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Transiting into a fully remote role? Here's what you might need to start

Cropped close-up image of a professional businesswoman sipping coffee while working on digital tablet computer at cafe.
Work at a cafe, or anywhere you want! (Photo: Gettyimages)

It's the age of the digital nomads. Freelancers who have transited into full remote roles and distributed companies that have put this into practice even before the pandemic, are probably better prepared for the sort of disruption this disease has caused over the past two years.

The readiness to switch up work format and ensure that business processes continue despite limitations is now more important than ever. It thus comes as no surprise that many companies are moving towards a hybrid working arrangement, where employees can work either from home or in the office when required. This gives flexibility for employees to develop a workspace best suited for them, opening up a world of opportunities where one can choose to work beside a pool, at the beach, inside a cafe, overseas or elsewhere.

Whether you're taking your first step into exploring a digital nomad lifestyle, an employee dealing with hybrid work situations, or an owner handling your businesses from anywhere in the world – here's a checklist to settle the technology and productivity side of things while on the go.

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1) Devices for productivity

Woman hands put laptop computer and headphones on pile of old used laptop computers for recycling on white table. Planned obsolescence, e-waste, electronic waste for reuse and recycle concept.
What's the best combination for you on-the-go? (Photo: Gettyimages)

If you've got a laptop and a working WiFi connection, you can pretty much work from anywhere. As the main device you're going to be getting the most mileage from, it's important to get something that'll handle your workload on the busiest of days.

For example, if you're a creative working on videos, graphics and more, you'll need a laptop with higher specs to handle video or graphics processing, such as the Macbook Pro or Lenovo Legion 5 Pro. For regular office functions, we're lucky to be able to get by with lighter laptops and even a tablet and portable keyboard combination.

The important thing is to sit down and make a checklist of what you need to do on a day-to-day basis and from there, decide on a laptop or tablet that will suit your needs.

Shop laptop here Shop tablet here Shop wireless mouse here Shop wireless keyboard here

2) Peripherals to make your life easier

Lot of modern gadgets: smartphones, laptop and tablet are in a trendy gray textile backpack along with an external battery - powerbank. The concept of recharging gadgets, traveling and trIp. Close-up
Keep your earphones/headphones, power bank, wires and more in a nifty travel backpack! (Photo: Gettyimages)

Now that the big spend is out of the way, consider these peripherals that will enhance your workflow, from earphones to extra storage space for the files you might accumulate. You may opt for cloud storage services such as Google Drive or Dropbox, or go for something more traditional like a solid-state drive (SSD) storage.

Noise-cancelling earphones such as the Beats Studio Buds will help you concentrate while working outside. For something more fuss-free and slick, the new Apple AirPods Pro barely adds any weight to your bag.

Shop physical SSD storage here Shop noise-cancelling earphones here Shop powerbanks here

You'll also need a durable backpack to fit in all these electronics. It's even better if the bag comes with multiple functions such as ergonomic support, anti-slash/thieving, water resistance, compact design, airport security approved and more. When made properly, the backpacks can be used for a long long time. My husband has been using his Samsonite backpack for more than a decade, with no signs of wear and tear.

Here are some products to consider.

Samsonite range of laptop backpacks

Crumpler Mantra Laptop Backpack

Popular backpack brands overseas

Personally, I use local brand Gnome & Bow Hitchhiker Laptop Backpack. It's a compact and well-made backpack with nifty storage compartments, is water-resistant and functions great for working on the go. Better yet, it's limited-edition, so you'll only find another 41 people with the exact same bag as you in the world. I'm so impressed and happy with the bag that I'll include it here for your consideration.

Hitchhiker Laptop Backpack (42 pieces galaxy-wide) (Photo: Gnome & Bow)
Hitchhiker Laptop Backpack (42 pieces galaxy-wide) (Photo: Gnome & Bow)
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