Borders are reopening, and that means one thing…
It’s time travel!
The beauty of working remotely is you can choose when to work and, more importantly, where.
After all, you are a digital nomad, aren’t you?
That said, open borders doesn’t necessarily mean easy travel, especially in crazy “post”-COVID times.
That’s where these awesome digital nomad programs come in.
As you’ll see, these work and travel programs aren’t for everyone. But they are one of the easiest ways to work remotely and travel with minimal hassle or planning.
Here’s a list of all your best options, plus important factors to consider before you book.
Table of Contents
What to consider before booking: The pros and cons of digital nomad programs
Becoming a digital nomad means embracing a flexible lifestyle that suits your personal and professional needs. Digital nomad programs let you do exactly that.
That said, while work travel programs are an epic way to explore the globe, there are a few drawbacks.
To decide if an organized program is right for you, consider what you want to get out of joining a digital nomad group.
Cost
Remote work programs are expensive. Usually, you pay more than you would pay for organizing a trip by yourself. However, the organization sets up almost everything for you. So, even with higher fees, you save time and headaches trying to set up your route, activities, accommodation, etc.
When you think about it, this makes sense though. You’re paying for convenience. If organizing all the nitty gritty details of a trip sounds dizzying to you, it makes sense to pay someone to do it for you. Heck, you can use the time you save planning to work a bit extra to cover your program.
In addition, booking through nomad groups makes the process easier for COVID requirements and health insurance — which can be a nightmare in today’s day and age.
You also might get access to handy co-working apps to find new spaces and activities included in your program, which can save even more time and money.
Set Traveling Schedule
Remote work travel programs usually have a set schedule for the group.
For example, you choose a program traveling across different set cities. That means if you fall in love with a place, you can’t stay longer. And if you hate a place, you can’t skip it. You have to follow the itinerary — so it’s important to choose a program with an itinerary you like.
On the bright side, this means you don’t need to worry about finding accommodations or transport to move around, which literally can feel like an entire job in itself. Plus, you always have companions to work with and explore around you.
Internet
Internet is a HUGE benefit of these remote work programs. As a digital nomad, travel laptops and wifi are your best friend. And when traveling in certain areas, staying connected can be a challenge. In fact, recent digital nomad statistics show that finding reliable wifi is one of the top challenges nomads face.
When you join a digital nomad travel group, you can rest assured that you’ll always have an adequate place to work.
Of course, it’s always a good idea to have a backup Internet connection when traveling. But it’s also good to have access to co-working spaces and work locations enjoying the city architecture — instead of worrying about slow connection in sketchy cafes.
Like-minded People
Finally, working as a digital nomad can be isolating. Even after the post-pandemic remote work revolution, it’s hard to find people sharing the same passion for discovering new cultures or setting up their own business.
Joining an organized nomad program connects you to like-minded people and boosts your network worldwide.
That said, make sure you choose the right digital nomad groups for you. For example, before joining a remote work travel program, ask about other participants to find out if you fit with them.
It’s harder to make work connections in a group of techy developers if you run an art blog. Although, adding connections from related fields to your network isn’t a bad idea, so keep that in mind as well.
Which type of work and travel programs are out there?
There are all kinds of different programs for digital nomads. Some are concentrated in a week or two, focusing on professional development or networking. Others allow more traveling and personal networking. Generally speaking, you can choose between three types of programs:
▶️ Long-stay work and travel programs: This format is perfect for those who want to stay longer in a place connecting with a group of digital nomads daily. Usually, these types of programs provide co-working spaces, professional masterclasses, and networking opportunities.
▶️ Learn and travel programs: This type of program is more for those who are looking for adventure, traveling from place to place while working remotely. They offer local experiences and day trips, and travel arrangements usually include accommodation, courses, co-working spaces, and more.
▶️ Digital nomad retreats: This last format usually lasts from one week to a month in one location with a fixed group of people. The point here is being productive while exploring a healthy work-life balance with like-minded people.
The 11 best programs for digital nomads to work remotely and travel
1. Nomad Jungle Fest
The Nomad Jungle Fest is a unique event happening this summer in Mexico. Organized by The Nomad Escape, 75 remote professionals will join a beautiful location in Tulum for seven days.
Participants will attend inspirational workshops, masterminds, yoga palapas sessions, private natural pools, caves, and more. This summer event is perfect for those who are looking for professional growth, networking, and new partnerships across the world.
Costs: From $2229
Includes:
☑️ Food
☑️ Accommodation
☑️ Transport and short trips
☑️ Program and activities
☑️ Co-working space
☑️ Access to a private network of entrepreneurs
2. Remote Year
Remote Year is one of the most popular digital nomad programs. Bringing together 50 to 80 nomads, entrepreneurs, and freelancers, the group travels across Asia, Europe, Latin America, and Africa.
If you can’t make it the whole year, you can join for 4 or 6 months. This nomad program is ideal for those who want to travel without stress, making new connections across the world.
That said, if you’re looking for a program to focus on your professional development, big groups and busy traveling are probably not the best way to make future career connections.
Cost: $27,000 for the year-long program (Less for shorter versions)
Includes:
☑️ Accommodation
☑️ Food
☑️ Activities
☑️ Internet
☑️ Transportation
☑️ Community events
3. Venture With Impact
Venture with Impact is an ideal program if you’re looking for a balance between like-minded people and professional growth. You can join a nomad group every month in a country of your choice, like Thailand, Portugal, or Colombia.
