- Jennifer Kaplan
- May 15
- 12 min read
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You have probably seen all of those super awesome people posting photos on social media of themselves simultaneously working and tanning from exotic islands. At least that is how the travel and remote work life appears from a stereotypical stance as you browse through your large monitor in your work cubicle.
Although becoming a digital nomad sounds glamorous, it can also be filled with challenges like finding WiFi, financial stability, learning how to create a freelance website and balancing your days between work and play. It’s certainly not for everyone, but it is an adventurous feat for some.
If you’re craving this wandering life, we’ll show you how to get started in this guide to become a digital nomad. We start from scratch, but even if you already have your own direction, free website or client base, you’ll surely benefit from this complete checklist.
What is a digital nomad?
Digital nomad jobs are done by people who work remotely while spending a large portion of the year living abroad and frequently changing destinations.
Some people are employed by businesses, while others are freelancers acquiring different clients and projects through their online portfolio or other networking initiatives.
This sort of lifestyle is usually short term, but in some cases it can last over a decade. The reason for its temporary duration is that most digital nomads don’t earn a comfortable salary, only the minimal amount necessary to support their traveling life.
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How to become a digital nomad
01. Find a job that’s location independent
As a digital nomad, you’ll be fulfilling your passions by traveling the world. Therefore, your job should also bring you joy during this time of pleasure and wild exploration. Finding the right type of business is possible with proper and extensive research. It begins by asking yourself what you’re good at and what you’re interested in. It could be what you’ve already studied in school or applicable skills you learned from your past and/or current jobs that you think you can apply to others.
Then, you can start searching based on these skills and having a general sense of your career’s direction. In the digital nomad world, you can find jobs across a large spectrum of tech-based roles, from marketing and graphic design to becoming a virtual assistant, researcher and many other options that make money online.
Once you’ve decided what field you want to work in, there are several directions you can take to start your digital nomad journey:
Start freelancing: This will allow you to take on as many different projects as your time allows, providing you with lots of flexibility but little stability. You can apply for freelance work (such as being a Wix designer) either through networking and reaching out to businesses directly or offering your services on the Wix Marketplace.
Find a full-time remote job: A more stable option is to be hired full-time, with the capability of working from any location. However, this comes with flexibility restrictions. It’s important that you stick to your deadlines and recognize that you might work longer hours than you wished for as a digital nomad. You can either find a job that allows you to do this or, if you’re currently working, ask your company if it’s possible to continue remotely.
Open your own business: This is the ultimate autonomous decision if you’re a true go-getter. It will allow you to have complete control over your schedule, income and every decision you make. It won’t be easy and it may require you to get things going from home before you purchase your first flight ticket, but for many it’s worth it. If this interests you, check out this guide on how to start a business.
02. Build your skillset for a mobile lifestyle
Before you pack your bags, build the skills that let you earn from anywhere. The remote job market favors creators, communicators and problem-solvers—so start there. If you're drawn to location-friendly work like freelance writing, don’t just daydream—learn to write compelling long-form content, blog posts or SEO-driven articles.
You don’t need to chain yourself to a cubicle to level up. Take project-based gigs, enroll in online courses (try Skillshare or Coursera) or create your own learning sprint using YouTube, Notion and Reddit forums. Focus on remote-friendly tools like Slack, Trello or Notion and learn how to build a portfolio that shows you can deliver value from a hammock or a hostel.
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03. Market your services with a website
When it comes to making yourself marketable and standing out amongst competitors, a professional online presence is an absolute must. This is where building your website comes in, as it’s the center point of your online image. A good website can rank high in specific keyword search results too, helping you get your name ‘out there’ and even generate business leads.
Overall, a website enables you to promote your services (see how to start a service business), share testimonials and past projects and become more reachable for potential clients. And put your worries aside, you don’t need to be a developer to create your own. Wix provides professional drag and drop solutions and plenty of fully customizable website templates for you to choose from. Plus, if you’re self-employed, this intuitive guide will help you create a freelance website.
Learn more: How to create a website
04. Get your tech and remote setup right
Your gear is your office, so make smart choices. Invest in a lightweight laptop with great battery life, noise-canceling headphones and a portable laptop stand to keep your posture in check.
Backups are non-negotiable—use cloud storage for important files and carry a physical SSD for extra security. Protect your data with a solid VPN when using public networks and streamline work with tools like Notion, Slack or Clockify. Scan and save digital copies of critical documents before you leave. Don’t forget essentials like power adapters, universal chargers and portable Wi-Fi devices, especially if you’re heading to places with spotty infrastructure.
