Must-Have Tools for Staying Productive While Traveling
Working while traveling has always been something I’ve loved the idea of. Picture this: starting your day with a cappuccino in a Parisian café or tackling your to-do list with an ocean view in the background. It sounds like the ultimate dream, right? But let’s get real for a second. It’s not all sunshine and seamless productivity. I’ve had moments where I’m frantically searching for an outlet in an overcrowded airport or praying my Wi-Fi holds up for a client meeting. Over time, though, I’ve learned how to make the adventure of travel work alongside the realities of, well, work. And I’ve picked up some tips and tools that have made all the difference.
If you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or busy professional, this guide will help you pack smart and set yourself up for success.
Portable Laptop Stand: Your Secret Weapon
Ergonomics might sound boring, but trust me, your neck and back will thank you for a portable laptop stand. I learned this the hard way after weeks of hunching over my laptop. A stand keeps your screen at eye level and I find it better to have when I’m using a mouse with a portable screen.
Ergonomics might sound boring, but trust me, your neck and back will thank you for a portable laptop stand. I learned this the hard way after weeks of hunching over my laptop and dealing with constant aches. A stand keeps your screen at eye level and transforms any random surface into a comfortable workspace. It’s been a game-changer for client meetings too—showing up professional, even from a hotel room, makes all the difference.
Portable Chargers to Stay Powered Up Anywhere
There’s nothing worse than your laptop or phone dying at the worst possible time. (I’ve been there—mid-presentation, no less!) A high-capacity power bank is a lifesaver, especially one with multiple ports so you can charge everything at once. This is one of those things you’ll thank yourself for packing every single time.
Also, which one to get? I LOVE Anker. I will scream it from the rooftop. Here are a few of my favorites and yes I have all of them:
Anker iPhone/Android Portable Charger - Very compact and can fit in your purse
Anker Power Bank(PowerCore 10k) - Smaller option for your bigger items
Anker 737 Power Bank - The BEST option for your laptop when you need a portable charger
Noise-Canceling Headphones for Focus
Airports, coffee shops, and even hotel lobbies can get loud. That’s why noise-canceling headphones are non-negotiable for me. They’re perfect for tuning out distractions and make client calls so much smoother. I mean, who wants to shout over background noise during an important discussion? These headphones are a productivity must. Also, I love to listen to music or a podcast to get me in the zoom.
Mobile Hotspots and SIM Cards for Reliable Internet
Reliable internet can make or break your workday when you’re traveling. After a few too many dropped Zoom calls, I started carrying a mobile hotspot and grabbing a local SIM card whenever I’m traveling internationally especially to Ghana where the lights go off sometimes. It’s such a small investment for the peace of mind of knowing you’ll stay connected, especially when working on time-sensitive projects. While I haven’t tried this brand, it did have great reviews.
But staying connected isn’t just about speed—it’s about security, too. This is where a VPN comes in. A VPN ensures your internet connection is encrypted and secure, which is crucial when you’re using public Wi-Fi in airports, cafes, or hotels. My go-to choice is Surfshark. It’s user-friendly, affordable, and works seamlessly across all my devices. Plus, it gives me access to region-locked content when I’m abroad, which is a nice bonus.
Download Surfshark VPN Get Started
Backpacks and Travel Bags That Do It All
Your travel bag is your portable office, so make sure it works as hard as you do. I love backpacks with plenty of organized compartments. It’s so satisfying to have everything in its place, and it makes packing and unpacking a breeze. I bought Monos a few years ago and I absolutely love it. It’s sleek and classy, but has all the sections I need to use for a travel bag.
Portable Monitors for Extra Convenience
If you’re someone who thrives on multitasking or working with mutiple sheets a portable monitor is a great add. It’s perfect for reviewing documents while keeping your main screen free for notes or calls.
I’ll be honest, I didn’t get it all right on my first few trips. I’ve had my share of “oops, forgot that” moments. But each trip taught me something new, and now I feel confident heading out with everything I need to stay productive. Whether I’m working from a cozy cafe or a bustling airport, I know I’m ready for anything.
This blog post contains affiliate links. For more information, see my disclosures here.
