How to Find the Best Accommodations for Digital Nomads?

webymoneycom
Sep 18
10 min read

Are you tired of scrolling through limitless listings of accommodations, and are you never quite sure if you're getting the best deal or the most suitable space for your needs?

As a digital nomad, your accommodation is your office, home, and sanctuary. Finding a space that meets all your requirements is crucial, whether you're looking for high-speed internet, a quiet workspace, or a community of like-minded individuals.

As a digital nomad, your choice of accommodation can make or break your online work experience. It's not merely about finding a comfortable bed to sleep in but also about finding a place to boost your productivity and support your mental and physical well-being. That's why it's crucial to carefully consider your options and pick the best accommodation that fits your remote work needs and budget.

Finding accommodation as a digital nomad is crucial after switching to remote work. It can be tricky, particularly when you have to move frequently. While some digital nomads prefer hotels and hostels, they may not always be the cost-effective or convenient option for long-term stays.

Thankfully, with the rise of remote work, more options are available to make finding accommodation easier and stress-free. You can now choose from pre-vetted properties catering to remote workers and co-living spaces that allow you to network with like-minded people who care for all your accommodation needs. But why stop there? There are also alternative options like housesitting, which can save you sufficient money.

Regarding digital nomadism and choosing accommodation, the options are endless and vary depending on your preferences. Whether you come from a town or a city, have a high or low net annual income, or prefer minimalist or luxurious living arrangements, there is a perfect accommodation possibility for everyone.

Understanding your needs and preferences is the most critical factor when choosing accommodation. Some digital nomads prefer a minimalist lifestyle and only require a small bed and desk, while others crave all the amenities and comforts of home. Whatever your preference, there are multiple options out there.

As technology advances, the possibilities for finding suitable accommodations are endless.

But where do you start? Don't worry; I've got you covered. In this blog post, I will provide worthy tips to help you find the accommodations that will meet your specific needs as a digital nomad.

So, Let's dive in!

7 Types of Digital Nomad Accommodation to Choose the Right One for You

Here are seven types of digital nomad accommodation to assist you in deciding when choosing the right place to stay:

1. Multinational Digital Nomad Accommodation

Finding suitable accommodation as a digital nomad can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Several multinational websites, such as Nomadstays, NomadList, Coliving.com, and Common Coliving, offer helpful information to help you find the best accommodation no matter where you are.

These providers offer a unique opportunity to live and stay with other digital nomads and explorers, giving you plenty of chances to share networking opportunities and adventures with like-minded people. With large-scale corporate websites offering a range of accommodation options worldwide, you can easily shop around and see what's available. These providers have the budget to provide a smooth online booking process, making it easier than ever to secure your dream accommodation. Remember, however, that you may sometimes need to wait for the actual accommodation host to confirm your booking.

With many properties conveniently located on the same website, it's easy to compare like-for-like and find the perfect accommodation for you. You'll also find plenty of reviews from real human guests, giving you a better idea of what staying at each property is like. And with the bonus of visiting with other digital nomads and explorers, you will have an unforgettable experience.

Pros

A variety of accommodation options are available
User reviews and ratings for transparency.
Customer support is available.

Cons

Additional fees and commissions may be added to the accommodation rate.
A limited selection of options in specific locations or during peak travel seasons.
Risk of fraudulent listings or scams.Lack of personal touch or relationship with the landlord or property manager.

2. Airbnb

Airbnb is an excellent option for digital nomad accommodation for various reasons. It offers accommodations, including apartments, houses, and unique properties like treehouses or boats. This allows digital nomads to choose a space that suits their needs and preferences.

Airbnb provides a platform for hosts to offer their spaces for rent, which means that digital nomads can interact with locals and gain insights into the local culture. This can be useful for those seeking to experience a new culture or language.

Airbnb offers comfort and convenience, which is often lacking in traditional hotel stays. Digital nomads can enjoy the amenities of a home-like environment, such as a kitchen, laundry facilities, and more space to work and relax.

It can also be more reasonable than traditional hotels, especially for extended stays. Digital nomads can often find discounts for extended stays and cook their meals, saving money on dining out.

Overall, Airbnb is an excellent option for digital nomads looking for comfortable, affordable, and flexible accommodation while they work and travel.

Pros

A vast range of accommodation options is available, including unique and one-of-a-kind listings.
Short-term rental options allow for flexibility in location and adventure in lifestyle.
Affordable rates, especially for more extended stays
Private spaces with amenities like kitchens and laundry facilities.
Host support and 24/7 customer service are available.

