Key Factors For Digital Nomads

by Johan Hjelm of Techdirt / Aug 16

The laptop is the key to being mobile. With a really big hard disk, and a means to do everything electronically. Storing all your old emails, documents you need for reference etc makes it possible to bring up the background for any discussion when you leave the office. But since the laptop can hardly be switched on all the time, a mobile phone is required – preferably one which syncs well with the laptop.

Two more things you need: A good backup in the corporate network, so you can restore your work in a day or so (if the laptop gets stolen or damaged). And a bundle of electrical adapters, for the different countries you are going to go to. The power adapter of the laptop has to be able to handle this, too. Depending on the philosophy of the IT department, also a network cable – not all companies allow wireless access, and wired is faster. If the company runs a decent VPN, then you do not need an office any more.

Of course, the battery life of the laptop is crucial. It has to be usable for a decent flight, otherwise you will be dependent on electricity. And a secrecy filter helps, too. An office has a big advantage in terms of security: You always know that the person looking at your stuff is friendly. Spread out your things on a tabletop in a Starbucks nearby, or start reading documents on an airplane – and you never know who is looking.

These things you can actually squeeze into a decent-sized bag, which can be a rucksack or have a shoulder strap, and they should not weigh more than six kilos, if you choose to bring a book for the time when the plane is taking off and landing, or when you are standing in the train. Or maybe an MP3 player if you drive, or otherwise is dependent on music or audio books. That the bag is strong and comfortable to carry is most important. Looks matter too, of course. But with these things, and the software available in the operating systems today, anyone can forget the office.

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