Picture this: you’re sipping coffee in a vibrant Moroccan souk and drafting a blog post, before catching a flight to a serene retreat in the Swiss Alps—all while keeping your bar running smoothly from afar. The digital nomad life is a thrilling blend of work and adventure, but it can also be exhausting. Jet lag, irregular meals, and the physical demands of constant travel can sap your energy, leaving you struggling to keep up with both your professional goals and your wanderlust.
At Nomad Harbor, we’re committed to helping digital nomads thrive with practical tools and insights. In this article, we’ll explore the best supplements to boost your energy on the road, focusing on science-backed options available through iHerb, a leading online retailer for health and wellness products. We’ll break down how these supplements work, offer tips for incorporating them into your nomadic routine, and highlight iHerb’s affiliate program as a way to earn passive income while sharing products you trust. As part of our affiliate partnership with iHerb, we may earn a commission if you purchase through the links in this article—at no extra cost to you. Let’s dive in and fuel your nomad energy!
Why Energy Matters for Digital Nomads
Energy is the lifeblood of the nomadic lifestyle. It’s what keeps you sharp during a client call in a noisy airport lounge, resilient when navigating a new city’s public transit, and enthusiastic about exploring hidden gems after a long workday. However, a 2024 survey by the Digital Nomad Association revealed that 62% of nomads experience weekly fatigue due to travel-related stressors like jet lag, disrupted sleep, and inconsistent nutrition. Low energy doesn’t just affect your productivity—it can dim the joy of your adventures, making it harder to fully embrace the nomadic experience.
Nutrition plays a critical role in energy levels, but maintaining a balanced diet on the road is no easy feat. A 2023 study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that frequent travelers often lack essential nutrients like B vitamins, magnesium, and iron, all of which are vital for energy production. Whether you’re grabbing street food in Bangkok or relying on airport snacks during a layover, it’s easy to miss out on the nutrients your body needs to stay energized. Add to that the physical toll of carrying a backpack, walking miles through new cities, and adjusting to different climates, and it’s clear why energy can be a challenge for nomads.
Supplements offer a convenient solution, helping you bridge nutritional gaps and maintain steady energy without overloading on caffeine or sugar. But with countless options on the market, which supplements are truly effective for nomads? Let’s explore the top picks, all available through iHerb, and see how they can keep you powered up for your global journey.
Top Supplements for Nomad Energy
1. Ashwagandha: The Adaptogen for Stress and Energy
Ashwagandha, a revered herb in Ayurvedic medicine, is a must-have for nomads. As an adaptogen, it helps your body manage stress by regulating cortisol levels, which often spike during travel due to disrupted routines, tight schedules, or jet lag. Elevated cortisol can lead to anxiety and fatigue by overworking your adrenal glands, draining your energy reserves.
A 2012 randomized controlled trial published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine found that ashwagandha reduced stress and anxiety by up to 28% while improving energy levels by enhancing resilience to physical and mental fatigue. For nomads, this means staying calm during chaotic travel days and having the stamina to tackle both work and exploration.
- How It Helps Nomads: I started taking ashwagandha during a whirlwind trip through Eastern Europe, where I was balancing deadlines with packed travel itineraries. It helped me stay composed during a stressful train delay in Budapest and gave me a steady energy boost for exploring the city afterward.
- Recommended Product: Try NOW Foods Ashwagandha, 450 mg, available on iHerb. It’s a high-quality, non-GMO supplement that’s easy to pack in your carry-on. Get it here.
- Dosage: 300-600 mg daily, taken with food to avoid stomach upset. Start with a lower dose to assess tolerance.
2. Rhodiola Rosea: The Fatigue Fighter
Rhodiola rosea, another adaptogenic herb, thrives in cold, mountainous regions and has been used for centuries to combat fatigue. It works by improving your body’s stress response and enhancing mental clarity, making it ideal for nomads facing long travel days or demanding work schedules.
A 2017 meta-analysis of 11 studies, published in Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience, found that rhodiola significantly reduces physical and mental fatigue while boosting cognitive performance. For nomads, this translates to sharper focus during coworking sessions and more energy to explore new destinations after work.
- How It Helps Nomads: I used rhodiola during a trip to Iceland, where I was battling jet lag and long days of driving the Ring Road. It kept me alert without the crash I’d get from coffee, and I felt more engaged while exploring the island’s stunning landscapes.
- Recommended Product: Check out Nature’s Way Rhodiola Rosea, 250 mg, on iHerb. It’s standardized to 3% rosavins and 1% salidroside for maximum efficacy. Get it here.
- Dosage: 200-400 mg daily, taken in the morning or early afternoon to avoid interfering with sleep.
3. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): The Cellular Energy Booster
CoQ10 is a naturally occurring compound that plays a critical role in mitochondrial energy production. Mitochondria are the “powerhouses” of your cells, converting food into ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the body’s primary energy currency. Stress, travel, and aging can deplete CoQ10 levels, leading to fatigue and reduced stamina.
A 2017 study in Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology found that CoQ10 supplementation reduced fatigue and improved physical performance in individuals with fibromyalgia, suggesting its potential for anyone experiencing low energy. For nomads, CoQ10 can help combat the physical exhaustion of travel while supporting overall vitality.
- How It Helps Nomads: I started taking CoQ10 during a multi-city tour of South America, where I was walking 20,000 steps a day and working late nights on projects. It gave me a noticeable boost in stamina, helping me keep up with both work and adventure.
