Living and working remotely from the road is an incredible experience, but it requires the right tools, careful planning, and a healthy dose of flexibility. As a human capital management consultant, reliable internet and power are essential for client meetings, presentations, and managing complex projects. My setup is built to support my work from nearly anywhere, but it’s also taught me to adapt when things don’t go as planned.

1) Internet Solutions and Backup Plans

My primary internet source is the Starlink Mini with the Roam plan, which has been a game-changer for working in remote locations. Its satellite-based service provides fast, stable connectivity even in places where traditional cellular service fails. Whether I’m parked deep in a national forest or on the outskirts of a small town, I can rely on Starlink to keep me online. However, satellite service can be affected by obstructions like dense tree cover, so I also use my Verizon wireless plan as a backup. With my phone functioning as a hotspot, I can switch over seamlessly when needed.

There was one instance when I camped near a canyon with stunning views but weak connectivity. Starlink initially handled the connection, but as the wind shifted and trees obstructed the signal, I started losing service during a client meeting. I quickly switched to my Verizon hotspot and continued the call without missing a beat. That moment reinforced the importance of having a backup—and being prepared to switch quickly. I’ve since added a prepaid SIM card from another carrier to further increase redundancy, ensuring I’m covered in more remote areas.

2) Power Management for Long Workdays

Powering my devices requires a dependable energy source, and my Jackery 1000 Plus 1264Wh Portable Power Station paired with two SolarSaga 100W Solar Panels keeps me self-sufficient. On sunny days, the solar panels recharge the Jackery quickly, providing enough power for my laptop, Starlink router, phone, and other devices. On days when I’m driving, I also use my vehicle’s 12V socket to top up the Jackery’s charge. For added flexibility, I keep a portable power bank on hand to charge smaller devices like my phone or hotspot in case I need a quick boost while I’m away from the vehicle.

Unfortunately, cloudy weather or multiple high-demand work sessions can deplete the battery faster than expected. To conserve power, I batch energy-intensive tasks, like video uploads and client presentations, during peak solar hours. I also adjust my laptop to low-power mode, dim the screen, and close unnecessary apps. On days when my battery runs low, I head to a nearby coffee shop or Planet Fitness. Coffee shops offer not only Wi-Fi but also a change of scenery, which can be refreshing. Planet Fitness is a double-win for me—a place to recharge my devices, get a workout in, and enjoy a hot shower.

3) Staying Productive with a Functional Workspace

A comfortable and organized workspace is essential for productivity. My go-to setup includes an REI Flexlite Air Chair and a fold-out table, which I position to optimize natural light and minimize distractions. When it comes to staying focused, my Apple AirPods Pro 2 noise-canceling headphones are a game-changer during client meetings. They block out background noise like passing vehicles or campsite chatter, allowing me to stay locked in on the conversation.

To maintain open communication, I always inform clients if I’ll be working in an area where connectivity could be limited. These moments are rare thanks to Starlink and Verizon, but transparency about my mobile lifestyle builds trust and sets clear expectations.

4) Offline Workflow and Productivity Hacks

Even with all my preparation, I plan for moments when I may lose internet access entirely. Before heading into remote areas, I download client files, presentations, and email drafts so I can continue working offline. Apps like Google Docs and Notion allow me to edit documents and manage tasks without Wi-Fi.

One memorable experience was during a trip through a dense forest where my signal dropped for an entire day. Thanks to my offline tools, I completed a client proposal and synced everything as soon as I regained service. These moments remind me that having an offline workflow isn’t just convenient—it’s a necessity.

5) Balancing Work and Adventure

One of the best parts of working remotely is the freedom to incorporate my surroundings into my day. I make a point to take breaks outside—whether it’s a short walk around a campsite or a lunch break with a view. On lighter workdays, I might linger at a scenic spot, visit a local museum, or hike a few miles before settling into my next destination. Balancing work and adventure has become second nature, helping me stay productive without burning out.

I’ve also discovered that remote work doesn’t have to be isolating. Whenever I’m near a city or town, I check for coworking spaces or community events where I can connect with other professionals. I’ve joined co-working sessions at libraries and exchanged tips with fellow nomads at roadside cafés. Online communities, like LinkedIn groups and vanlife forums, are another great resource for networking and sharing ideas.

6) Maintaining Health and Well-Being

Remote work can blur the lines between personal and professional time, especially when your “office” is also your living space. To maintain balance, I prioritize movement and mindfulness. A quick walk around the campsite or a 10-minute stretching session can clear my mind and reset my focus. I also start my mornings with a few minutes of deep breathing or blogging to set a positive tone for the day. These small routines help me stay grounded, reduce stress, and avoid burnout.

Maintaining balance also means setting boundaries between work and leisure time. I’ve learned to “close” my office at the end of the day by physically packing up my workspace and switching gears with a simple ritual, like listening to a podcast unrelated to my career field to help me transition from “work mode” to “relaxation.” This small act signals to my brain that the workday is over, creating a mental separation between professional tasks and personal time. I also schedule non-negotiable downtime for hobbies and relaxation, whether it’s reading, listening to a podcast, or exploring a nearby trail. These intentional pauses remind me that rest is just as important as productivity, allowing me to return to work feeling refreshed and focused.

7) Continuous Adaptation and Learning

Staying productive on the road also means staying open to new tools and ideas. I recently started using my iPad Pro as a lightweight portable monitor, which has made multitasking much easier during client presentations and research-based tasks. Having a second screen allows me to reference notes while sharing documents, enhancing my workflow without taking up too much space. I also keep up with tech trends through online workshops and webinars focused on digital nomad tools. Adapting my setup as new technology emerges has helped me stay efficient and make the most of my mobile lifestyle.

Additionally, I’ve incorporated Zapier to automate repetitive tasks, such as syncing my Calendar events with project boards and sending automated email reminders for meetings. This has cut down on manual data entry and allowed me to focus more on high-priority tasks. Staying adaptable with tools like these has not only improved my efficiency but also made me more resilient when unexpected challenges arise on the road.

8) Concluding Thoughts

Working remotely on the road has transformed how I approach both my career and my personal life. My connectivity setup keeps me grounded when it matters most, and my power management strategies ensure I remain self-sufficient. Whether I’m hosting a virtual meeting from a mountain overlook or finishing a project while watching the sunset, this lifestyle has given me the best of both worlds—professional fulfillment and the joy of exploration. With the right mindset, a bit of creativity, and a willingness to adapt, I’ve built a routine that lets me thrive while chasing new horizons.

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