Essential kit for working and travelling. The best gear for digital nomads

“Business or pleasure?” You are inevitably met with this question whilst travelling, but perhaps you are one of the lucky few to reply (somewhat smugly): “Both!”.

Working and travelling is a great way to see the world, but it requires some pre-planning and, of course, the right equipment.

So, whether you are established an established digital nomad, just starting out working on the road, or just curious about the best gadgets for travelling, here are the ‘nomad essentials’:

1. Bluetooth Sleep Eye Mask Headphones

This product is an absolute lifesaver if you are taking multiple overnight flights, buses, and trains – or even if you’re in a particularly noisy dorm-room!

Just pop on your headphone-eye-mask and drift to sleep to the sweet sounds of your favourite songs, or audiobook (protip: Stephen Fry’s ‘Harry Potter’ audiobooks are a must for soothing sounds to fall asleep to, you heard it here first).

With over eight hours charge, you can rest assured that your headphones will last you a whole night, and recharging is very easy with a USB charging slot.

These headphones are also very thin, around one-third of the size of regular headphones, making for a very comfortable sleep, and the eye mask, of course shields all light from your eyes.

And, unlike other headphones that beep when they run out of charge or flash lights all night, these headphones are optimised for sleeping – there is no noise when they power off, and the blue light is so weak it doesn’t affect your sleep.

Lastly, the Bluetooth 4.2 technology makes the sound quality great – very important for being lulled to sleep by Stephen Fry…

Pros & Benefits:

• 8+ Hours Play Time (fully charged via USB charge port in 2 hours)
• Thin speakers of around 1/3 the average speaker size for greater comfort sleeping
• Bluetooth 4.2 Stereo sound, pairable with all smartphones/ tablets

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2. Sony Alpha A6400 Digital Camera

Every traveller knows the more compact a gadget, the better. DSLR cameras are often bulky and heavy – but luckily, now compact cameras are just as good, if not better!

The Sony Alpha 46400 is a mid-range, mirrorless compact camera. This gem includes 24.2MP, giving incredible image quality, with an ISO range of 100-102400.

Videographers can enjoy an 11fps continuous shooting rate, 4K recording and full HD 120fps high-speed shooting.

What’s more, the Sony Alpha 46400 boasts the world’s fastest autofocus system (4D Focus™) that can lock focus on the fastest moving objects – perfect for everyone,from nature to street photography.

For travel bloggers out there, this camera offers a tiltable LCD touch screen for self-recording or ‘selfies’ (you may never have to ask the nearest passerby to take a photograph of you and La Tour Eiffel again!).

The touch screen also enables easier navigation through the camera’s various modes.

Pros & Benefits:

• World’s fastests autofocus system 4D Focus™
• Compact, mirrorless and light with the same quality as heavier DSLR cameras
• Tiltable LCD touch screen

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3. SAUNORCH Universal International Travel Power Adapter

Power, power, power – when you have a laptop, smartphone and camera to charge (as a bare minimum) you find yourself spending hours waiting on your gadgets charging in different sockets.

With this travel adapter, you can save time and charge all your electronics at the same time.

With 4 USB ports and 1 universal AC socket, you can charge up to 5 devices at a time, meaning you’ll never have to struggle with a tangle of different cables and adapters again, or worry about finding enough plugs!

Just switch between plugs (USA, Europe, UK and Australia/New Zealand) to be covered wherever you are, whatever your needs.

The SAUNORCH adapter even comes with a choice of three colours, blue, green and black.

Pros & Benefits:

• 4 USB Ports & 1 Universal AC Socket, allowing 5 devices to be charged at once
• International Compatability
• Worryfree guarantee – full lifetime guarantee on every product should they not work

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4. Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Headphones

For headphones that don’t cover your eyes, there is no beating Bose’s wireless headphones.

These beauties are noise-cancelling, allowing you to listen to high quality sound in any environment.

There is also a noise-cancelling built-in microphone, allowing you to make and receive calls undisturbed.

This product employs the Alexa for voice access to music, information and settings.

What’s more, Bluetooth pairing is hassle-free via the Bose Connect app, where you can also personalise settings and update software.

You can also unlock Bose AR, a next-gen audio augmented reality platform, allowing you to explore virtual travelling, learning, and gaming.

Most importantly, the sound quality is superb.

Pros & Benefits:

• Noise cancelling, high quality sound and built-in noise-cancelling microphone
• Alexa voice control
• Access to Bose AR

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5. Anker Powercore 1000 External Battery

For when you don’t have access to a plug socket, an external battery (aka power bank) can keep your smartphone/ tablet charged and keep you connected.

This is especially useful in countries with unreliable sockets, or when you are undertaking long stretches of travel in remote areas.

The Anker power bank is one of the most compact and light on the market.

Moreover, it boasts high-speed charging technology (PowerIQ and VoltageBoost) to quickly charge devices; it holds around 3-4 smartphone charges.

