Remote work is becoming increasingly popular around the world, as more people seek to have the flexibility to work from anywhere. However, working remotely while traveling can be challenging, as you have to balance the need to stay productive with the desire to explore new places and have new experiences.
In this guide, we will explore in-depth strategies on how to make remote work while traveling work. Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or full-time employee, these tips can help you stay focused and achieve your goals while on the road.
Chapter 1: Building a Routine
One of the common challenges of remote work is the lack of structure found in traditional workplaces. Without a strict schedule, it can be challenging to stay on track and complete work. Building a routine is the key to overcoming this hurdle. Here’s how to do it:
Set Work Hours
Start by setting work hours as close to your previous schedule as possible to remain consistent. If you are working with colleagues or clients in different regions, make sure that you’re not crossing the line on either side of the clock. Work for a specific number of hours every day, and do your best to stick to them.
Eat Well and Stay Hydrated
Take care of yourself by eating a healthy breakfast and staying hydrated throughout the day. Sitting in front of the computer for long periods may lead you to forget to take breaks, but taking care of your mental and physical well-being will lead to better performance in the long run.
Take Breaks
It’s essential to take breaks frequently if you want to maintain your productivity. Get up and move around, stretch or take a nap in between work hours. By doing this, you can reduce burn-out and increase your overall productivity.
Avoid Distractions
Staying focused while working remotely can be challenging because of distractions that you face while traveling. However, it is possible to avoid them. Before diving into work, find a place where you can work in relative quiet and turn off notifications from social media or other apps.
Chapter 2: Upgrade Your Tools
One of the best lessons you can learn from successful remote workers is that you need the right tools to be productive. It allows you to work more efficiently, effectively, and with better quality. Here are some tools that you can consider:
A Quality Laptop
Your laptop is your primary tool for remote work, so it is crucial that it’s of high quality. Pick a laptop that is lightweight, has enough storage space, and can handle most of the work you do.
A Reliable Internet Connection
There is no way to work remotely without the Internet, so ensure you have a reliable connection. Consider purchasing a WiFi hotspot or data plan that can retain you connected, regardless of your location. Also, ensure that you have a VPN setup to protect your network from security threats.
Project Management Tools
Project management tools like Asana or Trello are great for managing work with your team or clients. They allow everybody involved to see the status of the project, deadlines, and who is responsible for what.
Webcam and Audio Equipment
Video conferencing app usage, like Skype, Zoom, or Google Meet, has become increasingly common for remote workers. Ensure that you have the appropriate webcam and sound equipment so that you can attend or host video conferences.
Chapter 3: Find the Right Workspace
Finding a good workspace is essential when working remotely. Without the right workspace, distractions and productivity issues will arise, and you may not be able to complete your projects on time. Here are your best options:
Coworking Spaces
Coworking spaces are growing in popularity worldwide, and they serve as a great option for remote workers. The spaces usually have excellent Internet connectivity, comfortable furniture, and amenities like meeting rooms, printing and scanning equipment, and a café.
Cafes
Finding the right café that has decent Wi-Fi, a quiet atmosphere, and food is also an excellent option to work remotely. However, it’s essential to remember to buy something to make up for the space you’re taking any potential profits lost.
Libraries
Libraries are often equipped with fast internet, quiet study areas, and available space conference rooms. Libraries offer a good option for remote workers who want a quiet workspace without any distraction.
Home Rentals & Airbnb
Serious remote workers find renting out a space exclusively for work even when staying at an Airbnb for a more extended period is an ideal option. Most rentals come equipped with the tools needed (such as a desk or table and chairs) and are less distracting.
Chapter 4: Plan Your Travel Carefully
One of the advantages of working remotely is that you can work anywhere. Still, you have to balance the desire for adventure with getting work done. Traveling can lead to burn-out, as there’s a lot of distractions and new sights to see. Here’s how to plan your travel:
Choose Reliable Accommodations
It would help if you had a stable place to stay when traveling. If you’re staying at an Airbnb or hotel, make sure that there is fast internet and a comfortable workspace in the room. Research the most reliable locations to stay relative to where you plan on working.
Consider Quiet Time Zones
It’s important to choose your travel destination based on time zones overlapping with your work hours. That way, you can avoid working random hours so that you can communicate well with colleagues, clients or customers.
Schedule Trips During Slow Periods
Most remote workers tend to travel during the slow season to avoid running into peak season crowds. It’s essential that you check-in with your colleagues, client, or customers and communicate with them regarding your time and work availability.
Make the Most of Your Downtime
Traveling involves a lot of downtime between destinations. Make the most of your time by working when you can, sleeping, or exploring the city on a small scale.
Chapter 5: Communication is King
Communication is the backbone of remote work. To be successful, you need to have clear and effective communication with your team, clients, or customers, whether you’re located in the same timezone as your team or across the world.
Set Communication Expectations
Be clear about your working schedule with your team, clients, or customers. Be reasonable with response time for their messages and ensure you communicate the best communication tools you’ll be using to reach out to them.
Set Regular Check-Ins and Meetings
Schedule regular check-in meetings to keep everyone on the same page. Discuss progress, the next steps, or requirements you might need from each other.
Use Online Chat and Collaboration Tools
Collaboration tools like Trello, Slack, or Google Drive are tremendous for remote work as it enables seamless collaboration amongst team members.
Chapter 6: Take Care of Yourself
Remote work can be isolating and is always stressful. Maintaining a healthy diet, exercise routine, and a healthy working habit is essential to keeping yourself well-adjusted in the long-term. Here’s how to take care of yourself well.
Exercise
Exercise is essential to promote physical wellness and energy levels. You don’t need to go to the gym continually. Doing a few stretches or a run before starting your workday can go a long way to get your day started on a healthy note.
Get Enough Sleep
The excessive use of devices that emit blue light (such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones) can suppress melatonin production, a hormone that helps regulate human sleep. Delaying access to electronic devices before bed can improve your sleep quality.
Plan Downtime
As much as you want to go out and explore your surroundings, it’s important not to burn-out. Spend time planning restful activities such as meditation, going to the beach, or going to a museum. The downtime helps to recharge the creativity well and helps with work performance.
Conclusion
Working remotely while traveling is one of the best ways to live life on your terms. The challenge is striking a balance between achieving professional work and having a fulfilling life outside of work. Building a routine, upgrading your tools, finding the right workspace, and taking care of yourself can help to have a successful location-independent lifestyle. Planning your travel carefully, and communicating with your team, clients, or customers also goes a long way towards keeping you in the loop while away.