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There’s an adage that the ideal moment to plant a tree was two decades ago, with the present being the next best opportunity. When it comes to embracing the lifestyle of a digital nomad, don’t allow yourself to be swayed into believing you’ve missed out simply because someone who began earlier suggests it. We are currently experiencing a prime era for digital nomadism and remote work. This is an excellent time to be a location-independent worker.

There’s an intriguing occurrence that affects many long-term travelers, digital nomads, and expatriates. Regardless of their age, they yearn for “the good old days” and feel compelled to close the door behind them, refusing to let any newcomers “ruin” the places they believe they have found. The irony is that those who arrived a decade earlier would have eagerly excluded later arrivals if they had the chance, thus making it all a question of when you entered the timeline.

It’s a frequent lament on online forums that “Now that place is ruined” or “It used to be so much better.” I’ve heard from residents in my city of Guanajuato, Mexico, say things like, “You shouldn’t publish anything about this place. We don’t want more people moving here!” As if it should remain their exclusive enclave, frozen in time with only the few hundred foreigners who reside here throughout the year.

I understand that overtourism is a genuine concern and that gentrification can disrupt local housing markets. Both phenomena can make prices untenable for long-time locals and pose serious challenges. It’s straightforward for a reporter to uncover stories that resonate emotionally and to attribute displacement to outsiders. The xenophobia narrative isn’t limited to just irate leaders; it’s always simpler to blame “those who are different from us.”

However, these civic challenges typically necessitate more measured and long-term solutions than erecting a fence (either physical or metaphorical) or attempting to exclude travelers and immigrants. For every displaced resident, there are numerous local individuals earning their livelihood thanks to all the outsiders.

I’m raising this point due to a recent article by bloggers Brent and Michael from Going Places that has been circulated through the Yahoo Creators Program. It’s making waves among those who prefer to look back rather than ahead and among the self-satisfied veteran nomads who claim things are ruined now. It provides ample material for habitual complainers who long for everyone else to vacate their personal paradise.

With the sensational title “The golden age of digital nomading is over: it was great while it lasted,” their article falls into the trap that many trend pieces do, being rich in anecdotes yet lacking any substantial facts. There’s a deficiency of journalistic rigor that would render their claims credible, resulting instead in a poorly supported opinion piece. I found myself repeatedly thinking, “Really, are you serious?” as I read it, prompting me to take a seat and compose this counterargument.

I have no grudge against these individuals; they offer solid advice on their blog, and I wish we could have connected when they visited my town recently. I’ve even referenced their well-rounded article on gentrification in San Miguel de Allende in my Nomadico newsletter on Substack. That piece was more even-handed, featuring quotes from residents and business owners of diverse backgrounds.

However, as someone who has embraced a location-independent lifestyle for two decades, I have numerous issues with this article. So, here’s why this is the best time ever to be a digital nomad. If you’re preparing to embark on your journey, don’t let the pessimistic voices persuade you otherwise.

Being a Digital Nomad is Not New, but Now It’s Recognized

In the introduction, they claim they had never encountered the term “digital nomad” until they set off in 2017. Well, sorry guys, but it was prevalent on social media long before that and was appearing in mainstream media as well. I’ll defer to James Clark’s excellent historical account on Nomadic Notes. You could argue that the trend began in the 1990s and has certainly remained robust since 2007 when both the iPhone and The 4-Hour Workweek were released. By then, there were already numerous travel blogs incorporating “nomad” in their titles, and the specific term “digital nomad” began to surface in articles.

Coworking spaces launched in 2008, around the same time the remote work movement was highlighted in publications like The Economist and The Times of London. That year, Airbnb was established under a longer name, securing the domain we use today in 2009. That year, Dell referred to “digital nomads” in a white paper, The Washington Post featured the term in an article, a /digitalnomad Reddit thread was initiated, and the TBEX conference for travel bloggers was introduced.

