As you probably know, becoming a digital nomad offers the freedom to work from anywhere in the world, but transitioning to this lifestyle requires a lot of preparation and planning. Luckily, we’re here to provide you with insights that will lay the foundation for a fulfilling nomadic lifestyle in Europe!
Establish a stable income stream
The first thing you want to do when thinking about becoming a digital nomad in Europe (or anywhere in the world) is figuring out where your main income stream will be coming from. The most popular option that is related to digital nomadism is freelancing. There are many options to choose from in this field, but in the end, it’s all about finding your niche.
However, you don’t have to be a freelancer to enjoy the lifestyle of a digital nomad— a common misconception. Your income stream could come from being a remote employee, online business owner, or even working as a trader.
Choose the right destination
Along with Asia, Europe is considered to be one of the best places to be a digital nomad. This is not only because of the continent’s high-quality infrastructure and gorgeous cities, but also due to the fact that many European countries offer digital nomad visas or remote work programs.
Some countries are more suitable than others; look for a low cost of living, strong communities, and favorable geographic preferences. Some popular choices include Estonia, Portugal, Spain, and Croatia, all offering excellent infrastructure and very active digital nomad hubs.
Plan your finances and taxes
Planning your finances are important, but even more so when you’re a digital nomad. Before committing to anything, make sure you save up at least 3–6 months’ worth of expenses.
Looking towards monthly income, half of digital nomads in Europe believe you need to earn between €2,900 and €3,900 (according to a study done by Flatio). How much you need to live comfortably per month ultimately depends on your lifestyle, but this should give you an idea.
Researching tax laws and regulations, especially if you’ll be living in multiple countries, is also a must. If it all seems too complicated or overwhelming, you could consider hiring a tax consultant.
Assemble a workspace
Having gear that feels right to you is essential since it is what you’ll be using day and night. Some of our recommendations would be a lightweight laptop, noise-cancelling headphones, a portable charger, and ideally, a portable WiFi device.
Also, finding a co-working space with reliable internet can be beneficial for, of course, having a fast connection to work remotely, but they can also lead to networking opportunities.
Join communities and network
As mentioned above, sharing a space with fellow remote workers and digital nomads can open the door to countless opportunities. For instance, co-working spaces often host networking events, workshops, or meetups where you can connect with other nomads. These connections can also lead to housing options, collaborative freelance projects, or even new friendships.
It’s also important to remember that these interactions aren’t limited to physical spaces. Platforms like Nomad and various subreddits offer you a space to ask questions, exchange tips, and even find job opportunities.
Conclusion
We hope that you will keep some of our tips in mind in your process to become a full-time digital nomad. This lifestyle offers incredible opportunities to explore new cultures, meet inspiring people, and gain freedom over your way of working. However, it also comes with its challenges, from managing finances and navigating tax laws to building a routine in unfamiliar places.
Remember, that your path will be different from other nomads— so take the time to figure out what works best for you and enjoy the ride!
