The traditional 9-5 job is evolving with many folks embracing the freedom and hitting the road while working remote. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a work-from-home warrior, or just someone who enjoys the idea of mixing work with adventure, hitting the road and working from your RV can be an exciting experience. However, as you embark on this new frontier of remote work, there are a few key “dos” and “don’ts” to keep in mind for a successful and fulfilling experience.
DO: Consider Connectivity & Power
One of the first and foremost considerations of working on the road is maintaining a reliable internet connection and power source. Before you set out, research the cellular coverage in the areas you plan to visit and invest in signal boosters or mobile hotspots if necessary to ensure you have a dependable connection. Moreover, consider adding solar panels to your RV to keep your devices powered up, allowing you to work without interruption.
For those of you who want to explore the backwoods where connectivity will be in short supply, consider adding a satellite package to your rig in order to ensure quality connection, no matter how far off-grid you wander. Fair warning: you might experience sticker shock when you look at the price of truly nomadic internet, but remember you’ll have very few other “utility” expenses when traveling in your RV.
DON’T: Neglect Ergonomics & Comfort
Working on the road should be a comfortable experience. Neglecting ergonomics can lead to discomfort and health issues. Invest in a quality RV office chair and a proper desk setup to maintain good posture. Make your workplace enjoyable by adding some personal touches like inspiring decor or a plant. A comfortable workspace can lead to increased productivity and well-being, leaving you well-energized for that scenic evening hike! Here are some great ideas for including a workspace in your RV
DO: Maintain a Routine & Schedule
One of the benefits of remote work is the flexibility it offers. However, having a routine and schedule can help you maintain that work-life balance. Set regular working hours that align with your most productive times. This structure will not only keep you on track with your tasks but also ensure you have dedicated time for leisure and exploration. Here are 10 pointers for creating a remote work schedule:
- Block non-work hours: blocking work hours can help you unplug and unwind at the end of the day. It draws a clear boundary between “work” and “home” life.
- Add uninterrupted focus time in your schedule: So much distracts us during the day: pets, kids, emails, phone calls, and the list goes on. To create an effective remote work schedule that allows you to focus, be sure to add uninterrupted focus time to your schedule.
- Schedule meetings for your most “unproductive” time: Yep, you read that right, schedule meetings when your focus is least productive! Scheduling important or complicated tasks during your peak hours is a better use of your time and will be more productive in the long run.
- Schedule breaks, just as you would important meetings: In order to stay productive and focused during the day, it is important to schedule breaks so that you avoid burning yourself out. It is common among remote workers to take a break, so set an alarm if you need to remind yourself.
- Mimic your office schedule: Just because you’re out and about doesn’t mean that you should either A-blow off work completely or B-work so much that you don’t enjoy your surroundings. Remember, in an office, you get lunch breaks, coffee breaks, get up, and walk-around breaks, so structure your schedule at your remote office like you would in a regular office.
- Create ground rules: If you are sharing your adventure with others (kids, pets, significant others), then remember to set ground rules around your workspace. It can be hard to concentrate with commotion, and Zoom calls don’t go so well with kids screaming in the background. Be sure to set clear ground rules around office hours.
- Practice self-care, even during working hours: Make a habit of practicing self-care every day, even during work hours. This lifestyle can sometimes be wrought with struggles, so be sure to slow down and step away from the laptop every once in a while to recharge yourself.
- Don’t bite off more than you can chew: Don’t forget why you decided to hit the road in the first place. It wasn’t to work all the time! It was to get out and explore! So don’t take on so much work that you don’t have time to get outside and enjoy the RV Lifestyle and all the joys it can bring!
- Stay out of the bedroom: Be sure to create a space that is solely dedicated to work. It can be tempting to take an afternoon siesta, especially on a busy work day, but doing it too often can train your brain that the bedroom is where you go when you are stressed, making sleep at night all that more difficult.
- Create a closing ritual: Disconnect from your work at the end of the day. Be sure to close your laptop, put away your work things, etc. Having it all in under one tiny roof can make it difficult to truly walk away, so do your best to end the work day and begin your evening rituals.
DO: Unwind
From practicing self-care during the day to remembering to take your lunch breaks, incorporating some hiatus time is an important part of your regular routine. Step outside to stretch, enjoy the scenic views, or simply relax in your lounge chair. Taking breaks and separating yourself from your work is essential for recharging your mind and preventing burnout. Be sure to incorporate moments of relaxation throughout your day. Here are several tips for incorporating self-care into your work day:
- 60-Second Desk Cleanup: Take 1 minute to straighten up your workspace. Put pens away, dust, put away notebooks, or other objects that often get left out. Make your workspace clean and tidy and watch as your productivity soars!
- Enjoy a healthy snack: Keep healthy snacks nearby and take the time to enjoy some trail mix or jerky when you get hungry.
- Take a water break: Take a break and enjoy a few sips of water. Oftentimes, when we’re feeling hungry, it is simply that we are thirsty, so try some water before heading off to the snacks.
- Stay Comfortable: Nobody likes working at an uncomfortable desk; be sure to put in the time to make your office on the road a comfortable place to work from.
- 5-Minute Stretch: Head outside and do 5 minutes of stretching or light yoga. This will revitalize you and keep you flexible; getting up and moving around when working is essential for your overall health, both physically and mentally.
- Practice Good Eye/Screen Health: Give your eyes a break from the screen, too, and remember, don’t work so late into the evening that the blue light emitted from your screen starts to affect your sleep schedule. Be sure to disconnect and let your eyes wander, especially around your scenic environment.
- Post Inspiring Words: Keep favorite quotes, images, or words posted near your desk. This keeps motivation close at hand.
- Set Boundaries: We’ve said it before, but it’s worth repeating: make sure you set clear boundaries for both yourself and for other travel mates regarding your working schedule. Do your best to reduce interruptions during your work day.
- Schedule your time wisely: Remember to schedule mundane tasks like checking email to ensure that things don’t “slip through the cracks.”
DO: Secure your Data & Protect Your Privacy
When working remotely, it’s crucial to secure your data and protect your privacy. Use a VPN (virtual private network) to encrypt your internet connection and keep sensitive information safe. Don’t forget to invest in cybersecurity software as well. This will protect your devices from potential threats. Remember, a secure remote work environment is a productive one. You don’t want the hassle of losing work or having to wipe a computer that’s been attacked by a virus.
Embracing the Freedom of Remote Work
As remote work opportunities continue to rise, working from your RV offers an incredible chance to combine your career with your love for adventure. With proper planning for connectivity and power, attention to your comfort, a well-structured schedule and privacy protection, you can also enjoy the freedom of remote work while exploring the beauty of the open road. So hit the highways, set up your mobile office and experience the best of both worlds: work and wanderlust. If you find yourself in the heart of Aggieland on your adventures, be sure to stop in and say “Howdy” at Galloping Snail and catch a game at Kyle Field!