10 Must-Have Essentials for Traveling & Working Abroad in 2026

Whether you’re a digital nomad, planning a workation, or you travel a lot for work, you’ll want to make sure you have all the tools you need to stay connected and productive. Comfort, connectivity, and security are at the cornerstone of a strong work environment, and you shouldn’t need to lose out on any of these just because you’re on the road.

In this guide, we’ll cover the 10 essentials you need to strike the perfect work-life balance while abroad.

1. A Reliable International eSIM Service

First and foremost, you need reliable, quick internet connectivity. International roaming is an option for short trips, but if you travel overseas for long periods, roaming charges pile up quickly.

Local SIMs are also an option, but these can bring their own complications. While affordable, it can make it nearly impossible to authorize payments and app logins with 2-factor authentication, especially if your phone can only take one SIM at a time.

This is where an international eSIM service, like WonderConnect, can be your saving grace. They offer affordable rates and a reliable connection, so you don’t have to rely on dodgy café or hotel Wi-Fi.

They also offer coverage in hundreds of countries, so when you travel to a new destination, you can easily secure your next eSIM well in advance. Plus, the eSIM lets you keep your local SIM active, streamlining logins and payment confirmation as if you were back at home.

2. Noise-Canceling Headphones

It’s tough to stay productive when you’re constantly distracted. While some thrive on the buzz of a busy café or the sound of fast typing in a coworking space, others require more control over their surroundings.

Noise-canceling headphones are so important. Not only are they great for getting into the zone and cutting out background noise, but most high-quality models also include voice isolation, making business calls clearer and more professional, no matter where you are.

The Sony WH-1000XM6s are the best headphones for noise cancellation right now – and for earbuds, the Bose QC Ultra Earbuds and Apple AirPods Pro 3 are great choices. What you choose depends on what you find more comfortable.

3. Universal Power Adapter & Surge Protector

Not every country uses the same power fittings, and the last thing you want is to get to your new destination and find out you can’t charge half your appliances! That’s why it’s so important you get a universal power adapter before you leave – especially if you’re a digital nomad who travels to multiple countries throughout the year.

While you can get an adapter at most major airports, they’re usually overpriced and poorly made. Look for universal adapters with a surge protector – super important if you’re going off the beaten path, where you’ll likely encounter power cuts and surges. Two of the best universal power adapters include the TESSAN Voyager 205 and the Epicka Pulse 45W.

4. Ergonomic Portable Laptop Stand

Having a comfortable workstation is critical for back and spine health, especially if you’ll be at a desk on your laptop for long periods. While you won’t have complete control over all the types of chairs and tables you sit at during your travels, you can control your laptop setup in your hotel, Airbnb, or other spots you might be working.

Having your laptop at the right height will improve your posture and comfort throughout each work session. Look for a lightweight, ergonomic laptop stand with multiple angles and levels that you can adjust based on your space and needs.

Consider the Roost V3 Plus or the Lamicall Foldable Laptop Stand, as both offer the best support and variety while remaining lightweight.

Tip: Avoid adhesive fold stands. These are very limited in their capabilities and don’t provide enough support over the long term.

5. A High-Capacity Power Bank (PD Compatible)

A good power bank is a must for long-haul flights, days when you’re on the go for hours, and destinations with limited infrastructure. Avoid models with USB-A ports – these ports are significantly slower than USB-C-to-USB-C chargers.

Keep airplane compliance in mind. Most airlines allow power banks with 100W or lower; anything between 101W and 160W may require prior airline approval. In most cases, anything above 160W is prohibited. Read our guide to taking portable batteries and other electronics on airplanes for more details.

Some of the best choices for power banks are the UGREEN Nexode 20K or the Anker Prime 27.6K.

6. Secure VPN (Virtual Private Network)

Ensuring you have a secure, safe network connection is crucial when working abroad. You don’t know how secure the café or coworking Wi-Fi network is, and you definitely don’t want confidential work information getting hacked while abroad. That’s just added stress you don’t need.

A secure VPN gives you peace of mind. You’ll know your work and personal information are safe if you have to hop on public Wi-Fi networks. Brands such as NordVPN and ExpressVPN are great options for secure, reliable VPNs that you can set up for multiple devices.

7. Portable Second Monitor

Having a good workflow is about creating the work environment you need to thrive, and having a second screen helps. A portable second monitor can increase your productivity, make work easier, and is just a good, nice-to-have.

Second screens are also convenient if you have lots of virtual work meetings that require you to share your screen. By having two monitors, you’ll still be able to see everyone and share your screen without any issues.

A great option that is IOS and Windows compatible is the HP E14 G4. If you require a touchscreen option with active stylus support for design, the Lenovo ThinkVision M14T is a fantastic choice.

8. Cloud Storage & Offline Backup

It goes without saying that being able to save your work is just as important as having the gear you need to do it. You should absolutely have extensive digital storage, whether through Apple iCloud, Windows Cloud, or Google Cloud.

But when digital fails, it’s always good to have a physical offline backup. The last thing you want is poor connectivity or your laptop crashing and losing all your work. The Samsung T7 Shield is currently the best portable SSD, but the tiny Crucial X9 Pro is also an excellent option for digital nomads.

9. Travel Insurance & Tech Coverage

Possibly the most important must-have is comprehensive travel insurance. It helps calm the nerves to know you’re covered in the event of an injury or illness. For digital nomads specifically, you’ll want to know that if your luggage goes missing or your laptop or important tech is stolen, then you’ll have the funds to replace it. Standard travel insurance offers minimal coverage for electronics, so it’s best to go for insurance designed for digital nomads.

SafetyWing and World Nomads are two standout brands that provide comprehensive tech coverage.

Note: In most cases, you will need a copy of your product receipt; if you don’t, it’s unlikely you will receive coverage.

10. A Work-Ready Daypack

Lastly, you need a work-ready daypack. This means you want a backpack that can fit all your tech essentials in one place, so you can grab your bag and go.

Look to get a model like the Aer Tech Pack 3 (X-Pac). This model offers ample space, a self-standing design, and an elite tech organization, so you can easily store all your essentials in one place every time.

For something with a bit more versatility, the Evergoods CPL24 (V3) is a great choice. This model provides loads of space, is very robust, and can serve as your work bag during the week and travel backpack when exploring.

Happy Travels!

Featured image by Vivek Kumar on Unsplash