Sometimes when participating in an interview regarding life overseas, I often encounter the probing question, “How is it that your expenses can be reduced by half when relocating abroad?” Which expenses can diminish sufficiently to allow one to manage on $2,000 monthly as opposed to $4,000? Or to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle on a single Social Security check rather than merely getting by with two?

The responses are all variations of this singular truth: living expenses can fall by half or more when moving to another nation.

I observe this disparity daily as an expatriate in Mexico, and the same is true for the 80+ individuals I interviewed for the second edition of A Better Life for Half the Price. Here’s a breakdown suitable for both expats and digital nomads.

Non-Americans may not reap the same health care savings as we Americans, who are subjected to an overpriced, inefficient for-profit system. However, expect comparable savings for anyone transitioning from a highly developed nation to one that is less affluent. Remember to compare similar housing situations: moving from San Francisco to Buenos Aires or rural England to rural Portugal. You might not always achieve a 50% reduction if you shift from a small Nebraska town where you lived with your parents to a penthouse in Bangkok, for example.

Numerous facets of your life will see a reduction by half or more, making it quite feasible to cut your expenses to that extent. Simply changing your address or taking a trial trip will mean that only half as much money will be leaving your wallet. Here are the primary reasons.

Where Housing Costs Can Be Halved (at Minimum)

Finding something appealing in a sought-after neighborhood for under $2,000 monthly in a major U.S. city or prominent Western European cities is quite challenging, particularly when needing two bedrooms or more. In mid-sized Tampa, we struggled to discover anything suitable for less than $2,200, even last decade, to be located in the correct school district within a central area. In cities like NYC, Tokyo, or London, you might face rental or mortgage payments around $4,000 a month, and this could be just for a studio.

Zillow indicates that as of 2025, the average rental rate in the USA stands at $2,100 per month. In Massachusetts, New York, Hawaii, California, and DC, it exceeds $2,500. None average below $1,000, and those at the lower end are in red states that must entice people to move there, such as Oklahoma and North Dakota.

In the area of Mexico where I’ve resided since 2018, one can find a lovely two-bedroom house or apartment within walking distance to the center for $600 or less, and right in the heart of it all for $800 or less. If you were to pay the average amount to live in a U.S. or Canadian city of similar size, you’d undoubtedly be in a high-quality location. Additionally, your utility costs would be a mere fraction of what you currently pay, including high-speed internet.

Here’s what some interviewees for A Better Life for Half the Price reported paying:

– Keith & Tina Paul in Cuenca, Ecuador: $735 per month for a spacious, newly constructed 2BR apartment in a prime location.
– Kris & Joel in David, Panama: $385 monthly for a 2BR home in a neighborhood they adore.
– Ryan Shauers in Medellin, Colombia: $400 for a 1BR apartment, including utilities.
– Ron MacDonald in Buenos Aires: $650 monthly for a 2BR apartment with outdoor barbecue terrace.
– Jon Sterling in Tbilisi, Georgia: $400 for a furnished 1BR apartment in a sought-after area.
– James Leithart in Pogradec, Albania: $90 for a convenient one-bedroom apartment.
– Richard Sterling in Battambang, Cambodia: $140 monthly for a furnished 1BR apartment.
– Mariellen Ward in Rishikesh, India: $350 monthly for 1,200 square feet, with 2 bedrooms.
– Helen Davies in Penang, Malaysia: $625 per month for 1,600 square feet, featuring 3 bedrooms, on the 15th floor of a high-rise equipped with a pool and gym.
– Cory Varga living in Hungary: $800 monthly for a 2BR apartment near the Opera House in central Budapest.

Some individuals indicated that they are on the higher end of the market, such as Keith and Tina in Cuenca (where one can find a 1BR for around $450 easily), while Cory in Budapest mentioned being selective. One interviewee residing in Buenos Aires reported paying $1,200 per month, describing it as a “luxurious, impressive apartment in the city’s most expensive area.”

