Working while travelling has its perks – new surroundings, a break from routine, and a chance to feel a little more inspired. But if you also need to pull together a presentation, things can quickly become more complicated. Patchy Wi-Fi, noisy spaces and limited time don’t exactly lend themselves to focused work.
The good news is that it’s entirely doable with the right approach. A bit of planning, combined with smart use of tools, can help you create something polished without needing ideal conditions.
Why it’s trickier than it sounds
Putting together a presentation on the move comes with a few obvious challenges. Time tends to be fragmented around travel schedules, suitable workspaces aren’t always easy to find, and distractions are hard to avoid. Add in unreliable internet and general travel fatigue, and even simple tasks can feel more time-consuming than they should.
That’s why efficiency matters more than effort here – it’s about working smarter rather than trying to power through.
A more practical way to approach it
Start with a clear structure
Before opening any slides, take a few minutes to get clear on your message. What are you trying to say, who are you saying it to, and what do you want them to take away?
Jotting down a handful of key points – even in your phone notes while waiting for a train – gives you a framework to work from and saves time later.
Break the work into smaller tasks
Trying to complete everything in one go rarely works when you’re travelling. Instead, split the process into manageable stages – outline, content, visuals and final edits – and tackle them in short bursts when time allows.
This makes it far easier to stay productive, even if you’re working in between journeys.
Make the most of mobile working
You don’t always need a laptop. Most presentation tools now work well on mobile, so you can draft ideas, edit slides or review content from your phone when needed.
Voice notes can also be useful if typing isn’t practical – especially when you’re on the move.
Use AI to speed things up
This is where things become significantly easier. AI tools like SketchBubble AI, Gamma and Presentation.ai can help generate outlines, suggest slide content and even build full presentations from a simple prompt.
Instead of starting from scratch, you’re refining and shaping something that’s already in place. It’s particularly useful when time is tight or your focus is limited.
Plan for offline working
Connection issues are almost inevitable at some point, so it’s worth preparing in advance. Download files, enable offline access where possible, and keep backups on your device.
It removes a lot of unnecessary stress when you’re not relying entirely on Wi-Fi.
Be selective with your time
Not all travel moments are suited to focused work. Longer journeys or quieter stops are ideal, while busy transitions and crowded environments are better left for lighter tasks.
Working with your energy levels rather than against them tends to be far more effective.
Keep things simple
You don’t need a full setup to get good results. A lightweight device, headphones and access to cloud storage are usually enough.
The same applies to your slides – clarity is far more important than complex design. Simple, well-structured content is easier to create and easier for your audience to follow.
Edit and practise in small bursts
You don’t need a long session to refine your presentation. Reviewing sections individually, tightening language and removing anything unnecessary can be done in short windows of time.
Even practising your presentation can be flexible – running through key points in your head or recording a quick voice note can help build confidence before you present.
Making it work
Preparing a presentation while travelling isn’t always straightforward, but it doesn’t need to be overwhelming either. With a clear plan, a bit of flexibility and the right tools, the life of a digital nomad becomes much more manageable.
In many ways, it’s about shifting expectations. You don’t need perfect conditions – just a practical approach that fits around your journey.
Would you try preparing a presentation while travelling, or do you prefer to get everything done before you leave? Share your thoughts in the comments below.