The lifestyle of a digital nomad offers numerous perks—from flexible working schedules to the freedom to explore new places and cultures. However, it doesn’t come without its challenges. Traveling, starting from scratch in a new country, and adapting to the local culture takes time and a significant financial investment. In what follows, we break down five life hacks to save time and money as a digital nomad.
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Opt for an eSIM card
Introduced in 2016, the eSIM card is simply an evolution of the traditional phone SIM card. It’s an electronic SIM card that doesn’t require the insertion of a piece of plastic in a mobile device. As a digital nomad, having an eSIM international is more convenient as you won’t need to go to buy a physical card from a service provider that you’ll likely throw away before starting your next adventure. Instead, you can install your eSIM a few hours before your trip and activate it on your flight. You’ll have access to the internet without having to activate data roaming. Travel and tech companies such as Holafly provide an all-in-all eSIM for Europe and unlimited data plans in 160 different locations. This type of technology will also let you keep your WhatsApp number and call and message your contacts as if you are in the same country.
Get travel insurance
Travel insurance protects you in the event of any losses or mishaps, whether that is a missing suitcase or a lost connecting flight. But, most importantly, it offers coverage if you suffer an accident or fall ill and require medical assistance outside of your country of residence. Instead of paying astronomical fees, your insurance will cover any medical expenses. If you’re partaking in high-risk activities like high-altitude trekking, for example, buying a travel insurance package is a must.
Due to the popularity of this lifestyle, you’ll find numerous travel insurance packages specific to digital nomads, from SafetyWing Nomad Insurance to World Nomads and many others.
Travel light
If you prefer to be quick on your feet and save time by going to new places faster, then consider traveling light. As a digital nomad, your passport, computer, wallet, phone, chargers, and universal adapter, are probably the most essential items you’ll be always carrying with you. Besides that, forget about heavy items or things you don’t use on a daily basis. You’ll want to focus on the essentials, including hygiene products and clothes. As a rule of thumb, pack all essentials into a backpack weighing a maximum of 10 kilos (22 pounds).
Choose a digital bank
Part of the allure of the digital nomad lifestyle is the flexibility it offers. However, traditional banks are hardly flexible. With a few exceptions, most banks charge hefty fees for currency exchange, international transactions, and withdrawing money from an ATM. And, perhaps the greatest problem is that these institutions are primarily designed for people who live in a given location instead of individuals who are constantly on the move.
In recent years, digital banks have emerged as more suitable alternatives. Essentially, these organizations offer banking activities and online services via a website or mobile app. Wise, Monese, Revolut, and N26, to name a few, provide multi-currency accounts, competitive international transactions, and other services at a more accessible cost.
Join an online community
Online communities in your destination can provide invaluable advice, support, and companionship. If you are feeling lost or stuck, relying on the wisdom of fellow expats or locals will save you a lot of time and stress. What’s more, if you’re in the process of building your business, you’ll likely find the right collaborators or clients in an online community. Lastly, if you’re feeling lonely or homesick, having a supportive network will truly make a difference.
Expat and InternetNations are two excellent online platforms that can help you connect with like-minded global nomads. You may also want to run a search on Facebook or MeetUp. Typing “expats” and the name of the country or city you’re living in will likely bring up several results.
To conclude
Being a digital nomad opens a new world of numerous possibilities. To make your travel experience easier, consider getting an eSIM card, buying travel insurance, packing light, signing up for a digital bank, and joining an online community.
