The Ultimate Guide to Digital Nomad Accommodation: What to Look For

Some people might define remote working as freedom, adventure, and relaxation. But true remote workers know that it’s not quite like that. The digital nomad life actually involves many ups and downs!

It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned remote worker or just dipping your toes into the location-independent lifestyle, one thing’s for sure: your accommodation can make or break your experience.

A dodgy internet connection, a noisy neighbourhood, or a workspace that feels like a prison cell can turn your dream workation into a productivity nightmare.

Let’s break down exactly what to look for in your next home-away-from-home. Every worker deserves a place where they can work efficiently, recharge properly, and maybe even enjoy the view.

Here’s the ultimate guide to digital nomad accommodation.

The Ultimate Guide to Digital Nomad Accommodation

1. Reliable Wi-Fi: The Eternal Struggle of Nomads

Speed

Speed matters. Really.

Any regular host might be fine scrolling Instagram on 5 Mbps, but to perform more professional tasks, such as hopping on Zoom calls or uploading large files, digital nomads often need a much faster connection.

Here’s what to look for:

• Minimum: 25 Mbps for basic work;
• Recommended: 50+ Mbps for smooth video calls and large uploads;
• Ideal: 100+ Mbps if you’re a video editor, developer, or heavy cloud user;
• Pro Tip: Always ask the host for a screenshot of a speed test before booking. It’s free and extra easy to do. If they hesitate, that’s your first red flag.

Backup options

Even the best Wi-Fi can fail. You might want to check the following before booking, too:

• Nearby coworking spaces (and their day-pass prices);
• Cafés with strong connections that allow computers;
• A local SIM card with a good data plan (5G coverage is expanding fast in 2025, or even travel eSIMs are good for this).

2. Workspace Setup: Your Back Will Thank You

Desk & chair: the dynamic duo

Working from bed might sound cosy, but if you’ve ever tried it for more than an hour, you probably know that it’s not as charming as it seems. A proper desk and ergonomic chair are non-negotiables if you want to keep the pain away.

Look for:

• Adjustable chairs (or at least something with lumbar support);
• Spacious desks (room for a laptop, notebook, and coffee);
• Natural lighting (because fluorescent bulbs are the enemy of creativity).

You should avoid:

• Wobbly coffee tables;
• Stools that feel like medieval torture devices;
• “Workspace” photos that are clearly just a tiny corner of a kitchen counter.

Power outlets

You’d be surprised how many ‘nomad-friendly’ accommodations have exactly one usable power socket hidden behind the bed or away from the workspace. Also, do not forget to take your universal adapters with you if you’re hopping countries!

3. Location, location, location

Proximity to essentials

You don’t want to trek 30 minutes for a decent coffee or groceries. Prioritise:

• Cafés and coworking spaces (bonus if they have good vibes);
• Supermarkets (preferably with healthy options);
• Public transport or walkability (unless you love Uber receipts).

Noise levels

A bustling street might be great for people-watching or if you are travelling for tourism, but a nightmare for concentration.

How to avoid noise disasters:

• Check reviews for noise complaints (search for ‘noisy,’ ‘construction,’ ‘party’);
• Avoid places near construction sites, nightclubs, or rooster-filled farms (!);
• Message the host saying: ‘Is the area quiet during work hours?’

Digital nomad hotspots

Staying near other remote workers can boost productivity and do wonders for your social life. Being part of a digital nomad community is essential if you want this lifestyle to be sustainable long term.

Here are some of the best places for digital nomads around the world:

• Bali, Indonesia (still a classic);
• Lisbon, Portugal (I also found a lovely coliving spot in the Algarve);
• Medellín, Colombia (eternal spring weather);
• Chiang Mai, Thailand (affordable and very nomad-friendly);
• Tbilisi, Georgia (fast internet, low cost of living).
• Bansko, Bulgaria (low cost of living, great community, opportunity for outdoor sports)

4. Safety & Security

Secure accommodation

Your laptop is your livelihood; don’t risk it. You can travel and stay safe at the same time; you just need a little time to organise your journey. Here’s your safety checklist:

• Lockable storage or a safe;
• 24/7 reception or security (in apartment buildings);
• Neighbourhood safety (check Nomad List or local expat groups on Facebook or Whatsapp).

Online tools

Public Wi-Fi could be a hacker’s playground, and this is why you should always use a VPN to encrypt your data when you’re travelling.

A VPN is a cheap tool that could help you keep your sensitive data safe all around the globe, plus, it could help you bypass geo-restrictions. 

You can learn more about VPNS here. You should also consider using other tools like password managers and cloud backups. Make sure to always run the latest version of your tools for improved functionality.

5. Budget vs. Comfort: Finding the Sweet Spot

Finding a temporary rental is harder than it looks!

Stats show that most digital nomads spend between 7 and 30 days in a country.

A growing number of digital nomads are embracing the ‘slomad’ lifestyle too.

This means staying in one place longer to immerse themselves in local culture, avoid constant travel burnout, and maintain a better work-life balance. I actually wrote an article about why slow travel is so great, which you may find interesting!

Short-term rentals are usually more flexible, but tend to have higher prices. On the other hand, long-term rentals (more than one month) are harder to find, but you can usually negotiate a better price.

Hidden costs to watch out for

• Cleaning fees (some Airbnbs charge more than a hotel!);
• Tourist taxes (common in Europe);
• Utility caps (‘unlimited Wi-Fi’… until you hit a secret limit).

6. Flexibility & Cancellation Policies

Plans change – maybe you love a place and want to stay longer, or maybe you realise the ‘cosy studio’ is actually a glorified closet.

Booking tips:

• Look for free cancellation options (life happens);
• Avoid strict non-refundable deals (unless you’re 100% sure);
• Ask about extensions (some hosts offer discounts for longer stays).

7. Extra Perks that Make a Difference

• Kitchen facilities: eating out everyday gets expensive and unhealthy. A decent kitchen saves money and sanity.
• Laundry facilities: because hand-washing clothes in the sink gets old fast.
• Outdoor space: a balcony, garden, or rooftop can be a game-changer for mental health.
  

8. How to Vet a Place Before Booking

When looking for digital nomad accommodation, you need to learn how to read between the lines, both in the description, and in the reviews.

Look for mentions of Wi-Fi, noise, and workspace. Be cautious of reviews that seem overly generic (they could be fake).

You could also message the host and ask the following questions:

• ‘Can you send a recent Wi-Fi speed test?’
• ‘Is the workspace comfortable for full-time work?’
• ‘What’s the neighbourhood like during the day/night?’

Digital Nomad Accommodation | Final Thoughts

Finding the right accommodation as a digital nomad isn’t just about a place to sleep; it’s much more complicated. It’s about creating a space where you can work efficiently, recharge properly, and enjoy the journey.

Here is the final checklist for booking digital nomad accommodation:

• Wi-Fi: 50+ Mbps, backup options;
• Workspace: Real desk, ergonomic chair, good lighting;
• Location: Safe, near essentials, not too noisy;
• Safety: Secure, nomad-friendly area;
• Budget: Watch for hidden fees, negotiate long-term stays;
• Flexibility: Free cancellation if possible.

Prioritise your non-negotiables and organise your journey in advance. Think about fast Wi-Fi, a solid workspace, safety, and a location to set yourself up for success. 

And hey, if all else fails? 

There’s always the ‘work from a beach hut’ fantasy… just make sure the Wi-Fi reaches the hammock.

That’s all for today, but as always, if you have any questions then don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments section below.

Until next time!

XOXO

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