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Digital Nomad Pre-Departure Checklist: The Simple Packing Guide
1. Packing Principles : Nomadic Life ≠ Backpacking Trip A digital nomad’s luggage must support both work and daily life. So before packing, remember these three key principles: Lightweight but not careless: You’re not on vacation—you’ll be working remotely for an extended period. Multi-functionality is key: Every item you bring should ideally serve two or more purposes. Backup and flexibility: In case of internet outages, locked cards, or lost items—you need a Plan B. 2. Digital Nomad Gear Checklist (Global Essentials) 1. Remote Work Kit 2. Minimalist Living Kit 3. Safety & Emergency Kit 4. Optional but Helpful Add-ons 3. Commonly Overlooked Essentials These items may seem minor, but many digital nomads regret not bringing them once they’re on the road: Power strip (with USB ports): Many places only offer one outlet—use a strip to charge laptop, phone, and earbuds all at once. Earplugs and sleep mask: In hostels, airplanes, or noisy neighborhoods, good sleep is gold. Backups of passport and key documents: Scan and upload to Google Drive; print a set and hide it deep in your bag. Multiple credit/debit cards: If one gets locked, you’ll have a backup. Understand how insurance claims work: Don’t just buy insurance—know what documents are required and prepare templates in advance. Prescription meds or personal health items: Your go-to brands or specific ingredients might not be available abroad. Feel free to share with us—what are your must-have essentials for digital nomad life? -- Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (＠digital.nomad.press)！
April 16, 2025
Why Taiwan’s 7-Eleven Is the Nomad’s Best Friend?
When you think of a convenience store, you probably imagine a place where you grab a bottle of water, maybe a bag of chips, and rush out in under two minutes. But in Taiwan, the experience is completely different. As a digital nomad living here, I can say this with full confidence: 7-Eleven is more than a convenience store—it’s a life hub. Whether you're working remotely, navigating local bureaucracy, or just trying to survive your first typhoon season, 7-Eleven becomes your reliable, all-purpose sidekick. Here’s why every nomad in Taiwan should get to know their neighborhood 7-Eleven (and maybe even become emotionally attached to it). 🧑💻 1. Your Backup Coworking Space Sometimes the coworking space is full, or your Airbnb Wi-Fi goes out right before a Zoom call. No problem—just walk into a nearby 7-Eleven. Many stores have indoor seating, power outlets, and reliable air conditioning. Some even offer free Wi-Fi (especially in urban areas). It's not unusual to see students, freelancers, and office workers typing away in the corner, iced latte in hand. And that latte? Made fresh by a machine that delivers surprisingly decent espresso. Add an egg salad sandwich and you're ready for a productive morning. 🍱 2. Meals, Snacks & Midnight Survival Kits Need a quick lunch between calls? 7-Eleven has you covered with hot bentos (lunchboxes), rice balls, dumplings, pasta, and even vegan options. The food is affordable, filling, and rotates seasonally—yes, there’s a pumpkin-flavored croquette in fall and sweet potato desserts in winter. Late-night hunger pangs? No problem. Most stores are open 24/7, and yes, the staff will microwave your meal, give you utensils, and smile while doing it. 🖨️ 3. Print, Scan, Fax—All Without a Printer One of the biggest struggles for nomads is accessing printing and scanning services. In Taiwan, just walk to 7-Eleven and use the ibon machine. You can: Print documents from your USB or cloud Scan and email files Make photocopies or fax something if needed Even print passport photos or buy resume templates! The interface is available in English, and the process is fast and shockingly cheap. 📦 4. Your Personal Mailroom Online shopping is huge in Taiwan, and 7-Eleven plays a central role in the logistics system. You can: Pick up packages from Shopee, PChome, or other platforms Send local or international parcels Even rent lockers in some branches to receive deliveries while you're out exploring Taroko Gorge No apartment mailbox? No problem. 💡 5. A Swiss Army Knife of Life Services This is where 7-Eleven goes full superpower mode: Pay your rent, electric bill, or even traffic fines Recharge your SIM card, MRT card, or game credits Book train tickets, concerts, or theme parks Use the ATM to withdraw money (many support international cards) Buy tickets for exhibitions, shows, or even a spa reservation All of this is done at the kiosk or counter, often with staff willing to help if you get confused (they’re used to expats and tourists!). 💬 6. The Cultural Warmth You Didn’t Expect Beyond the services, 7-Eleven is a microcosm of Taiwanese hospitality. Store clerks greet you with a “歡迎光臨” (huān yíng guāng lín — welcome) every time. Some will remember your face or your coffee order. You might find yourself chatting with a fellow nomad while waiting for the microwave to finish. It’s the place you go when everything else is closed, when you're slightly lost, or when you just need a quiet corner to collect yourself. It becomes part of your daily rhythm. 🧳 Conclusion: A True Friend on the Road For digital nomads in Taiwan, 7-Eleven isn’t just a convenience—it’s a daily lifeline. It meets practical needs, yes, but also offers a subtle form of companionship in a foreign land. It's your office, your kitchen, your mailbox, your translator, and your guide—all wrapped in one neon-lit, air-conditioned corner of comfort. So next time you're in Taiwan, don't just pass by a 7-Eleven. Step inside, grab a hot latte, and get stuff done. You’ll walk out wondering how you ever lived without it. -- Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (＠digital.nomad.press)！
June 10, 2025