Essential Gear And Equipment For Digital Nomads In Mexico

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Reminder: Make sure to check the country’s covid guidelines before travel.

The freedom to travel and work from anywhere worldwide is at the crux of the digital nomad lifestyle. And for a good reason – it’s an amazing way to live! But as anyone who has tried it knows, there is a bit of a learning curve when figuring out what essential gear and equipment you need to make the most of this mobile lifestyle.

Before we discuss the topic of Essential Gear And Equipment For Digital Nomads In Mexico, I am sure you already know the importance of getting a good travel insurance policy. This is essential whether you are working or not, but as a digital nomad, your potential risks are often higher since you often work in unfamiliar surroundings and may not have the same access to healthcare that you would at home.

Suppose you plan on exploring Mexico as a digital nomad or are here already. There are some essential pieces of gear and equipment that you will need to make your experience more enjoyable, productive – and safe!

Now that we’ve got that out of the way let’s move on to the essential gear and equipment you need to be a successful digital nomad in Mexico.

WHAT IS DIGITAL NOMADING?

Okay, so you’ve decided to take the plunge and become a digital nomad! But what does that mean? In short, digital nomads are people who use technology to earn a living, often while traveling. This can include anything from running a business online to freelance writing or blogging.

Of course, there’s a lot more to it than that. As a digital nomad, you’ll need to work effectively from anywhere worldwide, which means having the right gear and equipment. This post will review some of the essential gear and equipment that every digital nomad in Mexico needs.

ESSENTIAL GEAR AND EQUIPMENT FOR DIGITAL NOMADS IN MEXICO

Mexico is a country with a lot of history, culture, and natural beauty – and as a digital nomad, you will want to make the most of it! Here are some essential pieces of gear and equipment that will help you do just that:

1. Anker PowerCore Essential (20000mAh)

As someone who travels a lot, I’m always looking for ways to lighten my load and simplify my life. That’s why I was intrigued when I heard about the Anker PowerCore Essential. This handy little device can charge your smartphone or tablet several times, meaning you can leave your bulky power adapter at home. It’s also incredibly lightweight and fits easily into your pocket or purse. Best of all, it’s very reasonably priced.

I’ve been using the Anker PowerCore Essential for several months, and it has quickly become one of my favorite travel accessories. It’s saved me many times when my phone battery has run low, and I’ve needed to stay connected. I highly recommend it to any digital nomad traveling in Mexico (or anywhere else worldwide, for that matter).

FEATURES

• Connector Type: USB Type C
• Brand: Anker
• Battery Capacity: 20000
• Compatible Phone Models: iPhone, iPad, Samsung, and other Android phones
• Color: Black
• Voltage: 5 Volts

Best Part

• Charge Fast Anywhere
• Ultra-High Cell Capacity
• Wide Compatibility

2. Laptop Stand For Desk

If you’re anything like me, you probably spend a good chunk of your day working at a laptop. And if you’re spending that much time hunched over a keyboard, it’s important to have a good laptop stand. A good stand will help you maintain proper posture and avoid neck and back pain.

I’ve been using the VIGLT Laptop Stand for a while now, and it’s one of the best investments I’ve ever made. It’s incredibly lightweight and portable, so it’s perfect for digital nomads who are always on the go. It’s also adjustable, so you can use it at different heights depending on your needs. And it folds up flat, so it’s easy to pack in your suitcase or carry-on bag.

If you’re looking for a high-quality laptop stand that won’t break the bank, I highly recommend the VIGLT Laptop Stand.

FEATURES

• Brand: VIGLT
• Color: A-Grey
• Form Factor: Laptop
• Compatible Devices: Laptops
• Compatible Phone Models: Microsoft
• Mounting Type: For, Foldable, Desk, Freestanding

Best Part

• Sturdy & Protective
• Folding Portability & Multi-use Practical
• Latest Ergonomic Riser
• Heat Dissipation
• Wide Compatibility

3. Apple AirPods Pro Wireless Earbuds

Noise cancellation has almost become a buzzword among digital nomads, and for a good reason. After all, if you’re working from anywhere and everywhere, you need to be able to tune out the world around you to focus on your work. And that’s where the Apple AirPods Pro comes in.