05. Connect with other digital nomads
Working and traveling can be glamorous, but also often lonely. Connecting with others in the same situation as you can not only provide companionship, but also assist you with your job from collaboration to sharing skills and advice.
There are many networks available to find other digital nomads. You can discover local groups through Meetup events based on a plethora of categories (tech, career & business, etc.) that you either attend or host yourself. Another option is to stay where others are based, from hostels to Couchsurfing and local cafes. You can see the options are endless, as long as you are somewhat social and creative when it comes to your search.
06. Create a realistic budget
Your digital nomad life may or may not earn you the highest of salaries - but that’s not why you’re doing it. You are mostly nomadic for the essential purpose of exploring the world, while making an income to support that lifestyle simultaneously. To make sure that you’re right on track, you should create a budget for your income and expenses.
For expenses, make sure that you include a set dollar amount for shelter, food, to support your explorations and a comfortable cushion amount for a ‘rainy day.’ Also, decide which expenses you can cut out by putting yourself in a very minimalist mindset, where you can survive with fewer material possessions. Then, see if your income is sufficient to cover these expenses. If not, you will need to reevaluate your decision to become a digital nomad or find alternative ways to earn a higher salary, such as pursuing additional freelance ideas.
You’ll want to stick to this budget plan, no matter what. To be realistic, most travelers and digital nomads find themselves in Southeast Asia, as it can be very inexpensive to live there while earning a low western salary. For example, a $10,000 yearly salary will go much further in Thailand than it will France.
07. Keep your finances in check
Managing money on the road can get tricky so plan ahead. Choose international-friendly banks or tools like Wise or Revolut for low-fee transfers and multicurrency accounts. Use apps like Trail Wallet or YNAB to track expenses and budget for surprises like visa fees, SIM cards or insurance.
If you’re freelancing, know how to invoice clients across borders and stay on top of tax obligations—an accountant with remote income expertise can be a lifesaver. Make sure your travel insurance covers both your work gear and medical emergencies.
08. Choose your first destination
Your first stop as a digital nomad can define your journey, so choose a place that sets you up for success—not just pretty sunsets. Start with countries known for being remote work friendly, like Portugal, Mexico, Thailand or Georgia. They usually have affordable living, solid infrastructure and welcoming nomad communities where you can connect, collaborate or just feel less alone.
Make practical choices too: think about time zones that work with your clients, visa rules, reliable internet, safety and how easy life will be day-to-day. Don’t overcommit—book a place for a few weeks to test the waters before extending your stay. If you're feeling unsure, go for a destination where the language feels familiar or there’s strong expat support.
09. Take care of the administrative tasks
While traveling can be fun and play, you also have a necessary checklist to tend to in order to make it happen. This usually includes visas for each destination, traveler’s insurance and necessary shots and physicals before you jump on a flight. Depending on your locations of interest, you’ll need to check the requirements with your embassy and doctors.
On top of the basic traveler’s checklist, working abroad includes some other items. For example, make sure you have a plan for taking care of your accounting and taxes, as they differ from country to country. You should also have a physical address for any mail that might be sent to you. A friend’s or family member’s that don’t plan on moving during your travels will work just fine.
Lastly, you’ll want to take care of selling any large assets or putting your items in storage before you set sail.
10. Stay in work-ready spaces
Not every dreamy bungalow is remote work-friendly. Before booking, check for stable Wi-Fi (ask for speed tests), desks or tables and quiet surroundings. Platforms like Airbnb, Flatio or local Facebook groups often offer discounts for longer stays.
Co-living spaces can be a great option for community vibes and built-in coworking access, especially in hotspots like Lisbon or Bali. If you’re moving around, apps like Workfrom can help you discover nearby cafés or coworking spaces. Always have a backup plan in case your first choice falls short.
11. Master time zones and balance work with life
When your 9-to-5 overlaps with someone else’s midnight, planning is key. Use tools like World Time Buddy to organize calls and deadlines without losing sleep. Group meetings into specific time blocks and communicate your availability clearly to teammates or clients.
Avoid burnout by building routines even if your view changes every week. Use time-blocking to protect your focus hours and set clear “off” hours to unplug. Blurring work and adventure can be tricky so be intentional about keeping them separate.
12. Think long-term
The nomad lifestyle isn’t a vacation, it’s a way of living that needs to be sustainable. Build habits that keep you physically and mentally healthy and regularly revisit your goals. Look beyond your next destination—are you growing your skills, increasing your income or creating passive earnings?
Once you have all of this settled, you can start working and exploring your area - and, of course, living your best life.
