The freedom to work from anywhere is one of the biggest perks of being a digital nomad or remote worker. But as exciting as it is to hop from one destination to the next, finding a productive and reliable workspace while traveling can sometimes be a challenge. Hotel rooms and noisy cafés don’t always cut it when you need to focus, take calls, or power through deadlines.
That’s where coworking spaces come in. They offer a professional environment, fast Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals. Whether you’re on a short business trip or full-time remote work journey, knowing how to find coworking spaces while traveling can make your life a lot easier and a lot more productive.
Here’s a practical guide to help you find your next work-friendly spot no matter where you go.
Why Coworking Spaces Matter When Traveling
When you’re working remotely on the road, your workspace can have a huge impact on your performance, focus, and mental well-being. Coworking spaces solve several problems that remote professionals commonly face while abroad.
Here’s why they’re worth seeking out:
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Reliable Wi-Fi: No more hunting for cafés with decent internet. Coworking spaces are designed for bandwidth-heavy tasks like video calls and large uploads.
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Professional Environment: Whether you’re doing deep work or taking Zoom meetings, a proper desk and quiet space go a long way.
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Community and Networking: These spaces often attract local entrepreneurs and fellow travelers, creating natural opportunities for collaboration and social interaction.
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Convenient Amenities: Think meeting rooms, printers, phone booths, coffee bars, and ergonomic chairs features you won’t find in a coffee shop.
For those practicing remote work while traveling, a good coworking setup often becomes the foundation of their daily routine.
Use Coworking Search Platforms and Apps
Thanks to the rise of remote work, several websites and apps now specialize in helping travelers discover coworking spaces around the world. These tools make it simple to browse, compare, and even book your workspace in advance.
Here are some top platforms:
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Coworker.com: The most comprehensive coworking directory, covering over 25,000 spaces in 170+ countries. Offers reviews, ratings, and booking options.
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Workfrom: A community-driven app that lists both coworking spaces and laptop-friendly cafés, complete with Wi-Fi speed ratings and ambiance descriptions.
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Croissant: Offers access to multiple coworking spaces in select cities with a flexible pass system. Ideal for short stays and variety seekers.
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Deskpass: Similar to Croissant, it provides a membership model that grants access to a network of coworking spaces. Available in many major U.S. cities and some international ones.
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WeWork: Known for global consistency, WeWork offers day passes and monthly memberships. A good choice if you want familiar quality in big cities abroad.
Use filters to narrow your options by Wi-Fi quality, open hours, amenities, and proximity. These coworking space apps are essential for digital nomads planning ahead.
Check Travel Communities and Forums
Sometimes the best recommendations come from fellow travelers. Online communities are filled with first-hand experiences and up-to-date advice.
Places to find tips:
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Reddit (e.g., r/digitalnomad or r/solotravel)
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Facebook Groups (such as “Digital Nomads Around the World” or “Remote Work & Travel”)
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Nomad List: A platform where users rank cities based on digital nomad-friendliness. Often includes coworking reviews.
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Slack communities: Many remote work Slack groups have location-specific channels with coworking suggestions.
Ask questions like, “What’s the best coworking space in Medellín?” or “Where can I work in Lisbon for a day with good Wi-Fi?” You’ll be surprised by how helpful these networks can be.
Look on Google Maps and Read Reviews
A quick Google search like “coworking space near me” or “coworking in [city]” can uncover hidden gems. Google Maps is a great starting point when you’re already on location.
What to look for:
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High star ratings (above 4.0)
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Consistent positive feedback about Wi-Fi, atmosphere, and cleanliness
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Recent reviews especially those within the last 3–6 months
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Photos of the interior and desk setup
This method is particularly useful when you’re in smaller cities where global platforms may not list every available space.
Book in Advance (or Try a Free Day Pass)
Many coworking spaces offer day passes, free trial days, or discounted first-time rates. Take advantage of these options to test the vibe before committing to a longer pass.
If you’re traveling during peak seasons or in popular digital nomad hubs like Bali, Chiang Mai, or Lisbon, it’s a good idea to reserve a desk in advance especially if you plan to work full-time during your trip.
Booking ahead also allows you to:
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Plan your commute
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Schedule meetings
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Ensure you have access to key amenities (e.g., private rooms or quiet zones)
Evaluate Based on Your Needs
Not all coworking spaces are created equal. Choosing the right one depends on your personal work style and needs.
Questions to ask yourself:
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Is fast, stable Wi-Fi a must?
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Do you need silence or background noise to focus?
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Are phone booths or private rooms important for meetings?
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Do you prefer a social atmosphere or a quiet one?
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Is proximity to your accommodation important?
Look for spaces with flexible options. For example, some places offer hot desks (shared seating), while others offer dedicated desks or even private offices for a premium.
Ask Locals or Hotel/Hostel Staff
Never underestimate local knowledge. Staff at hostels, hotels, or guesthouses often know where remote workers hang out. They might even partner with nearby coworking spaces to offer discounts to guests.
Additionally, many cities have “unofficial” coworking cafés independent coffee shops known for being work-friendly, with plenty of outlets and a chill vibe. These may not show up on formal coworking directories but can be perfect for casual work sessions.
Conclusion:
Finding coworking spaces while traveling doesn’t have to be a guessing game. With the right tools and a bit of curiosity, you can land great workspaces that keep you productive and connected no matter where you are in the world.