Cons

Service fees can add additional costs to the accommodation rate.
There is always a threat of fraudulent listings or scams, although Airbnb has safety measures to mitigate this risk.
Quality can vary widely between different listings, leading to uncertainty in the quality of the accommodations.
Lack of privacy if the host is staying in the same property or nearby
Listings could be misleading or not accurately reflect the actual space.

3. Coliving Accommodation

Co-living accommodation is a popular housing option that has gained much attention among digital nomads, particularly those who value community and a flexible lifestyle. In co-living setups, residents typically have private bedrooms while sharing common areas like kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms.

Co-living accommodation is ideal for digital nomads requiring flexible and cost-effective accommodation. Living in a co-living space creates a social network of like-minded individuals. Flexible short-lease terms are attractive to digital nomads, so they can frequently switch locations. Co-living accommodation is cost-effective, a bonus for nomads who enjoy traveling; there is no need to waste money on additional rent and utilities.

Co-living accommodation offers modern amenities such as fully furnished private bedrooms, shared living spaces, workspaces, and round-the-clock security surveillance. Digital nomads can enjoy a comfortable living space and utilize networking opportunities by staying in co-living accommodations.

Coliving spaces are a popular option for those seeking a social lifestyle while accessing desirable locations at an affordable price. These spaces are common in big, trendy cities, making them popular for colivers. Unlike digital nomads who are constantly moving, colivers can stay in the same coliving accommodation for months or even years without changing locations. However, these spaces are also an excellent option for digital nomads passing through a major city who want to connect or engage with the local community. With reliable Wi-Fi and available workspaces, coliving spaces are an excellent fit for those on the go.

Pros

Shared expenses work out cheaper than single occupancy. All-inclusive payments allow for easy budgeting with no added expenses to consider.
Co-living accommodation caters to diverse digital nomads, allowing interactions, idea sharing, learning, and networking.
Co-living accommodation is often furnished with high-quality furnishings, internet, electricity, and in-house cleaning. This is a convenient arrangement that saves time and effort.

Cons

Keeping personal spaces private in a shared living space and bedroom is challenging.
Shared living spaces can be noisy and disrupted, compromising communication and work.
Co-living accommodation is concentrated mainly in major cities. Finding accommodations might be difficult for digital nomads who want to explore remote areas.

4. Hotels

Hotels can be an excellent option for digital nomads looking for accommodation. Many hotels offer amenities like workspaces and 24-hour access to room service and front desk assistance. Some hotels also provide meeting rooms and conference facilities, which can be helpful for business meetings and events.

However, it's essential to research and compare different hotels to find the one that best suits your needs and budget. Some hotels may have limited availability of amenities, while others may be more expensive than other types of accommodation.

It's not shocking that hotels aren't the ideal choice for committed digital nomads due to the obvious downsides. Socializing and collaborating opportunities are limited, the Wi-Fi signal can be unreliable, and no kitchen or living spaces are usually available. Nonetheless, if you're on a short stopover and seeking many affordable accommodation options, hotels can be found almost anywhere, particularly at airports.

Pros

Hotels offer high-quality amenities like room service, housekeeping, fitness centers, and pools.
Hotels are highly secure facilities, giving digital nomads peace of mind while they work and relax in their rooms.
Hotels are often strategically located and offer easy access to many popular attractions and business hubs.

Cons

Staying in hotels for an extended period can be costly and may not be viable for digital nomads on a tight budget.
Hotels usually provide strict check-in and check-out times, which can be limiting for digital nomads who prefer a more flexible schedule.
Many hotels can be noisy and disruptive, affecting a digital nomad's concentration and work productivity.

5. Hostels

Digital nomads are always looking for affordable accommodation options that deliver a comfortable and productive environment in which to work. Hostels can be an excellent choice for digital nomads looking to save money on accommodation and meet new people while they work. Many hostels now offer high-speed internet, co-working spaces, and private rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Some even have communal kitchens where guests can prepare meals, saving even more money on food expenses.

Hostels can offer a strong sense of sociability and many opportunities to meet new people. However, it is fundamental to note that many hostel guests may be young people traveling for leisure rather than work. As a digital nomad, it is vital to maintain a productive work schedule and environment. If you have a large workload or require a quiet space to work, a hostel may not be the best fit for you. Considering other guests' schedules and lifestyles is essential, as it may impact your ability to work effectively. Ultimately, deciding to stay in a hostel for digital nomad accommodation will depend on your personal preferences and needs.

Pros

Hostels are usually the most cost-effective accommodation option and are particularly useful for digital nomads on a tight budget.
Hostels bring together like-minded digital nomads and solo travelers, offering a sense of community and opportunities for socializing and networking.
Hostels are often located in central areas, providing access to local tourist attractions, business districts, and nightlife areas.