How to earn money as a digital nomad
Earning money on the road is all about using your skills and offering services that don’t tie you to one place. Many nomads earn through freelancing, remote work or selling digital products. The goal isn’t just to get by—it’s to build flexible, sustainable income that fits your lifestyle. Start small or mix different income streams and grow over time. Focus on what you’re great at and find ways to make it work for a remote audience.
Here are practical ways to make money as a digital nomad:
Freelance writing & design: Turn your creativity into cash by crafting blog posts, UX copy or eye-catching visuals for brands. Pick a niche—travel SaaS, eCommerce or clean minimalist websites—and let tools like Notion and Figma help you stay on top of client work from Bali to Berlin.
Remote jobs: Get a steady paycheck without stepping into an office. Remote-first companies are hiring globally for roles like project management, tech support and operations. Tailor your resumé for async work, spotlight your go-to tools (Zapier, Loom, Slack) and apply from anywhere with good Wi-Fi and a great view.
Teach online: Share your skills—English, coding, illustration, even chess. Platforms like Outschool or your own Zoom setup let you teach one-on-one or run group classes. Bonus: your “classroom” could be a beach bungalow or a cozy Airbnb in Lisbon.
VA & social media: Help coaches, creators or small brands run their businesses. Manage calendars, reply to emails or schedule content while sipping iced coffee in Chiang Mai. Tools like ClickUp and Canva keep you organized and inspired no matter where you are.
Sell digital products: Create Notion templates, Instagram story packs or eBook guides. List them on Gumroad, Etsy or your own site and let the sales roll in while you explore street markets or hike volcanoes. It's creative freedom with a side of passive income.
Content creator: Start a blog, YouTube channel or podcast focused on what you love—slow travel, minimalism, remote work hacks. Use AI to plan, edit and repurpose content. Earn money through affiliate links, guides and brand collaborations that keep you flying.
Consult or coach: Share your expertise in areas like scaling startups, productivity or marketing. Run quick, impactful sessions with tools like Calendly, Zoom and Loom. You’re not just helping people—you’re changing lives, one session at a time.
Digital marketing: Run email campaigns, manage SEO or handle ad strategies for brands looking for results not office hours. If you’re data-driven and love the mix of creativity and analytics, this path offers flexibility and freedom.
Run an online shop: Sell unique designs, printable planners or quirky AI-made t-shirts on Etsy or Shopify. Print-on-demand tools handle shipping so you can focus on designing and exploring. It’s creative, flexible and easy to scale.
Use AI tools: Offer writing, branding or design services with a mix of AI and personal expertise. Use tools like ChatGPT and Midjourney. Boost productivity and build a lean business you can run from anywhere to make money with AI.
Insights into the digital nomad lifestyle
The digital nomad lifestyle isn’t just a dream anymore—it’s a movement changing the way we live and work. Millions are swapping cubicles for passports, creating new ways to build careers and connect with communities around the world. Who’s leading this shift? How are they making a living? Where are they going next? Let’s explore the stats and stories shaping this growing trend.
Digital nomads shaping the future
The digital nomad movement has grown rapidly, with 40 million worldwide in 2024, including 18.1 million from the U.S. More nomads are now self-employed (20%) and opting for slow travel to immerse themselves in local cultures.
Who’s embracing the nomad life?
The majority of digital nomads are Millennials (38%, ages 28-43) and Gen Z (26%, ages 11-27), making up 64% combined. Gen Z is jumping in fast, fueled by a love for travel and entering the workforce. But it’s not just for the younger crowd. Older nomads (55+) make up 14%, proving this lifestyle speaks to all generations.
How much do nomads earn?
Income for nomads can vary widely, with 64% working full-time and 36% part-time, often seasonally. While 17% make less than $25,000 a year, nearly half report household incomes of $75,000 or more, driven by high-demand skills in industries that need talent.
Top places for digital nomads
Mexico takes the crown as the most popular spot for digital nomads, with 14% calling it home. Thailand follows at 11%, and Portugal rounds out the top three at 8%. These countries are standout hubs in Latin America, Southeast Asia and Europe, offering buzzing communities and budget-friendly living. Interestingly, 9 out of 10 of the most popular nomad locations are coastal nations with easy airport access and costs that fit well below the average nomad budget—perfect for those chasing adventure and affordability.
How to become a digital nomad FAQ
What jobs allow you to be a digital nomad?
Popular jobs for digital nomads include freelance writing, graphic design, software development, remote customer support, digital marketing, virtual assistance and teaching online. Others earn a living through content creation, eCommerce, consulting or selling digital products.