Tools I Actually Use for Remote Work (And What You Don’t Need Yet)
Disclosure: Some links in this article are affiliate links. If you sign up through them, I may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools I actually use.
Remote work doesn’t fail because people choose the wrong tools.
It fails because they buy too many tools before they understand what they actually need.
This list is intentionally short.
It’s based on reducing friction, not chasing productivity trends.
Start with this rule
If you’re just getting started, tools should:
- solve one clear problem
- be simple enough to use daily
- have a free or cheap entry point
If a tool adds complexity instead of clarity — it’s not helping yet.
Core Work Tools
You probably don’t need (yet):
- Full project management suites like ClickUp or Asana Premium
→ Overkill for solo work. Steep learning curve, most features unused. - Paid AI writing tools (Jasper, Rytr)
→ Nice demos, but heavy editing required anyway. - Multiple communication apps
→ Slack + Teams + Discord + WhatsApp = chaos.
What I actually use:
Todoist
Simple task lists, reminders, no distractions.
The free version is enough for most beginners. Pro is ~$4/month if needed.
👉 Why this works: it keeps your brain clear without turning work into a system you have to manage.
Simple task lists and reminders without unnecessary features.
Google Workspace
Docs, Sheets, Drive — covers about 90% of remote work needs.
No fancy alternatives required.
Travel & Safety Tools
You probably don’t need (yet):
- $300+ noise-canceling headphones
→ Good ones start around $100. Try before buying. - “Nomad-specific” insurance marketed as mandatory
→ Many beginners don’t need this immediately. - Multiple eSIM apps
→ One reliable provider is enough.
What I actually use:
Airalo eSIM
Affordable mobile data in 200+ countries.
No roaming fees, easy setup, works in most places I’ve been.
Useful when you land somewhere and need internet immediately — especially if you work online.
SafetyWing
Monthly insurance (~$50) covering medical issues, gear, and remote work scenarios.
Simple setup, straightforward claims.
Money & Banking
You probably don’t need (yet):
- Crypto wallets or trading apps
→ Volatility doesn’t help income stability. - Multiple international bank accounts
→ One solid multi-currency card handles most cases. - Expensive accounting software
→ Google Sheets + free templates work fine early on.
What I actually use:
Revolut (free plan)
Multi-currency account, virtual cards, easy international payments.
Works well for freelancers and remote workers dealing with clients abroad.
Useful if you work with international clients or travel frequently.
Productivity & Focus
You probably don’t need (yet):
- Pomodoro or focus apps
→ Discipline matters more than timers. - Standing desks costing $500+
→ A cheap riser or box works fine. - “Nomad” branded planners
→ Any notebook + Google Calendar is enough.
What I actually use:
Forest App
One-time ~$2 app that gamifies focus and limits phone distractions.
Simple, surprisingly effective.
Helps when phone distractions get out of control.
Final rule: Start minimal
Don’t buy anything until you have:
- stable remote income (at least 2–3 consistent months)
- a clear problem the tool solves
- tested free alternatives first
Most beginners overbuy tools before they even have clients or routines.
Focus on work first. Tools come later.
👉 Not sure what you need yet? Start with Remote Work Basics
