How to Work Remotely While Enjoying Your RV

Many travelers and campers may be seen enjoying normal vacation activities such as grilling, swimming, biking, or lounging by the fire. But many campers choose to combine business with pleasure and work remotely from their RV “office”. Known as digital nomads, many are working outside the confines of typical workspaces which allows them to schedule work around travel and incorporate rest and adventure into a typical work week. Some of the professions that allow for flexible working situations are IT, marketing, communications, tech support, teaching online and web design. The number of “digital nomads” is expected to rise with advances in technology and remote communication in addition to RV features like cell phone amplifiers and folding desks.  With more and more people “working from home” in their RVs, we wanted to give you some tips for working remotely:

• Designate a work space. Having a designated work space can help with productivity and creating a work routine and getting in the right mindset for the day’s task’s and to do list’s. A fold out desk, or dinette are good options. Also consider investing in a good chair with back support.
• Have a designated work time. In addition to a designated work space it is a good idea to designate your business hours. When you are working remotely there is a temptation to always work including nights and weekends. To avoid burnout have designated hours for working.
•  Utilize tools for working remotely: One of the most important tools you’ll need is high speed internet access with a good data plan as well as cloud storage and surge protectors for all your equipment. Another thing to consider is a portable hard drive for extra storage. Also consider using team oriented apps and programs like Slack, Later, Canva, Dropbox, etc. that allow for easy sharing of files, images and ideas.
• Stay connected. Working remotely can sometimes feel isolating so it is important to stay connected with others. Consider using tools like Zoom, or Facetime to stay in touch with friends and family as well as joining RV forums and groups for professionals in your industry.
• Stay organized. Have a space where you can keep all your to do lists and deadlines easily accessible. You could use a yearly, monthly or weekly planner as well a whiteboard or a digital calendar to send you reminders.
• Don’t forget to leave the office. Just like you have designated working hours set aside a time of day or part of the week for being “out of office” so you can enjoy the benefits of working remotely. Silence notifications and apps on your laptop or cellphone and enjoy the benefits of working remotely by exploring your surroundings and enjoying the great outdoors.

Many RVers describe RV life on the road as “living the dream” and having the flexibility to use your RV to work remotely is just one of the many benefits of owning an RV. Keep an open mind and willingness to adapt and be flexible as you find your new working rhythm. We hope you find these tips helpful for navigating working remotely. Join us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest for more tips and tricks and RV inspiration.