Build Your Perfect Summer Setup: Tech for Remote Work, Travel, and Play

Working from anywhere isn’t just a temporary pandemic trend, it’s become a defining shift in how we live and work. And for many of us, summer is the perfect time to take our office on the road. All of us would love crafting presentations from a beach café or attending Zoom meetings from Airbnb balcony.

But with greater freedom comes the need for smarter, travel-friendly tech. Portability, long battery life, compact design, and screen quality are no longer optional, they’re essential. Your summer setup needs to support both your job and your lifestyle.

This blog is your ultimate guide to building a high-functioning, stylish, and travel-ready setup using the best tech for remote work, whether you’re logging in from home or the other side of the world.

So, let’s plan your tech shopping for this summer!

Your Essential Summer Tech Kit

Before you hit the beach or head off on your next adventure, let’s make sure your tech is up to the task.

Some gadgets aren't just "nice to have", they're total game-changers. The right setup can smooth the work session followed by a relaxed sunset swim.

So, if you’re planning to work remotely this summer (even just a little), investing in essential tech gear gives you the freedom to stay connected, get things done, and still enjoy your holiday without stress.

Perfect Lightweight Laptop Built for Remote Life

Let’s be real, if you’re working remotely this summer, your laptop is the heart of your setup.

And no, we’re not talking about lugging around your bulky home office machine. We’re talking about lightweight, powerful, and travel-friendly laptops that make working on the go feel effortless.

Here’s what to look for in a remote-ready summer laptop:

What Makes a Great Summer Work Laptop?

• Lightweight Design: So, you can carry it from café to coworking spot without shoulder strain.

• Long Battery Life: Keeps you powered through flights, train rides, or long afternoons under the sun.

• Fast Processor: For smooth multitasking and faster work sessions (and quicker log-off times!).

• High-Quality Display: Bright and crisp, so you can actually see your screen outdoors on a beach.

• Backlit Keyboard: Essential when you're typing late at night or in low light.

• Microsoft Office Ready: Seamlessly handle spreadsheets, emails, and presentations.

• Built-in Webcam: A must-have for looking sharp on Zoom, even from your camper van.

Why It Matters

When your laptop ticks all these boxes, it’ll truly provide you with work-life balance. All you have to do is power through your morning tasks, hop on a client call in the afternoon and then close the lid and head straight to the beach
Sounds dreamy? That’s what the right laptop can do.

Top Pick: Lenovo ThinkBook 16

Lenovo ThinkBook 16 – AMD Ryzen 5 | 8GB RAM | 256GB SSD | Windows 11 Pro

Looking for laptop that balances performance, portability, and business-ready tools? This one checks every box:

• Crisp 16" screen, perfect for outdoor use

• AMD Ryzen 5 for fast, smooth performance

• Backlit keyboard and lightweight chassis

• Windows 11 Pro + Microsoft Office compatibility

• HD webcam for all your summer Zoom meetings

It’s one of the best laptops for work-and-travel out there for remote professionals who don’t want to compromise.

Want Something Different?

If you’re after something a little different, there are plenty of great options to suit your style. Want flexibility? A 2-in-1 laptop lets you switch between work and play with ease. Need something business-focused? Check out our business laptops designed for productivity and security. Prefer a lightweight, browser-based experience? Chromebooks are perfect for that. Gamers can stay entertained on the go with powerful gaming laptops, while Windows laptops offer reliability and versatility for just about any kind of user.

Desktop Computers for Your Home-Away-from-Home Setup

If you’re heading to your holiday home or staying in one place for most of the summer, a desktop computer setup might be your best bet.

Some people just work better with a full-sized monitor, a proper keyboard, and the full power of a desktop system. And luckily, today’s desktop devices can be surprisingly compact and portable, making them a great fit for a semi-permanent vacation workspace.

Here’s what to look for:

What Makes a Great Summer Desktop Setup?

• Compact Form Factor: Mini PCs or all-in-ones save space and travel easier.

• Powerful Performance: Handle demanding apps like video editing, design tools, or heavy multitasking.

• Dual-Screen Compatibility: Plug in a second monitor for true productivity.

• Reliable Cooling: So, your system stays chill, even when your summer heat doesn't.

• Windows 11 Ready: For seamless compatibility and modern security.

• Plenty of Ports: For all your accessories, cables, and extras.

Best For:

• Professionals who need extra power for design, development, or editing

• Anyone staying in one location for an extended summer workcation

• Remote workers who just don’t love laptops

• Small business owners managing tasks from home

• People who love a clean, organised setup

Best Desktop Computers at Box

Find the best desktop computer for working from home and make sure to pick the one that perfectly suits your needs. Here’s what we think is best for you.

• All-in-One PCs: Minimalist and space-saving (Apple iMac)

• Mini PCs: Portable and surprisingly powerful (HP Workstation Z2)

Whether you’re looking for a plug-and-play option or a powerhouse workstation, there’s a desktop to match your summer pace.

Portable Monitors: Second Screen, First-Class Productivity

Sometimes, one screen just isn’t enough, especially when you're gaming, watching Netflix and juggling with emails. That’s where portable monitors step in.