Labor Costs in More Affordable Countries

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When I recently shared in the Nomadico newsletter that I was finally discarding a pair of Darn Tough Vermont socks I’d had for fifteen years, many readers reached out to me, saying, “Don’t throw them away—the company offers a lifetime warranty!” I was aware of that, but I’m trying to stay out of the USA as much as possible these days and thought I had certainly gotten enough use out of them. I have other pairs from them that are newer and I’d be happy to purchase more later, especially if they are on sale.

I’ve previously mentioned this brand in my article about travel gear I couldn’t destroy. Generally speaking, if a company has a policy that their products are guaranteed for life, you can assume they produce quality items that last. Conversely, if a company only provides limited warranties or a few of their products have a lifetime guarantee, they’re hedging and implying, “Our products may hold up, but they might not.”

Some corporate firms, led by bean counters, may voice concerns that some customers will exploit the policy, but anyone working at genuinely reputable travel gear companies will tell you this worry is unfounded: very few customers actually take advantage of the warranty because they don’t need to. For instance, I believe the return rate at Osprey and Eagle Creek is around 1%.

I’ve been traveling since the early ’90s and spend as much time away from home as I do at home, so the items I take with me certainly get tested. The ones I still use a decade or more later have accompanied me on numerous trips and in many instances, they appear nearly new.

Over the years, I’ve learned to prioritize quality, relying on brands that won’t fail me during critical times. Like a reliable friend who is always there, well-crafted clothing and luggage won’t let you down simply because times are tough.

Here are the clothing brands, luggage brands, and accessories you can trust, all of which have a lifetime guarantee that’s straightforward without convoluted legal language or complicated return procedures. Unless they cease operations, these brands will support you for as long as you need them.

## Travel Clothing and Outdoor Adventure Apparel

There’s a considerable overlap in the travel gear market, with companies frequently selling clothing, footwear, luggage, and more. However, here are those that primarily focus on travel apparel and have robust guarantees and return policies. There aren’t many of these—LL Bean and Eddie Bauer both eliminated lifetime guarantees that had been in place for years—so those that offer it (or something similar) truly merit your patronage.

Just remember to be reasonable in your expectations: just as you wouldn’t return a pair of running shoes that have completed eight marathons, they don’t want you to return a shirt you wore for four months straight from Cairo to Cape Town because it got stained.

### Craghoppers

The British travel clothing brand Craghoppers exited the US market for a period, roughly around the same time ExOfficio quit selling anything other than underwear, so I was overjoyed when they resumed offering their durable apparel in the states. They launched a year after I was born, and I’m not exactly young.

I own clothing from them dating back to the early 2010s that still looks fantastic and performs well, so I’ve never had to put their warranty to the test that states, “All our outdoor clothing and equipment is Guaranteed For Life.” Especially in the realm of travel shirts, these are among the best-made choices available.

### Darn Tough Vermont

*Socks* guaranteed for life? With this company, absolutely. Imagine acquiring a pair of hiking socks, using them on over 50 hikes in various countries spanning a decade and a half, and still not wearing them out. That’s the story of my first pair of Darn Tough Vermont socks, which are finally showing signs of wear. From Patagonia to Mexico to Kyrgyzstan, those socks kept my toes blister-free in the mountains and never came close to developing a hole.

When I return to Patagonia on the Chilean side next month, I’ll be bringing along some newer pairs that I trust won’t let me down. Purchase them directly, on Amazon, or at your nearby outdoor apparel retailer.

### Orvis

This outdoor gear and clothing brand has been in existence since the 1850s, and you don’t achieve that level of longevity without cultivating substantial customer loyalty. Here’s their commitment: “100% customer satisfaction has been our pledge since 1856. It embodies who we are. If you’re not satisfied with a product or service, we want to hear about it. And we’ll make it right.” While not explicitly a lifetime guarantee, their online feedback suggests that they don’t make it difficult for you to return something that

**Why Are Certain Flights Perpetually Costly While Others Are Discounted?**

Grasping the reasons behind why some flight paths are reliably cheaper than others can greatly assist travelers in saving money. Flight costs can fluctuate significantly based on various factors, including the availability of low-cost carriers, competition along the route, destination subsidies, and the availability of charter flights.

