We recently caught up with Malina Padgett, a full-time digital nomad, house sitter, and creative freelancer. From road-tripping across all 50 U.S. states to house sitting in places like Bali and the Netherlands, Malina has turned a love of travel into a lifestyle.
In this interview, she shares what inspired her to go nomadic, the challenges of maintaining a routine on the road, and why she thinks house sitting is one of the best ways to explore the world on a budget.
Tell us a little bit about yourself– who are you, where are you from, and do you do it full-time or sporadically?
I’m a full-time housesitter and digital nomad, photographer, creative freelancer, and UI/UX designer. I’m currently exploring my spiritual side and focusing on developing my intuition.
What were your first experiences as a traveller?
My parents had the goal of my sister and me visiting all 50 states before we graduated high school, so my first experiences as a traveler were long road trips with my family!
I remember distinctly that on every road trip, I would get tired of looking at the scenery and just want to get out of the car.
Best travelling experience?
When I was a teenager, I had the opportunity to visit my grandmother’s hometown in Germany with my mom, sister, and grandmother. It was incredible to see the places I had heard so many stories about as I grew up.
I got the chance to visit her hometown again a few years ago, and it was fun to be able to ‘take her back’ too by FaceTiming her throughout!
What made you decide you wanted to be a digital nomad?
Generally, just want control of my own life and my schedule. Being able to do what I want, when I want, is essential to me, and the digital nomad lifestyle offers me a great deal of freedom.
Would you consider returning to a 9-to-5 job?
I think so. Although there are a lot of benefits to being a digital nomad, I miss having a sense of community, and I think the digital nomad life can be lonely at times – but the grass is always greener, eh?
Where have you visited/lived as a digital nomad?
I’ve done numerous stints in various places through house sitting, including Scotland, the Netherlands, Bali, and all over the US, and I’m currently in London!
Would you consider becoming a house sitter, or have you already done some house sitting?
Yes – that is currently how I travel full-time. I recommend it to everyone looking to travel on an affordable budget and ‘live’ in places they wouldn’t have the opportunity to otherwise.
What do you wish you had known before you became a digital nomad?
How overwhelming the sense of choice can be in this lifestyle. Sometimes it’s so hard to know what to do next when you feel like you have too many options.
What are the best cities for digital nomads from your experience?
10000000% Bali.
Do you think the digital nomad lifestyle is suitable for everyone, or is it more suited to a specific type of person?
I think it can be for everyone! I always recommend to “try it out first” before they dive into a work abroad style trip for a few months.
Going to a nearby city and spending a week or so balancing travel with work is a great way to get your feet wet!
What has been your biggest challenge?
Keeping a routine every time I’m in a new place and new time zone. I used to be really bad about it and as a result, would have a lot of anxiety. It’s essential to keep a routine no matter where you are with the travel lifestyle.
Any travel hacks you can offer?
Pack as light as you possibly can, travel places, and stay long term versus a lot of little trips. Approach each new destination as a new opportunity to live outside your comfort zone!
What’s your plans for the future?
I’m hanging out with family in Indiana, hopping back over to Alaska, and heading back to Europe for a quick trip! I’m hoping to create more content on my YouTube as well as create a few more eBooks to help those interested in traveling full-time!
Want to know where else to find Malina?
Follow Malina’s adventures on her Instagram.
Need Help Getting Started With House Sitting?
Have we got you excited about house-sitting? We love sharing house-sitting experiences and teaching others how to become house-sitters and start their journeys.
So, if you need help starting your house-sitting journey, see my resources here, and don’t hesitate to contact me and ask me any questions.
Want to Read More Interviews With House Sitters?
If you enjoyed this interview and want to read more, you’re in luck. We have interviewed over 80 housesitters, including retired couples, digital nomads in their 20s, families of 5, couples who house-sit part-time, and much more.
You can see the interviews here.
Author: Britt
I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.
The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.
I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.
Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.
I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!
You can read more about Jay and me here!
Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.
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