The digital nomad lifestyle has been around for quite some time. The first digital nomads were web developers in the early 2000s, when companies like Amazon and eBay wanted to build their websites but didn't have developers in-house or nearby. So instead of hiring someone locally, they hired someone from the other side of the world over the Internet.
Since the pandemic, there are a growing number of people who're ditching their jobs and becoming digital nomads. They're no longer bound by geographical boundaries and can work remotely.
The downside, however, is that they often have to spend a lot more money on travel, accommodation, and food.
In this blog post, we'll show you how to save time and money as a digital nomad so you can maintain your lifestyle for a longer period of time, get more out of your time abroad, and make life easier for yourself while living in different places around the world. Let's dive in.
Flights
- The best way to save time and money when traveling as a digital nomad is to plan ahead. Make a checklist of the things you need to pack, the route you want to take, and the places you want to visit. There are many apps available for this purpose.
- Planners should also research and find out which airports have better rates on flight tickets.
- It's important to consider not only the destination, but also the return trip, because it could end up costing more than just flying one way.
- Another great way to save time and money when traveling as a digital nomad is to not overpack. If you pack light, you won't have to worry about the cost of checking your luggage or carrying it on your back. Plus, you'll be able to move around easier and get through customs faster.
- Book your tickets in advance so you can find cheaper flights.
- Use an app like Google Flights that will show you the cheapest flights.
- Consider booking your flight through a travel agent. Sometimes this is a good option because you'll get access to cheaper flights than if you book them yourself. Plus, they can find flights that aren't available on other websites.
- Book flights with low cancelation fees.
Accommodation
- You should consider whether you want to stay in one place or travel around. If you want to stay in one place, renting an apartment is a good option. If you want to travel around and explore new places, staying in a hotel, motel, or a hostel is a good option because it's typically cheaper than renting an apartment for each city.
- Consider using monthly rental platforms to find accommodation when you're traveling to get cheaper rates than hotels. Flatio has a large number of listings that are reasonably priced and can be your next home for a few weeks or months.
- Use an app called TripIt to keep track of hotels.
- Book your hotel online instead of through the reception.
- Stay in hostels or apartments with kitchens and common areas.
Food
- Buy food at the local market instead of supermarkets.
- Avoid eating out for every meal.
- Take snacks with you or eat at restaurants that have lunch specials during the day.
Other hacks
- Download offline maps for the places they'll visit.
- Use an app that has an offline mode for currency conversion. We recommend XE Currency Converter, which lets you convert currencies without an Internet connection.
- Use public transportation to get around the city instead of using taxis.
- Use free or discounted Wi-Fi for your work.
- Avoid tourist attractions that aren't worth the price.
