Work Remotely from your Toyota Coaster
If you are lucky enough to have a job where you can work from anywhere, taking to the road and working remotely from your Toyota Coaster can be an absolute joy.
As a Marketing Manager for a real estate company, I have been lucky enough to have worked remotely for over ten years now. Just lately I have started working remotely from my Toyota Coaster. How lucky am I!
The business I work for is based in Canberra, but I live and work from the beautiful Barossa Valley in South Australia. Before South Australia, I lived and worked remotely from Hobart in Tasmania for the same business. I love my lifestyle and I love working from home. Every day I remind myself how lucky I am to be able to do this, and how grateful I am for this opportunity.
Technology is key
Over the years the tools I have used to work remotely have changed a lot. The National Broadband Network has increased download speed, Bluetooth solves most connectivity issues, cloud computing has changed the way I access documents (for the better!) and the devices I use have also changed. It is now possible to work from remote locations that were previously impossible.
Two years ago we became the proud owners of a converted Toyota Coaster Motorhome that I can now use as a mobile office. I love that I can take off for a few days mid week and work remotely from the beach, or the Murray River, or other stunning locations. Work during the day, explore my surroundings in the early mornings and late afternoons. Sit out under the stars at night and ponder life’s big questions. You too can work remotely from your Toyota Coaster! Plan it and make it happen.
What Equipment Do You Need to Work Remotely from your Toyota Coaster?
Working remotely as a content creator demands a set of essential tools to ensure productivity and seamless communication with your team. Here’s a breakdown of the equipment you’ll need:
1. Reliable Laptop
Your laptop is your lifeline. Invest in a reliable model with sufficient processing power and memory to handle all of you tasks. The work that I do doesn’t require much computer processing power so I am currently using a HP laptop computer with Intel Core i7 processor that is super fast to start up and use. I have been using HP computers (lap top and desk top) for about 14 years and I love how they perform. They are also well designed, good looking computers! I have had my current HP laptop since 2018 and it is still going strong after six years. Whatever you choose, opt for lightweight and durable options, as you’ll be carrying it around frequently.
2. High Speed Internet
A stable internet connection is non-negotiable for working remotely from your Toyota Coaster. I get by with the hotspot on my phone, or wifi at my location if there is any. If you need to, research coverage maps to identify areas with strong signal strength.
3. Noise Cancelling Headphones
Working on the road often means contending with varying levels of noise, whether it’s traffic outside or the hum of your motorhome’s engine. Noise-canceling headphones can help create a conducive environment for concentration, allowing you to focus on your tasks without distractions.
4. Portable Power Bank
When you’re working remotely from your Toyota Coaster, access to power outlets may be limited. A portable power bank ensures that your devices remain charged, providing peace of mind during extended work sessions in the wilderness.
5. External Hard Drive
Backing up your work is crucial, especially when you’re constantly on the move. An external hard drive provides ample storage space for your files and serves as a reliable backup solution in case of laptop failures or data loss.
6. Mobile Office Setup
Ideally you could create a designated workspace within your motorhome equipped with a comfortable chair, ergonomic desk, and adequate lighting. I must admit I haven’t quite achieved this yet! I make do with the dining table inside the motorhome which is quite comfortable. The table is just big enough for my laptop, a drink and a notepad. Anything else I need can be spread out on the bed behind me. If the weather is nice I can set up outside as well. Depending on where the sun is at I pick the shady side of the Coaster bus and set up my outdoor table and chair. Once again just enough room on the table for a drink and a notepad. A well-organized workspace enhances productivity and separates your work environment from your living space.
Productivity Tips
Maintaining productivity while working remotely from your Toyota Coaster presents its own set of challenges. Here are some tips to help you stay focused and efficient:
- Establish a Routine: Consistency is key to success when working remotely. Establish a daily routine that includes set working hours, breaks, and dedicated time for relaxation and exploration. Stick to your schedule to maintain productivity and balance. Luckily, self-discipline is a strength of mine. I knuckle down and get the work done in one to two hour windows, then relax with short break in between. Go for a stroll to the café or bakery. Walk down to the river. Take myself out for a nice lunch. Go for a swim in the river or ocean to re-energise myself. Cycle to the nearest town. Make the most of this exciting lifestyle you have created for yourself!
- Set Clear Goals: Define specific, achievable goals for each workday to keep yourself motivated and on track. Break down larger projects into smaller tasks and prioritize them based on deadlines and importance. Schedule tasks that require maximum brain power for the time of day that suits best. For me, I am most productive in the mornings.