Besides working on your business, you can collaborate with a local pro-bono organization about themes like education or human rights. Lately, the program has provided theme-based weekly retreats, combining social impact, professional development, and networking.
Cost: $2,200 (Depending on your stay and location)
Includes:
☑️ Private room
☑️ Accommodation
☑️ Transport and booking flights
☑️ COVID requirements (vaccinations, tests, etc)
☑️ Volunteering placement
4. WiFly Nomads
WiFly Nomads is perfect for those who want a short and intense experience in Bali. In 5 days, participants attend workshops, mastermind sessions, and learn new strategies for professional development.
In addition, Bali is one of the favorite destinations for digital nomads. Being there for an entire week means contacting a lively nomad community from all over the world.
Cost: $3,997
Includes:
☑️ Accommodation
☑️ Activities
5. CoWorkParadise
CoWorkParadise is also based in Bali and focuses on entrepreneurship and remote careers. The digital nomad program brings together 12 high-level entrepreneurs for three weeks in a villa.
During this time, members attend workshops to learn new skills and network with other professionals. This program is also ideal for those who want to focus on professional growth.
Cost: $4,995
Includes:
☑️ Private room
☑️ 24/7 coworking space
☑️ Breakfast and dinner
☑️ Short trips
6. Hacker Paradise
Hacker Paradise offers work travel programs from two weeks to three months. The program caters mostly to remote developers, designers, and entrepreneurs.
In a 20 to 30 person group, participants travel across Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
Cost: Starts from $1,550 for 2 weeks
Includes:
☑️ Activities
☑️ Housing (you can choose to find your own accommodation)
7. Nomad Train
Nomad Train is quickly becoming one of the most popular work and travel programs, partly because it is so unique. You join a group of remote professionals on the Trans-Siberian Railway across Russia and Mongolia.
Unlike other programs, most of the activities happen on the train. You can work, attend masterclasses, or network on a train while admiring a different scenario every time. How cool is that?
Cost: € 1,270 Euro
Includes:
☑️ Accommodation
☑️ Food
☑️ Internet
8. Unsettled
Unsettled brings together entrepreneurs, artists, designers, and ambitious remote professionals.
You can join the nomad group for one week, two weeks, or one month. Living with other professionals gives you a great opportunity to share your expertise and work through common challenges together — all in a fun, exotic environment.
The organization is based in different locations, like Lima, Tuscany, and Bali.
Cost: $1,600
Includes:
☑️ Accommodation
☑️ Activities
9. Coworkations
Joining Coworkations, you can choose a month-long itinerary in a country across the world. This program is ideal if you are looking for a long-stay trip without wasting time organizing. The company supports you with flights and accommodation, even providing transport from the airport.
Once at your destination, you have the opportunity to mingle with other like-minded entrepreneurs with various digital nomad jobs.
Cost: $2,000/month
Includes:
☑️ Housing
☑️ Internet
☑️ Co-working space
☑️ Logistc
☑️ Professional and social event programming
☑️ Courses and activities
10. Behere
Unlike other digital nomads programs, Behere is a platform that links nomads with apartments, co-working spaces, and even gyms across the world.
Think of it like Airbnb, but specifically for digital nomads, and with way more support. That makes it different from other programs that focus more on social interactions.
From Barcelona, to Bali, to Prague, you get to choose your dream location. It’s an awesome program if you’re looking to work your way around the world, but don’t want the rigidity of a set itinerary or group of people.
Cost: $1,400 – $1,900 per month (depending on locations). You can sign up for a one-year $990 Behere membership for extra perks and discounts.
Includes:
☑️ Housing
☑️ Co-working space
☑️ Fitness membership
☑️ Access to local city hosts
11. WiFi Tribe – The classic digital nomad retreat
WiFi Tribe is one of the oldest digital nomad programs. The tribe brings together members from all over the world to explore an alternative style of life. This is one of the best programs to have fun while meeting new people and discovering new cultures.
You can join the organization in different locations (AKA “chapters”) for however long you want. The longer you stay, the better deal you get.
Cost: $900 – $2,000 per retreat
Includes:
☑️ Housing
☑️ Internet
☑️ Co-working space
☑️ Short trips
☑️ Activities
Which remote work travel program is right for you?
In the end, it all comes down to what you’re looking for.
Short? Or long?
Productivity and routine? Or constant movement?
Professional development? Or fun and adventure?
Nowadays, there’s truly a digital nomad program for everyone.
If you haven’t yet figured out how to make money on the road, check out this gigantic list of best travel jobs — you’re sure to find ideas you’ve never thought of before!
Mitch's Travel Recommendations:
Travel Planning Resources - Everything you need to plan your trip on one convenient page.
Going Cheap Flights Newsletter - Get flight deals from your airport up to 90% off sent straight to your inbox.
Safetywing Insurance - This cheap travel insurance has saved me over $15,000 in medical bills.
Booking.com - Book accommodation without adding your credit card (in case you need to cancel).
Trusted House Sitters - Take care of pets in exchange for free (sometimes luxury) accommodation.
Flexjobs - Find remote jobs without having to sift through crappy ones.
Skillshare - Free trial to take unlimited classes that teach digital nomad skills.
Wise - Send and receive money abroad cheaply (great for freelancers).