Social media often makes it seem like the only way to travel regularly is to quit your job and become a full-time content creator or influencer. However, for the majority of the work force, that's simply unrealistic or unsustainable.
But what if you could still work a 9-5 and travel for extended periods of time?
It's no secret that remote jobs are becoming popular and that more companies are opting to hire remote workers. Such changes in work culture are allowing more people to hit the road and travel regularly, rather than just during a few weeks of vacation time a year.
You may be wondering, how can I travel while working remotely?
It might be easier than you think! Here are 5 steps and tips on how to work remotely while on the road and travel more.
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Step #1 - Ask to Go Remote or Get a Fully Remote Job
With increases in technology and the recent pandemic, corporations are opting to hire remote employees to increase the geographical talent pool, boost productivity, and reduce overhead. While some jobs still rely on in-person employees, others are figuring out ways to work either fully remote or provide hybrid options.
If your current company allows you to go partially or fully remote, go for it! If you are looking for a new gig, check out remote jobs on Indeed and LinkedIn. Have a special skill set? Freelance on Upwork or Fiverr.
For reference, Jess works fully remote for a large outdoor hospitality corporation, and Jairus does freelance financial consulting via Upwork.
Step #2 - Communicate with Your Boss Regarding Your Travel Plans
Depending on your position, title, and management, it is courteous and a best practice to let your boss or supervisor know that you will be travelling for an extended period of time while working remotely.
If you are required to work from a specific IP address for security reasons, it's a good idea to respect the policies. However, if they did not specify a required work location during the hiring process, you may have more flexibility.
Pro tip: If your boss/supervisor expresses concern about travelling, assure them that work is your priority and that you will maintain a professional appearance, timeliness, and meet expectations. Don't become the reason your company no longer allows or restricts remote workers!
Step #3 - Figure Out Your Travel Work Schedule
Will you maintain your time zone? Does the company have any flexible work schedule opportunities? Make sure you take advantage of any flex time or seasonal hours.
Jess's clients reside in EST, so she decided it was best to keep her 8am - 5 PM EST schedule--which translates to 5 AM - 2 PM in PCT. It's some early mornings for sure, but there is nothing quite like clocking out of work and hiking in a National Park (after a nap and some coffee, of course). Since Jairus works independently, he can set his own hours.
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Step #4 - Get the Right Equipment to Work While Travelling
Does your company provide a laptop and phone? What will you need to successfully do your job?
Here are some products that we use to make working remotely from the road easier and maintain productivity:
Work-Issued Dell Laptop
Mac Laptop
Adapter
Wireless Mouse
Sturdy Laptop Bag/Backpack
Step #5 - Plan Out Your Wi-Fi Connections
Last, but certainly not least, is to plan out your Wi-Fi connections.
While we each have unlimited data plans and hot spots on our phones, we didn't want to rely on them for spotty areas near parks and while driving down the road. From hotel rooms, to coffee shops, to friend's houses, we made sure to make a solid workspace and internet connection plan along all of our stops.
Many third party internet providers such as Nomad Internet or Starlink provide Wi-Fi routers specifically for travelers, but we decided to just go with our hot spot and planned locations for our 3 month summer trip instead of taking on the additional network cost.
Pro tip: When working in public spaces such as coffee shops, always be conscientious about how much time you are spending, how loud you are (opt to take conference calls in the car or somewhere more private), and if you are adequately supporting the business for the space, Wi-Fi, and power you are consuming. Always make sure to purchase items, leave a large tip, and be courteous to others!
Are You Ready to Work and Travel?
If you follow these 5 steps, you'll be nearly ready to work remotely while on the road! Now that you know how to work while you travel, it's time to figure out where you want to go. Find your next adventure with our single day, weekend, and week-long travel guides and itineraries, or follow us on social media for more inspiration!
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