Laptops, Desktops, and More: What Digital Nomad Needs to Know

While digital work is becoming more and more commonplace with companies realizing that remote work can be just as efficient as in-person set-ups, what used to be a small community of digital nomads is continuing to grow rapidly. If you have decided to be one of them, then this article is perfect for you.

As a digital nomad, you’ll be spending a lot of your time in front of a computer, which is just the same as working in an office except that you can do it from anywhere in the world. That said, you have to choose the right kind of computer on your digital nomad journey to stay productive even if happy hour is calling your name, as well as the best types of tech accessories to further boost your efficiency.

How to choose the right computer for your digital nomad journey

First, let’s talk about choosing the right kind of computer based on these important factors:

1. Portability

The most common choice of computer for digital nomads is, of course, the laptop. A laptop is easily portable and can allow you to work from anywhere (which is the point of being a digital nomad in the first place). It’s the most obvious choice for ‘nomads’ or people moving from place to place, but it’s not the only option you have.

If you plan to stay long-term in one place, you can also custom build your PC. While a PC loses when it comes to portability, it can be more powerful than a laptop, which makes it possible to run high-spec programs that would otherwise fail to run properly on a laptop. Moreover, a PC is not impossible to transport around the globe, albeit it is a little more difficult and expensive.

2. Durability

One major factor that you have to consider when choosing a laptop or PC is durability. You’re going to be dragging this thing along with you everywhere you go, which means that it has to be durable enough to withstand all the bumps that you experience in transit.

That said, look up reviews online to determine the durability of a certain model you’re eyeing. While a computer will certainly be not indestructible, you’d want something that can survive the rigors of traveling as well as the occasional drops (you never know when you’ll get a sudden case of clumsy hands!).

3. Functionality

You know your work best, so you know exactly what specs you need to do your work efficiently. As we’ve mentioned before portability may not equal functionality, which means that you may end up with a heavier laptop (or a PC altogether) to run high-powered apps and programs.

If you’ve been working in an office and worked on a company-owned computer, try to match the specs that you used to have with the machine you’re buying to become a digital nomad. Better yet, buy a computer that surpasses those specs to ensure optimum efficiency and, in turn, productivity.

How to protect your computer while traveling

Buy a heavy-duty sleeve. Protect your laptop from damage in transit with a heavy-duty laptop sleeve or case, as well as a screen protector. Even if you are using a laptop bag, having a sleeve gives your computer an extra layer of protection.

Install a tracking app or use a tracking device. In case you lose your laptop, you may be able to track its location with a tracking app installed. For extra protection, you can also put a tracking tag on your laptop that cannot be removed and makes the laptop harder to sell (in case it is stolen).

Be smart about leaving it in the hotel. You may not always be able to bring your laptop with you. If you are staying in a hotel, hide it at the bottom of your luggage and hang the “do not disturb” sign on the door. If you’re leaving it in your apartment or condo, be sure that your locks are secure.

Accessories that can help you maximize your nomad experience

Aside from the laptop or PC itself, here are some accessories that you may need to stay productive:

• Noise-canceling headphones
• A laptop stand
• A wireless keyboard
• A wireless mouse
• A portable WiFi router
• A portable monitor
• Extra cables
• An external hard drive
• A charger adapter
• An extension cord
• A webcam (optional)

The remote work lifestyle is certainly a desirable one. If you want to finally make your digital nomad dreams come true, make sure that you have the tools to stay productive where you might be, starting with your bread and butter: the computer.