These nifty little earbuds provide excellent sound quality and active noise cancellation that will help you focus on your work, even in noisy environments. And if you need to take a call or two, the built-in microphone ensures that your voice will come through loud and clear.

Plus, the Apple AirPods Pro is lightweight and comfortable to wear for long periods, which is essential when working long hours. And with a battery life of up to 4.5 hours (with noise cancellation turned on), you can be sure that they’ll last you through even the longest work day.

So if you’re looking for a great pair of wireless earbuds to help you focus on your work, the Apple AirPods Pro is a great option.

FEATURES

• Form Factor: In Ear
• Material: Silicone
• Connectivity Technology: Wireless
• Age Range (Description): Adult
• Brand: Apple

Best Part

• Sweat and water-resistant (IPX4)
• Vent system for pressure equalization
• H1 headphone chip
• Dual optical sensors
• Inward-facing microphone
• Dual beamforming microphones
• Active Noise Cancellation
• Transparency mode
• Adaptive EQ

Read more on the specs.

4. Samsers Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard

I don’t know about you, but I am a minimalist to the core. I hate having clunky cables flying around my workspace; it drives me insane! This keyboard is an essential piece of equipment for me; it’s foldable, takes up minimal space, and connects to my phone, iPad, and laptop via Bluetooth, so there are no annoying cables.

If you’re looking for a high-quality, portable Bluetooth keyboard, the Samsers Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard is a great option. This keyboard features durable aluminum construction that can withstand repeated use.

Additionally, the keyboard includes a built-in stand that props up your tablet or phone for easy viewing. And when you’re finished using it, the keyboard folds up for easy storage. So whether you’re a digital nomad or just someone who likes to be prepared for anything, the Samsers Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard is a great choice.

FEATURES

• Brand: Samsers
• Compatible Devices: Laptop, PC, Tablet
• Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
• Keyboard Description: Flexible
• Special Feature: Lightweight, Travel
• Color: Grey (2.4G + BTx2)

Best Part 

• Sensitive Touchpad Foldable Keyboard
• Folding Bluetooth Keyboard & Free Stand Holder
• Exquisite & Lightweight Portable Keyboard
• Stable Connection & Wide Compatibility
• Dual-Mode Foldable Wireless Keyboard

5. Rechargeable Wireless Mouse

A good mouse is essential for any digital nomad. After all, you’re going to be using it a lot! And while there are many great options, I particularly like the Rechargeable Wireless Mouse from ZERU.

This mouse is lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go. It also features a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 18 months, so you don’t have to worry about replacing it frequently. Additionally, the mouse includes a Nano receiver that plugs into your computer’s USB port, so there are no messy cables to deal with.

And if you’re looking for a mouse with a little style, the Rechargeable Wireless Mouse from ZERU is available in various fun colors. So if you’re in the market for a new mouse, this is a great option.

FEATURES

• Brand: ZERU
• Model: ZE689
• Buttons: 4
• Tracking Method: Optical
• Interface: USB wireless
• Weight: 3.04 ounces

Best Part

• The battery can last up to 500 hours after being fully charged
• Compatible with more than 99% of Bluetooth devices
• Silent click Mouse with classic design
• Anti-fingerprint finish
• One-year quality warranty for this Bluetooth mouse from ZERU

6. LaCie Hard Drive

LaCie is a well-known brand when it comes to hard drives and storage devices. The LaCie Hard Drive is perfect for digital nomads who need a reliable and durable storage device that can withstand the rigors of travel.

The drive is small and light, making it easy to carry. It also features a USB 3.0 interface for fast data transfer speeds and is compatible with Mac and PCs.

The LaCie Hard Drive is available in various capacities to choose the right size for your needs. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just someone who likes to take many photos on your travels, the LaCie Hard Drive is a great solution for keeping your precious memories safe.

