10 Ways Digital Nomads Can Be Successful From Anywhere

The digital nomad lifestyle is booming. According to the MBO Partners 2025 State of Independence report, 18.5 million American workers now identify as digital nomads—up 2.2% from last year.

What makes a digital nomad successful?

The fundamentals are the same whether you’re working from home or halfway around the world:

• Be responsive
• Keep commitments
• Set accurate expectations
• Resolve issues quickly
• Maintain a competitive edge

Check Out: How to Become a Digital Nomad: 9 Tips

How do I get started as a digital nomad?

Getting started as a digital nomad begins with choosing work you can do from anywhere and building a dependable way to earn. From there, it’s all about putting a few basic systems in place so life on the move feels doable and not overwhelming.

Here are 10 tips to help you take your business success on the road:

1. Choose Your Work Environment Wisely

When booking accommodations, think about what kind of space helps you work best. Will the environment support your productivity and allow you to take video calls without distracting background noise? Scout out your workspace before committing.

2. Be Prepared to Communicate More

Your client communication might stay the same—or you might need to check in more frequently, especially at first. This reassures clients that you’re delivering the same quality work, regardless of your location. Over-communicating early builds trust that pays off later.

3. Have Multiple Ways to Reach Your Client

Set up several communication channels and make sure your clients know about them. If your primary method fails, you’ll have backups ready so work doesn’t stall. This keeps projects moving forward no matter what technical issues arise.

4. Keep Your Client Updated on Your Itinerary

Even though your work is virtual, let clients know where you are or where you’re headed. This transparency helps them calculate time zone differences and anticipate any schedule adjustments. It also demonstrates professionalism and respect for their planning needs.

5. Have a Backup Plan for Connectivity

Even in tech-savvy cities, internet issues happen—routers fail and bandwidth slows to a crawl. Line up alternatives like a nearby café with reliable Wi-Fi, a coworking space, or your own mobile hotspot. These backups ensure connectivity problems don’t derail your day.

6. Expect to Put in Similar Hours

If your workload hasn’t changed, becoming a digital nomad won’t magically free up your schedule. In fact, you might work more hours initially as you adapt to new routines and environments. Plan your travel expectations accordingly to avoid burnout.

7. Invest in Current Technology

Your business runs on technology wherever you are. The farther you travel, the harder it may be to buy new equipment or get repairs. Invest in up-to-date devices and software before you leave, and test everything thoroughly.

8. Pack Extras of Critical Equipment

A forgotten laptop charger, a dead battery, or a failed power adapter can bring your workday to a halt. Pack backups of essential items so losing or forgetting something doesn’t cost you productivity. These extras are insurance policies worth their weight in your luggage.

9. Prioritize Cybersecurity

Protect your work and your clients’ data. Use a VPN and antivirus software. Be mindful of what’s visible on your screen in public spaces. Follow both your clients’ security policies and your own best practices.

10. Connect With Other Nomads

Networking matters just as much for digital nomads as for stationary professionals. Other nomads can offer location tips, share insights about coworking spaces, and even become business connections. Plus, they make great travel companions for exploring your destination.

Bonus Tip: Give Yourself Time to Adjust

If you’re new to this lifestyle, expect an adjustment period as you settle into new routines and environments. Even experienced digital nomads need time to recalibrate when changing locations.

See: 10 Books for Digital Nomads

What else should I know about being a digital nomad?

Digital nomads may not fit a single definition, but they all share the choice to blend work with travel. Some roam across countries and continents for years, while others take shorter “workcations” or sabbaticals lasting weeks or months. Many stay closer to home, exploring a single country or region while working remotely.

Our team recently put together a list of the top challenges digital nomads face—and how to manage them. Check it out here.

You can also download our 2025 digital nomads report to get detailed insights into this growing workforce. If you’re interested in roles that let you work from anywhere, check out our opportunities for independent professionals.