THE ULTIMATE
REMOTE WORKER PACKING CHECKLIST
A Complete Packing Checklist
& Go-To Products for Remote Working
Introduction & Context
Congratulations, you're finally ready to go remote! Let's take a deep dive into what is needed to bring on an extended trip working abroad and what to leave at home. Length of stay and destination will dramatically influence your wardrobe choices.
From our decades of collective experience, we have put together a comprehensive remote working packing checklist. Depending on your job and the knowledge you're seeking to engage locally, you will want to use this as a general guide and not a 'must-buy' list.
Overall, consider this list as a launching point. It provides a general overview of types of products to be more comfortable, productive, and safe while traveling for longer durations. Do your research and see what preferences and styles work best for you!
Finally, do not feel like you need to have everything in your suitcase before getting to your destination. Yes, stores will have toothbrushes, underwear, sunglasses, and replacement flip-flops at your destination. Remember, part of the fun of adventure is immersing in other cultures, so leave room and weight in your luggage for the memorable gems you will pick up along the way!
Now, start personalizing this list to fit your needs. Even feel free to share your feedback, tips, recommended products, or categories for our team to consider incorporating here. Send SUBJ: Recommendation to hello {at} zealremote dot com
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LUGGAGE & ORGANIZING
Most airlines worldwide consider a standard checked bag to weigh less than 20 kilograms or about 44 pounds. Along with your one checked bag, you'll want to have one carry-on bag that goes on the plane with you. Each has its benefits, and we recommend what best will suit your lifestyle. That said, here are some highly adapted, refined, and recommended products we recommend you consider.
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Generally, the products are in ascending order with cheaper products on the left and more expensive on the right.
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Checked Luggage
A large, durable suitcase is ideal for large items and extra space.
Rolling Suitcases
Prefer to roll your heavier items, here are some great solutions.
Duffle Bags Luggage
Traveling lighter or wanting some flexibility, these duffles are great go-to duffels.
Computer Day Pack
Need to transport your work & play daily, here are some perfect tech-focused daypacks.
WHAT TO PACK?
First, the primary thing to consider is the environment you'll be spending your time. However, be sure your preconceived notions of a place don't cloud your judgment—do your research about the exact places you know you'll be going.
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The following are intended as a guide for an extended stay of personal items and clothes. These are your preference on style, number, and pairing but from experience here is what we have found works well.
Tropical Destination
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8 pairs of underwear/bras
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4 pairs of socks
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8 t-shirts or tank tops
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3 nice tops for warm weather
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6 pairs of athletic shorts/swimsuits
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3 nice pairs of shorts
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1 pair of nice pants
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1 pair of comfy pants
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1 warm sweatshirt
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1 raincoat/light coat
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3 pairs of Shoes—4 MAX!
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Every day Sandals (Flip flops or slides)
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Every day nice Tennis shoes
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Athletic/Adventure shoes
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Winter Destination
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8 pairs of underwear/bras
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4 pairs of socks & 4 pairs of long socks
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6 long sleeve-shirts
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4 nice tops or button-downs
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2 pairs of athletic shorts/swimsuits
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3 nice pairs of pants
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1 pair of slacks
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2 pairs of comfy pants or sweats
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3 warm sweatshirts or hoodies
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1 jacket coat
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2x Beanies or Hats
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Gloves - mid to heavyweight based on destination
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Scarfs - optional
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3 pairs of Shoes—4 MAX!
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Our recommended shoe setup is:
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Everyday sandals or slippers for around home
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Everyday nice tennis shoes (Hopefully, you can find a style that can even work when getting dressed up for an occasion)
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Every day athletic/adventure shoes (These are for running, hiking, and walking
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Dress Shoes
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Optional & Helpful to Have for Daily Needs
From experience, when traveling around frequently, having a system to organize and easily access items is very useful and saves time and stress. Here are some optional but highly recommended helpful products to make your life easier & pack smaller.
Generally, the products are in ascending order with cheaper products on the left and more expensive on the right.
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Compression Packing Cubes
Travel Compression Bags
TSA Travel Locks
Neck Pillow
Compactable Pillow
Foldable Day Pack
Travel Tote (ie. Groceries or Random items)
Bathroom Tote
Things to LEAVE at home:
X Hiking Boots - Leave them behind unless you're going on a hiking trip. You'll be surprised at the adventures you can have in athletic shoes or flip-flops.
X Yoga Mat - Unless you practice daily, you can skip bringing the mat. There are yoga classes in every corner of the world, and they'll provide the mat if you need a good stretch.
X Some Amount of Toiletries & Beauty Supplies - You'll undoubtedly want deodorant and a toothbrush but try not to overdo it. There are pharmacies and corner stores in every country in the world, and you can always find lotion, lip balm, painkillers, or whatever you might need. If you have a specific beauty or health product that you rely upon, research to see how readily available it is at your destination
After you pack, take 25-40% back out of your bag and put it in storage.
You can always buy those underwear, t-shirts, or a new pair of dress shoes wherever you are. You’ll often want to get local clothes to feel more comfortable and remember the trip too so leave room for those items as you travel around.
