My ultimate kit for digital nomading

A digital nomad-themed blog would not be complete without some pictures of a computer in beautiful locations! Here's my go-to kit for digital nomading:

Which Computer do I need?

For me there's no debate, and it's paid for by my work. I've always worked with MacBook Pros, and the M1 is a fantastic machine. My work involves running dev environment and automated tests locally, and this beast can handle it. The keyboard is incredible, the machine is solid, the screen is great, and if you happen to have an iPhone, the integration between the two is excellent. You can copy paste from one device to the other, or use your iPhone as a high quality camera for your calls.

If I was starting out and had a smaller budget, I'd get either a MacBook Air, or a reconditioned MacBookPro M1 on backmarket. Also, don't hesitate to buy second-hand, plenty of deals to be had.

My recommended second screen

I had a trip planned to Mexico and just needed a second screen. I bought the Lenovo ThinkVision M14 and have been super happy with it. It's small, light, USB-C powered and can be used vertically.

Which laptop stand?

I saw no reason to by the fancy Roost one and got the Nextstand K2 for 30 euros one online.

Which bluetooth keyboard?

I got the Logitech K380 during the pandemic, so a little while ago, and it's still working perfectly. Batteries last for ages, and you can connect it up to 3 devices at a time, which mean you can type on your phone as well if you need to. It came with me to Mexico and the Phillipines, Spain and the UK, and is still working fine. Highly recommended.

Which bluetooth mouse?

I got this Mojo vertical mouse in the UK a couple year ago and it works really well. It was fantastic value for money and I'm not sure it's available not.

Which backpack for digital nomading?

Disclaimer, I'm slighly obsessed with backpacks. I got the Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 24L a couple years ago and I'm quite happy with it. It's not perfect but it works well.

I love:

• the sturdyness, it's quite water repellent as well.
• really thick computer pocket, well paded, and it stops a few centimeters from the ground so you won't damage your computer when putting your bag down.
• the 3 zippers system is awesome.
• lots of small pocket inside.

The main issues for me are:

• it does not stand vertically on it's own.
• because of how padded it is, the inside space is quite reduced. If you want to one bag it, which you could do, you'll have to travel pretty light.
• the water bottle pocket is quite small and not extendable.

I have also travelled to Mexico with only the Forclaz Travel 100 from Decathlon: it lacks pockets inside and protection, but it's pretty much the perfect volume for one bagging.

Which shoes for traveling to warm countries?

Okay, this one is a bit cheeky I'll admit, just wear whichever shoes you like. But I personally love to have either a pair of Teva Sandals, which my partner hate. Or a pair of Tropicfeel shoes, they are a bit expensive for the quality, but they are really comfortable and easy to slip on/off. They are also made near me in Barcelona.

Which noise-canceling headphones?

Noise-canceling are indispensable for traveling. In the plane, they allow me to sleep, and I can focus on my task even in crowded places. I have a Bose QC 35 that's 2 years old, and I had to change the foam around the ear a couple times, and they are getting old. But the sound is great and they are really comfortable.

In summer 2023 in Tallinn, Estonia, I bought the Sony XM3. The noise canceling is great, but I have to say that they are a bit finicky, not as comfortable as the Bose, and the sound quality is not as good. But because I bought it in a shop in Tallinn I have to keep them. Well, they do the job.

Miscellaneous stuff that I always take with me

• my sunglasses
• a small battery to charge my phone and electronics while stuck in transport.
• Bluetooth earphones, when wearing a noise-canceling headphones is not advisable (like walking in the street).
• an eye-masks
• a ridiculous sun hat
• a long-sleeve lycra top when doing water activities.
• a fleece, for ice-cold malls and airports.

That's it for now! I'll keep this page updated.