Embarking on the digital nomad journey means pairing wanderlust with work—and the key to success lies in packing smart. Here, we take a look into the digital nomad essentials that may make your time fun and less frustrating: tried-and-tested items that ensure productivity and ease on the go.
Find out which essentials make the cut to keep your nomadic life fun, adventurous, and hassle-free.
Snapshot of Must-Have Gear for Digital Nomads
What are the Digital nomad essentials
Embracing the digital nomad lifestyle is an exciting journey. However, without the right gear, it can become cumbersome. Here is a personal overview of the essentials needed for this nomadic way of life:
- Best for Computing: MacBook Air or MacBook Pro
- Best for Navigation: Logitech M510 Wireless Mouse
- Best for Connectivity: GlocalMe Personal Wifi Device
- Best for Power: Mophie Powerstation Pro AC
- Best for Reading: Kindle Paperwhite
- Best for Insurance: World Nomads Travel Insurance
- Best for Hydration: Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System
- Best for Weather Protection: X1 Pod Compact Umbrella
- Best for Internet Stability: A Good Wifi Extender
- Best for Audio: Quality Headphones or Earbuds
- Best for SIM Management: Sim Card Case
- Best for Security: An RFID Sleeve
These handpicked items guarantee that digital nomads possess the necessary gear for success around the globe.
Most Durable Power Bank
Price: Varies
As a digital nomad, locating a power outlet can be as daunting as securing a reliable internet connection. Hence, a sturdy power bank becomes indispensable. In the realm of portable chargers, the Mophie Powerstation Pro AC and Anker’s Prime Power Bank stand out for their robust construction and high capacity.
Specifications:
- Capacity: 27,000mAh (Mophie) / 27,650mAh (Anker)
- Output: 100W AC outlet (Mophie) / dual 140W USB-PD ports (Anker)
Pros:
- High power capacity for extended battery life
- Multiple charging options for all your devices
- Durable build for long-term use
Cons:
- Heavier than smaller capacity models
- Premium price point
“The Mophie Powerstation Pro has been a game-changer for me, especially during long haul flights when I need to juice up my MacBook Air and phone simultaneously. Its 100W AC outlet means I can power almost any device – a feature that makes all the difference when I’m miles away from a wall socket”.
Anker’s Prime Power Bank is equally impressive with its dual 140W ports allowing me to charge multiple devices quickly.
As for the MAXOAK Laptop Power Bank, while its 50,000 mAh capacity is staggering, it’s sadly not suited for air travel due to its size, which is a deal-breaker for many nomads like me who prefer to travel light.
Rating:
- Battery Life: 4.5/5
- Durability: 4.5/5
- Portability: 3.5/5 (due to weight)
- Value for Money: 4/5
Most Reader-Friendly Kindle
Price: Varies
For book enthusiasts such as myself, the Kindle Paperwhite is an absolute boon, making it impossible to envision a life devoid of reading. Its 6.8-inch glare-free screen makes reading in bright sunlight a breeze, and with storage options up to 32GB,
“I can carry a library’s worth of books without adding weight to my digital nomad backpack”.
Specifications:
- Display: 6.8-inch, 300 ppi resolution
- Storage: 8GB to 32GB
Pros:
- Glare-free screen for comfortable reading anywhere
- Large storage capacity for a vast library of books
Cons:
- Limited to Amazon’s ecosystem
- No color display for graphical content
Ever since I got my hands on the Kindle Paperwhite, my reading experience has been enjoyable. It’s the perfect companion for long flights or lazy beach days.
“With Kindle Unlimited, I have easy access to an extensive selection of titles, and the integration with Amazon’s Audible allows me to switch between reading and listening seamlessly”.
The waterproof design is just icing on the cake, ensuring my device is safe from accidental spills.
The Kindle Paperwhite’s rating would look something like this:
- Reader-Friendly Features: 5/5
- Screen Quality: 4.5/5
- Storage Options: 4.5/5
- Overall Value: 4.5/5
Most Reliable Travel Insurance
Price: Varies
For contemporary nomads, travel insurance is indispensable.
It provides more than just a safety net; it brings mental tranquillity.
“World Nomads has been my go-to for comprehensive coverage that includes overseas medical care, baggage protection, and even coverage for adventure activities – a major plus for digital nomads like me who love to explore off the beaten path”.
Specifications:
- Coverage: Medical, evacuation, baggage, theft, trip cancellation
- Activities Covered: Extensive range including adventurous sports
Pros:
- Comprehensive coverage tailored for travelers
- Coverage for a wide range of activities
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to some competitors
- Lower customer satisfaction score (3.3 on Trustpilot)
SafetyWing, on the other hand, offers a more budget-friendly travel medical insurance that also covers delays and lost checked luggage, which is perfect for those unexpected hiccups during transit.