They’re lightweight, easy to carry, and instantly double your screen space anywhere: on a train table, a hotel desk, or even outdoors at a picnic bench.

Here’s what makes them summer-ready:

What Makes a Great Portable Monitor?

• USB-C Powered – No bulky power bricks, just one cable for everything.

• Full HD or 4K Display – Crisp, clear visuals that match your laptop.

• Slim & Lightweight – Easy to slip into your backpack or laptop sleeve.

• Built-In Stand or Smart Cover – For instant, sturdy setups.

• Touchscreen Options – Great for creatives or hands-on work.

• Landscape & Portrait Modes – Ideal for coding, writing, and social media work.

Best For:

• Creatives and marketers working on content

• Developers or analysts who need multi-window views

• Students writing essays or researching

• Professionals who need a mobile pop-up desk

• Digital nomads who love staying efficient

Browse our Top Portable Monitors

We’ve got everything from ultra-light displays to touch-enabled monitors. Pair one with your laptop or smartphone and level up your mobile office. Our best pick is Acer PD3 (UM.XP3EE.E02) Foldable IPS portable monitor for all your summer needs.

Smartphones That Do It All

With the right smartphone, you can take meetings, review documents, catch up on tasks, stream, navigate, and even shoot content; all without pulling out a laptop. It’s the ultimate all-in-one tool for light travellers and digital nomads.

So, if you’re travelling light or just want a flexible work option that fits in your pocket, your phone has your back.

What Makes a Great Travel-Friendly Smartphone?

• Fast Processor – Handle video calls, editing, and multitasking with ease.

• All-Day Battery – Essential for long sightseeing or travel days.

• High-Quality Camera – For meetings and memories.

• Large, Bright Display – Easy to use outdoors or in direct sunlight.

• Desktop Mode – Turn your phone into a mini PC with a monitor.

• Hotspot Capabilities – Share data with your laptop on the go.

Must-Have Travel Accessories to Complete Your Setup

When you’re working on the move, apart from the essential tech, it’s often the little things that make the biggest difference. The right travel accessories can help you stay organised, focused, and fully in control, whether you’re on a plane, working from a beachside Airbnb, or just navigating a busy travel day.

From headphones that block out noise to bags that keep your tech safe, here’s what to pack to keep your summer setup running smoothly.

Headphones / EarPods – For Peace, Play & Productivity

Brands to check out: ASUS, Honor, Acer, Oppo

• Great for joining Zoom meetings on the go without background noise

• Perfect for tuning into podcasts or music while working from a café.

• Bonus: plug in for gaming sessions after work.

If you are taking a client call from a busy train station; pop on your noise-cancelling Sony headphones and you’re in your own focused bubble.

Travel/ Laptop Bags – Keep Your Gear Safe & Sorted

Brands to check out: Trust, Incase,

• Carry your laptop, chargers, cables, and gadgets in one organised space

• Ideal for airport security: quick-access laptop compartments

• Many are waterproof, padded, and come with anti-theft zips

You’re dashing through the airport, your Trust bag keeps your tech safe, and you grab your laptop for screening in seconds.

Camera Lenses – For Photography Lovers on the Go

Brands to check out: Canon

• Transform your camera lens with Canon 5175B005AA 24-70mm f/2.8 L Series (5175B005AA) into a professional-quality lens

• Great for capturing content, travel photos, or even product shots

• Compact enough to fit in your pocket

Exploring a scenic village in Italy? Snap dreamy wide-angle shots with it!

Gaming Controllers – For After-Hours Fun

Brands to check out: Microsoft, ASUS

• Pair with your laptop, tablet, or phone for portable gaming

• Foldable and travel-sized options available

• Rechargeable batteries make them road trip ready

You’ve just wrapped up a full workday, now it’s time to kick back to your Airbnb with an Xbox controller and your favourite game.

Portable Routers – Because Hotel Wi-Fi Isn’t Always Reliable

Brands to check out: ASUS, TP-LINK

• Create your own secure, fast Wi-Fi network wherever you are

• Ideal for remote locations, shared accommodations, or weak hotel signals

• Many models support SIM cards for true wireless freedom

Pair Your Tech with Accessories

Match your phone with a portable stand, keyboard, or monitor for a complete mobile workstation. You’d be surprised how much you can do with the right setup!

Shop Tech Accessories to build your ideal phone-powered setup.

Final Verdict: Ready to Build Your Perfect Summer Setup?

Remote work doesn’t have to mean compromising on comfort, productivity, or fun especially when you’ve got the right tech by your side. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, switching time zones, or just working from your garden with an iced coffee in hand, investing in smart, travel-ready gear helps you work better and live bigger.

From lightweight laptops and portable monitors to travel bags, headphones, and powerful desktops for your summer base; you’ve now got the blueprint to make your summer setup truly work for you. So, pack smart, stay connected, and let this season be your most flexible and fulfilling yet.

Head over to Box.co.uk for all your tech essentials, accessories, and smart devices; everything you need to work, travel, and play in style this season

Work smart. Travel light. Live freely. Your perfect tech for remote work awaits.