A Guide to Traveling Securely as a Digital Nomad

Digital nomads are people who travel freely from one side of the world to another, working remotely using the internet and technology. Their lifestyle gives them freedom, independence, and plenty of excitement and adventure. The one thing no one can guarantee them is safety and security.

That’s why digital nomads need to consider their personal safety and professional security whenever they travel. When you’re a frequent traveler, it’s always convenient to know how to protect yourself and your items properly.

Here are several important steps digital nomads should take to protect themselves when traveling.

Research your destination before setting off

The first and most logical step is always researching your destination before setting off. Doing this in advance can help you plan your trip better and enjoy your time there more.

In addition to that, thorough research of your destination will help you understand local laws, customs, and any potential safety risks. Look for reliable information about your destination’s history, culture, traditions, and attractions.

Be sure to research local transportation options as well. It can be very convenient to know how to get around your destination. And of course, research your accommodations before booking anything.

Finally, turn on the news or read newspapers to find out what’s happening in the world and if there are any safety concerns about your destination.

Always inform someone about your plans

When traveling, especially when traveling alone, as a safety measure inform someone, friends, or family, about where you’re going.

Also, let them know how they can contact you in case of an emergency. Travels can be unpredictable and you never know when you might need a safety net. This is especially important for solo travelers or people going to unexplored remote destinations.

So, before you set off, make sure you share your itinerary with a friend or a family member. Tell them where you’re going, how you’re traveling, where you’ll be staying, and what you plan to do once there.

When you reach your destination, don’t forget to let them know you’ve arrived safely, and after that make regular calls and send messages.

Always keep an eye on your luggage

When you’re a digital nomad, your livelihood is in your luggage. This means that you should always keep an eye on your luggage, and never let someone else carry it for you.

When you’re in public, keep your bags close to you, on your lap, or next to you. If you need to, tie the luggage strap to your leg or arm. Also, leaving your bags and luggage with strangers is a bad idea, so we don’t recommend doing it. Keep your bags with you no matter where you are.

Once you get to your location and check in at a hotel or other type of accommodation, you can relax a bit. However, even then you need to ensure that your luggage is safe.

If the accommodation has a safe or a designated storage area make the most of it and lock your valuables in there. If that’s not the case, invest in a high-quality luggage lock or anti-theft luggage. In addition to that, make sure everything you have is insured.

All in all, the best you can do is never leave your luggage unattended.

Only carry what you need

Since we’re talking about luggage, it’s important to say that you should only take what you need on your trips. This is something experienced digital nomads know very well.

A first aid kit is always a must. In it, you should have antibiotics, pain relievers, antiseptics, band-aids, and your personal meds. Prioritizing your health when traveling is crucial.

In addition to a medical kit, you should always have sunscreen, insect repellent, and a thermometer with you. Bottle with water should always be at hand’s reach. You can customize your water bottle by adding a bottle carabiner attachment and different personalised stubby holders.

Other than that, your work equipment – laptop, chargers, power bank, travel adapter, VPN, and similar gadgets.

VPN is a must

VPN or virtual private network is something all digital nomads would recommend. This network will keep your data, and personal information safe and secure.

VPNs are encryptions that protect your data from others. With a VPN in place, you can safely browse the internet, shop online, and access services and websites blocked in your location.

As a digital nomad, your whole livelihood is online, so you have plenty of data to protect and keep secure. So, make sure you use a VPN whenever you’re on one of your travels.

Always have a backup of your important documents

This is a tip that applies to all travelers, whether they are digital nomads or not. Always have a backup of your important documents such as passports, visas, travel insurance, driver’s licenses, and so on.

Having a copy of these documents can protect you in case of an emergency. For example, if you lose your passport, a copy of it can come in handy.

Make sure you store your copies in a safe place – a safe deposit box or on a cloud if they are electronic copies.

Similarly, you should backup your work documents in a secure cloud storage. This will give you peace of mind, knowing that you’re prepared and don’t have to worry.

Purchase insurance

We already mentioned that insuring all your things is a good idea. Travel insurance is one of the top travel tips and it can come in handy.

As a digital nomad, you carry a lot of important items and gadgets. It’s not uncommon to lose a smartphone, a camera, or other gadgets while traveling. So, before you embark on your journey make sure your insurance covers all that.

At the same time, make sure you also have insurance in case of accidents or sickness. This insurance can cover the cost of a doctor or hospital services. Do your insurance research before you set off on a trip.

Be aware of your surroundings

Being aware of your surroundings is always important, especially when you’re in a foreign country. And it’s even more important if you are a solo female traveler.

This tip can help you avoid problems and unsafe locations and situations. Make sure you always pay attention to the environment and people around you. Stay away from dark alleys, don’t go to sketchy neighborhoods, and always look for potential hazards.

When traveling, it’s important to trust your instincts and remove yourself from situations that don’t feel right.

Final thoughts

Living life as a digital nomad is exciting and adventurous. However, it can also be dangerous. That’s why it’s important to take all the necessary steps to ensure your safety. Hopefully, this small guide can help you stay safe and secure on your next journey. Remember, stay vigilant, keep an eye on your things, and enjoy exploring the world.