The #1 reason digital nomads quit

Hey Freaking Nomads,

I’ve lost count of how many people I’ve met on the road who were sure digital nomad life was for them.

They sold everything. Bought the flight. Set up their remote gig. Went to visit 12 countries in 12 months.

For a while, everything looked like the dream. And then, a few months in… they were gone.

Some quietly slipped back home. Others published YouTube videos about the “dark side” of digital nomadism after just a few months on the road. A few stuck around but grew bitter, the joy replaced by complaints, nostalgia, and the constant search for the next place that might finally “feel right.”

At first, I thought it was burnout. Or loneliness. Or money. And yeah, those things can be real.

But over time, I started noticing a pattern.

It wasn’t about the Wi-Fi speed. Or the language barrier. Or the lack of oat milk at the café.

It was about something deeper. Something quieter. Something that creeps in slowly, almost invisibly.

It was the inability to adapt.

Not just adapting to new time zones or different plugs or weird supermarket layouts. I’m talking about the real adaptation to cultures, customs, habits, and ways of life that don’t always make sense to you.

Maybe you’re in a country where nobody queues and it feels chaotic. Or somewhere where the Wi-Fi is spotty but the people are deeply present. Or where dinner happens at 10pm and everyone moves slower than you’re used to.

At first, it can be charming. Then… frustrating. Then downright exhausting.

And that’s the moment many people start saying, “This lifestyle isn’t for me.”

But here’s the thing: this is the lifestyle.

Traveling means adapting. Not just occasionally, but constantly.

And every new place is a new invitation to let go of what you think is “normal” and learn to be okay with different.

Sometimes, that’s hard. Really hard. But if you can lean into that discomfort and you learn to embrace the idea that your way isn’t the only way, then something magical happens.

You start seeing beauty in things that once annoyed you. You become more curious. More tolerant. More open.

You stop trying to recreate “home” everywhere you go, and instead, you let each place leave a mark on you.

So if you’re out there feeling frustrated or disoriented, you’re not failing at this lifestyle, you’re doing it right.

Adaptation is the journey. Growth is the reward.

And honestly? That’s what makes this whole thing so damn worth it.

Luca

🗞️ What's new in the nomad world?

• Moldova has a new digital nomad visa... And it’s an easy one. Lower income requirements, affordable living, and a pretty straightforward application make this one worth a look if Europe’s been on your list. Here’s what’s included, who can apply, and why it might be one of the simpler visas to snag in 2025.

Moldova launches digital nomad visa

Moldova just launched a digital nomad visa in 2025. Low costs, easy requirements, and up to 5 years stay in Eastern Europe.

Freaking NomadsLuca Mussari

• 30+ nomad communities. One massive event in Japan. Colive Fukuoka 2025 is back this October, teaming up with 30+ nomad communities and platforms worldwide (yep, we’re in 🙋‍♀️). It’s shaping up to be Asia’s most connected nomad gathering, bringing together creators, founders, and remote workers from around the globe. Oh, and just a reminder: early bird pricing ends August 31, and with our code FREAKINGNOMADS20, you’ll unlock the lowest price available.

Colive Fukuoka 2025 teams up with 30+ nomad communities

Japan is stepping up for nomads. Colive Fukuoka 2025 brings 30+ communities together. Don’t miss Asia’s top digital nomad event.

Freaking NomadsIrene Wang

💼 100% remote jobs handpicked for you

Who is hiring this week? Here are some top roles to check out:

• Financial Control & Audit Support at Workstaff360
• Web Developer - Front End at Vc3
• Senior Mobile Developer at Social Discovery Group
• Full Stack Engineer at Webicient

🧑‍💻 The Nomad Resource of the Week

The PacSafe VentureSafe EXP45 is one of those rare travel backpacks that actually does what it promises: It keeps your stuff safe without being bulky or awkward to carry. Built with security in mind, it’s packed with anti-theft features but still manages to stay practical for everyday nomad life.

Why it’s a favorite:

• Anti-theft design with slash-proof panels and cut-resistant straps
• RFID-blocking pockets to protect cards and passports
• Fits a 15" laptop + 45L of gear
• Water-resistant for unexpected downpours
• Built-in luggage tracker for extra peace of mind

Check out more travel-friendly tools in our full gear guide or browse all our recommended resources.

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📚 Want more digital nomad guides? Read our articles on all things nomad, including travel tips, budgeting & finance, legal and taxes, community, productivity and more.

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We'll see you there, Freaking Nomads 👋

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