For digital nomads, home is wherever the Wi-Fi connects automatically—and often, that means short- to mid-term stays in furnished apartments. While hotels and hostels have their place, nothing beats the comfort and practicality of a fully furnished rental when you’re trying to balance work, life, and travel.
But renting as a nomad isn’t quite the same as traditional renting. You’re navigating different cultures, currencies, platforms, and expectations. Whether you’re staying a month or a year, here’s how to approach renting furnished apartments in a way that supports your lifestyle without unnecessary stress.
Why Furnished Apartments Work for Nomads
Furnished apartments are ideal for remote workers on the move. They provide the essentials—bed, table, chairs, kitchenware—so you don’t waste time or money setting up a home you’ll only occupy temporarily. Compared to hotels or co-living spaces, apartments often offer more privacy, space, and cost-efficiency.
With a furnished place, you can cook your own meals, maintain a daily routine, and create a more grounded living environment, even if you’re only in town for a few weeks.
Best Platforms to Find Short-Term Furnished Rentals
- Airbnb – While not always the cheapest option, it’s the most widely used for monthly furnished stays. Filter for “monthly stays” to find hosts open to longer bookings, and always message to negotiate better rates.
- Flatio – Aimed specifically at digital nomads, Flatio offers mid-term rentals (1–12 months) with all utilities included and no deposits in many cases.
- Facebook Groups – Local expat or housing groups in cities like Lisbon, Medellín, or Bali often have real listings from individuals, usually at more local prices than on global platforms.
- NomadX, Anyplace, Blueground, and Spotahome – These are niche services catering to longer-stay travelers looking for flexible, fully furnished living spaces.
- Local agents or listing sites – In some cities, old-school real estate agents or local websites still dominate the market. It’s worth asking fellow nomads or locals where to look.
What to Look for in a Nomad-Friendly Rental
- Reliable Internet – Always ask for a screenshot of a speed test. “High-speed” can mean wildly different things depending on the country.
- Functional Work Space – A proper desk and chair make a big difference when working remotely. If they’re not provided, consider portable laptop stands and foldable accessories.
- All-Inclusive Utilities – Simplify your life by choosing apartments where water, electricity, and Wi-Fi are included in the rent.
- Flexible Terms – Look for rentals with flexible check-in/out policies and the ability to extend your stay if needed.
- Safety and Location – Proximity to coworking spaces, cafes, or gyms is a plus. Make sure the neighborhood is safe, especially if you’re arriving after dark or staying alone.
- Laundry Access – In-unit laundry or at least a washing machine in the building saves time and money.
Tips for Booking Like a Pro
- Negotiate for Longer Stays – Hosts are often open to discounts for month-long or multi-month stays. A polite message explaining you’re working remotely and looking to stay longer often opens the door to better rates.
- Avoid Booking Blind – Always read reviews, especially from other remote workers. Look for mentions of noise, Wi-Fi reliability, and responsiveness of the host.
- Use a VPN and Secure Wi-Fi – Even in “private” rentals, take cybersecurity seriously. Many apartments use basic routers with weak passwords.
- Have a Backup Plan – If you’re arriving in a new country and haven’t secured a place yet, book a week in a flexible Airbnb or hostel while you view apartments in person.
What to Watch Out For
- Hidden Fees – Some rentals charge extra for electricity or cleaning. Clarify all costs upfront.
- Scams – If a deal seems too good to be true on Facebook or Craigslist, it probably is. Never send money without a contract or verified platform.
- Poor Maintenance – Furnished apartments get a lot of turnover. Things like appliances, plumbing, and locks may not always be in top shape. Ask recent renters or inspect in person if possible.
Balancing Comfort and Flexibility
The goal is to find a place that feels like home without the long-term commitment. It’s about striking a balance between affordability, comfort, and mobility. Some nomads find a few cities they love and rotate between them, building a reliable list of “home bases” with trusted landlords or hosts.
Renting furnished apartments doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little research and a few repeatable systems, you can set up a solid home base in each new city—so you can focus on your work, meet new people, and enjoy the freedom that drew you to this lifestyle in the first place.