Blending work with vacation can lead to unforgettable travel experiences and inspired work. This combination lets you go beyond your limited vacation days and budget to explore more places. But to pull that off, you’ll need to be sure you can fulfill your professional duties efficiently. And the right setup should have more than just an amazing view. Your home-away-from-home office should be ergonomic and have the right technology. This will keep you comfortable and productive so you can excel at work and fully enjoy your chosen destination. Here’s a guide to finding and optimizing your workspace.
1. How to find accommodation with a workspace?
Short-Term Rentals
When seeking a short-term rental for your workation, look for offices or work areas. Carefully review the photos in the listing to get a clear idea of the workspace. Ask yourself if it’s somewhere you would like to work. Beyond that, here are a few elements to consider:
Separate workspace: Lodging with offices or partitioned workspaces can be key. If you’re traveling with others, this can shelter you from distractions. Even if you’re going solo, having a separate work area and living space keeps you focused when it’s time to get down to business. Airbnb’s “dedicated workspace” filter can help you narrow your search. Are you not going on a workation but seeking temporary housing because your insurance company is relocating you after a home disaster? SiniSTAR’s platform can find housing with a workspace. In response to the question “Do you have any special needs?” when filing the accommodation request, simply mention that you need a workspace.
Shelves and cabinets: Are there enough shelves and cabinets to stay organized? A tidy office translates to a clear, focused mind.
Light: Is there enough light to avoid eye strain and keep your spirits up? The best spaces will have plentiful natural light. A window can make a big difference. Gazing outside during short breaks reduces eye and mental fatigue.
Hotels
Many hotel rooms are well set up with a desk, chair, and high-speed internet. If you’re traveling with others, stay at a hotel with a business center, which will usually have desks, PCs, and printers. But be sure these facilities are in a quiet location. I’ve stayed in hotels with business centers located in a hallway or next to the reception, where it was hard to concentrate. Some search platforms have filters for business centers. For example, Expedia has a filter for business-friendly hotels with such amenities. To find it, just scroll down and look under “Traveler experience.”
Check the internet speed.
Wherever you stay, having fast internet is essential. An article on internet speed from Forbes Home suggests a minimum of 25 Mbps. This ensures you can handle video calls, downloads, and online tasks. If you’re not alone or have several devices, aim for 100 Mbps. This higher speed supports multiple users and devices at once, keeping everyone connected and happy. Always check the internet speed of your rental before booking to avoid work disruptions.
Rent a coworking space.
If your desired lodging doesn’t come with a dedicated workspace, don’t worry. Platforms like Deskpass and LiquidSpace offer convenient ways to find and book private office spaces or coworking spaces in cities across North America. These apps allow you to search based on your location, preferences, and budget. They make it easy to find a suitable workspace for your needs. Coworking spaces offer several advantages, including access to amenities, such as high-speed internet, printers, and meeting rooms, as well as opportunities for networking and collaboration with other professionals. While coworking spaces require a higher budget, they provide an environment conducive to getting work done when you’re away from home.
2. How to optimize your workspace in a short-term rental?
Sit in a comfortable chair.
If you already work remotely, you know how important an ergonomic chair is. Otherwise, aches and pains will lower your productivity and enjoyment of your trip. Ideally, your short- or medium-term rental will have one. It should allow your back to rest comfortably against the backrest and support your spine’s natural “S” curve. If your chosen short-term accommodation doesn’t have a good chair, a lumbar support pillow can be a solution.
Bring a portable monitor.
If you normally use a second screen, there’s no need to settle for your laptop monitor when you’re on the road. Many types of portable monitors are available. Here are some important aspects to consider when choosing one:
Resolution: Look for a portable monitor with a resolution of at least 1080p (Full HD) for crisp, clear visuals. Higher resolutions, such as 1440p or 4K, provide even sharper images.
Brightness: Ensure that it’s bright enough for your needs, especially if you plan to use it outdoors or in well-lit environments. The brightness level should be at least 250 nits.
Portability: Consider its size and weight. It should be easy to carry in your laptop bag or backpack. Most portable monitors range from 14 to 16 inches.
Connectivity: Check the available ports. USB-C is a common, versatile option for connecting to laptops.
Stand: Look for a monitor with a stable, adjustable stand. Some come with integrated stands that allow for both landscape and portrait orientations.
Additional Features: Some portable monitors offer extra features, such as touchscreens, software integrations, or wireless connectivity. Consider whether these features might be useful.
Compatibility: Ensure it’s compatible with your laptop’s operating system. Some monitors may have limitations with certain OSs.
The New York Times Wirecutter has a recent article recommending the best portable monitors.
Bring noise-canceling headphones.
High-quality noise-canceling headphones can be a lifesaver. Whether you listen to music or just wear them to block out noise, they help eliminate distractions if your work environment isn’t ideal. By creating a portable quiet zone, they also make it easier to change things up and get out for a work session in a café or park.
If you purchase headphones before your trip, consider comfort (models that cover your ears are better than earbuds), battery life, and noise-canceling abilities. For recommendations on the best models, read this recent New York Times Wirecutter article.
Sources
1. My workation experiences in Washington state, Portugal, central Pennsylvania, the Sagnenay region in Quebec, among others.
1. https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/home/all-about-internet-speed/
1. https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/7-things-you-need-for-an-ergonomically-correct-workstation/
1. https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-portable-monitor/
1. https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-noise-cancelling-headphones/