Dreaming of working remotely from a beach in Bali or a café in Lisbon? You’re not alone.
The digital nomad lifestyle is more popular and accessible than ever. But before you book that one-way ticket, you’ll need more than just a laptop and a passport.
This digital nomad starter kit breaks down everything you need to plan a long-term stay abroad, from visas and budgeting to the best coworking hubs around the globe.
Choose the Right Digital Nomad Visa
Not all countries welcome long-term digital nomads by default. That’s where digital nomad visas come in.
Many countries now offer special visas for remote workers, letting you stay longer than a typical tourist visa, sometimes up to a year or more.
Top Countries Offering Digital Nomad Visas (2025):
- Portugal – D7 and Digital Nomad Visas (ideal for freelancers)
- Thailand – Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa
- Spain – Recently launched “Startup Act” for digital nomads
- Croatia – One of the first to embrace nomads with up to 12-month stays
- Philippines – New digital nomad visa (launched 2023)
Pro Tip: Research visa income requirements and application timelines well in advance. The paperwork can take longer than you think.
Check out New Rules of International Travel in a Post-Pandemic World to see what’s changed in 2025.
Essential Wi-Fi and Internet Tools
Your productivity depends on solid internet. Whether you’re hopping between Airbnbs or working from a van, you’ll want to prepare.
Must-Have Connectivity Tools:
- Portable Wi-Fi hotspot (like Skyroam or Solis)
- Local SIM cards with data plans
- VPN subscription for safer browsing on public networks
- Offline backups of work files (Google Drive or Dropbox)
Pro Tip: Use a tool like Speedtest to check your accommodation’s Wi-Fi speed before you commit.
Budget for Long-Term Travel
Living abroad can be affordable, but costs add up fast when you’re on the move. Before launching your nomad journey, build a financial cushion and set a clear budget.
Monthly Budget Breakdown for New Nomads:
- $700–$1,200 – Housing (varies by region)
- $200–$400 – Food and groceries
- $50–$150 – Coworking or café workspaces
- $100–$300 – Travel and transport
- $100+ – Insurance and emergency funds
Pro Tip: Use apps like Trail Wallet or Nomad Budget to track expenses across currencies and categories.
Best Coworking Spaces Around the World
Loneliness and lack of structure can derail the best remote work plans. That’s where coworking spaces shine. Beyond fast internet and a desk, they offer social connections, networking events, and even yoga classes.
Top Cities with Great Coworking Scenes:
- Chiang Mai, Thailand – Affordable and nomad-friendly
- Lisbon, Portugal – Fast Wi-Fi, laid-back lifestyle
- Medellín, Colombia – Growing startup and nomad scene
- Canggu, Bali – Surf by morning, Slack by noon
- Mexico City, Mexico – Culture, coffee, and coworking galore
Pro Tip: Try a coworking day pass in your first week, then decide if a monthly membership is worth it.
Top Travel Destinations Worth Considering
When planning long-term stays abroad, balance cost of living, community, climate, and connectivity. Here are five countries that check all the boxes for new nomads:
- Vietnam – Excellent street food, low costs, strong Wi-Fi in cities like Da Nang and Hanoi
- Georgia – Visa-free for many, vibrant expat hubs in Tbilisi and Batumi
- Mexico – 6-month tourist visas, colorful cities like Oaxaca and Playa del Carmen
- Estonia – Digital-first country with its e-residency program
- Philippines – Friendly locals, new nomad visa, beautiful islands like Siargao
Pro Tip: Always have a backup city in case your first choice doesn’t vibe with your work or lifestyle needs.
Ready to Launch Your Nomad Life?
The digital nomad lifestyle is equal parts freedom and foresight. With the right tools, mindset, and planning, long-term travel becomes more sustainable and enjoyable.
This starter kit gives you the foundation to thrive abroad, not just survive. Pack smart, stay connected, and embrace the journey with confidence. Your remote life starts now.
