Packing Essentials for Remote Workers

I worked as a full-time remote employee for a travel company for three years, and at the start, I wasn’t sure if remote working would suit me. But honestly? I absolutely loved it. Fast forward to now, and I work as a freelancer in social media and influencer marketing. I’m still fully remote, but with even more flexibility over where I work—which I love. Whether I’m travelling, setting up in a coffee shop, or working from a friend’s place, having the freedom to choose my workspace is something I truly value. So, if you’re living (or thinking about) the remote work lifestyle, here are my go-to packing essentials to stay productive wherever I am.

Here’s a practical guide to packing smart so you can work efficiently—wherever you are.

Your laptop is your lifeline…

so let’s start with the absolute essentials.

• Laptop and charger (obvious, I know—but always worth double-checking before you leave)
• Portable mouse if you feel like you benefit from this
• Keyboard if you prefer to use this
• Laptop stand to improve posture (game changer if you ask me)

Nothing kills your workflow faster than a dead battery…

or weak internet, so this is where it pays to be prepared.

• Portable power bank to keep your devices charged on the go
• Extension lead or multi-plug adapter – especially useful in cafes or shared spaces where plug sockets are limited
• Travel adapter if you’re working abroad (yes please!)
• Mobile hotspot or backup SIM for those moments when Wi-Fi isn’t playing ball

Remote work often means dealing with background noise, especially…

if you’re working from cafés, co-working spaces, or on the go—so having the right setup really helps.

• Noise-cancelling headphones (another game changer, honestly)
• Earbuds for calls – I definitely need to invest in a better pair, so let me know your tip recommendations!
• Coffee, coffee, coffee to keep you going and relaxed… of if you’re a matcha queen (I’m not – but no judgement here!).

Productivity boosters

• Notebook or planner – I’m your classic millennial girl, I still love writing things down
• Pens/highlighters – I’ve never really been a highlighter girl, but if that’s your thing, go for it!
• Task management app (with offline access if needed) – I love staying organised, and usually stick to Google sheets, docs etc, or just the notes app on my phone

Daily life essentials…

because you’re not just working – you’re living, too.

• Reusable water bottle – staying hydrated is a must
• Snacks or protein bars to keep your energy up throughout the day
• Reusable coffee cup if you’re working from a cafe
• Comfy clothes – because no one does their best work when they’re uncomfortable

Security & Peace of mind

• Laptop sleeve to protect your tech while you’re on the move – I have just purchased mine from Amazon and I am obsessed!
• VPN for secure browsing, especially on public Wi-Fi
• Privacy screen protector to keep your work safe from wandering eyes

The “Just in Case” kit

• Pain relief tablets for those unexpected headaches etc
• Extra charging cables because you never have too many
• USB drive or external storage for backing up important files on the go
• Hand sanitiser for keeping clean on the move is a non-negotiable

Packing as a remote worker is all about balance—bringing what you need without overloading your bag (something I definitely struggle with!). The goal is simple: stay productive, stay comfortable, and be ready for whatever the day throws at you. Once you’ve got your essentials sorted, you’ll be able to open your laptop anywhere and work with confidence—because isn’t that the dream?