FEATURES

• Brand: LaCie
• Model: LAC9000298
• Interface: USB 3.0
• Dimensions: 4.65 x 3.46 x 0.75 inches
• Weight: 8.8 ounces
• Digital Storage Capacity: 4 TB
• Hard Disk Interface: SCSI
• Connectivity Technology: USB
• Hard Disk Form Factor: 2.5 Inches

Best Part

• Rain, shock, and pressure resistant 
• USB 3.0: up to 4x faster than USB 2.0 
• Password protection

7. Unlocked Phone 

One of the challenges you will face as a digital nomad in Mexico is staying connected while you’re on the go. That’s why having an unlocked phone that works with local SIM cards is essential.

There are a lot of great unlocked phones on the market, but one of my favorites is Apple iPhone 13 Pro. This phone is fully unlocked and compatible with all major carriers in Mexico, including Telcel. We have more details on how to get a Telcel sim card and other travel tips in our essential travel tips for Mexico City Article.

The camera is one of the best features of this phone, and it’s perfect for taking photos and videos while you’re on your travels. Additionally, the phone comes with 128GB of storage to store all your travel photos and videos safely on your phone.

And if you need to stay connected to Wi-Fi while you’re on the go, the Apple iPhone 13 Pro also comes with Wi-Fi calling and hotspot capabilities. So if you’re in the market for a new unlocked phone, this is a great option.

FEATURES

• Model: iPhone 13 Pro
• Storage: 128GB
• Color: Graphite
• Unlocked: Fully Unlocked
• Operating System: iOS
• Processor: A15 Bionic chip
• Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display
• Camera: Triple-camera system with 12MP Ultra Wide, Wide, and Telephoto cameras
• Battery Life: Up to 22 hours of video playback
• Water Resistance: IP68 (up to 6 meters for up to 30 minutes)

Best Part 

• 6.1″ Super Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion.
• Fully unlocked and compatible with all major carriers in Mexico
• Triple-camera system with 12MP Ultra Wide, Wide, and Telephoto cameras
• Compatible with MagSafe accessories and wireless chargers
• Dolby Vision HDR video recording up to 4K at 60 fps. 6X Optical zoom range

8. Hotspot For Internet Backup

Alcatel LINKZONE 4G LTE Hotspot is a great way to stay connected while digital nomading in Mexico. This hotspot is compatible with all major carriers in Mexico and gives you 4G LTE speeds, so you can stay connected to the internet even when there’s no Wi-Fi available.

The hotspot has a long-lasting battery so that you can stay connected for up to 10 hours on a single charge. Additionally, the hotspot can connect up to 5 devices at once, so you can stay connected even when traveling with a group.

FEATURES

• Model: LINKZONE
• Hotspot Device Type: Mobile
• Connectivity Technology: LTE
• Weight: 3.70 ounces
• Dimensions: 2.36 x 0.51 x 3.46 inches
• Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
• Wireless Communication Standard: 2.4 GHz Radio Frequency, 802.11b
• Maximum Data Speed: 150 Mbps
• Number of Connected Devices: 10

Best Part

• 4G LTE speeds
• Long-lasting battery
• Can connect up to 10 devices at once
• Compact and lightweight design

9. Of Course, A Laptop

This one is self-explanatory – as a digital nomad, your laptop is your lifeline. It’s essential for everything from keeping in touch with family and friends back home to getting work done. And since you’ll likely be spending a lot of time working in coffee shops, it’s also important to have a good laptop that can withstand abuse.

I use a MacBook Pro because I love Apple products’ design and reliability. But there are plenty of great laptops on the market, so you can find one that fits your needs and budget.

Just make sure to get a lightweight and portable laptop, so you can easily take it with you on your travels. And if you can, get a laptop with a solid-state drive (SSD), as they’re much faster and more reliable than traditional hard drives.

You can check the best laptops for digital nomads in this article.

