan, so here are some tips to keep your schedule on track.
Creating a Routine
Define Work Hours
Whether it’s 9-to-5 or 7-to-3, setting clear work hours helps keep your productivity high and protects your “tourist time.” By defining boundaries for your workday, you can fully focus on tasks when needed and then step away to enjoy your surroundings guilt-free.
Breaks Are Key
Just because you’re remote doesn’t mean you have to grind nonstop. Schedule breaks for a quick walk or to explore a new café for an afternoon pick-me-up. These pauses will help you recharge, boost focus, and keep the travel experience fun.
Top 5 Time Management Tools
- Trello – Organize tasks visually
- Asana – Great for team project management
- Google Calendar – To keep track of work and play
- RescueTime – Understand your productivity habits
- Focus@Will – Boost focus with curated playlists
Remote Work Visas, Taxes, and Insurance
Working remotely while traveling is amazing—until you run into a visa issue or forget about taxes. Let’s cover some of the basics to avoid surprises.
Visa Requirements
Some countries are catching on to the remote work trend and now offer special digital nomad visas, which can simplify the logistics of working while traveling. These visas often grant you permission to stay for 6 to 12 months (or more) and sometimes come with additional benefits like tax breaks or streamlined entry processes.
Before you go, check if your destination offers a digital nomad visa, as the requirements can vary greatly—some require proof of income, while others might ask for health insurance or even specific paperwork from your employer. Researching this in advance will help you avoid issues with overstaying a tourist visa and make sure you’re fully compliant.
Taxes & Insurance
Taxes can get complicated when you’re working across borders since many countries have different tax rules for income earned within their borders. Consulting a tax professional with experience in international or remote work taxes is a smart move to avoid surprises.
As for insurance, look for health and travel insurance that covers remote workers, including coverage for emergency medical care and trip interruptions. Some insurers now offer remote worker-specific plans, which cover both health emergencies and issues like lost equipment.
Need a place that offers flexible lease options? Check out Compass Furnished Apartments for extended stays perfect for remote work!
Furnished Apartments for Remote Workers
The right place to stay makes all the difference, and furnished apartments are built for remote work. Skip the hassles of setting up utilities and Wi-Fi, and enjoy a cozy home base with everything you need.
Why Furnished Apartments?
- Space and Comfort – Unlike hotel rooms, furnished apartments give you a separate area to work, cook, and relax.
- All-Inclusive Setup – With Wi-Fi, utilities, and even cookware ready to go, you’re set from day one.
- Home Vibes – Need to settle in for a few months? Furnished apartments let you feel at home without a long-term commitment.
| Type | Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Furnished Apt | Spacious, private, fully equipped | Often fewer hotel-like amenities |
| Airbnb | Unique locations, flexible bookings | Quality varies widely |
| Hotel | Room service, daily cleaning | Limited space and usually expensive long-term |
Avoiding Burnout
Balancing work and exploration sounds great, but it’s easy to overdo it. Prioritizing your mental and physical health on the road will help you enjoy every moment.
Take Breaks & Explore
Use your breaks to explore the area, meet locals, or try new foods. A walk around the neighborhood or a quick café visit can be energizing and keep you from burning out.
Tips for Staying Balanced
Set Work Boundaries
Clear boundaries are key to enjoying the remote work lifestyle without letting work overtake your travels. Define specific work hours, communicate them to your team, and stick to them. Consider designating a separate workspace if you’re in a furnished apartment or coworking space so that work doesn’t follow you around, helping you mentally “clock out” and fully enjoy your destination.
Prioritize Your Health
It’s easy to let your routines slip on the road, but staying active is so important for both your physical and mental well-being. Make time for daily exercise, whether it’s a run around the neighborhood, an online workout session, or even just walking to nearby sites instead of taking public transport. Staying active keeps your energy up and reduces stress!
Stay Connected
While exploring new places is exciting, it can also feel lonely, especially if you’re away for extended periods. Make a point to check in regularly with your family and friends, whether it’s a quick call, a weekly video chat, or sharing updates on social media. Staying connected with your support network keeps spirits high and gives you a comforting link to home no matter where you are.
FAQs
Is it possible to work remotely and travel?
Absolutely! With the right setup and a bit of planning, you can work really easily while exploring new places. It’s all about finding a balance that lets you stay productive without missing out on the experience of being somewhere new.
Where can I work remotely when traveling?
Consider options like furnished apartments, coworking spaces, and even coffee shops with reliable Wi-Fi. For longer stays, a furnished apartment is ideal for stability and comfort, providing a quiet, homey spot to settle into and focus on your work.
How do I balance remote work and travel?
Set a routine, use time management tools, and don’t forget to make time for exploring your new surroundings! Prioritizing both work and travel can help you enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle without sacrificing your productivity.
How do I start working remotely?
Find a job that supports remote work, set up essential tech, and choose a reliable workspace like a furnished apartment. Make sure to research any specific tools your job might require for remote collaboration so you’re prepared from day one.
Where’s the best place in the world to work remotely?
There’s no one answer! Lisbon, Medellin, Bali, and Austin are top digital nomad hubs because of their internet reliability and affordable cost of living. Each destination offers a different vibe, so pick one that fits both your work needs and your travel style.
Ready to hit the road with the perfect setup? Compass Furnished Apartments can help! Find your ideal furnished space and make every trip more productive.
About The Author
Lauren
Lauren, a passionate marketing professional from Vancouver, Canada, has an insatiable love for travel. Whether it’s camping off the grid in a secluded forest or enjoying the bustling streets of Manhattan, New York, she embraces every adventure with enthusiasm.