Whether you’re already out on the road, seeing the world; or behind your cubicle dreaming of and planning your adventure, there is plenty of written inspiration out there to motivate you on your digital nomads journey. In this article we’re going to run through 20 of our favorite books for digital nomads.
The Rise of Digital Nomadism
Digital Nomadism has seen an explosion of popullarity post-Covid – with Google Trends showing a threefold increase in search volume over the past 5 years.
What started as small number of digital entrepreneurs exploring the world while exploiting the benefits the early internet afforded to make an income; has exploded into a vast network of destinations, groups, and industries supporting millions of workers, of all ages, enjoying the freedoms of remote work and entrepreneurship to explore and enjoy a unique lifestyle, free from tethers to a single location or office.
Initially, there were dozens of books published, not specifically with the digital nomads community in mind, but which captivated peoples imaginations and have become required reading for many nomads starting out. Books like Vagabonding by Rolf Potts, published all the way back in 2003 – which made the case for prioritising experiences and exploring the world, over a dogmatic focus on career and work, and gave tips on how to balance and get the best of both.
Unsurprisingly, as this sub-culture has matured, more and more people are writing specifically for the nomad community itself, and its been exciting to see the sector grow as more and more people wake up to the realisation that it is possible to truly re-balance work and lifestyle in the 21st Century.
How We’ve Chosen Our Books for Digital Nomads
In this article we’re going to break our digital nomad reading list down into 5 categories:
- The ‘Classics’
- Travel and Adventure
- Entrepreneurship and Business
- Personal Development
- Digital Nomad Lifestyle
Some books fall into one category, some into many, but we want to identify the key facets that we see to Digital Nomadism, which any newbie, or experience nomad could benefit from learning more about
There are literally thousands of books out there, so don’t see this as an exhaustive list. We’ve focussed on the ‘big hitters’ – the seminal books that have driven the conversation in the relevant fields. In future we might do some deep dives into each of these – but for now we’re keeping with the major league titles.
The Digital Nomad ‘Classic’ Books
There are some books, which are so fundamental that they can’t be missed off any reading list on their topic, and these are those for the Digital Nomad world.
These are the books that kicked off the whole movement, moved on the conversation, and brought the concept of long term travel whilst working into the mainstream.
If you’d never heard of digital nomadism, are unsure of whether it’s for you, or looking for some inspiration to get you ready to take the plunge, these are probably the best books for you to start with, as these are the ones that started it all off.
Vagabonding – by Rolf Potts
Published way back in 2003 – this is the book that encouraged so many people to take the plunge and pursue long-term travel.
Rolf Potts argues that prioritising experiences, seeing the world, and exploring beyond your comfort zone, are vastly more rewarding than financial pursuits. And with some clever planning, long term travel doesn’t have to come at the expense of your career or financial security.
This book is far more focused on the travel side, than the career part, but is incredibly inspirational and sure to leave your mind racing with your own plans by the time you put it down.
Why is Vagabonding great for digital nomads?
If you were on the fence before about becoming a digital nomad, especially if you’re worried about costs; this book sure to give you more confidence that it is possible to travel, and travel well on any budget.
The book gives practical advice on how to travel on a budget and make the most of your time abroad. But at it’s core this book is really about changing the way people think about travel, their careers and money.
The 4-Hour Work Week – by Tim Ferriss
Tim Ferriss’ groundbreaking book, published in 2007, is still one of the most influential books for digital nomads to this day. The 4-Hour Workweek is all about working smarter, not harder, and teaches you how to design your life around your passions and goals, rather than the traditional 9-to-5 grind.
Why is The 4-Hour Workweek great for digital nomads?
This book is perfect for digital nomads because it introduces the concept of location independence and provides practical advice on how to build a successful online business that can be managed from anywhere in the world. It also challenges conventional thinking about work, success, and lifestyle design.
Favorite Quote: “The question you should be asking isn’t, ‘What do I want?’ or ‘What are my goals?’ but ‘What would excite me?'”
Remote: Office Not Required – by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson
In Remote, the founders of Basecamp, Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, provide an extensive look into the world of remote work. They share their own experiences and those of other companies that have successfully transitioned to remote work, debunking myths and offering practical solutions for businesses considering remote workforces.
Why is Remote great for digital nomads?
Remote offers valuable insights for digital nomads looking to find remote work or build their own remote teams. The book showcases the numerous advantages of working remotely, such as increased productivity and reduced stress, making it a must-read for anyone considering the digital nomad lifestyle.
Favorite Quote: “The future, quite literally, belongs to those who get there first.”
The Suitcase Entrepreneur – by Natalie Sisson
In The Suitcase Entrepreneur, Natalie Sisson shares her personal journey of becoming a digital nomad and offers practical advice for building a successful online business while traveling the world. Covering topics such as outsourcing, creating passive income, and developing a strong personal brand, this book is a comprehensive guide for aspiring location-independent entrepreneurs.
