9 Essentials for Digital Nomads: What You Didn’t Know You Needed
- absolutelyundefine
- Sep 3, 2024
- 3 min read
I've been a part-time digital nomad for just over a year. As a digital nomad, you’re always on the move, exploring new places while staying productive. You’ve probably covered the basics: a reliable laptop, portable Wi-Fi, and maybe even a noise-canceling headset. But there are a few unexpected essentials that can make your life on the road a lot easier (trust me). These are the items you didn’t know you needed but won’t want to live without once you have them. FYI: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
A portable fan is hands-down my #1 recommendation. I use it to sleep every night and have used it many times in those small soundproof booths at a co-working space. When you’re exploring a sweltering city, a portable fan can be a true lifesaver. Small and rechargeable, they’re easy to carry and provide instant relief from the heat. I even use one on my desk when I'm at home.
I stand by AirTags. My luggage was once lost for 12 days! (Think the CrowdStrike outage, but only at the Amsterdam Airport.) I was able to enjoy the first part of my 9-week trip because even though the airline didn't know where my luggage was, I did. I attach them to my luggage, backpack, or even the Airbnb keys, and I use my smartphone to track them down if they go missing. It’s peace of mind in a tiny package.
Staying hydrated is crucial, but clean water isn’t always guaranteed, especially when you’re exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. A portable water filter bottle, like this Brita water bottle or this one from LifeStraw can be a real lifesaver. These bottles filter out bacteria, parasites, and even some chemicals, so you can fill up from any tap, river, or stream with confidence. Although in places where even the locals don't drink water (like Mexico and some of the Greek Islands), I'd still recommend sticking with bottled water from the store.
When you’re far from a power outlet—whether hiking in the mountains or chilling on a remote beach—a portable charger can be a lifesaver. These chargers are perfect for those moments when your battery is running low and there’s no electricity in sight. Bonus tip: if you're going for a hike or somewhere else where there might not be reliable electricity, a solar portable charger this one is also a great option.
Laundry clips are small but mighty. I've used these versatile little tools to hang my clothes in my hotel room, keep my towel secure on a windy beach, or even close up a bag of snacks. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and come in handy more often than you’d think.
Sleep is essential, but it can be hard to come by in a noisy hotel or a shared hostel room. A portable white noise machine can drown out background noise, helping you get the rest you need. These devices are small and easy to pack, but they can make a big difference in your sleep quality.
Portable External Monitor
If you’re used to working with 2 or even 3 screens at home, adjusting to a single laptop screen can feel restrictive. I actually have two different external monitors. This one is two 12-inch monitors that hook onto your computer. They are a little small for my work but still work if you need 3 screens. I eventually upgraded to this 18.5-inch portable monitor. It's big, and I have to pack it in my rolling carry-on (yes, I pack a full carry-on after my lost luggage adventure), but the size has provided me with a much better working experience while traveling.
Wrinkles happen, especially when you’re living out of a suitcase. A travel steamer is a quick and easy way to keep your clothes looking fresh and professional. It’s much more compact than a traditional iron and works wonders on wrinkled shirts, dresses, or even curtains in your Airbnb. I use mine even when I'm at home!
Ditch the single-use plastic and invest in some reusable silicone bags. These versatile bags are perfect for storing snacks, toiletries, or even a wet swimsuit. They’re durable, easy to clean, and a great way to reduce your environmental footprint while you travel.
Two honorable mentions would be a Turkish Towel (I love my Sandcloud one); these are great, especially if you're chasing summer and plan to spend as much time on a beach as possible, and a pen... or two. I forgot a pen, and it felt challenging to track one down while abroad.
These essentials may not be the first things that come to mind when packing for your digital nomad adventures, but they can make a big difference in your comfort and convenience on the road. Happy travels!
Kommentare