I Bet on Crypto

Crypto for digital nomads & remote workers

Learn how to use crypto safely to meet your needs, wherever you are in the world.

Crypto is here

The rise of cryptocurrency has already transformed the way many digital nomads and remote workers manage their finances, conduct transactions, and secure their savings while living across borders. Do you want to get on board and add more financial freedom to your life? Then, read on.

Unlike traditional banking systems that are often slow, expensive, over-regulated and geographically restrictive, crypto provides a fast, borderless, and secure financial ecosystem. This practical guide is your starting point for integrating cryptocurrency into your lifestyle.

We are in the same boat as you – relocated over a dozen times for work and business. Yet only in the last 5 years, as we started to use crypto to help reduce financial burdens with the relocations, we can confidently share our crypto discoveries with you.

We will cover everything from the basics of crypto to its practical applications for everyday transactions, savings and investment opportunities, entertainment, and more. We will also discuss the risks and best security practices to help you navigate the world of digital finance safely.

Read on and you will have a better understanding of how to incorporate crypto into your dynamic life, whether you are an experienced traveller or just starting your journey.

What is cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrency is a form of digital money that operates on blockchain technology. Unlike traditional currencies controlled by central banks, crypto is decentralized, meaning no single entity has control over it. Transactions are verified by a network of computers, ensuring transparency and security. It basically means that no nasty government or a random banking institution has control over your money. In our current world, we find it simply brilliant!

Key features of cryptocurrency:

  • Decentralization

    Unlike fiat currencies (USD, EUR, etc.), crypto is not controlled by any government or central authority. This makes it resistant to censorship and inflation.

    • Example: In countries with high inflation, such as Argentina or Venezuela, people can use stablecoins to preserve their savings.

  • Security

    Transactions are recorded on a public ledger (blockchain), making them tamper-proof. Advanced cryptographic techniques ensure high security.

    • Tip: Always use a reputable exchange and enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) to prevent hacking.

  • Anonymity & privacy

    Unlike traditional bank accounts that require personal details, crypto wallets can be created anonymously.

    • Hint: Privacy-focused coins like Monero (XMR) and Zcash (ZEC) offer even greater anonymity.

  • Global accessibility

    Crypto can be sent and received anywhere in the world, making it perfect for travellers who often move between different countries.

    • Example: A freelancer in Bali can get paid in crypto by a client in the US without worrying about banking fees or currency conversion.

  • Programmability

    Cryptocurrencies like Ethereum (ETH) allow for smart contracts — self-executing contracts with terms written in code.

    • Example: Smart contracts are used in decentralized finance (DeFi) for automated lending and borrowing.

Who is crypto for, and what can you do with it?

As you can already understand, cryptocurrency is not just for tech-savvy investors; it is for anyone who values financial independence, low fees, privacy and global accessibility.

At some point, you may want to buy a condo and pay an initial property deposit in Thailand, do it easier and cheaper with crypto! Is anyone a football or tennis fan and wants to bet on the favourite team or player anonymously, do it with crypto! Simply use your hard-earned cash without opening dozens of local bank accounts, do it with crypto!

So, who can benefit from using crypto?

  • Freelancers & remote workers

    Crypto enables instant global payments, reducing the need for expensive bank transfers.

    • Example: A web developer working for international clients can receive payments in USDT instead of waiting for a SWIFT transfer.

    • Tip: Use freelance platforms like Bitwage, which offer crypto salary payouts.

  • Entrepreneurs & digital business owners

    Crypto allows businesses to accept payments from a worldwide customer base.

    • Example: An e-commerce store selling digital products can accept Bitcoin payments through Shopify or WooCommerce integrations.

    • Hint: Consider using payment processors like BitPay or CoinPayments for easy integration.

  • Expats & relocants

    Crypto eliminates the need for local bank accounts, allowing easy access to funds from anywhere.

    • Example: A European moving to Thailand can use a crypto debit card instead of opening a local bank account.

  • Travellers & backpackers

    Avoid currency exchange fees by paying with crypto directly or using crypto-backed debit cards.

