Relational work in motion: navigating romantic relationships as digital nomads

Digital nomads (DNs) employ digital tools to work remotely while traveling, allowing them to explore various locations without having the constraints of a single workplace. This research focusses on the perceived challenges of DNs in forming and maintaining romantic relationships. Through participant observation, 20 in-depth interviews with DNs, and an analysis of the r/digitalnomad sub-reddit, this study explores: 1) how DNs explain their experience with romantic relationships in relation to their lifestyle; 2) how they deal with the difficulties of forming and maintaining romantic relationships. Guided by relational work and inter-role conflict theories, we identify four conflict types of within DNs’ romantic relationships: attitude-based, location-based, time-based, and money-based. To address these conflicts, our interviewees used resource conservation, segmentation, and compensation mechanisms. The paper also discusses DNs’ strategies for finding new romantic partners, such as attending DN events organised via social media groups to connect with fellow DNs, as many believed that finding a partner who was also a DN would be ideal to keep their lifestyle and not to have to reduce their mobility patterns. Moreover, DNs engaged with locals through meetups and dating apps. In existing romantic relationships, technology played an important role by enabling connectedness between partners that might be in different locations. Higher levels of communication were also key to maintaining romantic relationships and negotiating boundaries. Our findings highlight the prioritisation of the lifestyle over romantic commitments, while identifying the significant role of boundary negotiations in sustaining intimate relationships.