Introduction
Having been with Design Monkey for just over 2 years, I've spent about a year in this role combining remote working with travelling. I have seen much of Europe and am currently touring Asia. The flexibility and support offered by Design Monkey has allowed me to find a very fulfilling balance between a great career and pursuing my passion of exploring new places and cultures. Below I will share my experience and expertise:
My Tips
Working remotely while traveling is an exciting, liberating experience. But to make the most of it, it’s essential to stay organised, maintain productivity, and avoid burnout. If you're someone who is always working from somewhere new, these five tips will help you stay on top of your work and fully enjoy the travel experience.
1. Utilise Dedicated Co-working Spaces
Co-working spaces are more than just reliable internet—they create a productive atmosphere and offer facilities like meeting rooms, printers, and even coffee. Plus, they give you a sense of routine and access to a community of other remote workers. Some spaces offer daily, weekly, or monthly passes.
2. Pack Efficiently
Travelling light helps keep your workflow smooth and minimises distractions. Focus on the essentials: laptop, mouse, noise-cancelling headphones. I recommend investing in a sturdy backpack designed for tech gear such as a camera bag.
3. Prioritise Connectivity
Before heading to a new destination, check internet speed reviews and consider local SIM cards or portable Wi-Fi options. Websites like Nomad List provide useful information about connectivity in various cities, and apps like Saily allow you to buy eSIM data plans instantly. It also helps to have a VPN in case you encounter restricted networks or need secure access to sensitive data.
4. Use Time Zone Differences to Your Advantage
When working across time zones, organise your schedule to maximise overlap with your colleagues. Dedicate the hours that align with your team's working day to collaborative tasks like meetings, problem solving, and check-ins. Reserve independent, deep-focus tasks for early mornings or late evenings when your colleagues are offline. This approach allows you to be productive without interrupting the flow of work.
5. Network
One of the most rewarding aspects of travelling while working remotely is meeting new people. Attend networking events, join local remote work groups, or even connect with people at co-working spaces. Building a network across the globe opens up opportunities and gives you a deeper connection to each place you visit.
Conclusion
Balancing remote work and travel is a skill you’ll refine as you go. By planning ahead and staying organised, you can balance productive workdays with unforgettable travel experiences.
Safe travels and happy remote working!
