When I took the plunge to become a digital nomad all those years ago, I was sure I was making the right call even though I was mostly unprepared. I wasn’t entirely sure what I needed from setting up mobile office, to deciding the type of backpack that would last me miles. You can say I went through quite a bit to find the best digital nomad gear and equipment to sustain and survive.
Finding the right digital nomad essentials to match my new lifestyle was challenging. Of course, my wallet took a hit.
How can it not? I needed to experiment with trial and error to see what worked or not. If I’m lucky, I get my unwanted items sold.
Thankfully, nearly a decade later, I’ve got an excellent handle on things now, and I can move from place to place without any discernible drop in my productivity level.
Are you getting ready to start your digital nomad adventure, too? Here’s a guide I wish someone had created for me years ago!
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- What Are Digital Nomad Gear And Equipment?
- Putting Together The Right Digital Nomad Essentials
- The Ultimate Digital Nomad Packing List
- The Backpack For Nomads
- Nomad Tech Gadgets
- Headphones That Nomads Love
- Nomad Can't Get Enough Of These Power Banks
- The Nomad-friendly Universal Travel Adapter
- The Travel Medical Insurance For Every Nomad
- Local Storage Spaces For Private Nomads
- Nomads Gain More With These Travel Credit Cards
- The Water Bottle That Suits Nomads
- Popular Questions About Digital Nomad Gear And Equipment
What Are Digital Nomad Gear And Equipment?
Digital nomad gear and equipment are essentials for every remote worker who needs to perform their tasks off-site efficiently.
Contrary to popular belief, setting up a mobile office differs from setting up a traditional workspace.
I quickly learned that I had to be careful to pick elements like the proper travel medical insurance, the best digital nomad luggage, the best digital nomad backpack, and even the perfect universal travel adapter.
Investing in the right resources here is crucial because you need to know how readily available replacements will be on the road.
For example, if you were to pick a shoddy portable laptop stand and it quit on you where you can’t get another one quickly, your work output could suffer significantly during this time.
I like MOFT laptop stand and I’m current using one. I work in cafes most of the time, so having a laptop stand helps a lot with my posture when working.
Putting Together The Right Digital Nomad Essentials
No professional can ply their craft if they lack the right tools. As a seasoned remote worker, if anything important is missing on your digital nomad packing list, you’ll feel it keenly sooner or later.
The biggest reason you want to have the right gear in your luggage is that this determines if you can do your job remotely efficiently. When you have the right equipment, your productivity will stay strong.
Moreover, avoiding making errors and mistakes will become much more challenging.
Another motivation I’ve found to always get it right here is that it can help you save time – a lot!
When I was working remotely out of Paris in 2018, there was nothing I hated about the experience. Incredible scenery, good views, and excellent cuisine.
I had it all and then some! But I could never quite get the background noise to go away. Of course, I didn’t think this was much of an issue as I always finished my work on time.
However, when I ran into an old colleague while strolling in the city, I noticed she had a pair of noise-canceling headphones. I loved the design, so I bought a couple myself.
Not long after, I found fewer covert distractions when using the noise-canceling headphones. I could get more done in less time.
Finally, investing in the right digital nomad gear and equipment can do wonders for helping you stay organized. It gives you the leverage to work smarter and get more high-quality results.
The Ultimate Digital Nomad Packing List
So, the question is: what exactly goes into putting together the best digital nomad luggage?
Below is my top digital nomad essentials cheat list for this year!
The Backpack For Nomads
When hitting the road as a digital nomad, it’s a given that you’ve got to be strapping the best digital nomad backpack. Here’s how to find the products that fit that bill.
How To Pick The Best Digital Nomad Backpack
Several things go into picking the best resource here (surprise!)
One of the most important ones for me is the size and weight of the backpack. As arguably one of the most indispensable digital nomad gear and equipment, you need to ensure it has a balance so you won’t have any discomfort lugging it around. Make sure that it’s the ideal shape, weight, and size to meet your needs.