Why is The Suitcase Entrepreneur great for digital nomads?
Natalie’s firsthand experiences and actionable advice make this book a valuable resource for digital nomads looking to build their own businesses. Her insights and tips will help you create a sustainable and profitable online venture while embracing the freedom of the nomadic lifestyle.
Favorite Quote: “Freedom is about creating a life by design, not by default.”
Travel and Adventure
Travel and adventure are at the core of the digital nomad lifestyle. Embracing the spirit of exploration, digital nomads immerse themselves in diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences, often seeking inspiration from the world around them. The books in this section not only provide insights into the essence of travel but also inspire readers to push their boundaries, embrace the unknown, and live life to the fullest.
From philosophical musings on the art of travel to true stories of life-changing adventures, these books capture the excitement, beauty, and transformative power of travel. They encourage readers to approach their journeys with curiosity, wonder, and an open mind, fostering a deeper appreciation for the world and its many wonders. As you embark on your own adventures as a digital nomad, these books will serve as your guide and inspiration, urging you to make the most of every experience.
The Art of Travel – by Alain de Botton
The Art of Travel is a philosophical exploration of the reasons and pleasures behind travel. Alain de Botton combines his own experiences with insights from famous travelers and thinkers throughout history, creating a unique and thought-provoking perspective on the art of travel.
Why is The Art of Travel great for digital nomads?
This book is perfect for digital nomads as it encourages them to think more deeply about their travel experiences and how they can enrich their lives. It also offers valuable advice on how to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the world around us, even in the most mundane situations.
Favorite Quote: “Journeys are the midwives of thought. Few places are more conducive to internal conversations than moving planes, ships or trains.”
Into the Wild – by Jon Krakauer
Into the Wild tells the true story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who left behind a privileged life to explore the Alaskan wilderness. This gripping account of his adventure serves as both a cautionary tale and an inspiration to those seeking to break free from the confines of society.
Why is Into the Wild great for digital nomads?
Digital nomads can find inspiration in Christopher’s journey, as it demonstrates the power of pursuing one’s dreams and living a life of adventure. While the book also warns of the potential dangers of such pursuits, it encourages readers to fully embrace the freedom and experiences that the nomadic lifestyle has to offer.
Favorite Quote: “The very basic core of a man’s living spirit is his passion for adventure.”
A Walk in the Woods – by Bill Bryson
A Walk in the Woods is Bill Bryson’s humorous and insightful account of his attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail. The book delves into the history, ecology, and challenges of the trail, while also sharing Bryson’s personal experiences and reflections on his journey.
Why is A Walk in the Woods great for digital nomads?
Digital nomads can find inspiration in Bryson’s adventure, as it demonstrates the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone and embracing new experiences. The book is a reminder to appreciate the beauty and wonder of nature, which is often an essential part of the digital nomad lifestyle.
Favorite Quote: “The trail is afoot with ghosts.”
Entrepreneurship and Business
The entrepreneurial spirit is a driving force for many digital nomads who choose to forge their own path in the world of business. For those pursuing this lifestyle, it is crucial to understand the tools, techniques, and mindset required to create and grow successful ventures. The books in this section offer invaluable guidance and inspiration for digital nomads looking to launch their own businesses or scale existing ones, while simultaneously navigating the challenges of a location-independent lifestyle.
These books cover a wide range of topics, from groundbreaking approaches to business development to the art of personal branding in the digital age. By learning from the experiences and wisdom of successful entrepreneurs, digital nomads can cultivate the skills and knowledge necessary to build thriving businesses that can be managed from anywhere in the world. Embrace the entrepreneurial journey with these essential reads and unlock your full potential in the world of business.
The Lean Startup – by Eric Ries
The Lean Startup offers a groundbreaking approach to launching and managing a business, focusing on rapid experimentation and validated earning. Eric Ries shares a methodology for creating successful businesses in an age where traditional models are becoming obsolete.
Why is The Lean Startup great for digital nomads?
This book is perfect for digital nomads who are looking to start their own businesses or scale existing ones. It provides practical advice and strategies for efficient growth and development, which are essential for entrepreneurs managing their ventures from around the world.
Favorite Quote: “The only way to win is to learn faster than anyone else.”
Crushing It! – by Gary Vaynerchuk
Crushing It! explores how entrepreneurs can harness the power of personal branding and social media to build successful businesses. Gary Vaynerchuk shares stories of individuals who have achieved remarkable success by following his principles and provides a blueprint for anyone looking to make their mark in the digital age.
Why is Crushing It! great for digital nomads?
Digital nomads can benefit greatly from this book as it emphasizes the importance of personal branding and online presence, which are critical components of a successful location-independent business. It also offers actionable advice on how to leverage social media platforms to reach a wider audience and grow your business.
