Dreaming of Digital Nomad Life? Read This First
- What You Need For
- March 14, 2025
If I see ONE more aesthetic ‘laptop by the beach’ post, I might just lose it.
After working remotely and traveling for the past 10 years, I can tell you—those pictures only show half the story. Yes, there are coconuts and ocean views. But there’s also sketchy Wi-Fi, 12-hour days for less pay (at least in the beginning), and learning how to budget like your life depends on it. All while saying “no” to tempting invites from tourists who are, you know, actually on vacation.
FOMO is real as a digital nomad. You think you’ve experienced it… but try sitting out an impromptu dreamy sunset because you have client calls, editing deadlines, and a bank account that’s crying for help. Digital nomad life is a rollercoaster—thrilling, freeing, but also not for everyone.
If you’re reading this because you’re curious about working online and traveling, or you’ve already made the leap but want to make it sustainable, you’re in the right place. Let’s skip the fluff and get into what really matters: the messy parts, the exciting parts, and how to actually make money without burning out.
The Truth About The Digital Nomad Life
Success Isn’t a Beachfront Instagram Post
One of the biggest myths out there is that being a digital nomad equals instant success. That you’ll magically find yourself working three hours a day while raking in six figures and living like royalty under the tropical sun.
The reality is: success is relative. And honestly? Sometimes it’s a moving target. Most of us don’t have it all figured out—and that’s fine.
A lot of people choose the digital nomad life knowing they’ll earn less than they might back home. Some do make impressive incomes and live luxuriously in lower-cost countries. But that’s not the majority. Here’s a question I had to ask myself early on: What does success actually mean to me?
For me, it’s about experiences over stuff. I’d rather spend my money learning a new dance style, exploring a new country, or joining a last-minute hiking trip than buying a car. I don’t really shop much. Yes, I’d love to buy a little house somewhere one day, but I’m okay taking my time. That’s my version of success.
If your version looks different, that’s okay. Just make sure you’re honest about what you want—because this lifestyle can challenge your ideas about money, security, and long-term goals.
And a Quick Word on Ethics as a Digital Nomad
I can’t talk about this lifestyle without mentioning the ethical side. If you’re living in another country, even for a few months, it’s important to contribute to that place. The social media version of the digital nomad—making millions while the local economy struggles—isn’t something I’m about. It doesn’t sit right with me.
Support local businesses. Give back where you can. This isn’t just a playground—it’s someone’s home.
Build a Money Plan Before You Book That Flight
Spontaneity has its place, but if you want to make this sustainable, you need a plan. And no, budgeting as a digital nomad isn’t just about skipping lattes.
Most people I know juggle multiple income streams. Some freelance on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. Others run businesses, coach, teach, or flip thrifted clothes online.
I started by freelancing skills I already had, even though I didn’t love the work. Why? Because you can’t always do what you love right away. You build up to it.
You might have to take a step back before you can step forward. That’s not a failure—it’s part of the process. A lot of nomads I’ve met (myself included) had to drop their ego and start at the bottom to get to where they wanted. No one gets paid just for showing up. If you don’t have marketable skills yet? It’s time to learn, practice, and (sometimes) offer your services for free or cheap to get experience.
For example, I’m building a YouTube channel right now. I spend 20-30 hours editing each long-form video. And guess how much I make from that? Nothing. Yet. But I’m showing up, putting in the hours, and trusting it’ll pay off in the long run.
The same goes for freelancing or remote work. Build a portfolio. Network like crazy. Offer value before asking for anything in return. It’s not glamorous, but it works.
Choose a City That Won’t Break the Bank
When you’re just starting out, your destination matters more than you think. It’s may be tempting to move to Paris or Tokyo, but not all “digital nomad hubs” are created equal.
Some cities make it easy to thrive on a budget. Others can drain your savings in months.
If you’re looking for a good place to start, here are a few beginner-friendly spots:
- Mexico City: Affordable, vibrant, and a growing remote work community.
- Budapest: Beautiful, cheap(ish), and great for Europe-based nomads.
- Portugal: Coastal towns like Lagos or Ericeira give you the beach lifestyle and decent prices. Plus, Portugal offers a digital nomad visa and has one of the most active remote work communities in Europe.
And if you’re in the US, check out seasonal work exchange programs. Ocean City, for example, offers a lot of short-term gigs during the summer.
Don’t Forget the Legal Stuff (Visas Matter!)
I can’t tell you how many people forget this step. You can’t just hop on a plane and figure it out later—at least, not anymore.
Many countries offer digital nomad visas now (which is amazing), but each one has different requirements. Some of the most popular:
- Portugal: Income requirement around €3,500 per month.
- Estonia: €4,500/month.
- Dubai: Around $5,000/month.
Do your research. Figure out what documents you need and how long you can stay. Trust me, scrambling to fix visa issues last-minute isn’t the adventure you want.
Don’t Forget the Legal Stuff (Visas Matter!)
Once you’ve landed, settled in, and found your rhythm, here comes the tricky part: balance.
It’s so easy to let work take over your life when you’re a digital nomad. Suddenly, you’re in this beautiful place… but you’re glued to your laptop 10 hours a day. Or worse—you’re working all the time because you feel guilty about taking breaks.
I’ve been there. I’ve worked through sunsets, turned down trips, and missed out on experiences I moved abroad for in the first place. And what did it get me? Burnout.
Now, I set non-negotiable offline hours every week. That means closing the laptop, putting away my phone, and actually enjoying where I am. My productivity has improved because of it, not in spite of it.
You didn’t fight for this lifestyle just to burn yourself out. Remember why you chose it—and make time to live it.
Digital Nomad Work-Life Balance: Fight for It
Being a digital nomad isn’t a vacation. It’s not for everyone. But if you do it right, it can be the ultimate freedom.
It’s about finding your version of success. Being smart with money. Choosing the right places to live. Staying legal (and ethical). And protecting your time and energy.
If that sounds like something you’re ready for, welcome to the ride. It’s messy. It’s beautiful. And I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
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