Another factor you must consider is the build and quality of the backpack’s material. Most times, I travel fast.
My way of travel means that my backpack regularly takes a fair beating, so does my back. It also gets a little wet from sweat and rain from time to time, too. If its material isn’t durable enough, it’ll fall apart on me.
Finally, you need to consider the security features it affords as well.
As a rule, all the nomad backpacks I’ve used come with a cut-resistant material and lockable zippers and most importantly, it needs to be waterproof and lightweight or else it’s a dealbreaker.
I’m currently testing MTW Moment backpack and I’m loving it. But I also have a few backpacks in my closet so here are some of my favorites for their specific reasons and length of travel.
My Top Recommendations For The Best Digital Nomad Backpack
Top-tier – Nomatic Travel Pack (32L)
Mid-range – Samsonite Modern Utility Travel Backpack
Budget – MATEIN Rolling Backpack
Nomad Tech Gadgets
Tech gadgets allow us nomads to work from wherever we want. And while you’ll undoubtedly need several pieces of tech to function off-site, the most important of these for setting up a mobile office is your laptop.
How To Pick The Best Nomad Tech Gadgets
Every digital nomad packing list is complete with a good laptop.
Several considerations to look into here include the size and weight of the device. You should know that the bigger and bulkier your laptop is, the more difficult it’s likely to be to move around.
Another thing you want to pay close attention to here (depending on the nature of your work) is the device’s central processing unit (CPU). The better the CPU of your laptop is, the higher the level of performance you can expect from it. The same thing applies when it comes to the random access memory (RAM) of the laptop.
Something else you want to look into closely is the device’s battery capacity. You don’t want a computer that constantly runs out of juice. This is because, sooner or later, you’ll find yourself in a position where there won’t be a power outlet within reach.
Lastly, you should look at the build (chassis) of the device as well. Even when you’ve been extra careful, your laptop will likely suffer the occasional bang. You must ensure you have a machine that can withstand that without breaking.
As a side note, you should also get a good portable laptop stand. While not a must, a decent mobile laptop stand can make working on your device far more convenient than it usually would be.
My Top Recommendations For The Best Nomad Tech Gadgets
Top-tier – Macbook Air M2
Mid-range – Lenovo Yoga 920
Budget – Microsoft Surface Go 2
Headphones That Nomads Love
I discovered just how great a pair of noise-canceling headphones could be in a relatively mild and un-dramatic way. I am one of the lucky ones. Noise disturbance is a recognized threat to operational efficiency when working remotely.
And while they mightn’t be the ultimate solution, good noise-canceling headsets can do a lot to help you cope with this challenge.
How to Pick The Best Noise Canceling Headphones
The first thing you need to consider here is what type of noise-canceling headphones you want to get. Your preference is usually crucial here. Do you want full-sized headphones, or do earbuds work as well?
Next, you want to consider the battery life of the unit. It’s always best to get something that can give you long hours. In addition, you should look beyond mere utility and check out the additional features the device offers.
My Top Recommendations For The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones
Top-tier – Sony WH-1000XM5
Mid-range – Razer Barracuda Pro
Budget – Anker Soundcore Life Q20
Nomad Can’t Get Enough Of These Power Banks
When putting together your digital nomad essentials, you need to make allowance for a power supply backup. This is where having a trusty power bank becomes necessary.
In the unlikely event that you get stuck in a place where the electricity supply isn’t available or constant, a power bank ensures you always have enough juice to power your core devices.
How To Pick The Best Power Bank
The biggest consideration when adding such a resource to your best digital nomad luggage is its capacity. Naturally, the bigger the capacity of your power bank, the more power you’ll have available to you in times of need.
Another thing to look at here is the device’s number and compatibility of ports. There are several options available here. So, be sure to consider what your handheld devices require when making a decision.
