Maybe you’re looking to start a new adventure, or you’re just fed up with the housing crisis and everything that’s been going on in the world and want to escape. Regardless of your motivation, trying a nomadic lifestyle for a while may be just the right thing for you.
In fact, living like a nomad is quite a popular trend across the United States. Both young and seasoned adults are attracted by the freedom and the level of novelty promised by this way of living. But is it really that easy? Can you just pick up your stuff and go? And is the U.S. friendly toward nomads?
Here are a few things you should know about living like a nomad in the U.S.
The Promise of Freedom
Why would anyone choose to forgo the traditional comforts of a settled home in favor of a more transient lifestyle? The allure often lies in the promise of freedom. Being unanchored allows you to seek out new experiences at your own pace and on your own terms.
Imagine waking up to a different view every other day, from mountain ranges to serene beaches or bustling cityscapes.
Plus, the modern nomadic lifestyle no longer requires that you sacrifice professional growth. Many digital nomads work remotely while traveling, essentially creating an inspiring balance between work and play. Companies are increasingly opening up to remote work, making it even easier for digital nomads to maintain regular income streams.
Being a Nomad in the U.S.
Deciding to live as a nomad is just the beginning. The next vital question is: what kind of nomad do you wish to be? There are various types, including RV travelers who explore on wheels and digital nomads leveraging Wi-Fi to maintain remote careers while globetrotting. Of course, you can be both an RV traveler and a digital nomad at the same time.
But whether you choose the RV lifestyle or you choose to rent a room wherever you land in the evening, one thing is certain:
A Vehicle is a Must
The United States is well-known for its car-centric culture, so having your own set of wheels is a necessity. Before you leave for the open road, you need a reliable vehicle that’s easy to drive, fuel-efficient, and not too expensive.
The good news is that you don’t need to buy new or worry about a lengthy process. You can just drop by your local used car dealership and choose a vehicle that fits your needs. For instance, you can buy low mileage cars in Duluth, Georgia in the store or online, depending on your availability. Once you decide on a car (you can ask for expert guidance if you’re not sure), it doesn’t take long before you drive it off the lot.
Learn to Find Your Necessities
As a digital nomad, you’ll have lots of new experiences, and you’ll pick up lots of new skills. But it’s also important to be prepared before starting your adventure. For instance, you need to know where to get necessities like food and water at a reasonable price.
The best advice here is to always scout out local grocery stores and farmers’ markets upon getting into a new town. Also, if you’re camping in a remote location, you can use water refill stations or public restrooms.
In today’s digital world, having a working Wi-Fi connection is right up there with food and water on the list of necessities. You need it for work, to keep in touch with friends and family, and to find details about the areas you’re traversing. So look for public libraries or cafes, which tend to offer free Wi-Fi for customers.
Nomad-Friendly Cities in the U.S.
Embracing a nomadic lifestyle doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll always be in the wild. While it can be relaxing, unless your main goal is to go off-grid, you will end up in cities eventually. So, it doesn’t hurt to know which urban dwellings will welcome you with open arms.
One such place is Portland, which is praised for its welcoming community and great support for the digital nomad lifestyle. Known for artisanal food markets, top-notch coffee brews, and easy access to breathtaking natural vistas (including Mt Hood), Portland also has excellent Wi-Fi connectivity, making it an ideal base for remote work.
Texas is also a great spot for digital nomads. With a vibrant music scene along each length of its hip street life, Austin offers plenty of entertainment options while remaining within a comfortable cost-of-living bracket.
If you’re looking for sun and fun, you must visit Miami! The city’s co-working spaces are perfect retreats when you need productivity alongside your dose of sun-soaked relaxation. You also can’t forget about San Francisco – the tech capital that draws digital nomads with its thriving start-up culture and proximity to Silicon Valley.
Key Takeaway
Embarking on a nomadic lifestyle is a captivating adventure, promising a life of exhilarating experiences and new perspectives. From breathtaking sceneries to diverse cityscapes, the U.S. offers a myriad of nomad-friendly destinations waiting for you to explore.
