7 Ways to Handle Loneliness as a Digital Nomad

Introduction.

Being a digital nomad is an exciting lifestyle. The freedom to work from anywhere, explore new places, and meet interesting people sounds like a dream come true, right? But behind all the perks, there’s one challenge that many of us face: loneliness.

It can sneak up on you when you least expect it, especially when you’re hopping from one country to another or working alone in a coffee shop all day.

As much as you love the freedom, the constant travel and remote work can make you feel isolated. You may find yourself missing the regular interactions you used to have with friends and family, or simply wishing for someone to share a moment with during your lunch break.

But don’t worry, you’re not alone in feeling this way. Studies show that loneliness is a growing issue for digital nomads and remote workers.

According to a 2022 survey by Buffer, 20% of remote workers struggle with loneliness (source: Buffer’s State of Remote Work report).

That’s a big chunk of people who, just like you, are figuring out how to stay connected and maintain their mental health while living a life on the move.

If you’re dealing with loneliness as a digital nomad, you’re in the right place. Let’s talk about practical ways to handle it and keep your social life, happiness, and sense of belonging intact while you live and work remotely.

Here are 7 simple and effective ways to beat loneliness when you’re working from anywhere.

1. Find Local Communities to Join

When you arrive in a new city or country, one of the first things you can do is look for local communities that share your interests.

This could be anything from a co-working space to a meetup group for digital nomads, or even something as simple as a hobby group.

Being part of a local community gives you the chance to meet people, make new friends, and find a sense of belonging.

You don’t need to dive into deep friendships right away, but even small interactions with locals or fellow travellers can break the isolation.

Websites like Meetup.com or Facebook groups often have local gatherings for digital nomads and other expats.

If you’re in a larger city, you’ll likely find digital nomad hubs where people are doing the same thing you are: working remotely while exploring new places.

Co-working spaces are also great because they’re designed for remote workers to interact, collaborate, and socialize.

2. Take Advantage of Online Communities

It’s not all about the places you visit in person; online communities are a great tool for staying connected when you’re on the go.

There are tons of digital nomad Facebook groups, Discord servers, and Slack channels where you can interact with like-minded people, share experiences, and even meet others who are in similar situations.

Online communities can be a lifeline for digital nomads, especially when you’re feeling disconnected or homesick.

These groups often organize virtual meetups, group chats, or even online happy hours where you can unwind and talk to others who understand your lifestyle.

Platforms like Reddit also have thriving communities where you can discuss everything from tips on managing loneliness to finding accommodation in a new city.

Staying connected to people who get what you’re going through can help ease the feelings of isolation.

3. Develop a Routine

One of the hardest parts of being a digital nomad is the unpredictability of life on the road. New cities, different time zones, and the constant flux can make you feel unmoored and disconnected. But having a routine can help you feel more grounded.

It doesn’t have to be rigid, but having a general plan for your day can give you something to look forward to and help you feel in control.

A simple morning ritual, like making a cup of coffee while reading or taking a walk to explore your new surroundings, can set a positive tone for the day.

If you’re working from a co-working space, try to get into the habit of going there around the same time each day, so you’re not just working but also starting to form connections with regulars.

Creating a routine that works for you, even if it’s just small habits, can make life feel less chaotic and help you stay balanced while navigating the digital nomad lifestyle.

4. Travel With a Friend or Partner

This one might not always be an option, but if you have the chance, consider travelling with a friend or a partner for part of your journey. Having someone around can take a lot of the pressure off when it comes to loneliness.

You don’t need to travel together all the time, but splitting your time between solo adventures and shared experiences can help keep your social needs balanced.

Sharing the highs and lows of your travels with someone close can also provide you with emotional support, which is important for mental health.

If travelling with someone full-time isn’t an option, maybe plan a trip with a friend or family member during a slower period in your travels. It can be a great way to reconnect and recharge your social batteries before heading off on your own again.

5. Pursue Meaningful Hobbies

Hobbies are not only a fun distraction, but they can also be a great way to meet people and reduce feelings of loneliness.

When you’re always on the move, it can be tempting to skip personal interests because you’re busy with work and travel.

But making time for hobbies is essential. It’s an easy way to relieve stress, build connections, and give your life more balance.

You might find yoga classes, cooking workshops, or even photography clubs in the cities you visit. Hobbies like these can help you engage with people on a deeper level and create a sense of belonging, even in a new place.

6. Be Intentional About Socializing

When you’re travelling and working remotely, it’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget to carve out time for socializing. But if you don’t make an effort, you might end up spending weeks without real human interaction.

Be intentional about meeting up with others. Even if you’re not in the mood, push yourself to attend events, join co-working spaces, or visit cafes and bars where other remote workers are.

You might not feel like going out every day, but making small efforts to engage with others will help prevent feelings of isolation.

As a digital nomad, you have a unique opportunity to meet new people from all walks of life. But it’s up to you to take the first step. Don’t wait for others to reach out to you—take the initiative.

7. Practice Self-Care and Mental Health Awareness

Last but certainly not least, it’s crucial to look after your mental health when living the digital nomad lifestyle.

Loneliness can quickly turn into stress, anxiety, or depression if it’s left unchecked. Make sure you’re taking time each day for self-care, whether that’s through exercise, meditation, journaling, or just relaxing with a good book.

You might also want to talk to a therapist or a counselor who specializes in remote workers or digital nomads. Many therapists offer online sessions, so it’s easier than ever to get support, no matter where you are.

When you take care of your mental and physical health, you’re better equipped to handle the ups and downs of the nomadic lifestyle.

FAQs

How can I meet other digital nomads when travelling solo?

Join co-working spaces, attend local meetups, or engage in online communities. Platforms like Meetup.com and Facebook groups often have events for nomads and expats.

What are the best ways to stay connected to family and friends while travelling?

Schedule regular video calls, send updates via social media or messaging apps, and plan trips to visit home whenever possible. Staying in touch consistently helps reduce feelings of isolation.

How do I avoid feeling overwhelmed with loneliness while on the road?

Create a routine, be intentional about socializing, and prioritize hobbies or activities that bring joy. Reaching out to fellow nomads and forming connections can also help.

Conclusion

Being a digital nomad has its challenges, and loneliness is one of them. But with a few strategies, you can manage it and still enjoy the freedom and adventure that come with this lifestyle.

From finding local communities to making time for self-care, there are plenty of ways to stay connected, both with others and with yourself.

If you’re a digital nomad, how do you handle loneliness on the road?