How to Become a Digital Nomad in 2025

The digital nomad lifestyle isn’t just a trend—it’s a movement. With more countries offering nomad visas and remote work becoming mainstream, there’s never been a better time to explore the world while staying connected. If you’re considering this way of life, this guide covers everything you need to get started—from essential gear and tech to taxes, visas, and the best destinations.

What is a digital nomad?

A digital nomad is someone who uses technology to work remotely while travelling the world. They aren’t tied to a specific location, allowing them to explore new places while maintaining their careers. With just a laptop and an internet connection, digital nomads can work from cafés, co-working spaces, or even beachside bungalows. It’s an attractive lifestyle—offering flexibility, freedom, and the opportunity for adventure and new experiences.

If you’re thinking about living the life of a digital nomad, there are a few things to consider—starting with what to pack and where to work from.

11 Must-Haves for Digital Nomads

To thrive as a digital nomad, having the right setup is essential. Here’s a list of core essentials:

Core Tech

1. Laptop: Choose a laptop no larger than 14 inches for portability. It should have solid processing power and long battery life. Bonus points if it supports eSIM for mobile data on the go.
2. Smartphone: Invest in a durable smartphone with a good camera. Make sure it supports eSIM so you can access data plans without needing a physical SIM.
3. Portable Monitor: For those who like dual-screen productivity, a portable monitor makes working remotely much more comfortable.
4. Portable Keyboard: A compact, ergonomic keyboard can make long work sessions easier, especially if you sometimes use a tablet.

Must-Have Accessories

5. Universal Travel Adapter: One adapter to rule them all. A good universal adapter means fewer chargers to carry and full plug coverage wherever you go.
6. Long USB-C Cable: Perfect for awkward charging situations in cafés, hostels, or airports.
7. Power Bank: Keep your devices alive during long travel days. Go for one with high capacity that can charge a laptop and phone.
8. Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot: Great for regions with patchy Wi-Fi or when working securely is a priority. Load it with a local SIM or eSIM.

Software Essentials

9. VPN (Virtual Private Network): A must for protecting your data when using public Wi-Fi. Keeps your connection secure and your activity private.
10. Online Banking (e.g. Revolut, Wise): The Revolut or Wise apps make managing international payments a breeze with low fees and great exchange rates.
11. Travel eSIM: Stay connected across borders without hunting down SIM cards. eSIMs let you switch plans or countries from your phone. More on this below.

Note: Carry some cash—especially euros—as many remote spots still don’t accept cards.

eSIM vs Physical SIM Card

We all know traditional SIM cards—those little plastic chips you insert into your phone, swapping them out each time you change country or plan.

eSIMs, on the other hand, are built directly into your device. Most modern smartphones now support them. They allow you to download and switch mobile data plans via settings—no plastic, no fuss.

Full disclosure: Sim Local sells both SIM cards and eSIMs, but we’ve been following the real-world conversations on Reddit and beyond as eSIMs continue to grow in popularity.

eSIM vs. SIM card

eSIM

1. Get online remotely. 
2. Works with a growing list of newer devices.
3. Built-in and difficult to steal.

SIM Card

1. Requires physical replacement for every country.
2. Mainstream compatibility.
3. Removable card is easy to lose or damage.

Why eSIMs work for digital nomads

Get online instantly in a new country
With an eSIM, you can activate a mobile data plan before you even land. No more hunting for local SIM vendors at the airport or navigating language barriers—just scan a QR code or download a plan through an app!

No need to visit a shop
Traditional SIM cards often mean queuing in shops, showing ID, or even waiting for activation. eSIMs cut out all that hassle. Plans can be purchased and activated from anywhere. All you need is an internet connection (WiFi).

Store multiple profiles (e.g. one for Indonesia, one for Germany)
Digital nomads often return to the same places. With eSIM, you can store several profiles and switch between them without needing new SIM cards each time. You can also buy a regional plan and hop from country to country without having to switch plans!

Harder to lose or steal
Since an eSIM is embedded in your device’s hardware, there’s no physical chip to misplace or damage. Many eSIM providers also allow remote deactivation if your phone is lost or stolen.

eSIM is quickly becoming the go-to choice for remote workers—even for longer stays. Many providers like Sim Local even offer regional or global data plans that work seamlessly across borders.

What is a digital nomad visa?

Since it’s illegal to work under a tourist visa, many countries now offer digital nomad visas—legal frameworks that let remote workers stay and work for extended periods (often 6–12 months or more).

These visas usually require:

• Proof of income or employment
• Health insurance
• Clean criminal record

In return, you get a legal, hassle-free way to live abroad while contributing to the local economy without taking a local job.

Do digital nomads pay tax?

Yes—but it’s complicated. Tax rules depend on your home country, your residency status, and the rules of the country you’re living in.

Some countries offering nomad visas provide tax exemptions or reduced tax rates. Others may expect you to become a tax resident after 183 days.

You may still need to file tax returns in your home country too. It’s best to consult a professional or use a service like TaxScouts or Nomad Tax to stay compliant.

Best Countries for Digital Nomads in 2025

When choosing a base, look for:

• A digital nomad visa or visa-free entry
• Low cost of living
• Reliable internet
• Cultural appeal and safety

Here are 11 great options

1. Portugal – Affordable, sunny, and buzzing with expats. The D7 visa offers tax incentives and is ideal for long-term stays.
2. Thailand – Fast internet, affordable lifestyle, and the new long-stay visa for remote workers. Chiang Mai is a hotspot.
3. Estonia – Europe’s digital pioneer. Their e-Residency programme and digital nomad visa make it ideal for freelancers.
4. Mexico – Vibrant culture, low cost of living, and a popular Temporary Resident Visa. Playa del Carmen and Mexico City are top choices.
5. Indonesia (Bali) – Paradise for remote workers. The B211A visa allows stays up to 6 months. Canggu is a coworking haven.
6. Germany – The Freelance Visa (Freiberufler) is perfect for creatives and professionals. Berlin offers a lively, international vibe.
7. Spain – Non-Lucrative Visa suits self-funded nomads. Barcelona, Valencia, and Málaga are digital nomad favourites.
8. Colombia – Medellín is known for its spring-like weather and growing expat scene. New visa options are making long stays easier.
9. Croatia – The digital nomad visa offers stays up to a year. Stunning coastline, especially in Split and Dubrovnik.
10. Romania – Fast internet, low costs, and a 2021 nomad visa make cities like Brasov and Cluj great options.
11. Turkey – No official nomad visa (yet), but Istanbul and Antalya are nomad-friendly. Affordable, culturally rich, and great for foodies.

With the right gear, connectivity, and visa in place, you can work freely from nearly anywhere in the world. Whether you’re sipping coffee in Lisbon or watching the sunset in Bali, the digital nomad life is no longer a dream—it’s just a plane ticket (and an eSIM) away.