I’ve dreamed of becoming a nomad for years, and while I am quite happy with my choice, I can’t help but notice the challenges of being a digital nomad.

The same experiences that bring me joy also demand more of my time and energy. Being constantly on the move requires a level of discipline and consistency that anyone considering this lifestyle should be aware of.

Here are the main aspects of this lifestyle that can be difficult to manage:

1. **Constantly planning the next trip** – I barely finish all the arrangements for one destination before I have to start thinking about future ones, which can be tiring and often robs me of the chance to simply relax and enjoy the present.

2. **Balancing work and travel** – As a freelancer, I need to “keep an eye on the fish and the other on the cat” (a Brazilian expression, lol). In other words, I have to pay close attention to my work while also traveling, which often means I never fully enjoy either.

3. **Lack of stability and a fixed routine** – This can easily disrupt our mood and productivity, as we lose the sense of continuity that is so important for emotional comfort and management of our life.

4. **Meeting wonderful people and soon having to let them go** – No matter how incredible the connection between you and a potential friend or crush may be, unless you’re willing to change all your plans and settle down where you meet them, you won’t be able to invest in that relationship.

5. **Dealing with loneliness regularly** – Most of the time, it will just be “you and your circumstances”—wise words from Ortega y Gasset.

Even if you are surrounded by other travelers, like sharing a room in a hostel or going on group trips, the lack of intimacy and continuity in these interactions can leave you feeling alone on your journey.

6. **Choosing among endless travel destinations** – Knowing that you can’t visit them all can be tough. Whether due to a lack of time or money, you will always have to say “yes” to one option and “no” to many others.

7. **Living without many comforts and conveniences of a home** – A digital nomad must practice detachment 24/7.

You will need to live with a very limited number of clothes, shoes, and accessories, not to mention that you might lack useful household items that are not available in hotels/hostels and not be able to buy new things because they won’t fit in your luggage.

8. **Starting over every time you move** – While discovering new places is exciting, it can also be overwhelming.

Tasks like figuring out where to do your grocery shopping or eat without overspending can be time-consuming—and even stressful.

9. **Solving unexpected problems in a foreign country** – This can be challenging without the same resources a local has, such as an ID, knowledge of the language, or understanding of local laws and customs.

For example, I once lost my phone and had my debit card retained by an ATM, and I had to solve these issues without even speaking the local language.

Being a foreigner in these situations made everything more complicated and daunting.

10. **Being extra cautious with your money** – You will have to be all the time thinking of ways to avoid being taken advantage of as a tourist while carefully managing your expenses when traveling, dining out, etc. not to be the one messing up with your budget.

The temptation to overspend is everywhere and recurs whenever you change locations, so mindfulness is essential.

That’s it for today, guys.

I hope this list is helpful for anyone considering a nomadic lifestyle. Subscribe to the blog and keep an eye on the “Suitcase” category for insightful travel suggestions.

If you have anything to add to my list or any questions to ask, leave a comment below. I would love to continue this conversation! 😘😘