“Don’t forget to keep your passport and travel documents safe and secure while enjoying the benefits of this insurance. If i haven’t said it yet. Please make hard copies of your passport”.
Both SafetyWing and IMG Global provide the flexibility of monthly payments and the option to extend or purchase policies while already on the move, which is a huge benefit for nomads who don’t always plan their next destination.
Rating:
- Coverage Options: 4/5 (World Nomads) / 4.5/5 (SafetyWing)
- Customer Satisfaction: 3/5 (World Nomads) / 4/5 (SafetyWing)
- Flexibility: 4.5/5
- Overall Value: 4/5
Most Eco-Conscious Reusable Water Bottle
Price: Varies
For digital nomads, maintaining hydration is as crucial as remaining connected.
The Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System is the most environmentally friendly choice I have used.
“Not only does it keep me from buying single-use plastic bottles, but its innovative filtration system also ensures that I can drink safely from almost any water source”.
Specifications:
- Filtration: Removes 99.99999% of all bacteria and protozoa
- Insulation: Maintains temperature of liquids
Pros:
- Advanced filtration for safe drinking water
- Eco-friendly, reducing plastic waste
Cons:
- Design may not appeal to everyone
- Cleaning process can be cumbersome
“I’ve found the Sawyer Squeeze to be a lifesaver in countries where tap water isn’t drinkable”.
Its insulation also means I can enjoy a cold drink after a long hike or a hot tea on a chilly morning. The only downside is the cleaning process, which requires a bit more effort than your average bottle. But for the benefits it provides, it’s a small price to pay.
Rating:
- Filtration Quality: 5/5
- Eco-Friendliness: 5/5
- Design: 3.5/5
- Ease of Use: 4/5
Most Compact Travel Umbrella
Price: Varies
Given the unpredictability of weather, a compact travel umbrella and a rain jacket become needed in any digital nomad’s backpack. I use it for just a sun shade more than to keep the rain off.
The X1 Pod Compact Umbrella and the Davek Mini are two umbrellas that have earned their place in my travel light arsenal for their space-saving design and reliable protection against the elements.
Specifications:
- Size: Sunglasses case size (X1 Pod) / less than 7 inches when closed (Davek Mini)
- Features: Wind resistance (SMATI), Windproof Double Canopy (EEZ-Y)
Pros:
- Ultra-compact, saving space in your luggage
- Sturdy build suitable for harsh weather
Cons:
- Smaller coverage area compared to larger umbrellas
- May not withstand extreme wind conditions
The X1 Pod has been a cool design addition to my gear, folding down to the size of a sunglasses case, which makes it incredibly portable.
The Davek Mini’s tiny form factor allows me to tuck it away in my messenger bag without a second thought. Both have stood up well to moderate winds, but I wouldn’t rely on them in a typhoon. Haha
Rating:
- Portability: 5/5
- Durability: 4/5
- Coverage: 3.5/5
- Overall Value: 4/5
Good Wifi Extender
Price: Varies A dependable internet connection is vital for a digital nomad. Although coffee shops and coworking spaces serve their purpose, occasionally the wifi falters in reaching your preferred spot.
That’s where a good wifi extender becomes an absolute game changer, boosting signal connectivity and ensuring you can work from anywhere – even that cozy nook with the great view.
Pros:
- Extends wifi range significantly
- Ensures stable connection for uninterrupted work
Cons:
- Additional device to carry
- May require setup at each new location
“In my experience, a good wifi extender is as crucial as my laptop and passport. It’s allowed me to turn weak, unreliable signals into a strong, stable connection, which is essential when I’m hitting tight deadlines or in the middle of an important call”.
The only downside is the extra piece of tech gear to pack and the occasional setup hassle, but for the connectivity it provides, it’s well worth the minor inconvenience.
Rating:
- Range Extension: 5/5
- Connectivity Stability: 4.5/5
- Portability: 4/5
- Overall Value: 4.5/5
Head phones or Earbuds
Price: Varies
In the bustling world of digital nomadism, where an airport terminal or a beach bar can be your office, noise-canceling headphones or earbuds are indispensable. Think roosters in the Philippines.
“I like having a good pair of headphones so if i want to be left alone and really focus and get in a groove”.
They not only help you concentrate on your work but also enhance your in-flight entertainment experience.
Pros:
- Blocks out ambient noise for focus and relaxation
- Portable, can be used across all your devices
Cons:
- Battery-dependent for active noise canceling
- Quality options can be pricey
“I’ve lost count of the times my noise-canceling earbuds have saved my sanity in noisy coffee shops or during long-haul flights”.
Being able to block out the world and immerse myself in music or a podcast is priceless. While they do eat into my device’s battery life and the really good ones can hit the wallet hard, the trade-off for peace and productivity is more than fair.