- Minimize Distractions: Identify potential distractions in your environment and take proactive steps to minimize them. Close unnecessary tabs and apps on your computer, and utilize website blockers to limit time spent on non-work-related sites. Once again, self discipline is the key here. Distractions are fine, but schedule them in. Work time is work time, play time is play time. Do the first one to earn the right to the second one.
- Stay Connected with Your Team: Effective communication is essential for remote teams. Stay connected with your colleagues through video calls, instant messaging platforms, and project management tools. Regular check-ins foster collaboration and ensure everyone remains aligned with project objectives. There are so many communication options available you just need to choose the ones that suit you and your collaborators. For me, old school phone calls and emails are the options that suit myself and my team. As long as I have phone and internet reception I can work from anywhere.
- Embrace Flexibility: One of the greatest perks of working remotely from your Toyota Coaster is the flexibility it offers. Take advantage of your freedom to explore new destinations and adapt your work schedule to accommodate your travel plans. Embrace the spontaneity of life on the road while maintaining a professional mindset. One thing I have learned is you need to plan your travel and then make it happen. It can be so easy to dream about working remotely from exotic destinations but then not make the effort to plan it and do it.
Advantages of Working Remotely from your Toyota Coaster
Working remotely affords numerous benefits that enhance work-life balance and foster personal growth. Here are some advantages I’ve experienced first hand:
- Freedom to Explore: Remote work allows you to explore new destinations without being tied down to a specific location. Whether you’re traversing the rugged Outback or soaking in the serenity of coastal vistas, working on the road offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure and exploration. It doesn’t have to be long trips. Adventures of two or three days can be just as rewarding.
- Work-Life Integration: Remote work blurs the boundaries between work and leisure, enabling you to seamlessly integrate work commitments with personal pursuits. Embrace the flexibility to attend yoga classes at sunrise, embark on impromptu hikes, or savor sunset picnics—all while meeting your professional obligations.
- Increased Autonomy: Remote work empowers you to take ownership of your schedule and work environment. Enjoy the freedom to design your ideal workspace, experiment with alternative work hours, and cultivate a healthy work-life balance tailored to your individual preferences.
- Reduced Commute Stress: Say goodbye to rush hour traffic and lengthy commutes. Remote work eliminates the need for daily travel to and from the office, freeing up valuable time that can be spent on meaningful activities or simply unwinding in nature.
- Enhanced Creativity: Immersing yourself in diverse landscapes and cultures stimulates creativity and fuels inspiration. Draw inspiration from the majestic beauty of Australia’s natural wonders, channeling newfound perspectives into your creative endeavors as a content creator. You know what they say, a change is as good as a holiday!
Disadvantages of Working Remotely from your Toyota Coaster
While remote work offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility, it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some potential drawbacks to consider:
- Isolation: Working remotely can be isolating, especially when you’re traveling solo for extended periods. Combat feelings of loneliness by staying connected with friends, family, and fellow digital nomads through online communities and social networks. If loneliness is a problem, limit the length of your trips to a few days.
- Communication Barriers: Despite advances in technology, remote communication may still pose challenges due to time zone differences, language barriers, and technical issues. Cultivate strong communication skills and leverage collaborative tools to bridge gaps and foster meaningful connections with your team. Travelling within Australia, the time difference between the west coast and the east coast is three hours in summer. This can mean early mornings when working from Western Australia, but the upside is that you can finish work in the early afternoon and have the rest of the day to relax and explore.
- Distraction Overload: While working from scenic locales may sound idyllic, it can also be rife with distractions. Stay disciplined and maintain a healthy work environment by setting boundaries, establishing designated workspaces, and minimizing interruptions from external stimuli. Being able to be disciplined and stick to your routine will enable you to enjoy the benefits of your exotic locations and not feel guilty for falling behind in your work.
- Tech Challenges: Relying on technology for remote work exposes you to potential technical challenges such as internet outages, software glitches, and hardware malfunctions. Develop contingency plans and familiarize yourself with troubleshooting techniques to mitigate disruptions and ensure continuity of operations. Don’t let the threat of this stop you though. Technical challenges can happen at home too!
- Work-Life Imbalance: The blurred boundaries between work and leisure can lead to burnout and work-life imbalance if left unchecked. Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time, prioritize self-care, and practice mindfulness to maintain equilibrium amidst the demands of remote work.
Happy Coasting!
For more tips on working remotely from your Toyota Coaster or for living in your Toyota Coaster bus, visit our Toyota Coasterpedia page.
