Spain, with its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history, is an ideal destination for any remote worker. Whether you’re in the buzzing streets of Barcelona, the charming alleys of Seville, or a quiet coastal town, balancing work with travel can be a challenge. However, with the right strategies, staying productive while travelling in Spain is not only achievable but can elevate your experience of working remotely.
1. Plan Your Travel Around Work Commitments
The freedom of remote work can make it tempting to immerse yourself in travel mode, but productivity requires structure. When you’re moving between cities or even regions in Spain, you need to plan around your workload and deadlines. Here’s how you can stay on top of your game:
- Work during your most productive hours: Spain’s laid-back pace means you can use mornings for deep work and explore in the afternoons when cities come to life.
- Reserve exploration for off days: Instead of trying to cram both travel and work into each day, allocate weekends or afternoons for sightseeing, tapas tours, or beach days.
- Use travel breaks to refocus: If you’re moving between cities, schedule lighter tasks like email responses or brainstorming for transit times. Trains in Spain, such as the high-speed AVE, have reliable Wi-Fi, so you can work effectively while travelling.
2. Co-Working Spaces Are Your Best Friend
Spain’s co-working scene is booming, particularly in cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia. These spaces offer more than just fast internet and good coffee—they provide an environment where you can focus and get into a work rhythm. I always find it easier to enter “work mode” in a co-working space rather than in a hotel or Airbnb.
- Pick your space based on location: If you’re staying in a new city for a week or more, research co-working options ahead of time. Spaces like WeWork and Aticco in Barcelona are great for meeting fellow nomads and tapping into the local scene.
- Stay productive with structure: Working in these environments helps maintain discipline. It’s easy to slack off when you’re surrounded by beautiful distractions, but co-working spaces create the sense of accountability you might need.
3. Leverage Productivity Tools and Time Management Apps
The right tools can make or break your productivity, especially when you’re constantly moving. Tools like Trello or Notion can help you stay organised, and RescueTime can track how effectively you’re working. Here’s how to stay on top of things:
- Time block your day: Use time management techniques like the Pomodoro Method or time blocking to ensure you get focused work done in short bursts, and then reward yourself with a break to explore.
- Plan your tasks: Trello, Notion, or Google Calendar are perfect for visualising your week. I recommend setting your priorities for the week in advance, allowing flexibility for travel plans or last-minute adventures.
4. Travel Smart: Work While You’re on the Move
Spain has an excellent transport network, from high-speed trains to regional buses. Use these travel moments to squeeze in work or prep for the next workday. On trains like the AVE, you’ll often find Wi-Fi, making it an ideal opportunity to catch up on tasks.
- Use travel time for low-focus tasks: Flights, train journeys, or even long bus rides are perfect for tasks like sorting emails, planning projects, or reading industry news.
- Stay light: Invest in portable tools like a reliable mobile hotspot and noise-cancelling headphones. Spain has good 4G and 5G coverage across most of the country, so you can stay connected even in rural areas.
5. Ensure Reliable Internet Connectivity
One of the non-negotiables for any digital nomad is a fast and stable internet connection. The last thing you want is to be stuck in a beautiful yet Wi-Fi-less location during an important meeting.
- Mobile hotspots are lifesavers: While co-working spaces and accommodations in cities typically have solid Wi-Fi, rural or coastal areas can be hit or miss. A SIM card from providers like Movistar or Vodafone gives you access to 4G data across Spain.
- Check Wi-Fi before you book: Whether you’re staying at a hotel, Airbnb, or rented apartment, always confirm internet speeds with your host beforehand. Apps like Speedtest can also help you gauge the connection once you’re there.
6. Set Clear Boundaries Between Work and Travel
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of new places, but it’s important to create a boundary between your work life and exploration. The idea of working by the beach sounds idyllic, but distractions can make it hard to focus. Here’s how you can keep them separate:
- Define work hours: Stick to a daily routine that incorporates clear start and finish times. For example, you might work from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., then spend the rest of the afternoon exploring or relaxing.
- Take proper breaks: Embrace Spain’s long lunches or siesta culture. Taking a break in the middle of the day allows you to recharge without sacrificing productivity. Just make sure your break doesn’t last all afternoon!
7. Stay Energised and Healthy
While travelling, it’s easy to neglect your health, which directly impacts productivity. In Spain, there are plenty of ways to stay active and energised even while working.
- Exercise outdoors: Many Spanish cities have parks perfect for a morning run or even outdoor fitness equipment. You could also join a yoga class or take advantage of walking tours to combine activity with leisure.
- Embrace the Spanish diet: The Mediterranean diet is rich in fresh vegetables, olive oil, and seafood. Eating healthy not only keeps you energised but also helps you stay focused on work.
8. Tap into Local Communities for Motivation
Spain has a thriving expat and digital nomad scene, especially in major cities. Use these communities to stay motivated and meet others in the same boat.
- Join meetups: Platforms like Meetup or Facebook groups organise regular gatherings for remote workers and expats. It’s not just a great way to network but also helps with motivation and productivity when you’re sharing experiences with like-minded people.
- Collaborate and learn: Working alongside others with diverse skills can inspire fresh ideas or new ways to approach your tasks. Whether it’s a chat over coffee at a co-working space or collaborating on a project, these connections are invaluable.
Working remotely in Spain offers a fantastic opportunity to blend professional growth with cultural exploration. By structuring your time wisely, tapping into local co-working spaces, and staying disciplined with productivity tools, you can strike a perfect balance between work and travel. Spain’s beauty and energy can fuel your productivity if you plan smartly—allowing you to enjoy both work success and unforgettable experiences.