Favorite Quote: “Your personal brand is your reputation. And your reputation in perpetuity is the foundation of your career.”
Start with Why – by Simon Sinek
Simon Sinek’s Start with Why explores the importance of understanding the purpose behind a business or idea. He argues that the most successful companies and leaders are those who know their “why” and use it to inspire their actions and decisions.
Why is Start with Why great for digital nomads?
Digital nomads who are entrepreneurs or seeking to start a business will benefit from the powerful insights in this book. It offers a fresh perspective on the foundations of success and serves as a reminder to align one’s work with a deeper purpose, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and impactful venture.
Favorite Quote: “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.”
Personal Development
Personal growth and self-improvement are essential components of living a fulfilling and successful digital nomad lifestyle. As digital nomads continually adapt to new environments and situations, it is crucial to develop the mindset, habits, and skills that support a balanced and meaningful life. The books in this section focus on various aspects of personal development, from achieving inner peace through mindfulness to building effective habits that enable lasting change.
These books offer guidance, inspiration, and practical techniques to help digital nomads cultivate a strong sense of self, manage stress, and maintain mental and emotional well-being. By investing in personal growth, digital nomads can enhance their overall quality of life and better navigate the unique challenges of their nomadic journey. Dive into these transformative reads and embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth that will empower you to live your best life as a digital nomad.
The Power of Now – by Eckhart Tolle
In The Power of Now, Eckhart Tolle shares his insights on achieving inner peace and happiness through mindfulness and living in the present moment. This transformative book provides practical guidance on how to quiet the mind and fully embrace the present.
Why is The Power of Now great for digital nomads?
Digital nomads face unique challenges and stressors while traveling and working remotely. This book offers valuable techniques for managing stress and maintaining mental and emotional well-being, which are crucial for living a balanced and fulfilling nomadic lifestyle.
Favorite Quote: “Realize deeply that the present moment is all you have. Make the NOW the primary focus of your life.”
Atomic Habits – by James Clear
Atomic Habits presents a comprehensive framework for developing and maintaining effective habits. James Clear shares research-backed strategies for breaking bad habits and creating positive ones, all while emphasizing the power of small, incremental changes over time.
Why is Atomic Habits great for digital nomads?
Building and maintaining healthy habits can be challenging for digital nomads, who often face unpredictable schedules and environments. This book provides practical guidance for creating and sustaining habits that support a successful and fulfilling nomadic lifestyle.
Favorite Quote: “You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.”
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success – by Carol S. Dweck
Carol S. Dweck’s Mindset explores the concept of fixed and growth mindsets and their impact on success, motivation, and personal growth. The book offers valuable insights on how to develop a growth mindset, which can lead to greater achievement and resilience in all aspects of life.
Why is Mindset great for digital nomads?
Digital nomads face unique challenges that require adaptability, creativity, and a willingness to learn. This book provides crucial guidance for cultivating a mindset that supports personal growth and achievement, making it an essential read for anyone looking to thrive in the digital nomad lifestyle.
Favorite Quote: “Becoming is better than being.”
Digital Nomad Lifestyle
The digital nomad lifestyle is a unique blend of work, travel, and personal growth that requires a certain level of adaptability, resourcefulness, and resilience. As digital nomads navigate the world, they must balance their professional and personal lives while constantly adapting to new environments and challenges. The books in this section offer practical advice, insights, and inspiration specifically tailored to the digital nomad experience, covering topics such as remote work, financial strategies, and life on the road.
These books serve as essential guides for both aspiring and experienced digital nomads, helping them to navigate the intricacies of the nomadic lifestyle and overcome the challenges that come with it. Whether you are just starting out on your digital nomad journey or looking to refine your approach, these books provide invaluable guidance and support to help you achieve long-term success and fulfillment. Equip yourself with the knowledge and inspiration you need to thrive in the digital nomad lifestyle and make the most of your unique journey.
Nomad Capitalist – by Andrew Henderson
Nomad Capitalist delves into the world of global citizenship and the benefits of diversifying one’s life and finances across multiple countries. Andrew
Henderson shares his expertise on international tax strategies, investment opportunities, and the benefits of obtaining a second passport.
Why is Nomad Capitalist great for digital nomads?
As digital nomads often have the flexibility to live and work from anywhere, this book provides valuable insights into optimizing one’s financial and personal freedom on a global scale. It covers essential topics such as tax optimization and investment strategies, making it a must-read for digital nomads looking to maximize their financial potential.
Favorite Quote: “Go where you’re treated best. It’s not about being unpatriotic. It’s about being a global citizen.”
What’s on Your Digital Nomad Reading List?
These 20 books offer a wealth of information and inspiration for digital nomads, covering topics such as travel, entrepreneurship, personal development, and the digital nomad lifestyle. Whether you are just starting out on your journey or looking to level up your nomadic experience, these books are essential reads for anyone embracing the location-independent lifestyle.