Simply plug the microUSB into your phone and you are good to go – there’s even a travel pouch and 18 month warantee to boot.

Pros & Benefits:

• Compact and light
• Holds around 3-4 smartphone charges
• PowerIQ and VoltageBoost high-speed charging technology

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6. Nexstand Laptop Stand

A portable laptop stand can be a blessing when you’re on the move and using a variety of workspaces.

This stand is simple and easy to use, with 7 settings to adjust from 5.5 inches to 12.6 inches.

This universal stand fits all makes and models, from 11.6 inches and above, and most importantly for travellers, is lightweight and folds up easily into a nylon carry sleeve.

This is a great buy because it really helps you improve your posture- no more will you be hunching over a tiny desk typing away, or awkwardly propping your Macbook on your knees.

With this stand, everywhere can become your office!

Pros & Benefits:

• Adjustable height
• Fits all laptop makes and models of 11.6 inches+
• Easily folds down and lightweight

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7. AmazonBasics Laptop Macbook Case

A laptop sleeve is essential everywhere and especially useful when you’re travelling – your laptop is your lifeline and source of income, so protecting it against any damage is a must.

To provide minimal protection against bumps, scratches, and dropping your device, this AmazonBasics sleeve is a cheap option to guard against surface damage.

This sleeve comes in a range of sizes from 7 to 17.3 inches, and a range of colours including black, blue and purple.

The slim design means you can easily pop your laptop in your backpack or suitcase, or carry it separately.

If you’re just looking for a sleeve to prove your laptop with some external padding, at $12, this case is for you.

Pros & Benefits:

• Protect your laptop or Macbook against wear and tear
• Slim design
• Range of sizes to fit all brands of laptop
• Choice of colour
• Low cost

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8. Tomantek Water proof & Shock proof laptop case

If you’re looking for something offering a bit more protection, the Tomantek case is a great option.

This case, with water-resistant PU material and sealed zippers, will protect your laptop from any liquid spills.

With 6mm high-density shockproof sponge, your laptop will be safeguarded against any potential damage – whether it’s dropped, bumped, or bashed in the hold.

So, you can have peace of mind that your laptop or Macbook is protected, wherever you go!

This case comes in three sizes, from 11 inches to 15.6, and has a year long waranty.

Pros & Benefits:

• Waterproof
• Shockproof
• 3 sizes

9. Matein Travel Backpack

Whilst on the road, it’s usually a good idea to keep all your electronics in a small backpack separate from the rest of your luggage.

The Matein travel backpack is perfect for this, with plenty storage space and pockets to hold all your tech necessities.

The main compartment fits laptops up to 15.6 inches, and the front compartment has pen pockets and a key fob, to make for easy organisation.

There’s even an anti-theft hidden back pouch for valuables, and built-in charging cables and a USB charging port outside so you can charge your smartphone on the go.

Besides being handy for gadgets, this backpack is comfortable to wear, with soft multi-panel padding and adjustable straps for maximum back support.

This product is also waterproof and sturdy, ensuring long-lasting protection of all your gadgets.

This backpack even clips onto your suitcase, and is carry-on size.

And best of all, it comes in a range of colours from red to camouflage, to fit all your adventure needs.

Pros & Benefits:

• Lots of storage space and pockets including anti-theft hidden pouch
• USB charging port outside backpack
• Comfortable padded design

10. Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Suitcase

Depending on what sort of traveller you are, you will opt for a wheelable suitcase or a backpack.

Picture the scene: you’re heading for your flight, and your battered old suitcase is making your life a misery.

It only wheels one way, so you have to keep re-adjusting, and turning corners – don’t even think about it.

You’ll have to plastic wrap it, because it’s made of soft polyester, and struggle to lock the zips together with your padlock – that’s if you can find the keys!

Maybe a wheel has even popped off…

Woes be gone – for those looking to whizz through airports hassle-free (as long as there’s no stairs), the Samsonite suitcase is your saviour.

Finding durable, long-lasting luggage when working and travelling is crucial. The Samonsite case is extremely good quality, meaning it won’t fall apart after a couple years.

Made of 100% polycarbonate, this case is not just durable but extremely lightweight. It’s made to absorb impact and flex under stress, popping back into shape whilst protecting the contents.

You’ll never need to wrap your suitcase in plastic again!

The interior is lined with cross-straps and organisational pockets to make packing easier.

The wheels of the Samsonite are 360 spinner wheels, and the push button handle is wide, providing an extra comfortable grip.

The TSA compatible combination lock is built-in, ensuring your belongings arrive safely, no keys required.

The Samsonite case comes in carry-on, medium to large sizes, and an array of colours (even orange!).

