Remote work has a lot of positive features. You have more flexibility in your schedule and are able to make more varied choices in how, when, and even where you complete your work. As summer approaches, you may be wondering how your remote job will factor into your vacation plans.
Perhaps you prefer to continue working while you are traveling to make some extra money as a digital nomad, or maybe you want to extend the length of your vacation since you have the ability to bring your work with you. Whatever your reasons, it is entirely possible to balance your remote job with travel when you take into account the following considerations.
Know Your Internet Options
If you are able to work remotely, then you almost certainly need access to the internet to complete and submit your work. Ethernet and Wi-Fi are your lifeblood. Without the Internet, you won't be able to get your tasks done and could end up behind on work or unable to communicate with your supervisors and home office.
Before you leave to go anywhere, know what your options for internet service are. Whether you are going to be working from a hotel room or a Japan cruise, you need to be familiar with the speed and availability of the internet connection so you can plan accordingly.
Bring The Right Equipment
After you determine that you will have a good internet connection, you should focus on the equipment that you will need to get the job done. Most people will just need a laptop to work from. However, you should be clear on this before you leave for your trip. Will you need a cell phone to communicate or can you do everything online? Do you need access to anything else, such as a printer, scanner, or other equipment?
Data safety can also be a concern. If you are using a personal laptop for your work on the go, make sure that you install a good antivirus program and check with your office to see if you need to set up a VPN or if it is safe to access the company worksite on any connection.
Be Clear On What Needs To Be Done
Know exactly what work you will need to do in advance so you can plan. If there are some tasks that will be difficult to do on the road, or that require collaboration with others, try to complete them before your trip.
Prioritize what needs to be done and decide if you are working a regular, full shift or will be reducing your hours while you are on vacation. This way you can set up a schedule with your superiors and co-workers so they know when and how they can reach you, and what work you are available to do.
Have A Designated Work Time
Setting yourself a clear work schedule is even more important while you are traveling. It will be tempting to put your work off until later in favor of doing some sightseeing or just relaxing, but you need to be sure that you are getting everything done.
Decide which time of day works best for you to concentrate and focus on your work, and be unavailable during that time. Early morning is usually best. That way you can finish everything you need to do and go about the rest of your day with no worries or distractions.
Remove Distractions
Where you work will have an impact on the quality of the job that you do. Try to find a quiet space with no distractions. That can be in your room, or even in a café or other public space if you use noise-canceling headphones. Just keep in mind that the fewer distractions you have, the quicker you will be done.
Remember Time Differences
Factor in any time differences that occur while you are traveling. You don't want to miss a deadline or schedule a phone call with a client in the middle of the night. Stay mindful of these changes and remain professional and courteous while working remotely or as a digital nomad.
Work And Play With Proper Planning
With a little forethought, you can find ways to manage your work schedule while you enjoy a vacation or extended travel. You may find that this lifestyle suits you and look forward to further adventures working remotely or as a full-fledged digital nomad on the move.