Rating:
- Noise Canceling: 4.5/5
- Portability: 5/5
- Battery Life: 4/5
- Value for Money: 4/5
Sim Card Case
Price: Varies
For digital nomads, maintaining connection extends beyond just internet access; it involves being contactable via phone globally.
A SIM card case is a simple and effective tool for keeping multiple local sim cards organized and accessible, ensuring you can easily switch as you hop from one country to another.
Pros:
- Keeps SIM cards safely organized
- Easy access to different local sim cards when traveling
Cons:
- Yet another small item to keep track of
- Risk of losing SIM cards if not handled carefully
As someone who travels frequently, I can’t overstate the convenience of having a dedicated SIM card case.
“It’s saved me countless times at train stations and airports when I’ve needed to switch to a local SIM quickly. The downside is that it’s a small item that’s easy to misplace, and if you’re not careful, those tiny SIM cards can disappear in a blink”.
Rating:
- Organization: 5/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
- Portability: 4.5/5
- Overall Value: 4.5/5
RFID Sleeve protecting your cards
Price: Varies
In a time where digital theft is a genuine threat, an RFID sleeve becomes a vital component of any digital nomad’s security toolkit.
These sleeves are designed to block unwanted RFID signals, protecting your credit cards and passport from skimming devices and unwanted data transfers.
Pros:
- Protects sensitive information from theft
- Slim design that doesn’t take up much space and helps to save space
Cons:
- Constantly needing to remove cards for use
- Can wear out over time, requiring replacement
I’ve felt an added layer of security ever since I started using an RFID sleeve.
It slips easily into my wallet or travel organizer, ensuring that my personal information stays safe. It’s a minor inconvenience to remove my cards when I need them, but it’s a small price to pay for the protection it offers.
Rating:
- Security: 5/5
- Design: 4.5/5
- Durability: 4/5
- Overall Value: 4.5/5
Choosing Your Digital Nomad Essentials Wisely
My experience as a digital nomad has taught me that while the allure of packing every appealing gadget and tech gear is strong, it’s imperative to meticulously select my travel essentials. Striking the right balance between features and compactness can mean the difference between a smooth journey and a cumbersome one.
Whether it’s a Kindle Scribe for signing documents or a robustly built Weatherman™ Umbrella with smart Bluetooth features, assessing the extended features and durability of these devices against my own requirements has always ensured that I’m well-prepared for my travels.
The secret lies not in overpacking, but in selecting items that genuinely enhance your nomadic lifestyle. Remember, every additional item in your digital nomad backpack is something you’ll have to carry, so make sure it’s worth the space and weight.
“From my experience, the right digital nomad gear not only makes life easier but also enriches the journey, allowing me to focus on the joys of travel and the work that allows me to maintain this lifestyle”.
Some essential items to consider for your right digital nomad backpack are:
- A lightweight laptop
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Portable charger
- Universal travel adapter
- Travel router
- Portable hard drive
- Travel-sized toiletries
- Compact travel towel
- Travel pillows
- Packing cubes
- First Aid Kit
These items will help you stay productive, connected, and comfortable while on the road.
While selecting gear, pose this question to yourself:
- Does this simplify my life as a digital nomad?
- Does it help me stay connected with other remote workers?
- Will it withstand the rigors of constant travel?
If the answer is yes, you’ve likely found a keeper for your digital nomad packing list.
Summary
As we wrap up this guide, remember that the life of a digital nomad is as unpredictable as it is exciting. The gear we’ve explored today – from power banks that keep your devices alive in the wilderness, to Kindles that hold thousands of books, to travel insurance that covers you when plans go awry – have one thing in common: they make travel light and life easier.
By choosing the right digital nomad backpack filled with the travel essentials we’ve discussed, you can face the uncertainties of a nomadic lifestyle with confidence.
So pack your bags, secure your travel documents, and set forth on your digital nomad journey, ready to conquer any challenge with the best gear by your side.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to keep all my digital nomad gear organized?
Invest in a good electronics organizer and packing cubes to keep your digital nomad gear organized and secure while making unpacking and repacking easy.
How do I maintain a healthy work-life balance as a digital nomad?
To maintain a healthy work-life balance as a digital nomad, schedule your work hours and leisure time, and consider exploring co-working spaces to meet other remote workers. This can help you find inspiration and connection in your work and personal life.
Can I really rely on a power bank for all my charging needs?
Yes, a high-capacity, durable power bank can be relied on for all your charging needs, especially during travel or when outlets are limited.
Are RFID sleeves really necessary?
Yes, RFID sleeves are a simple and effective way to protect your passport and credit card information from digital theft, providing peace of mind.
Can I purchase travel insurance after I’ve already started my trip?
Yes, you can purchase travel insurance after you’ve started your trip with some providers, like SafetyWing. It’s ideal for spontaneous or extended trips.