REMOTE WORK PRODUCTS
When packing for a remote work extended trip, you'll want to make sure you have everything you need to work comfortably. You'll undoubtedly need your computer, charger, and headphones, but you might want to consider some additional remote work tools.
Again, evaluate what YOU need or may need for your situation and try on new gear to see what to bring and what to leave at home that you never use.
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Generally, the products are in ascending order with cheaper products on the left and more expensive on the right.
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Universal Adaptor
This is an essential tool for any remote worker to connect to multiple sources at once.
Phone Stand
Prop up your phone for easy visibility of notifications at a tap.
Travel Adaptor
Depending on where you go you’ll need the right adaptor to the wall to charge up.
Variable Charging Cords
Get different lengths for different situations, you’ll want them.
Portable Charger
A ‘MUST HAVE’ for any traveler wanting to stay connected and charged up while mobile.
Extension Cords w. Multi-Charge Plugs
Save extensions by bundling them into one charger.
Wall Chargers
Get different lengths for different situations, you’ll want them.
WiFi Hotspot
Location dependent, these may help boost and stabilize WiFi in less than ideal locations.
Noise Canceling Headphones
Noise Canceling Earbuds
Travel Computer Bag / Sleeve
GEAR & TECH that is optional but nice to have
While being on the road, you'll want some of the same comforts of home tech to connect you to your gear and the rest of the world. Not all of these are necessary to remote work. Still, we travel with many and know how impactful they can be to your daily quality of life. Enjoy!
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Generally, the products are in ascending order with cheaper products on the left and more expensive on the right.
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Durable / Water-Resistant Phone Case
You’re likely to get into more interesting situations, a more sturdy phone case is recommended for the avid traveler, but again, personal preference.
Bluetooth Item Finders
These are great to attach to backpacks, luggage, cards, dogs, cars or more to geo-locate them and ping other Bluetooth devices if lost or stolen.
Desk Charger
These magnetic desk chargers are great for the desk or bedside to recharge quickly.
Mobile Camera
Yes, your phone may have wonderful photos but some of the features & tech of active cameras is unmatched by phones.
Travel Blanket
Get cold easily and want a lightweight blanket from the plane to the hammock, they are multi-use.
Sarong
Go lighter with a sarong or wrap that can be used as a blanket to sit on or shawl to cover you in the evening. Find your style.
Laptop Stands
Laptop stands are primarily to help with your posture and discomfort that can come from looking down at a computer all day.
Wireless Keyboards
You’ll likely want a wireless keyboard as well. If you decide to travel with a stand and external wireless keyboard, your eyes will be up, but your arms will be down–so your shoulders and neck won’t get sore during a 6-hour call marathon.
PC Keyboards
MAC Keyboards
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External Conference Microphone
This will largely depend on what type of work you’ll be doing, but if you’re on calls for the majority of your work, or say you are a frequent podcast guest (or maybe a host!), you might want to make room for a nice microphone.
Entertainment Stick
Depending on how active you are or how well the weather participates you’ll have plenty of downtime. From reading to TV, bring your own personalized stick to not have to sign in and out of every hotel account... Just don’t forget it.
Reading Tablets
Looking for a lightweight way to read and stay connected to millions of digital books, magazines and more? These are great solutions to stay sharp or entertained.
Oculus
Go virtual while remote! Connect, play and explore with other globally in progressive digital environments.
Language Translation Tech
Unfamiliar with the language or need assistance without local guidance, these smart devices can help you bridge the language gap and connect faster.
Mobile Cigar Humidors
Enjoy a fresh cigar, many tropical places they are everywhere. Grab a mobile humidor for golf or an evening out on the beach.
Satellite Text Messaging Services
Your adventure may push cell limits and staying connected is important. These satellite beacons and messaging carriers are great to stay with you wherever you may go.
Portable Air Purifiers
Have asthma or worried about airborne bacteria? These small mobile air purifiers help travelers breathe easily.
For Content Creators & Businesses
Business owner? Likely as a remote worker, you may have your own business or have the autonomy and role within your company to work location-independent. Promoting your business by creating content and media is easier than ever for you and your new lifestyle business. Here are some of our favorite products to get underway producing.
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Generally, the products are in ascending order with cheaper products on the left and more expensive on the right.
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External Hard Drives
While you likely have the Cloud for many photographers, videographers and business owners having a redundant copy locally can be very useful for quick access when the internet may be limited.
Mobile Camera Lens & Extensions
A lightweight mobile camera lens that amplifies the power of your native camera for cool effects.
Camera Grips & Poles
SD Cards
PRO TIP: Smaller to mid-sized cards for content creators limit lost or corrupted footage on massive cards.
Extended Monitor
Is your job more effective with two screens? These are great, reliable travel monitors for working remotely.
Phone Stabilizers
Smart Selfie Travel Tripod
GoPro Batteries & Extras
Light Ring
Occasionally you’ll be in a dimly lit room... Shine some light on yourself with a mobile light ring.