I personally like using Imuto for its double function as my MacAir’s battery charger as well. Anything that’s multipurpose –I’m sold!
There is also the issue of durability and weight to take into account. Ensure you get something rugged yet lightweight enough to move around conveniently.
My Top Recommendations For The Best Nomad Power Bank
Top-tier – Imuto Portable Power Bank
Mid-range – Anker USB-C Power Bank
Budget – KUXIU X23 PRO 3 in 1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Stand
The Nomad-friendly Universal Travel Adapter
No one goes on a global adventure without adding a universal travel adapter to their digital nomad packing list. I was baffled at the sheer number of power outlet types out there!
For those who don’t want to be left scratching their head when it comes time to charge their devices in another country, it’s just vital you get one of these babies. Moreover, an excellent universal travel adapter offers surge protection for your devices and helps you recharge multiple devices in one go.
How To Pick The Best Universal Travel Adapter
A few things of interest you have to watch for here include the number of ports that the universal travel adapter has. Save yourself the headaches by picking a unit with 1 US and 1 Universal AC port. In most cases, this should cover you, no matter where the road takes you.
Keep an eye on the number of USB charging ports and outlets the adapter offers.
Similarly, you want to ensure the adapter is fully compatible with all the electronic devices you use when setting up a mobile office.
Nomads Swear By These Universal Travel Adapters
Top-tier – GOUNULI GAN 100W Universal Travel Adapter
Mid-range – BESTEK Universal Travel Adapter
Budget – Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Adapter
The Travel Medical Insurance For Every Nomad
Even though it isn’t as tangible as many other digital nomad gear and equipment, travel medical insurance is still critical.
You are still determining what’ll happen during your journey as a digital nomad. That’s one thing that makes it an adventure worth embarking on in the first place. However, this doesn’t mean you should leave yourself at the complete mercy of chance.
I consciously choose my travel medical insurance carefully, so I have much less to worry about when something unexpected happens.
Select The Best Travel Medical Insurance
A couple of crucial elements come into play when trying to find the ideal travel medical insurance package for your nomadic adventures. For me, the principal considerations are the reach of the policy, the type and quality of the coverage, and the specific range of incidents covered.
Finally, of course, there’s also the issue of how much you’ll be paying as a premium to consider. You want to weigh all these variables and strike the most comfortable balance between them.
The Best Travel Medical Insurance For You
Top-tier – World Nomads Insurance
Mid-range – Insured Nomads
Budget – Safety Wing
Local Storage Spaces For Private Nomads
Even if you won’t constantly be on the move, there’s a place for always ensuring that all your essential files and documents are properly backed up.
The need for such a reserve increases exponentially when you know you must move from place to place, and anything can happen in transit especially when you go off the grid and lost signals.
I’ve had to rely on hastily backed-up files several times to ensure I got all my deadlines. As such, I don’t mess around when picking a backup storage space.
I still have my Google Cloud Storage but being overly preventive of mishaps, I can never say no to EXTRA protection of data.
How To Pick The Best Nomad Storage
Whether you want a solid-state drive (SSD) or a hard disk drive (HDD), you can find an in-depth breakdown of the differences between these two units here. The former is more modern and reliable but very expensive, while the latter runs on older tech but is more affordable.
If you’re someone who likes better data control, confidentiality and privacy, getting an extra storage works!
Beyond that, you need to figure out what storage size you want. The primary determining factor here should be what kind of work you do. For instance, on the whole, a writer will need much less storage space when compared to a video editor.
Also keep in mind if you’re an Apple user, MacBooks’ SSD and RAM can’t be upgraded after purchase but you can connect to an external SSD or HDD to extend storage. Here are some suggested external SSD or HDD.
The Best Nomad Storage Spaces For More Space
Top-tier – Crucial T700 M.2
Mid-range – Toshiba X300
Budget – Crucial P3 M.2
Nomads Gain More With These Travel Credit Cards
One item that should be included in your best digital nomad backpack is your travel credit card. Beyond being crucial for influencing the quality of your experience when moving around, it’s also essential for helping you cut costs on the road!