**Impact of Low-Cost Airlines on Pricing**

Low-cost carriers frequently lower fares on particular routes. For instance, flights from Tampa to Colombia are generally inexpensive because of low-cost airlines like Wingo and Spirit Airlines operating in that market. Likewise, routes offered by budget providers such as Frontier, RyanAir, and AirAsia usually come with lower fares, as these carriers provide no-frills options that compel rivals to decrease their prices.

**Competition Among Airlines on Routes**

Intense rivalry on certain routes can result in reduced fares. When numerous airlines service the same route, they must present competitive pricing to lure in customers. This phenomenon is more prevalent on international routes, where airlines may initiate temporary promotions to fill unsold seats.

**Subsidies for Destinations**

Various destinations promote subsidized flights to boost tourism. Local governments or tourism boards may provide incentives to airlines to support route retention, which in turn leads to lower fares for travelers. Such subsidies are often meant to be temporary and seek to enhance visitor numbers.

**Availability of Charter Flights**

Charter flights can offer cost-effective choices, particularly to sought-after vacation destinations. These flights are frequently included in package offers that come with accommodation, making them appealing to travelers on a budget.

**Methods for Securing Low-Cost Flights**

1. **Keep an Eye on Budget Airlines**: Investigate if low-cost carriers fly from your nearby airport and consider their service routes for your upcoming journey.

2. **Utilize Competitive Pricing**: Seek out routes that feature multiple airlines and monitor sales and special offers.

3. **Take Advantage of Subsidized Routes**: Look for promotional rates on newly launched routes, as these offers might be short-lived.

4. **Explore Charter Package Deals**: Investigate package options that encompass both airfare and lodging, particularly for resort areas.

5. **Redeem Frequent Flyer Points**: For routes with consistently high prices, use frequent flyer miles to help reduce expenses.

6. **Be Open to Different Airports**: Look into alternate airports for both departure and arrival to discover more favorable rates.

By comprehending these aspects and adopting strategic planning, travelers can secure economical flights and maximize their travel budgets.

eSIMs: A Guide for Travelers

eSIMs are among the most handy yet often perplexing resources available to travelers. We have previously discussed eSIMs, and the video above answers all the primary queries many of you posed. Watch it here first before reviewing the brief responses below.

Will You Receive A Phone Number?

This is contingent on the local eSIM service provider, not the eSIM technology itself. For travel eSIMs, the typical response is no, as most online retailers like Airalo, BNEsim, and Holyfly lack the necessary permits for phone numbers (and SMS), so they only offer data.

What About SMS?

Yes, that’s accurate.

How Can I Make Calls?

You may utilize Facetime, Whatsapp, Signal, or any other internet-based calling application. Otherwise, you will be unable to make calls with the travel eSIM if it does not provide a phone number. You can visit a local shop or kiosk at the airport to establish a short-term mobile account (which will likely still utilize an eSIM) but probably receive a phone number instead of just data. Alternatively, you can configure your home mobile service to include international roaming and use it while traveling.

Is It Possible To Use Multiple eSIMs Simultaneously?

Nearly all eSIM-compatible phones allow you to utilize two eSIMs concurrently. (You can install many more.) This enables you to use your home eSIM/service for calls and the local eSIM for data. Just ensure you’re using the appropriate eSIM for each function. To be cautious, deactivate your home eSIM when it’s not in operation.

What Becomes Of Your Home eSIM?

Nothing at all. Any new eSIMs operate independently, just like physical SIM cards would.

eSIM Summary

In summary, eSIMs can significantly simplify staying connected while traveling. They can be bought in advance and activated later if necessary, providing data worldwide. Regional eSIMs are also available, and all can be acquired directly from your phone. However, for travelers heading to Turkey, you’ll need to complete this step first.

