With a stable internet connection and your laptop, you can work from practically anywhere. This includes airports.
As a digital nomad, you will spend quite some time in airports as you wait for flights. Might as well be productive during this time, right?
But it’s quite challenging to squeeze in some work at the airport.
Worry not. Here are 8 tips to stay productive when working remotely at airports.
Set Your Alarm
First things first. When you’re in the zone, you might lose track of time when working remotely.
The last thing you want is to miss your flight because you’re too focused on your tasks. To avoid this, make sure to set your alarm at least 30 mins before your boarding time.
In this way, you can be as engaged in your tasks without worrying about missing your flight.
Use a Mobile Hotspot If You Can
Airports are notorious for having slow internet speeds. So if possible, try using your mobile data.
Some mobile data plans are fast enough to accommodate your internet needs. So plan ahead by reserving pocket wifi units or buying travel sim cards.
Utilize VPN if You’re Using Airport WIFI
Luckily, some airports do have blazing-fast speeds. (Hello, Japan!)
But be careful with public WiFi. There might be unscrupulous individuals who can use them to hack into your devices.
Always utilize a VPN when using these free connections.
Find Electric Sockets
Some laptops need to be plugged in all the time. After all, how can you work remotely without a laptop?
Thus, go look for electric sockets at your makeshift workstation. Luckily, some airports have dedicated charging stations and tables with power outlets available.
Bring a Power Bank with at least 45W Power Delivery
What if you can’t find any power outlets? Did you know that some power banks can charge laptops?
Laptops with USB-C charging ports can be powered up with battery packs. Just make sure to buy ones with at least 45W above power delivery.
Notable brands with this wattage are Xiaomi and Anker.
Find a Quiet Space — Coffee Shop, Benches, Unoccupied Departure Gates
Now, you need to find a place to set up shop. I suggest finding a quiet space, such as a coffee shop or benches.
Here’s another travel hack: try looking for unoccupied departure gates. These gates are practically empty because no one is using them as they wait to board.
So you can have all this space for yourself while working.
Utilize Your Lounge Access
If you can’t find a quiet space, you might want to try airport lounges.
Airport lounges have food, sockets, and some even offer free WiFi. But you do have to pay extra for the exclusive service.
You can also check your credit cards if they grant you complimentary access.
Invest in Noise-Canceling Earphones
Airports are some of the busiest places in the world. Thousands of people fly in and out each day. And it can really be quite noisy.
This is why it helps to invest in noise-canceling earphones.
There are many options right now. But I personally found the ones with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) most effective.
It can dramatically block out noise from the background for a better work environment. Pair it up with some soothing background music, and watch your productivity soar.
So are you ready to travel as a digital nomad? You can now start working remotely through Remote Staff.
Remote Staff offers long-term remote working careers, depending on your skills. And with the tips above, you can still be productive in your online career from anywhere— even at airports.
What are you waiting for? Sign-up through Remote Staff today!