As an engineer traveling long-term while working remotely, reliability matters more to me than trends. I don’t want to waste your time with endless product comparisons.
This page shows exactly what products I use today — gear I’ve relied on for years and would buy again without hesitation.
Some links on this page are affiliate links.
If you buy through them, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
I only recommend products I trust and would personally use.
Anti-Theft Travel Backpack (Cut-Resistant & Lockable)
Getting your stuff stolen while traveling is the worst — I know from experience!
Even before I became a digital nomad, I trusted PacSafe backpacks. I’ve owned three models so far: big check-in luggage, small daypacks, and even a waist pouche to hide money and passport under my shirt.
They’re designed to keep your belongings safe: cut-resistant, lockable, and tamper-proof. You can even seal them before check-in — no one can sneak illegal items into your bag, and then let you carry it over the border -> THIS is a real issue in parts of Asia
Why this PacSafe
I’ve been using them for years, and apart from a few minor cosmetic marks, nothing has ever broken. They are both stylish and comfortable to wear.
Some PacSafe backpacks even come with a built-in padlock and a steel cable or rod, so you can physically secure your bag to a fixed object if you need to step away for a few minutes. Even with heavy tools it takes several minutes to break them open. Without heavy tools its almost impossible. This is especially handy in cafés, airports, or hostel luggage storage! Yes, with enoug htime everything can be broken, but think about a hostel luggage storage. Will they steal that one secured backpack, or one of the others that just lay around there?
Key security features
- Cut-resistant fabric and straps
- Lockable zippers
- Hidden pockets
- RFID-blocking compartments
- Reinforced anchor points
Why I use it
- Peace of mind in crowded places
- Laptop and passport stay protected
- Comfortable enough for all-day wear
Downside
- Slightly heavier than ultra-minimal backpacks
- Not the cheapest option, but it saves you from the nightmare of replacing a stolen passport or laptop on a tiny Caribbean island.
Since there is so any differnet backpacks from PackSafe, I do not want to waste your time, just see for yourself. You can finde theme here
Favorite External Monitor for Travel Work
Why I travel with an external screen
A second screen can dramatically boost your productivity when working remotely. Let’s be honest — you won’t get nearly the same work done on a single laptop screen as you would with a second screen right next to it. I recommend choosing an external monitor roughly the same size as your laptop; that way, it’s easy to carry and fits neatly alongside your laptop in your backpack. I’m doing it since YEARS and I love it.
I use Asus ZenScreen. The ZenScreen comes in many different models and sizes, but as I mentioned earlier, I recommend choosing one that is roughly the same size as your laptop for easy portability. Here’s a link to my favorite model, but you’ll also find the other options available there.
What I look for
- USB-C single-cable connection
- Lightweight (<1kg)
- Good brightness and viewing angles
- Works with Mac & Windows
Why this one
- Easy setup (plug & play)
- Fits in backpack sleeve
- No extra power adapter needed
- Just ONE USB-C is all you need to make it work
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Some links on this page are affiliate links.
If you buy through them, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
I only recommend products I trust and would personally use.