How to Work Remotely While Traveling: My Personal Experience & Tips

Working remotely while traveling sounds like the ultimate dream, right? Waking up in a cozy Airbnb, sipping coffee at a beachside café, or answering emails from a mountain cabin—it’s all part of the adventure. But let me tell you, it’s not always as glamorous as Instagram makes it seem.

After spending months balancing work and travel, I’ve learned a few things the hard way. Here’s my personal experience and top tips for staying productive while enjoying the freedom of a remote lifestyle.

1. Find the Right Accommodation

Hotels are great for vacations, but when you’re working remotely, reliable Wi-Fi and a comfortable workspace are must-haves. I’ve made the mistake of booking a “charming rustic cabin” only to find out the Wi-Fi was slower than a dial-up connection. Now, I always check reviews on Airbnb, Booking.com, and even ask the host for a speed test screenshot before booking.

My Tip: Always have a backup plan! I carry a mobile hotspot just in case the internet fails.

2. Stick to a Routine (But Stay Flexible)

Time zones can be a blessing or a nightmare. I once scheduled a meeting at 3 AM by accident because I forgot to convert the time properly. Now, I stick to a daily routine: wake up early, get the bulk of my work done, and explore in the afternoons.

My Tip: Use time zone converters like World Time Buddy to avoid awkward scheduling mistakes.

3. Find Work-Friendly Cafés & Co-Working Spaces

I love working from cute local cafés, but not all are remote-friendly. I once spent an hour setting up at a café in Paris, only to be told they had a strict “no laptops” policy. Lesson learned! Now, I research work-friendly spots in advance.

My Tip: Check reviews on Google Maps, Workfrom, or Coworker to find the best remote-friendly spaces.

4. Manage Distractions & Stay Focused

It’s tempting to explore new cities instead of answering emails, but deadlines don’t wait. I use the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of focused work, 5-minute break) to stay productive while still making time for sightseeing.

My Tip: Noise-canceling headphones are a lifesaver when working in busy cafés or airports.

5. Stay Connected with Your Team

Remote work can feel isolating if you’re not careful. I make an effort to check in with my team regularly through Slack, Zoom, or WhatsApp. A little communication goes a long way!

My Tip: Schedule weekly virtual coffee chats with colleagues to maintain relationships.

6. Take Advantage of Remote Work Perks

One of the best parts of working remotely is setting your own schedule. I’ve taken long lunch breaks to explore street markets, worked from a hammock in Bali, and even joined a last-minute hiking trip because I could work in the evening instead. Flexibility is key!

My Tip: Plan your work around experiences instead of missing out on travel opportunities.

7. Invest in the Right Gear

A lightweight laptop, a good pair of wireless headphones, and a portable charger have been game-changers for me. I also swear by a universal travel adapter—because there’s nothing worse than arriving at a new destination and realizing your charger doesn’t fit the outlet!

My Tip: Keep a travel tech kit with extra chargers, cables, and a power bank.

8. Know When to Take a Break

Burnout is real, and it’s easy to overwork when there’s no separation between “work” and “travel.” I’ve learned to set boundaries and take full days off to enjoy new places without guilt.

My Tip: Schedule at least one “no work” day per week to fully enjoy your travels.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds

Working remotely while traveling isn’t always smooth sailing, but with the right mindset and preparation, it’s absolutely doable. Embrace the freedom, stay organized, and don’t forget to actually enjoy the places you’re visiting!

Have you worked remotely while traveling? Share your experiences in the comments—I’d love to hear your tips! 😊