Resources

If you've bought a phone in the last few years there's a good chance it's an eSIM compatible device. eSIMs save the hassle of registering and purchasing local SIM cards and give you data instantly when you reach your location.

There's an enormous variance in the costs for the data plans per countries, most European countries are reasonably priced but the more obscure the destination, the more likely you are better off getting a local SIM card. That is especially true in Africa where you want to be able to register for the mobile money wallets.

If you're only in a location for a couple of days, or need instant data access when you arrive at the airport, they are a great option and the service is remarkably reliable.

If you are planning to be away for a prolonged period, you're best off booking as much in advance as possible to make the most of reduced rates on flights and accommodation. Paying for 6 months of your life upfront can naturally be expensive, so if you can do it with interest free-credit, then that relieves a potentially problematic financial burden.

After lots of research I settled on this Barclaycard deal which offers a prolonged period of interest-free credit, with only a small minimum payment required each month. If used responsibly, it can enable you to make significant savings over the course of a year.

One of the best directories of coworking spaces I've encountered. If you are struggling to locate somewhere to work via Google Maps, it''s always worth having a browse here to identify anywhere poorly listed on maps.

It's worth noting that you should not solely rely on the information issued here and it's always best to check opening hours and availability directly with the space.

If you're looking for a new job that will allow you the flexibility to travel, there's few companies better placed than Deel. We're hiring for more than 1,000 positions this year, if you see something that takes your interest, feel free to drop me a message on Linkedin to talk further.

Similar to SkyScanner but with some useful additional features such as identifying 'hidden' routes with preferential pricing which you may otherwise not be aware of.

I've also used it to directly book flights through previously with airlines in Asia where I had problems using a Credit Card from the UK. Both of these can be making it a valuable tool when assembling a flight itinerary.

My primary banking account, I've had near universal accessibility using my Monzo account in all the destinations I've visited. The £200 monthly International ATM fee free allowance is more than enough for most locations.

Probably the world's most comprehensive database of anything remote work related, it can make for a useful starting point when trying to get a feel for the popularity or amenities for any given location.

The only criticism that I would have of it, is that as an aggregator it is hard to get a definitive answer on whether you would like it as an individual. The ratings on the side are a result of the wisdom of the crowd, and whilst they can serve as a useful initial reference point, I wouldn't let any underwhelming ratings issued from others necessarily dissuade you from exploring a destination.

For my personal needs, there's little between Monzo and Revolut as banking apps and given they are both free to use, it doesn't hurt to have another physical card with an international fee-free withdrawal limit should you need to get more cash out at any point.

If you are planning on being away for periods longer than 30 continuous days than you should look at dedicated travel insurance. Most holiday policies or offerings bundled with credit cards often become invalidated after 30 days away, even if they offer year round protection.

Coverage with SafetyWing includes both medical and travel insurance and is specifically geared towards remote workers.

Insurance wasn't something I had previously looked at until heading to Africa where it felt some additional coverage may not be the worst thing in the world. Thankfully I have never had to file a claim but the monthly premium is reasonable and registration is a relatively painless process.

As handy as Airalo is, in some places the prices are just not competitive. Worth having another option on your phone to cross-reference when needed.

If you're heading to a destination with super high ATM fees like Bangkok or Buenos Aires, sending money to yourself via Western Union account can be a handy way of picking up cash locally at a decent rate. Keep an eye out online for offer codes as you can usually find one giving you a £0 free transfer - making it one of the quickest ways to pick up cash when you need it.