How To Pick The Best Nomad Travel Credit Card
Picking an excellent travel credit card can take time and effort. Often, this is because there are several elements in play you have to be sure to get a good handle on.
For example, you need a good credit score to qualify for some of the best travel credit cards. In addition, the timing of your signing up can also strongly influence the card benefits you enjoy. You must be watchful and ready to swoop in when you see a good deal.
You should also look out for the card’s earning potential and the annual fees charged for maintaining the card. Currently, I am using a Wise travel card as it offers me great conversion rates against the depleting Malaysian Ringgit, even though I might miss out on other perks like credit card points and redemptions. The conversion rates make up for these minor losses.
My Nomad Friends’ Recommendations For The Best Nomad Travel Credit Card
Picture: American Express
Top-tier – The Platinum Card From American Express
Picture: Capital One
Mid-range – Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Budget – Wise Visa Card
The Water Bottle That Suits Nomads
The type of reusable water bottle hanging from my backpack wasn’t at the top of my digital nomad essentials list. When I tracked my plastic footprint in 2021, I realized I had to make a few significant changes.
A good water bottle ensures you stay hydrated without hurting the environment or compromising your health.
How To Pick The Best Nomad Water Bottle
When choosing a reusable water bottle, the material the bottle is made of is most important. Stainless steel bottles take the lead here because they’re good for the environment and can be easily recycled.
What’s more, when used properly, they can last several years!
Beyond material, you should also look at the bottle’s capacity. You want to get something large enough to keep you hydrated when you move but small enough to not get in the way at every turn.
The Best Water Bottle For Nomads To Stay Hydrated
Top-tier – PNNERR Stainless Steel Water Bottle
Mid-range – Volhoply Insulated Water Bottle
Budget – MEWAY Sports Water Bottle
Packing For The Road
The right digital nomad gear and equipment can make all the difference in the adventure you’re headed toward. Your digital nomad essentials determine how productive you’ll be and the ease with which you achieve such efficiency.
A mobile office will be a cakewalk with a trusty computer device, a sturdy portable laptop stand, the best digital nomad luggage, excellent noise-canceling headphones, and reasonable travel medical insurance for good measure!
Now that you’ve got your nomad packing list, you must choose the right tools and get on the road!
Remember to pick up the best remote work practices so you’d make the best out of your equipments.
Popular Questions About Digital Nomad Gear And Equipment
What Gear And Equipment Do I Need To Be A Digital Nomad?
You need a few gear and equipment to be a digital nomad. However, digital nomad essentials include a sufficiently high-quality laptop, the best digital nomad backpack you can lay your hands on, a reliable universal travel adapter, a portable laptop stand, noise-canceling headphones, and travel medical insurance.
Do I Need A Lot Of Money To Buy The Digital Nomad Gear And Equipment I Need?
No, you don’t need much money to buy the digital nomad gear and equipment you need. While it’s true that the highest quality equipment will command higher prices, you don’t need to go for top-tier products mandatorily.
I’ve highlighted a few products across different price points that’ll help you get the job done just as well.
Do I Have To Pack Light As A Digital Nomad?
No, as a digital nomad, you don’t have to pack light. However, it’s the best digital nomad luggage, usually small and lightweight. This is because those tend to be easier to move and constitute less of a nuisance to you when you’re on the go.
How Do I Pack Light As A Digital Nomad?
The best way to pack light as a digital nomad is to prepare a comprehensive list of all you want to take on your trip. Next, review that nomad packing list and objectively distinguish between what you want and need.
Doing this will help you trim the fat so your luggage won’t be as bulky even if you pack a little less than needed.
Can I Use Packing Cube Liners?
Yes, you can use packing cube liners. These can be a great alternative if you want to pack as much as possible but avoid investing in a big suitcase.