4k Travel Dones
Follow Me Drones
ADVENTURE & PLAY
You've been highly productive with your work, so you can now get out and play, experiencing all the beauty and attractions the area has to offer. You'll want some of the gear and tech that you'll likely be going for daily as you pack your backpack for the day's adventure ahead. These are undoubtedly location-dependent and reflect more of the needs of a tropical destination.
Generally, the products are in ascending order with cheaper products on the left and more expensive on the right.
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Beach Quick-dry Towel
An On-the-Go necessity if you're going to a tropical place and want a towel that'll easily dry and travel light.
Reusable Water Bottle
Save money and the environment by getting your favorite go-to reusable water bottle you fill-up throughout the day.
Reusable Coffee Tumbler
Consider a tumbler for coffee, tea or drinks that you’ll want to keep separate from your clean water bottle.
Water Purifying Bottles
Going to a place with unreliable water, these are great bottles that clean the water for you!
Reusable Straws
Traveling to some incredible destinations you’ll want to keep them that way. A reuseable straw can save hundreds if not thousands of straws on your trip.
Portable Speaker
A great mobile speaker that is waterproof is great for the shower, evening or get-together to set the tone.
Headlamp
Light of some type is great for walking back after sunset, not everything is well lit but a headlamp or mini flashlight can be key to seeing your way around & being seen.
Bright Mini Flashlight
Lightweight and small flashlights to pack which are great to see longer distances more clearly.
Smart Watch
Great for tracking your active lifestyle, real-time notifications, and communication.
Women's
Men's
Mini-Carabiners (sub 50lbs)
Great for connecting bags, gear, water bottles and light gear. Not made for heavy items.
Sunglass Strap
If you plan on being active whether it be hiking, on a boat, or at the beach these can be handy to keep your shades clean and on you.
Rain Jackets
Traveling to some incredible destinations you’ll want to keep them that way. A reuseable straw can save hundreds if not thousands of straws on your trip.
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Men’s
Women's
Water Shoes
Crossing rivers or to the beach these are great active shoes that are lightweight and made to get wet!
Waterproof Phone Case
For those of us that want that extra assurance or are going to be in the elements, these are solid cases that'll keep your gear dry.
Rain Cover for Backpack
Often the weather can change quickly while you’re out for the day or even afternoon. A cover inside your pack always can be key to keeping valuables dry!
Full-Face Snorkle
Ideal for leisure beach, cenote or bay snorkeling. Not made for scuba diving.
Golf Travel Bag Protectors
Yes, we know your passion and know the value of protecting your valuables to the next course.
ENTERTAINMENT - optional but fun ;)
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Light Up Frisbees
An easy way to make conversations, connections and have some fun for less than a pound.
Adult Card Games
Break the ice with some engaging card games meant to build conversation and connection.
Games
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Adult Coloring Books
TRAVELING WITH PETS
Before you travel with pets, check local, national (if traveling abroad), accommodation, and airline requirements and vaccinations for pets, including service animals. ZEAL to have more info soon.
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For those traveling domestically or internationally, there are some comforts that you may want for your furry friend while on the go. Consider these when traveling with your pet.
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Generally, the products are in ascending order with cheaper products on the left and more expensive on the right.
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Dog Water & Food Containers
Travel Dog Beds
Dog Saddlepacks
Light for Dog Collar
NONMEDICAL & HELPFUL
Now, let's get personal. Yes, let's dive into what to consider adding to your doppler bag or toiletry kit. When traveling for extended periods, ensure you have a sufficient amount. You will be able to resupply on-site at local pharmacies and grocery stores as needed.
Worth Considering
Face Coverings
Other Hygiene & Personal Items to Consider
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Bug Spray
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Sunscreen
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Roll On - EcoFriendly
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Body (non-aerosol)
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Pocket Knife - always in checked luggage
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Nail Clippers
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Extra Double-Zip Locks
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Variety of Bandaids, Gauze & Tape
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Electrical / Duct Tape
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Needle & Thread
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Clothes Pins
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Super Glue
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Bandana
Personal Care
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Tide-To-Go Pen
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Facewash
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Deodorant
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Toothpaste
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Dental Floss
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Toothbrush
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Razors & Shavers
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Tums
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Antibiotics
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Pain Reliever
For the Ladies
We know everyone has their routine so we're not going to push products. Generally, we do recommend you also consider bringing the following to whatever fits your personal preferences.
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Hair Towel (potential affiliate link)
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Makeup remover (recommend using coconut oil which is natural or affiliate wipes)
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Sanitary Bag
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Hair Accessories
Okay, NOW Remember...
NOT all of this is required, let alone necessary for an advanced digital nomad. Many of these provide the same comforts of home. Still, they add up and add weight, which could be for extra clothes, artwork, and memorabilia. So, our invitation before going abroad for over a few weeks is to take a week or two away to another local region and remote work from there. Take notice of the stuff you wish you'd had and what you never unpacked. It may change depending on where you're going, for how long, and the experiences.
YOUR preferences and go-to travel gear will evolve.
Don’t buy it all at once. Know yourself and what you will want to be comfortable but don’t overdo it.
Try it on. Adapt. Add & Repeat.
