It’s now possible to pack-up your office and take it abroad.
This is something I have experienced and as much as I’m an advocate of the lifestyle, it’s not the same when you don’t have the much-needed gadgets.
There’s digital nomad gear and gadgets that you cannot go without. Find out what you need sooner rather than later, you don’t want to get caught short.
You need to consider the following digital nomad gear and blogger gadgets:
- Laptop or Macbook
- Laptop protector and case
- Laptop bag
- External hard drive
- Backup wireless dongle
- Headphones
- Portable powerbank
- Wireless mouse
- Wirless keyboard
- Camera
- Portable speaker
The following list includes Amazon products, I receive a small commission if you decide to purchase from these links, at no extra cost to yourself. I genuinely recommend items I believe in, all support is greatly appreciated.
1. Macbook Pro is the Best Digital Nomad Laptop for 2020
We can’t begin an article on essential gear without pointing out the obvious.
You can’t do Digital ‘Nomading’, without a computer or laptop of some kind. I opt for Apple, I was initially reluctant but six years on and I’ve never regret the decision.
That’s not to say there aren’t other choices to pick from, you will find some below.
Although you wouldn’t solely label the Mac as a travel laptop, it is an ideal laptop to take backpacking with you. That’s because it’s thin, lightweight and stays cool (in more ways than one).
I find the entire interface seamless and easy to use, compared to Windows, but each to their own!
- Stays cool, despite not having loud fans.
- Fast speeds, both internet and programmes.
- Easy to Use.
- Updated with latest software.
- Compatible with innovative technology and apps.
- Perfect laptop to travel.
- Best laptop for digital nomads.
My Pick: MacBook Pro 2020
Read up on the best laptops for writers, I rate, review and trial different laptops. You need to know what to look for..
Alternatives
- Acer Spin 3 SP315-51 Touch 2-1 Laptop 7th Gen
- ASUS ZenBook 14” FHD IPS WideView Display
2. Laptop Stand & Elevator
Speaking of keeping cool during our digital nomad activities, it’s vital to have one of these if you’re planning on enjoying sunnier climates.
Laptops being moved around often, can start overheating. Plus typing can hurt our wrists if it’s in an awkward position.
These elevators come in really useful and they are only cheap.
They elevate the laptop and place it in a position that makes it easy to type.
- Keeps your laptop cool
- Fits all laptops, both PC and Mac
- Better position for quick-typing
My Pick: Griffin Elevator Stand
3. Noise Cancelling Headphones
I was completely ignorant to the capabilities of the latest headphone technology until recently.
A friend allowed me to try out his noise-cancelling headphones in a busy café. I was completely astonished, they really work. You can put them on to simply drown out the sound without even turning the music on. All through the click of a button.
Headphones are much-needed for somebody who works for themselves. If you wish to move around whilst working, then you may work in various environments.
Cancel out the noise with these Sony headphones.
My Pick: Sony WH-1000XM3
Alternatively check out the AKG 50BT, I own these but I will now be investing in some of the above.
4. Poweradd Pilot Powerbank
Since buying this powerbank, it’s been a lifesaver!
Living on a small island in Thailand, there are times when the power may cut off.
Sometimes 20-minutes to an hour can elapse, this makes having the powerbank all that much better. Plus, it’s main use is for when travelling. Whether on a plane, bus or train, you can use this back-up power for your mobile phone, wireless headphones and other devices.
My Pick: Poweradd Pilot
- Charges iPhones 7 times and Samsung 5 times
- Charge 2 devices at the same time
- Compatible with tablets
- Lightweight and compact
- Quick charge
5. Portable Keyboard & Mouse for Mac
Personally, I work fine from the built-in Mac keyboard. But I understand how vital it is for many writers and other digital workers to have an additional keyboard.
Getting hold of an innovative keyboard and mouse is simple, and not too expensive either. For high quality, authentic Apple compatible products, you can get your hands on some of the best items.
They work really well when setting up an office somewhere new. You can throw your laptop, the stand and your mouse and keyboard in your bag. When you arrive at a cafe, bar or coffee shop, you can make the place your office.
Efficiency is key when working on the move and that’s why these little additions are so important.
- Work faster and more efficiently
- Feel more comfortable
- Take your office anywhere
6. External Hard Drive
After a bad experience with the infamous WD Passport hard drive, I have opted for the Seagate.
An external hard drive that many freelancers and laptop users are fond of. External hard drives are integral when working, they back up your entire computer with ease, when you plug it in.
Accumulating a number of files and precious moments through photos, takes up a lot of space on your computer hard drive. Subsequently slowing down your laptop.
- Backup your work
- Free up space for a quicker laptop
- Separate your photos, work and other files
- Simply take it anywhere you go
- It is lightweight and compact
7. Travel Plugs & Worldwide Adapters
This one goes without saying?
But you’d be surprised how often I have seen people forget about travel adaptors. Get the best ones possible before leaving your home.
They tend to get more expensive once you land. Especially if you rush to buy an adaptor in the airport.
I use a world adapter, making it versatile. The times I have been caught out just by a short travel from Thailand to Malaysia! Never again!
8. Bluetooth Speaker
A must for all travellers.
Whether you’re a digital nomad or not, having a portable speaker is awesome. You can watch your films, programmes and podcasts without worrying about sound issues.
You can also play music wherever you are, whether you’re on your own or with friends.
I have got a lot of use out of Bluetooth speakers, they double up as my music outlet and film companion. If I am working in public, then I opt for headphones but when back at my apartment, it is great to have a speaker.
You can also use it for a party on the beach!
There are a lot of expensive speakers knocking around, I don’t feel that there’s any need to spend that much. Personally I feel anything around £50-£100 is sufficient.
With that said, I actually bought the Logitech X300 a few years ago for over £50, I was elated as it was reduced. You can now find it for a lot less! Check it out! There are better versions around, but if you want something for great value, then you’ve found it. It has good sound quality and good bass for a small speaker.
- Less than £30
- Fast Charge
- Loud for its size
- Good sound quality and ‘bassy’