Nomadism has taken the world by storm, with millennials flocking to embrace this lifestyle. But can anyone successfully pull it off?
According to experts like Nicholas Barang, owner of NomadTalks, the success of a digital nomad can be gauged by how long they can sustain this way of life. Having been a nomad for over a decade, Nicholas is well-versed in the challenges and rewards of this lifestyle.
The trend of nomadic living has gained significant popularity since it first appeared on the scene in 2019, and as of August 2023, over 17.3 million US citizens identify as digital nomads.
In this article, we ask the tough questions, so you don’t have to. We’ve compiled a checklist of things to consider before jumping on the nomadic trend, along with essential questions to help you determine if this lifestyle is the right fit for you.
What distinguishes a successful nomad who maintains the lifestyle from someone who returns home after a brief stint? According to experts, preparation is the key determining factor.
Do I have the right personality?
Is your personality compatible with the nomadic lifestyle?
Research indicates that the right personality type is crucial for success. Are you adaptable, able to balance work and leisure, and self-motivated enough to navigate unfamiliar environments? These traits can make or break your time as a digital nomad. Our recommendation is to take a personality test and honestly assess your capabilities to survive and thrive in a nomadic environment. Remember, this lifestyle isn’t for everyone, and that’s perfectly okay!
Ready to find out if you’re nomad material? Try out this personality test – 16Personalities
Where should I go?
Choosing the right locations to visit, especially in your initial months or even weeks. Start with a more modern place that offers the comforts of home, and where language barriers won’t thwart your first adventure. What could be worse than being cold, hungry, and lost in a city with angry locals who don’t speak a word of English? To avoid this, nomad expert and course creator Rowena Hennigan suggests considering three basic points before planning your first trip:
- Can I legally go there?
- Will I be safe and understood?
- Will I truly enjoy the culture, the food, and the view?
Take the Expatsi Test to find the best digital nomad countries for you.
What’s the best remote job for me?
Finding the perfect job to suit your passions, lifestyle, and budget needs can often feel like looking for an honest man in Congress. We can’t clear the cabinet but we can provide our top picks based on three key traits needed for the nomadic lifestyle: flexible hours, competitive compensation, and job availability. Here are our top five picks.
1. Course Creator/ Teacher
Platforms like Teach.io make it easy to turn any skill into a thriving online course. Course creator Tom Power, for example, earns around $20,000 a month with his “how to plaster” course. This is our top pick because you get out what you put in, time and compensation-wise.
2. Editor
Editing jobs offer a degree of flexibility that many other professions lack. They are deadline-driven and generally allow you to work on your schedule.
3. Virtual Admin
These jobs offer stable pay, albeit with less time freedom. The market for virtual administration staff is continually expanding.
4. Data Analyst
While specific skills are required, this job allows more freedom than a traditional 9-5 job. Data analyst salaries are quite competitive.
5. Surveys
This job market is wide open and leaves you with the freedom to pick your hours. Unfortunately, this field does not offer competitive pay as it takes long hours to make a decent salary.
Where should I stay?
Researching the travel experiences of various nomads we found the importance of choosing your accommodation style. Will you rough it in backpackers’/hostels, or opt for the lap of luxury with B&Bs and hotels? Consider your style, manage your budget, and plan your travel periods in a country accordingly. Whether you envision embracing remote working colonies – Yes! That’s a thing now, or moving from one backpackers’ hostel to another, adjusting your accommodation budget accordingly is critical…
How much do I need?
Believe us! This is our least favorite subject too, but reality calls. Budgeting for your nomad lifestyle is essential to avoid disaster, such as getting stuck in a country because you paid half your salary for a coffee. While it may sound tough, tools such as Numbeo can help assess the cost of living in different countries. By keeping a vigilant eye on essentials like those listed below you can navigate the nomadic lifestyle with ease and avoid unnecessary hassles.
- Accommodation
- Electricity
- Wi-Fi/Internet
- Water
- Laundry
- Food & Drink
In the realm of full-time nomadism, ambiguity is a constant companion. This checklist aims to empower individuals with the knowledge and foresight needed to embrace the challenges and rewards of the nomadic journey. Are you prepared for the unpredictable adventure that awaits?
Source: Teach.io
