More than 40 million people are living the digital nomad dream worldwide, and 39% of them are women, according to Statista.
The appeal of living and working while also travelling the world is obvious to those with untrammelled wanderlust. However, the practical realities can put off plenty of would-be professional globetrotters.
One of the primary problems is the need to pack light if you want to live free and easily as a nomad. Thankfully this is straightforward to overcome if you go in with a solid game plan. Rather than creating one from scratch, stick around and we’ll go over the basics for you.
Choosing Versatile Clothing
When picking out clothing for your nomadic lifestyle, it’s best to opt for versatile, functional pieces. Take lightweight fabrics as an example. They work wonders in varied climates and require minimal maintenance.
In terms of practicality, aim to:
- Mix-and-match basics like a neutral tee or classic jeans suit many occasions.
- Layer items to add adaptability. Think cardigans over tanks.
Also, choose quality over quantity. Brands like Patagonia offer durable options made from sustainable materials, so they’re perfect for travel longevity.
Avoid packing only trendy pieces that lack flexibility. A timeless dress works for both business meetings and dinners out.
On top of this, it’s a savvy step to personalize your garments so they reflect you individually, as well as being easy to spot in shared laundry scenarios. Using a service like Printful custom embroidery is a way to do this with panache, putting your stamp on everything from hats to hoodies.
Shoes should be practical too. Comfortable sneakers are crucial, but also pack one pair of dress shoes if you have space.
Lastly, don’t skip those trusty accessories. For instance, scarves can double as blankets on chilly flights, and a belt might transform an outfit in seconds, so keep these gems close at hand.
Adding Must-Have Gadgets
Packing the right gadgets can minimize travel hiccups, as well as keeping you connected to friends, family and colleagues in whatever corner of the globe you visit.
First and foremost, a reliable laptop is your lifeline, and durable models like the Panasonic Toughbook 40 and Durabook R11 are hardy enough to take the bumps and scrapes of a long time spent on the move. Also don’t forget noise-canceling headphones, as reputable models like the Sony WH-1000XM5 and 1More Sonoflow will help you stay sane when trying to work in busy environments.
You’ll also need to consider:
- Portable chargers to keep devices powered during long journeys. Top-ranking options like the Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K and the Anker 733 Power Bank deserve your attention.
- Compact power strips that will keep all your gear juiced up. Having a multi-socket travel adapter that’s compatible with the various global standards is a must as well.
If a laptop is too bulky for you, lightweight tablets like the new iPad Pro are versatile alternatives. You’ll be able to handle reading, browsing, and note-taking on the go.
On top of hardware, it’s worth it to invest in a global Wi-Fi hotspot if constant connectivity is essential for your work. Google Fi or Solis can be great options depending on coverage needs.
For photography enthusiasts, a portable tripod paired with your smartphone captures those breathtaking landscapes without hassle.
Security matters too. A small travel safe from the likes of Pacsafe and Master lock provides peace of mind when you’re out exploring local gems, or grabbing coffee at nearby cafes while leaving valuables back in your apartment or hotel room.
Streamlining Your Beauty and Health Routine
Travel demands a pared-down beauty routine because it’s impractical to take every single cream and unguent with you when packing light. And while we spend over $186 billion on skin care a year, it’s better to be conservative with what you include when you’re a nomad.
In this context, multipurpose products like tinted moisturizers with SPF are a boon, as they offer skincare, sun protection, and light coverage in one swipe. Look out for the likes of Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost Moisturizer with SPF, and products from brands like Fenty Skin and CeraVe.
Also, think about:
- Solid shampoos and conditioners. They’re spill-proof and last longer, as well as being eco-friendly. Brands like Garnier and Ethique have products in this category to test out.
- Refillable travel-size bottles cut down waste and clutter. Cast your net to include products from Stanley, Owala, and YETI.
On top of this, seek dual-purpose items such as lip-and-cheek tints that reduce space while maintaining your style game. Stick to core essentials rather than packing every item from your cabinet.
For health on the road, compact fitness gear like resistance bands supports keeping up exercise routines without bulkiness.
Depending on your destination, having a first aid kit is also a good shout. Just make sure that it’s packed with basics like band-aids and pain relievers, while skipping over items you’ll rarely need like gauze.
Efficient Packing Techniques for Suitcase Organization
As well as packing wisely, you’ll have to master suitcase organization to maximize space and ease of access.
Start by rolling clothes instead of folding them. This simple trick minimizes wrinkles and creates extra room.
You can also use specific products to help you out. For instance:
- Compression bags squash bulky items like sweaters into a fraction of their size. Look to the likes of Eagle Creek for your fix here.
- Packing cubes sort clothing into categories, simplifying outfit decisions. Brands like Antler and Osprey lead the pack in this market.
For efficient access, position heavier items at the bottom of your luggage, or closer to wheels if it’s a rolling bag, and lighter ones on top. This balances weight during transit. Given that 26 million pieces of luggage go missing a year, it’s as much about keeping your possessions safe and stable when they’re out of your hands as anything else.
Also, shoes fit well inside dust bags, which keeps them clean and contained. You can even slip socks or accessories within them to utilize every inch available.
Finally, use small pouches for cables or toiletries so they don’t scatter across your suitcase mid-travel. Store frequently needed essentials in an outer pocket for quick retrieval when rushing through airports or hopping between destinations if your itinerary is as jam-packed as your luggage.
The Bottom Line
On top of all that we’ve talked about in terms of packing light for your nomadic adventures, it pays to be open to changing things up as your journey gets underway. This means that if your strategies don’t play out as expected, you can make a switch that benefits your on-the-go experiences.