“I was astonished by the affordability of certain products or services in different locales” is a surprisingly frequent remark from individuals just back from vacation, regardless of their destination. Obviously, the list of local discounts tends to be longer in regions where your currency holds more value, but even in the most expensive areas you visit, locals often benefit more than you do at home for at least a few goods. You simply need to uncover what those local steals are and modify your spending accordingly.

For nearly every nation I’ve visited, I can list several products or services that were bargains locally. Cashews and rum in the Philippines, pilsner beers in the Czech Republic, or four-hand massages in Cambodia, for example.

I was reminded of this once more not long ago during my visit to France, one of the most sought-after travel destinations globally, renowned not exactly for its budget-friendly options. You can invest your entire savings in hotel suites and Michelin-starred dining if you desire, but as is true in most places, deals are present if you’re observant. How do French wine prices stack up against what you would spend in your own town? Moreover, if you order a glass or bottle at a Paris restaurant, the markup is likely to be double, not the 4X to 6X that’s typically observed in US restaurants (prior to a substantial tip).

Wine is an excellent value throughout Europe, the cultured continent where having a glass of wine with your meal is regarded as essential, not a luxury. It’s not unusual to discover that wine is cheaper than soda on the menu, because really, who wants to consume something sugary and sweet with their lunch anyway? I’ve spotted decent bottles of wine costing under $5 in at least 10 European nations now, including ones like Italy and Spain where dining and accommodation can be expensive.

But you frequently observe that fruits and vegetables are less expensive as well, even in nations reputedly pricier than the USA or Canada, simply because they prioritize health and quality eating. Junk food may be pricey, but consider these tomatoes in France priced at two euros per kilo, or under a dollar per pound! They actually had flavor, unlike those picked two months prior to maximize efficiency for large-scale agriculture.

My Facebook feed is filled with grocery haul photos whenever I’ve rented an apartment abroad or shopped where I reside in Mexico. While junk food is inexpensive in the USA, healthy food is often more affordable in most other countries worldwide.

Purchase What’s Local, to Begin With

Those tomatoes mentioned earlier were cultivated in France, and obviously, the grapes for the wine were grown, fermented, and bottled in the country. This factor alone significantly influences prices due to the minimal shipping logistics involved in transport.

If you’re in an area where apple trees are abundant, you’re likely to find deals on apples and cider if the season is appropriate. You won’t spend much on coffee in Colombia, rice in Thailand, or olives in Greece. These are clear local bargains.

Some nations do not produce much and must import a majority of their food. Such places generally have higher prices overall and you won’t encounter many deals in the fruits and vegetables sections. However, if they are islands, they typically offer plenty of seafood at good rates, making it a great opportunity to indulge. Occasionally, they’ll have a good number of cows, sheep, or chickens, affecting prices for meat, dairy, and eggs.

In other situations, the raw materials may not be sourced locally, but due to low labor costs, converting imported wheat into bread may not be expensive, or brewing beer from barley and hops.

If you find yourself in a nation with fertile soil and favorable weather for agriculture, seize the opportunity to eat what’s local, especially during the summer or harvest season. When items are in season, you’ll see them plentifully at reasonable prices. There will likely be one or two local markets where you can purchase directly from farmers—or even homeowners with small plots they cultivate for a little extra income. When I stayed in Bulgaria for a month, I cherished visiting the weekend market in Bansko and buying the finest cherries I’ve ever tasted, pistachio butter made by a woman in her kitchen, and homemade jugs of wine for just a few dollars.

One way to gain some insight into this is by participating in a local food tour. I’ve engaged in these in numerous cities and learned a great deal about what is grown and produced locally. I’ve explored local markets with a guide or chef from Oaxaca to Athens to Budapest to Bangkok and had the chance to ask them questions about what I was observing in the stalls. Like these Hungarian pickles:

This “made locally” perspective can apply to a wide range of items that will