Is ‘workation’ burnout a real thing for remote nomads and how to prevent it?

Question

Description:

I’m a remote worker embracing the digital nomad life. Lately, the constant travel and trying to balance work with exploring new places feels exhausting rather than liberating. Is ‘workation burnout’ a recognized issue, and what are some strategies to prevent it while still enjoying the freedom of remote work?

7 Answers

Sort by:

Jamie Walker 17 May 2025

Copy answer link Report answer
Prioritize essentials for your well-being: consistent sleep, decent nutrition (not just tourist food all the time!), and a comfortable, reliable workspace. Constantly changing environments can disrupt these, so make a conscious effort. And don't skimp on finding accommodation with good Wi-Fi and a proper desk setup – your work productivity depends on it.
39
Anonymous 15 May 2025

Copy answer link Report answer
Separate 'work' days from 'explore' days, or at least dedicated 'work hours' from 'explore hours'. Don't try to cram a full day of sightseeing around a full day of work. It's not sustainable. Maybe explore in the evenings and dedicate one full weekend day to deeper exploration, and the other to rest/life admin.
38
Jordan Lewis 20 May 2025

Copy answer link Report answer
Maintain some non-travel related routines or hobbies. A daily meditation practice, a regular call with family/friends back home, an online course. These can provide a sense of stability and normalcy amidst constant change. It's grounding.
31
Anonymous 3 Jul 2025

Copy answer link Report answer
You're not imagining it; mixing constant novelty with deadlines creates a special kind of exhaustion driven by decision fatigue and social pressure to [do it all]. Try treating travel as a variable you control. Rotate between three modes: mobility weeks for sightseeing, work-sprint weeks where you minimize outings and maximize focus, and recovery weeks where you stay put and do almost no planning. Use energy-led scheduling so your best work hits your peak hours and automate routine choices like meals and clothes to save decision energy. Join local coworking or meetups to reduce isolation without overbooking your calendar. Give yourself permission to skip an attraction
26
Shirley 22 May 2025

Copy answer link Report answer
Be realistic about your budget. Constantly moving and eating out can be expensive and add stress. Slower travel and cooking some of your own meals can reduce financial pressure, which in turn reduces overall burnout risk.
25
Hailey Sanders 21 May 2025

Copy answer link Report answer
it's real. pick a home base and stick to one time zone for months, mute travel socials to kill fomo
5

Want to answer?

Join the conversation and help others by sharing your insights.

Log in to your account or create a new one — it only takes a minute and gives you the ability to post answers, vote, and build your expert profile.

Log in or Register ›

Accepted Answer · 2025-05-15T16:30:00+00:00

Absolutely, it's real! The pressure to constantly 'make the most' of a new location while also delivering on work commitments is a recipe for exhaustion. Strategy 1: Slow down your travel. Instead of a new city every week, try staying in one place for a month or more. This allows you to establish a routine, actually unpack, and explore at a more relaxed pace without work suffering.