As a digital nomad, one of the biggest challenges I face is finding the perfect place to work while traveling. Some days, I need a quiet, structured environment to focus, while on others, I prefer the energy of a bustling café. Both co-working spaces and cafés offer unique benefits, but choosing the right one depends on your work style, budget, and the type of experience you’re looking for. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each so you can decide what’s best for you.
Co-Working Spaces: The Dedicated Work Environment
Why I Love Co-Working Spaces
When I need a productive, distraction-free environment, I always opt for a co-working space. These places are designed for remote workers and freelancers, providing everything from high-speed internet to private meeting rooms.
Here’s why co-working spaces work well for me:
- Reliable Wi-Fi & Facilities:
One of the biggest perks is fast, stable Wi-Fi, which is a must for video calls and uploading large files. Plus, most spaces offer comfortable desks, ergonomic chairs, printing services, and even soundproof phone booths—things I rarely find in a café. - Professional & Focused Atmosphere:
Co-working spaces are filled with other remote workers and entrepreneurs. The energy of people working around me makes it easier to stay motivated and avoid distractions. There’s no background noise of loud conversations, coffee machines, or kids running around. - Networking Opportunities:
One thing I love about co-working spaces is the chance to meet like-minded people. Many offer networking events, workshops, and even social meetups, making them great for both work and expanding my professional circle. - Access to Meeting Rooms & Quiet Zones:
If I have an important Zoom meeting or need a quiet place to focus, I can easily book a meeting room or find a designated quiet space. This is a game-changer compared to working in a noisy café. - Amenities & Perks:
Some co-working spaces offer free coffee, snacks, wellness rooms, and even nap pods. A few even have outdoor areas or rooftop lounges, giving me a nice break between work sessions.
The Downsides of Co-Working Spaces
Despite their benefits, co-working spaces aren’t perfect:
- Cost:
Unlike cafés where I can work for the price of a coffee, co-working spaces come with a fee. Depending on the city, a day pass can range from $10 to $30, while monthly memberships can cost $100 to $500. This isn’t ideal if I’m trying to stick to a budget. - Fixed Hours & Membership Requirements:
Many co-working spaces have set opening hours, unlike cafés that might be open early in the morning or late at night. Some also require monthly memberships, making them less convenient for short stays.
Cafés: The Flexible, Budget-Friendly Option
Why I Love Working in Cafés
Some of my most productive work sessions have happened in charming, cozy cafés. When I want a change of scenery or need to get some creative work done, I love grabbing my laptop and heading to a café.
Here’s why cafés work well for me:
- No Membership Fees:
Unlike co-working spaces, cafés are essentially free—as long as I buy a coffee or snack. This makes them a great option when I want to save money while still having a nice place to work. - Flexible Hours & No Commitment:
Many cafés open early and close late, giving me more flexibility than most co-working spaces. Plus, there’s no need for a membership or booking a space—I can just walk in, find a seat, and start working. - Relaxed & Casual Atmosphere:
Cafés have a more laid-back vibe than co-working spaces. The background noise of conversations, music, and espresso machines can actually be energizing, especially when I’m working on creative tasks. - Great for Short Work Sessions:
If I only need to work for a couple of hours, a café is often the best choice. I can get a coffee, reply to emails, and knock out some work without having to commit to a full-day workspace.
The Downsides of Cafés
While I love the flexibility of cafés, they do have some drawbacks:
- Unreliable Wi-Fi & Power Outlets:
One of the biggest frustrations is slow or unstable Wi-Fi. Some cafés also lack enough power outlets, which can be a nightmare if my laptop battery runs low. - Noise & Distractions:
Unlike co-working spaces, cafés can get loud and unpredictable. I’ve been in places where loud groups, crying babies, or blaring music made it impossible to focus. Noise-canceling headphones help, but they’re not a perfect solution. - Pressure to Keep Buying Something:
If I’m planning to stay for several hours, I feel obligated to keep ordering food or drinks—which can add up quickly. Some cafés also have a strict “no laptops during peak hours” policy, making them unreliable for long work sessions.
So, Which One is Better?
Honestly? It depends on what kind of workday I’m planning. Here’s my general rule of thumb:
- For deep work, meetings, and structured workdays → Co-working spaces
- For casual work, short sessions, and a change of scenery → Cafés
If I need fast Wi-Fi, quiet spaces, and networking opportunities, a co-working space is my go-to. But if I want a relaxed vibe, a good cup of coffee, and a short work session, I’ll head to a café.
The best part about being a digital nomad is having the flexibility to choose! Some days, I work in a co-working space for serious productivity, while other days, I enjoy the ambiance of a café for a more laid-back work session.
What about you? Do you prefer co-working spaces or cafés? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear how you work best while traveling!