Whether you're an employer managing a team of digital nomads or an employee embracing the digital nomad lifestyle, it's crucial to have access to the right gear and gadgets that ensure connectivity, productivity, and comfort while on the move. 

‍

According to a 2021 MBO Partners report, the number of digital nomads in the US alone rose to 10.9 million, emphasizing the growing need for effective tools in this space.

‍

In this article, we'll explore essential tools for digital nomads, provide top recommendations for each category, and touch on how Insightful’s software for monitoring telework employees can optimize your remote work experience.

‍

When selecting gear, be sure to consider specific work and travel needs, as well as your budget and company preferences. 

‍

Investing in quality products can make a big difference in your employees' work and travel experience, so take the time to research and choose the tools that are right for your company and your digital nomad employees.

‍

Communication Tools - Keep Connected

‍

Communication is critical for remote workers, so it's important to equip your digital nomads with reliable communication tools that allow them to stay in touch with clients, colleagues, and loved ones. 

‍

Here are some of the key communication tools to consider:

Laptop

Your employees' laptops are the backbone of their digital nomad setup, so it's important to invest in models that can handle their workload and travel needs. Look for laptops with lightweight and durable designs, long battery life, and strong performance capabilities.

‍

Recommended models include the MacBook Air, Dell XPS 15, and HP Spectre x360.

‍

Smartphone

Smartphones are another important communication tool, so you'll want to choose models that offer key features like long battery life, a good camera, and strong connectivity options. Look for models with ample storage and processing power as well.

‍

Recommended models include the iPhone 14, Samsung Galaxy S22, and Google Pixel 7.

‍

Headphones

‍

Good headphones can help your digital nomads stay focused and productive while working in noisy environments. Look for models with noise-cancellation or noise-isolation features, comfortable designs, and good sound quality.

‍

Recommended models include the Bose QuietComfort 35 II, Sony WH-1000XM4, and Apple AirPods Pro.

‍

Essential Tools for Getting Work Done on the Go

‍

Productivity is key for digital nomads, so providing them with the right tools can help them stay on track and meet their goals. 

‍

Here are some of the essential productivity tools for digital nomads:

‍

Portable Monitor

‍

A portable monitor can help your employees increase their productivity by providing a second screen when working from a laptop. Look for models with lightweight and compact designs, good display quality, and strong compatibility with laptops.

‍

Recommended models include the ASUS ZenScreen, Lenovo ThinkVision M14, and HP EliteDisplay S14.

‍

External Keyboard and Mouse

‍

An external keyboard and mouse can help your employees work more comfortably and efficiently while on the go. Look for models with compact and lightweight designs, good ergonomics, and strong compatibility with laptops.

‍

Recommended models include the Logitech K380 Multi-Device Keyboard, Microsoft Arc Mouse, and Apple Magic Keyboard and Mouse.

‍

Power Bank

‍

A power bank can provide backup power for your employees' devices when they're on the go and don't have access to a power outlet. Look for models with high-capacity batteries, fast charging capabilities, and strong compatibility with devices.

‍

Recommended models include the Anker PowerCore 10000, Aukey Powerbank 26800, and RavPower Portable Charger 20000mAh.

‍

Connectivity Tools - Connect Anytime, Anywhere

‍

Connectivity is crucial for digital nomads, so providing them with the right tools to stay connected can make a big difference in their work and travel experience. Here are some of the essential connectivity tools for digital nomads:

‍

Wi-Fi Extender

‍

A Wi-Fi extender can help your employees boost their Wi-Fi signal in remote areas where the signal is weak. Look for models with compact and portable designs, easy setup, and strong compatibility with devices.

‍

Recommended models include the TP-Link N300 Wi-Fi Range Extender, Netgear Nighthawk X6S Tri-Band Wi-Fi Mesh Extender, and Linksys RE9000 Wi-Fi Extender.

‍

Mobile Hotspot

‍

A mobile hotspot can provide a backup internet connection when your employees are in an area with weak or no Wi-Fi signal. Look for models with high-speed data connections, long battery life, and strong compatibility with devices.

‍

Recommended models include the Nighthawk M1 Mobile Router by Netgear, Huawei E5577C, and GlocalMe G4 Pro.

‍

VPN

‍

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help your employees stay safe and secure while working online, especially when they're connecting to public Wi-Fi networks. Look for VPN services that offer strong encryption, fast connection speeds, and compatibility with devices.

‍

Recommended VPN services include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark.

‍

Boost Your Digital Nomad Productivity

‍

Remote employee productivity monitoring software such as Insightful can also play an important role in helping employers manage their digital nomad employees. By providing real-time visibility into employee activities, Insightful can help employers with tracking remote workers to ensure they are staying on task and meeting performance expectations. 

‍

Here are some of the ways Insightful can help:

‍

• Productivity Tracking: Insightful can track employees' computer usage, providing employers with a detailed view of their activity levels and productivity. This information can help employers identify areas where employees may be struggling and offer support or guidance as needed.

‍

• Time Tracking: Insightful can also track employees' time spent on specific tasks, allowing employers to monitor project progress and ensure tasks are being completed on time.

‍

• Employee Engagement: Insightful can also help employers improve employee engagement and satisfaction by providing data on employees' work patterns and preferences. Employers can use this information to make adjustments to work schedules or offer support to improve employee well-being.

‍

• Security: Insightful can also help employers protect their company's sensitive data by monitoring employee activity and identifying any security risks or breaches.

‍

By providing visibility and insights into employee activity, work from home monitoring tools such as Insightful can help employers manage their digital nomad employees more effectively. 

‍

Employers can use this data to improve productivity, ensure compliance, and protect their company's sensitive data. When used responsibly, Insightful can be a valuable tool for staff supervision of digital nomad employees.

‍