Cons

Hostels usually offer shared spaces and dormitory-style rooms, which may not provide sufficient privacy for digital nomads who require a dedicated workspace or a comfortable sleeping area.
Hostels are frequently lively and noisy, making them unsuitable for digital nomads requiring a quiet work environment.
Hostels often have shared bathrooms and kitchens, which may be less hygienic and inconvenient.

6. Short-Term Apartment Rent

If you prefer staying in one place for an extended period and don't want too much social interaction, then a short-term apartment rental might be your best option. These rentals offer a more flexible and cost-effective alternative to hotels or traditional apartment leases. With short-term apartment rentals, digital nomads can appreciate the privacy and freedom of owning their own space while also being able to move around and explore new places.

Many short-term apartment rentals also come fully furnished and equipped with Wi-Fi and laundry facilities, making them a convenient option for digital nomads who want to stay connected and productive while on the road.

Numerous websites exist where you can locate such apartments and enjoy exploring the area as a solo traveler while maintaining privacy. This type of accommodation is mainly suitable for introverted individuals. One of the advantages of selecting an apartment is the range of amenities available. These facilities can significantly enhance the comfort and productivity of digital nomads needing space to work. However, larger apartments come with higher rental costs, which is a disadvantage to keep in mind.

Pros

Short-term apartment rentals offer a high degree of flexibility regarding length of stay and check-in and check-out times.
Apartments offer more privacy and space, making digital nomads feel more comfortable at home.
Renting an apartment can be more cost-effective than paying for a hotel room daily or weekly.
Apartments come with fully equipped kitchens, allowing digital nomads to cook meals and reducing eating-out expenses.

Cons

Short-term apartment rentals usually do not offer housekeeping services, meaning digital nomads must clean and maintain the apartment.
Short-term rental apartments may offer hotel amenities like swimming pools, fitness centers, room service, and other recreational activities.
Searching for a suitable apartment can be time-consuming and stressful, particularly in a foreign country where the language and culture may differ.
Short-term apartments may only be available in specific neighborhoods or areas, limiting the digital nomad's options for exploring and discovering a new city.

7. Couch Surfing

Couch surfing has become famous for digital nomads seeking affordable travel accommodations. It allows travelers to connect with locals who offer a spare room or couch for a short period. This saves money on accommodation expenses and allows one to experience the local culture and connect with like-minded individuals. Many digital nomads have found couch surfing a valuable resource for networking, collaborating, and building relationships while on the road. However, it's essential to do thorough research and take necessary safety precautions when using this option for accommodation.

As a digital nomad, Couchsurfing can be an exciting and cost-effective means to discover fascinating destinations. Moreover, you will probably be residing with individuals who understand and support the nomadic lifestyle and the cooperative, collaborative approach that frequently accompanies it. While it may not constitute your primary lodging option during your global adventure, it can be helpful to bridge the gaps in your itinerary, particularly in the priciest locales.

Pros

Couchsurfing is a free option for accommodations, ideal for budget-conscious digital nomads.
Couchsurfing allows digital nomads to immerse themselves in the local culture and attain more authentic and immersive insight into the day-to-day life of their destination.
Couchsurfing provides opportunities to share knowledge and learn about new languages, customs, and traditions, contributing to cultural exchange.
Couchsurfing allows one to socialize with locals, build relationships, and make new friends.

Cons

It is essential to ensure that hosts are safe before staying with them, especially in unfamiliar locations, which can be a concern when traveling alone.
Couchsurfing may offer limited space and uncomfortable sleeping arrangements since digital nomads may sleep on a couch or extra bed in their host's home.
Traveling with Couchsurfing requires more flexibility to fit into the host's schedule, which may be inconvenient for digital nomads who prefer a structured travel plan.
Couchsurfing may not be readily available in the area where digital nomads will be staying.

Final Thoughts

As a nomad, you can work from anywhere in the globe. However, finding the correct type of accommodation can be a challenge. Luckily, there are various options available to suit your needs. Each accommodation type has advantages and disadvantages, from cozy hotel rooms to vibrant co-living spaces. Consider your budget, location, and personal preferences to make the best decision. A hotel room may be your best option

if you value privacy and comfort.

If you aim to experience a sense of community and have chances to socialize with other digital nomads, opting for a co-living space would be more suitable. Nonetheless, selecting the perfect digital nomad accommodation can assist you in enhancing your efficiency and fully embracing the nomadic lifestyle. Therefore, carefully estimate your options and choose the one that best suits your requirements.