    • Example: Booking flights and hotels with crypto through platforms like Travala or CheapAir.

  • Investors & traders

    Crypto offers numerous investment opportunities, including staking, lending, and NFT trading.

    • Tip: If you’re looking for passive income, consider staking some of your crypto savings.

  • Gamers & content creators

    Many gaming platforms now offer crypto payments and blockchain-based games where players can earn digital assets.

    • Example: Axie Infinity allows users to earn Smooth Love Potion (SLP) tokens while playing.

  • Privacy advocates

    If you value financial privacy, crypto offers an alternative to traditional banking.

    • Tip: Use a non-KYC (Know Your Customer) exchange like Bisq for extra anonymity.

Let’s summarise, what can you do with crypto?

  • Send & receive payments

    Transfer funds globally without intermediaries.

  • Buy goods & services

    Purchase everything from laptops to VPNs with crypto.

  • Invest & trade

    Grow your wealth by investing in crypto assets.

  • Earn passive income

    Stake crypto, participate in liquidity pools, or lend assets.

  • Use for entertainment

    Gamble in crypto casinos, bet on sports or buy in-game items.

  • Finance your travels

    Pay for flights, accommodation, and experiences with Bitcoin and stablecoins.

  • Secure your future

    Use crypto as a hedge against inflation and unstable economies.

Digging deeper into benefits of crypto for digital nomads and relocants

  • Borderless transactions

    Crypto allows you to send and receive money from anywhere without needing a local bank.

    • Example: A remote worker in Mexico can easily receive USDT payments from their employer in Germany.

    • Tip: Always check the transaction fees on different blockchains (Ethereum gas fees can be high, while Solana and Polygon offer cheaper alternatives).

  • Lower fees

    Bank fees for international transfers can be high, while crypto fees are significantly lower.

    • Example: Sending money via PayPal or SWIFT might cost $20 –$50, while sending USDT via Binance Smart Chain costs under $1.

  • Financial sovereignty

    No need to depend on traditional banks, which can freeze accounts or impose capital controls.

    • Example: During economic crises, governments sometimes restrict access to bank funds. Crypto ensures you remain in control of your assets.

  • Better exchange rates

    Traditional currency conversion is expensive, while stablecoins like USDT and USDC offer a consistent value.

    • Tip: Use P2P platforms like Binance P2P to get the best exchange rates when cashing out crypto.

  • Access to a global economy

    Work with international clients and get paid in crypto, avoiding exchange rate fluctuations.

    • Example: A digital marketer in Bali receives payments in DAI (a stablecoin pegged to USD) instead of dealing with local currency fluctuations.

What are crypto must-haves: Essential tools for digital nomads

Crypto wallets

A crypto wallet is your gateway to managing digital assets. There are two main types:

Crypto exchanges

Exchanges allow you to buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies. In brief, there are two kinds of such companies:

  • 1. Centralized exchanges (CEXs)

    • User-friendly, and high liquidity, but requires identity verification (KYC).
    • Examples: Binance, ByBit, WhiteBit.
    • Example: A freelancer uses Binance to convert Bitcoin earnings into stablecoins (USDT) before withdrawing to a bank account.

  • 2. Decentralized exchanges (DEXs)

    • No KYC, more privacy, but less beginner-friendly.
    • Examples: Uniswap, PancakeSwap, dYdX.
    • Example: A privacy-focused traveller swaps Ethereum (ETH) for DAI using Uniswap without revealing personal details.

Crypto cards

Whilst you can use an exchange account wallet to convert your crypto into local currency, for quick and easy everyday transactions you may want to opt for a crypto card to convert your crypto into fiat instantly and spend it anywhere.

  • Examples: Crypto.com Visa, WhiteBit Nova, ByBit Card.
  • Tip: Choose a card with low fees and good cashback rewards.
  • Example: A nomad in Bali uses a Crypto.com Visa card to pay for small purchases like coffee and cafe meals using their Bitcoin balance.