10. SteriPEN

Digital nomad or not, it’s always a good idea to have a water purifier with you when you travel. And the SteriPEN is one of the best options on the market.

This handy little device uses ultraviolet light to kill 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, so you can safely drink water from any source. The SteriPEN is lightweight and portable, so it’s easy to take with you on the go. And it’s also very easy to use – just insert the UV light into a water bottle or container and let it do its thing for 90 seconds.

FEATURES

• Brand‎: SteriPen
• Weight: ‎0.3 Pounds
• Dimensions: ‎7.3″L x 1.3″W x 1.6″H
• Power Source‎: Battery Powered
• Ultraviolet Light: UV-C LED
• Treatment Time: 90 seconds Per Litre

Best Part

• It kills 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa
• Lightweight and portable
• Easy to use
• Long-lasting battery

11. A VPN

It’s a no-brainer for every digital nomad to have a good VPN (Virtual Private Network) for their devices. A VPN encrypts all the internet traffic from your device, which is essential for protecting your data and privacy while working online.

A VPN is also essential for bypassing internet censorship and accessing blocked websites and content. And since you’ll likely be doing a lot of work on public Wi-Fi, a VPN can also help protect you from hackers and other malicious actors.

I use and recommend NordVPN, as it’s one of the fastest and most reliable VPNs on the market. But there are plenty of great VPNs out there, so you can find one that fits your needs.

12. A Good Camera

If you’re planning on documenting your travels, you’ll need a good camera to do it justice. Even if you’re not a professional photographer, having a high-quality camera will allow you to capture amazing photos and videos that you can cherish for a lifetime.

There are plenty of great cameras on the market, depending on your budget and what you’re looking for in a camera. I like to travel light, so I use a mirrorless camera. If I know we are doing more adventure travel or will be around water then we usually just bring our GoPro Hero. But if you don’t mind lugging around a bit more gear, then a DSLR would also be a great option.

13. International Power Adapter

One of the common problems you will face as a digital nomad is finding a power outlet to charge all your devices. This is especially challenging when traveling to multiple countries with different power sockets. An international power adapter is a must-have, so you can easily charge your devices anywhere in the world.

There are plenty of great options on the market, so take some time to research your options and find one that’s right for you. I use the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter, as it’s lightweight and covers more than 150 countries.

14. A Good Backpack

Yes, a good backpack is essential for digital nomads! Not only do you need a backpack that’s big enough to fit all your gear, but you also need one that’s comfortable to wear, as you’ll be carrying it around with you everywhere you go (most of the time).

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a backpack:

1. The size. You need a backpack that’s big enough to fit everything you need but not too big that it’s cumbersome to carry.
2. The straps. Make sure the straps are comfortable and adjustable, so you can wear the backpack for long periods without digging into your shoulders.
3. The material. You want a backpack made from durable materials, as you’ll be using it a lot, and it will probably get banged around quite a bit.

Here is a detailed blog post about the backpacks we recommend for digital nomads.

15. International Debit Card

Suppose you plan on doing any amount of shopping or withdrawing cash while in Mexico; you’re going to need a debit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. Unfortunately, most U.S. banks charge these fees (usually around 3%), so you’ll need to find a bank that doesn’t.

Thankfully, there are a few good options, and Wise is one of the best. With Wise, you’ll get a debit card that doesn’t charge any foreign transaction fees, plus it comes with a host of other great features like free ATM withdrawals and a mobile app to help you manage your money while on the go.

If you’re looking for an alternative to Wise, consider the Charles Schwab High Yield Investor Checking Account. This account also doesn’t charge any foreign transaction fees, plus you’ll get some other great perks like free ATM withdrawals worldwide and reimbursements for any ATM fees charged by other banks.

TIPS FOR STAYING PRODUCTIVE WHILE ON THE ROAD?

