Working Remotely While Traveling: Tips For Success

Enjoy working remotely? You’re not alone—more than 97% of remote workers prefer to continue working remotely, at least some of the time, for the rest of their careers.

Free from the obligation to report to a brick-and-mortar office each day, people are reimagining ways to integrate work into their lives. Some have even ditched the home office altogether and gone full-on digital nomad, working from anywhere they choose. But for all its perks, working remotely while traveling brings logistical challenges, too.

I founded a fully remote business years ago; some team members have worked while traveling abroad for weeks at a time. These experiences taught us how to stay productive and professional anywhere, but we’ve made our fair share of mistakes, including:

• Choosing accommodations unsuited to working effectively
• Failing to ensure the availability of reliable internet service
• Misunderstanding time zone differences
• Falling into unproductive habits at a new workplace
• Leaving essential equipment at home

If you want to learn more about how to work remotely and travel, you’re in the right place! This article shares our road-tested tips to help you avoid potential mistakes like these (and others) and plan a successful working trip.

Working Remotely While Traveling: Plan Ahead

Careful planning helps ensure a smooth trip and allows you to be productive on the road and when you reach your destination.

Know Your Technology Requirements

To the extent you can, research your accommodations before you go to make sure your work area is equipped to handle your technology requirements. Consider the following before you depart:

• Reliable internet must be available at your destination. Airbnb hosts will now verify WiFi speeds in advance of your stay upon request.
• A mobile WiFi hotspot is an excellent backup if something goes wrong with your primary service.
• You’re likely to use public WiFi networks regularly while traveling. Since public networks can be more easily hacked, connecting through a virtual private network (VPN) adds a layer of security.
• Storing your data in the cloud is the only way to ensure you can access it from any device, wherever you may be.
• An external hard drive is convenient for times you prefer to work offline.

Despite your best efforts, things won’t always go according to plan. Having backup systems in place ensures you’ll have options if the unexpected occurs.

Plan For Time Zone Variations

Depending on your work situation, you may need to shift your work hours to overlap with those in the time zone of your clients or employer. To help avoid confusion when working across time zones:

• Keep one of your devices on “office time.”
• Use the 24-hour clock (or “military time”) for clarity in communicating meeting times.
• Take advantage of the world clock on your smartphone.
• Try the World Time Buddy time zone converter to perfect your time zone calculations.
• Consider the effect of time zone changes on your energy level as you plan your days and schedule meetings.

Build Consistency Into Your Schedule

Traveling disrupts your routine and throws off your body’s internal clock, making it important to create a consistent, workable schedule when you reach your destination.

• Structure your routine for optimal efficiency. What are your most productive working hours? What accommodations should you make for time zone differences?
• Set boundaries around your work hours and personal time and stick to them.
• Plan your days to allow time to explore your surroundings.
• Allow time for self-care. Healthy habits will help you stay on top of your game.

Must-Have Gear To Take Your Work On The Road

Many people who work remotely and travel rely on these essential items—all lightweight and easily packed into your suitcase or travel bag—to stay productive:

• Laptop computer
• Roost portable laptop stand
• Wireless mouse
• Compact Bluetooth keyboard
• Noise-canceling headphones or earbuds
• Strong battery pack capable of charging all your devices
• Power outlet adaptors (if traveling internationally)
• Multi-plug (because there are never enough outlets where you want them)

To maintain the same level of professionalism in video meetings from the road as from a fixed location, be prepared with the following:

• High-resolution webcam (most laptop cameras have low resolution)
• A clean and simple portable office backdrop (to make your space look professional on camera)

Look Professional From The Road With Anyvoo

Working remotely while traveling allows you to break from routine, enjoy a change of scenery, and have enjoyable, memorable experiences during your off-hours. Whether you’re in a hotel room, an Airbnb, or a friend’s house, Anyvoo’s portable video backdrop screen looks polished and conceals your personal space while you give that important presentation.

Anyvoo is dedicated to making you look professional, whatever your location. The Voodrop is portable, packable, lightweight yet sturdy, and completely customizable—perfect for working from the road.

Browse our background options, visit our gallery, and customize your own backdrop today!