Pros & Benefits:

• Durable, long-lasting and lightweight made from 100% polycarbonate
• 360 spinner wheels
• Push button handle
• Built-in TSA compatible combination lock
• Comes in carry-on and medium to large sizes
• Several colours to choose from

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11. Teton Sports Explorer 4000 Backpack

If you’re more of a stairs-over-elevator kind of traveller (or just enjoy hiking), you will probably opt for a backpack.

The Teton Explorer internal frame backpack is a best seller and an obvious choice for all travellers; it’s also a great price at $74.99.

The Teton Explorer boasts 65L capacity, and the dimensions (filled) are 32″ x 18″ x 12″ (81.3 x 45.7 x 30.5 cm), with torso length adjustment: 19″ – 23″ (48 – 58.4 cm).

It’s also light, at just 5lbs (2.3kg). Important if you’re hiking, or even just carrying your pack for long stretches to the hostel!

There is a padded back panel, designed for maximum air flow, and padded shoulder straps for extra comfort.

Of course, the Explorer is fully adjustable in torso, waist, chest and shoulders, to fit any body and give you the perfect fit for your next adventure.

The sleeping back compartment,size is 13.5” x 10” x 7” (34 x 25.5 x 18 cm), and there’s an integrated rain fly sewn-in that can be tucked away when not in use.

Usefully, the side-pockets are pass-trhrogh, which makes storing gear like trecking poles easier. The Explorer is also hydration-system ready.

This all rounder should cover all of your pack needs!

Pros & Benefits:

• Best-selling and affordable backpack
• 65L (4000 cubic inch) capacity
• Fully adjustable for any body
• Pass-through side pockets
• Integrated rain-fly

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12. Columbia Arcadia 2 Women’s Jacket

Staying dry on the road is crucial, and the lighter the jacket, the better.

This Columbia Women’s Arcadia II jacket features Omni-Tech technology that guarantees to be waterproof. 

This jacket is also breathable, made of 100% nylon.

The Arcadia II jacket is fully adjustable, from the storm hood to the drawcord hem to the zippered hand pockets.

Importantly for travellers, it’s lightweight and packs down into a hand pocket! Convenient for those days when there is both sunshine and showers.

This jacket also comes in a range of funky colours with cool names: check out ‘Miami’, ‘Iceberg’ and ‘Dark Raspberry’!

Pros & Benefits:

• Fully waterproof with OmniTech technology
• 100% Nylon and breathable
• Lightweight and packs down into a pocket
• Range of sizes and colours

For the male version, click here.

13. IUGA High Waist Pants

Honestly, nothing screams ‘tourist’ like cargo pants. If you want my advice, ditch the weird ‘travel pants’ and opt instead for a nice, comfortable pair of leggings.

You can throw a pair of waterproof trousers over these pants and be just as protected from the rain. Only drawback: there aren’t as many pockets!

Iuga’s high waist yoga pants are super comfortable and come in just about every colour imaginable.

This high-quality active-wear is perfect for everyone, whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just want something affordable and functional.

These pants feature a wide, high rise waistband and are soft, with skin-friendly material that is moisture wicking with a four-way stretch material that promotes compression and support.

The crotch is also designed to maximise free movement, with interlocking seams to minimize rubbing and chafing,

Ultra-stretch fit translates to enough thickness (to not be see-through!) whilst not compromising breathability.

There is also pockets, a plus for leggings! There’s even a hidden waistband inner pocket to stash keys, smartphone or any other essentials.

What’s more, all IUGA yoga pants are sold with a 30-day, full-money-back warranty and can be returned no questions asked.

Pros & Benefits:

• Breathable
• Comfortable
• Ultra-stretch fit
• Affordable
• Hidden pocket

14. Fun Toe’s Merino Wool Socks

Socks, working and travelling essential, I hear you say? Believe me, you can’t do anything with wet feet!

Merino wool is renowned amongst travellers for being quick-drying, warm and strong due to their natural fibres. 

These Fun Toes socks are 50% merino wool and then 50% nylon, spandex and polyester blend, meaning they aren’t as itchy as other wool brands.

The wool/synthetic blend also increases breathability and lessens odours.

Being 50% merino wool, these socks are warm in winter and cool in summer – so perfect for travelling!

They also have a reinforced toe, meaning they will last forever, no holes!

Arch support in the soles provides support for your feet, and the spandex renders the socks stretchy and not too tight.

Fun Toes merino wool socks are also easy to wash – simply wash in cold water and allow to air dry!

And at 6 pairs for $27, these Fun toes merino wool socks are a great bargain. 

Pros & Benefits:

• Merino wool 50%
• Breathable
• Durable
• Quick-drying
• Less odour and smell than other brands
• Re-inforced toes
• Arch support
• Bargain price

Final Thoughts

Working and travelling on the road is an art, and one made much easier with the right equipment. From sleepmask noise-cancelling headphones you help you get some shut eye, to the best power gadget options, the above list will help you be a smarter working traveller.

Having fulfilled all your nomad needs, it’s time to hit the beach and leave your screen for another day. Enjoy!