Traveling long-term as a digital nomad requires more than just packing a suitcase and hoping for the best. I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that if you don’t prepare for the unexpected, you’ll be left scrambling, or worse—doing without. Whether it’s tech, food, or hobbies, having access to the right essentials can make or break your experience abroad.

Technology (Obviously)

Let’s start with tech, which, as any digital nomad knows, is the backbone of working remotely. A few years ago, I was thrilled to discover a Best Buy in Cancun—a rare oasis for those of us constantly in need of the latest gadget or an emergency charger. Unfortunately, they broke my heart by shutting their doors during the pandemic. Now, getting quality tech in Mexico isn’t impossible, but it’s certainly more difficult and often more expensive.

Given that, I’ve made it a point to travel with backups for my most important gear. Cords, chargers, adapters—I’ve got extras for all of them. Before setting out ask if devices like your laptop or tablet are due for an upgrade; they are the workhorses of your digital life, and not something you want to replace in a pinch. I recommend double-checking the customs rules at your destination. For instance, Mexico used to charge an import tax if you brought both a laptop and an iPad, but they recently rolled back that policy​

.Still, it’s worth checking before you board that flight.

Food: Special Diets Are Difficult in Many Countries

While I eat most anything, my wife follows a Keto diet. And let me tell you, sourcing Keto-friendly foods in Mexico can be a treat in some countries. She loves baking with lupin flour, but try finding that in a Cancun supermarket—good luck. There are certain staples, like sugar-free syrups and certain types of low-carb flours, that we just can’t find easily here.

Her workaround has been to focus more on whole foods when we’re away, leaning into proteins, veggies, and fats that are more readily available. But, whenever we travel, we make sure to pack a few Keto essentials, like lupin flour and vital wheat gluten, to avoid scrambling. Now, travelling with sealed bags of white powder has it’s stresses - “honestly officer, it’s lupin flour!” - we have had our luggage searched and nobody had a problem.

Hobbies: Mental Health Requires More Than Just Work

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned as a long-term traveler is that work can’t be the only thing on your schedule. As someone who paints in oils, having a creative outlet has been essential for maintaining my mental health. But—here’s the catch—finding the right supplies abroad can be incredibly frustrating. Cancun, for example, doesn’t have many options for quality oil paints or brushes. (There is a great art supply store HERE, but he can’t stock everything). When I first started spending long stints here, I realized how crucial it was to pack my favorite brands and brushes. The local stores either didn’t have what I needed, or the quality was subpar.

Why is this so important? Because having something outside of work helps keep you grounded. When you’re a digital nomad, it’s easy to fall into the trap of working 24/7 because there’s no physical office or set hours to draw a line between work and life. For me, painting is a way to shift my focus, disconnect from screens, and engage a different part of my brain. Whether it’s painting, music, or another hobby, I can’t stress enough how important it is to pack the essentials you need to maintain your non-work activities. It’s more than just a way to pass time—it’s a key part of keeping your mental health in check when you’re constantly on the move.

Clothing: Long Term Considerations

Now let’s talk about clothing—specifically shoes. I’m a size 13, which apparently is some kind of unicorn size in Mexico. It’s strange - I see tall people here all the time, including some locally born, but the locals stores clearly do not believe in large people. I can’t count the number of times I’ve walked into a shoe store, only to be told they don’t carry anything in my size. Even the Crocs store stops at size 12! (Yes, I love Crocs and won’t apologize for it). And while there are solutions—you can always have something shipped—it’s not exactly the most convenient option when you’re away from home. As a result, I’ve made it a rule to travel with at least two solid pairs of shoes that I can rotate, minimizing wear and tear over the months I’m abroad.

The same goes for clothing. If you are tall, remember that not all cultures average the same height. Depending on where you are, finding specific styles, brands, or sizes might not be easy. On the other hand, our local mall has a Sears, Benneton, and Radio Shack, so Canadians and Americans can feel like they have a time machine. If you have favorite pieces you love to wear, pack them! Bring extras!

Conclusion: Plan, Pack, and Stay Flexible

Long-term travel can be a rewarding adventure, but it also requires a bit of foresight. As a digital nomad, there are certain essentials—whether it’s technology, food, hobbies, or clothing—that you simply can’t leave to chance. The more you plan ahead and bring the things you truly need, the easier it will be to maintain both your work and personal life on the road.

What essentials are non-negotiable for your travels? I'd love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment and let’s share tips on how to make life on the road a little smoother. And don't forget to visit our Etsy store for some cool digital nomad must-haves!