As a Digital Nomad, staying productive even while on the road is important. Here are a few tips:

1. Get organized: Before starting your journey, ensure you have all your documents and materials in order. This will save you time and energy once you’re on the road.
2. Set up a work schedule: It can be helpful to set up a daily or weekly work schedule to know when you need to get work done. This will help you stay on track and be more productive.
3. Find a good place to work: When traveling, it’s important to find a comfortable and quiet workplace. This could be a coffee shop, library, or hotel room.
4. Take breaks: Don’t forget to take breaks! Working non-stop will only lead to burnout. Make sure to take time for yourself each day to relax and recharge.
5. Stay connected: Staying connected with family and friends can help you feel less isolated while on the road. Use social media, video chat, or even good old-fashioned phone calls to stay in touch.

HOW TO MAKE SURE YOUR TRAVELS ARE SAFE AND SECURE

As our world becomes increasingly connected, more and more people are finding ways to work remotely. Digital nomads are particularly prone to thinking that as long as they have their laptop and an internet connection, they can work from anywhere.

While it’s true that you can technically work from anywhere, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks involved in traveling to unfamiliar places. Here are a few tips to help you make sure your travels are safe and secure:

1. Do your research before you go. Make sure you’re familiar with the local laws and customs of the places you visit. This will help you avoid any potential conflict with the authorities.
2. Keep your belongings close to you at all times. Pickpockets are everywhere, so keeping your valuables close to your body is important. If possible, carry them in a money belt or secure bag.
3. Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi. When working remotely, it’s tempting to take advantage of free public Wi-Fi whenever possible. However, this can leave you vulnerable to hacking and data theft. Use VPN or other security measures to protect your data if possible.
4. Let someone know where you are. It’s always a good idea to let someone know where you are, even if you’re just going on a short trip. That way, if something happens, there will be someone who knows where to start looking for you.

Following these simple tips can help ensure that your travels are safe and secure.

ESSENTIAL GEAR AND EQUIPMENT FOR DIGITAL NOMADS IN MEXICO | FAQS

How do you travel light as a digital nomad?

When traveling as a digital nomad, it’s important to pack light. This means only bringing essential items with you. One way to do this is to choose versatile items that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a sarong can be used as a towel, blanket, or piece of clothing. Another way to save space is to choose items that can be easily packed into a small bag or backpack.

What is the average age of a digital nomad?

According to Digital Nomad World, the average age of a digital nomad is 40 years old. However, there is a wide range of ages represented among digital nomads.

How much money do you need to be a digital nomad?

This varies depending on your lifestyle and where you choose to travel. Generally, living as a digital nomad in Southeast Asia is cheaper than in Europe or North America. That said, you can often find ways to save money no matter where you are. For example, Couchsurfing, workaway, or trustedhousesitters are great ways to save money on accommodation in many parts of the world.

Checkout our specific digital nomad articles for different Mexico cities to get a better idea of a digital nomad budget for Mexico.

How can I live a suitcase for 6 months?

If you’re planning on living out of a suitcase for an extended period, choosing versatile and durable items is important. Clothing made from natural fibers like cotton and linen is a good choice, as they can be easily packed and won’t wrinkle.

You should also invest in a good quality suitcase or backpack that can withstand travel wear and tear. Finally, be sure to pack essential items like a first aid kit and a flashlight.

What should I do if my laptop is stolen while I’m traveling?

If your laptop is stolen while you’re traveling, the most important thing to do is cancel all your accounts and credit cards stored on the device. It would be best if you also changed the passwords to any online accounts you accessed from the laptop. Finally, report the theft to the local police and your home insurance company.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Digital nomads in Mexico have it pretty good. The cost of living is relatively low, the weather is great, and plenty of beautiful places to explore. That said, it’s important to be prepared before you travel.

I believe the essential gear and equipment for digital nomads in Mexico discussed in this blog post are vital for anyone planning to live and work in Mexico (or any other country, for that matter). Following the tips in this post can help ensure that your travels are safe and comfortable.

Do you have any questions or comments about essential gear and equipment for digital nomads in Mexico? Let me know in the comments below!

Check out our other blog, Digital Nomad Living In Tulum Mexico. Bon, voyage!

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