5 reasons you’re not a digital nomad yet

Kate, co-founder of Migroot.io here—a tracker that helps people plan and navigate their relocation.

At least 5-7 times a day, I get asked the same question: How do I actually become a digital nomad? What do I need to do to start working remotely?

So I got curious. I asked our users and started a Reddit thread to find out: What’s really stopping people from going nomad—even those who want it badly?

The answers? Surprisingly consistent. Here are the biggest roadblocks keeping thousands from the nomadic life they dream of.

1. Money fears

Financial insecurity is the #1 reason people stay put. Unstable income, lack of savings, and the fear of unexpected expenses abroad make digital nomadism feel too risky. On top of that, many people rent their homes, meaning that if they start traveling, they either have to break their lease or pay double rent—one for their place back home and one for accommodations abroad.

“I’d love to be a digital nomad, but I can’t afford to have a bad month without panicking about rent and food.”

2. Family (and pet) ties

Kids, elderly parents, or a partner who isn’t on board—family responsibilities make it tough to just pack up and go. Nomad life demands flexibility, and that’s not always possible. And it’s not just about human family members—many people have pets, which can make long-term travel complicated and expensive.

“I can’t just leave. My parents need me, and my kids need stability.”
“I have four cats. Traveling with them is hard, but leaving them behind isn’t an option either.”

3. Job Restrictions

Not every remote job means total freedom. Some employers want you online during office hours or require occasional in-person meetings. Additionally, managing visas and taxes can be a complex task.

Many people find that their companies say they support remote work, but they really mean "work from home," not "work from another country." Furthermore, certain jobs, such as property management or other physical work, are not easily performed remotely.

“My company says they support remote work, but they really mean ‘work from home,’ not ‘work from another country.’”

4. Fear of the unknown

Losing job security, health insurance, and the comfort of a structured life can be terrifying. Navigating new cultures, languages, and time zones alone isn’t for everyone. “I like the idea of being a nomad, but what if I get sick in a country where I don’t speak the language?” Additionally, the high cost of insurance and the fear of not finding friends and acquaintances in a new place can be daunting.

“I like the idea of being a nomad, but what if I get sick in a country where I don’t speak the language?”

5. Lack of confidence

Many people doubt their ability to make remote work successful. This self-doubt can stem from imposter syndrome, a lack of skills for remote work, or the struggles of adapting to change. “I see all these people making money online, but I have no idea how I’d even start.”

“I see all these people making money online, but I have no idea how I’d even start.”

So, what’s the conclusion?
It’s both simple and complex. Of course, in today’s world, there are plenty of guides and instructions on how to become a nomad, but we see that the problems are as old as time, and many people need intent or a sign on how to act. If you’re interested, check out the thread on Reddit; you might find like-minded individuals or a convincing rebuttal to your fears.

What’s stopping you?