Risks of using crypto: Is it a gamble?

We’ve covered many advantages of using crypto, but are there risks involved too? Let’s discuss volatility, scams and fraud, and regulatory uncertainty.

  • Volatility

    Crypto prices can fluctuate dramatically.

    • Example: Bitcoin fell from $69,000 to $30,000 in a few months in 2021.
    • Tip: Keep everyday spending in stablecoins like USDT or USDC to avoid losses.

  • Scams and fraud

    • Examples: Rug pulls, phishing attacks, fake investment schemes.
    • Tip: Always verify websites, avoid suspicious links, and research projects before investing.

  • Regulatory uncertainty

    • Some countries ban or restrict crypto use.
    • Tip: Check local laws before relocating with crypto.

Everyday transactions using crypto

Crypto is becoming more and more widespread and accepted by merchants and companies worldwide. Let us show you just a few important examples of what you can do with crypto on a daily basis.

  • Paying with crypto for goods and services

    • Platforms: Travala (flights & hotels), Overstock (retail), CheapAir (flights).

    • Example: A remote worker books a flight from Spain to Thailand using Bitcoin on Travala.

  • Sending and Receiving Crypto Payments

    • Use low-fee blockchains: Polygon, Solana, Binance Smart Chain.

    • Tip: Always double-check the recipient’s address before sending funds.

So, how do you buy crypto?

  1. Centralized Exchange – Buy with a credit card/bank transfer (Binance, Coinbase).
  2. Peer-to-Peer (P2P) – Buy directly from other users (LocalBitcoins, Binance P2P).
  3. Crypto ATMs – Found in major cities worldwide.

Entertainment with crypto

You may want to try something simple and entertaining, like gaming or dating, and pay with crypto. Remember, there is enhanced anonymity and fast transactions to make it a truly thrilling experience for you.

Investing with crypto

Are you becoming serious about securing and growing your assets? You may want to read more about long-term holding of your crypto, but also staking and lending.

  • Long-Term Holding (HODLing)

    • Best for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stable blue-chip coins.

    • Example: A nomad holds Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation.

  • Staking & yield farming

    • Earn passive income by staking coins on Ethereum, Polkadot, Solana

How to secure your crypto savings

  1. Use a hardware wallet – Avoid keeping large sums in online wallets. They are good for smaller amounts that you’ve budgeted to be used as everyday transactions. Move larger amounts to your hardware wallet.
  2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) – Add an extra layer of security.
  3. Use a VPN service – Use your home private network or protect your transactions via VPN when using public Wi-Fi.

Crypto trading

Curious about trading crypto and earning even more income? There are many trading strategies available, but the main ones are day trading and swing trading.

Day trading vs. swing trading

  • Day Trading: Short-term trades based on market fluctuations. Use a large amount and even on 1-3% fluctuations you will earn a decent income.
  • Swing Trading: This is a longer-term strategy when you are holding assets for days or weeks waiting for bigger fluctuations and therefore profits.

  • Automated trading bots

    • Platforms: 3Commas, Pionex, Cryptohopper.
    • Example: A trader uses a bot to execute trades automatically while travelling.

    • We recommend having a look at some useful crypto products for digital nomads

    • Crypto-friendly insurance

      Providers like SafetyWing accept crypto.

    • VPNs for privacy

      Safeguard your crypto every day.

    • Cloud storage

      Storj, Sia offer decentralized file storage.

    Feeling lonely during your travels? Use crypto for dating sites’ subscriptions

    • Platforms: OkCupid, Luxy, CryptoDating accept Bitcoin.
    • Example: A traveller in Dubai subscribes to a premium dating app using USDT.
    • Benefit: Complete privacy of your transactions

    Ready to take a few first steps with crypto?

    Cryptocurrency is a powerful tool for digital nomads and relocants, offering financial independence, security, and flexibility. Whether you’re using it for transactions, investing, entertainment, or even dating, understanding its risks and benefits is essential for making the most out of this technology.

    Are you ready to start your crypto journey?