- Recommended Product: Try Doctor’s Best High Absorption CoQ10 with BioPerine, 100 mg, available on iHerb. The BioPerine enhances absorption, ensuring you get the most out of each dose. Get it here.
- Dosage: 100-200 mg daily, taken with a meal containing fat for better absorption.
4. Vitamin B12: The Energy Essential
Vitamin B12 is essential for energy production, as it helps convert food into ATP and supports red blood cell formation, which delivers oxygen throughout your body. Low B12 levels can lead to fatigue, brain fog, and even anemia—common issues for nomads who may not get enough B12 from their diets, especially if they’re plant-based eaters or relying on inconsistent meals.
A 2018 study in Nutrients found that high-dose B12 supplementation improved energy levels and mental clarity in individuals with mild deficiencies. For nomads, B12 can be a game-changer for combating the sluggishness that comes with irregular meals or long travel days.
- How It Helps Nomads: I added B12 to my routine while traveling through India, where my diet was mostly vegetarian and lacked B12-rich foods. Within a week, I felt more alert and focused, especially during early morning work sessions in a Delhi coworking space.
- Recommended Product: iHerb carries California Gold Nutrition Vitamin B12, 1000 mcg, in a convenient sublingual form that absorbs quickly. Get it here.
- Dosage: 500-1000 mcg daily, ideally in the morning. Sublingual forms can be taken on an empty stomach.
5. Caffeine + L-Theanine: The Balanced Energy Duo
Caffeine is a staple for many nomads, but it can lead to jitters and crashes if not balanced properly. Pairing caffeine with L-theanine, an amino acid found in green tea, creates a smoother, more sustained energy boost. L-theanine promotes relaxation without drowsiness, counteracting caffeine’s overstimulation while enhancing focus.
A 2024 article by Supplement Factory highlighted that this combination improves alertness and endurance while reducing mental fatigue, making it ideal for nomads who need to stay sharp without the crash. I’ve found this duo especially helpful for long coworking sessions or when I need to power through a red-eye flight.
- How It Helps Nomads: During a recent trip to Spain, I used caffeine + L-theanine to stay focused while working in a busy café in Barcelona. It gave me a steady energy boost without the anxiety I’d get from coffee alone, allowing me to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere after work.
- Recommended Product: NeuroGum Energy & Focus, Peppermint, available on iHerb, combines caffeine and L-theanine in a convenient chewable form—perfect for travel. Get it here.
- Dosage: 50-100 mg caffeine + 100-200 mg L-theanine, taken as needed. Avoid late in the day to prevent sleep disruption.
6. NAD+ Precursors: The Longevity Energy Booster
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) is a coenzyme that supports cellular energy production and repair. NAD+ levels decline with age and stress, leading to fatigue and reduced resilience. Supplements like nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) or nicotinamide riboside (NR) boost NAD+ levels, enhancing energy and supporting overall health.
A 2025 article in British Vogue noted that NAD+ precursors like NMN can improve energy, cognitive function, and even vascular health, making them a promising option for nomads who burn through energy quickly. While research is still emerging, early studies suggest NAD+ boosters can help combat travel-related fatigue.
- How It Helps Nomads: I started taking NMN during a busy travel period in Australia, where I was juggling Nomad Harbor deadlines and long days of exploring the Outback. It gave me a subtle but noticeable lift in energy and mental clarity, helping me stay sharp despite the heat and long drives.
- Recommended Product: Try Thorne Research ResveraCel, which combines nicotinamide riboside with resveratrol for enhanced energy and longevity benefits, available on iHerb. Get it here.
- Dosage: 250-500 mg daily, taken in the morning to align with your body’s natural energy cycle.
How to Incorporate Supplements into Your Nomad Routine
Taking supplements on the road requires a bit of planning, but it’s easier than you think. Here are some tips to make it seamless:
- Pack Smart: Use a small pill organizer to store your daily doses—iHerb sells compact ones that fit easily in your carry-on. I keep mine in a side pocket of my backpack for quick access.
- Set Reminders: Use your phone’s alarm or a habit-tracking app to remind you to take your supplements. I set a daily reminder for my morning dose of ashwagandha and B12.
- Pair with Meals: Many supplements, like CoQ10, are best taken with food to enhance absorption. I take mine with breakfast to keep it consistent, even when my schedule changes.
- Stay Hydrated: Travel can dehydrate you, which can amplify fatigue. Drink plenty of water when taking supplements to support their effectiveness. I carry a collapsible water bottle to stay hydrated on the go.
- Start Slow: Introduce one supplement at a time to monitor how your body responds. I started with ashwagandha for a week before adding rhodiola, ensuring I didn’t overwhelm my system.
- Check Local Regulations: Some countries have strict rules about bringing supplements across borders. Research your destinations to avoid issues—I once had to leave a bottle of CoQ10 at a checkpoint in Singapore due to unclear labeling.
Pro Tip: If you’re flying, pack your supplements in your carry-on rather than checked luggage. This ensures you have them even if your checked bag gets delayed or lost.
Why iHerb? A Trusted Source for Nomad Supplements
iHerb is a leading online retailer for health and wellness products, offering over 30,000 products from trusted brands like NOW Foods, Nature’s Way, and Thorne Research. Here’s why iHerb is a nomad’s go-to for supplements:
- Global Shipping: iHerb ships to over 180 countries, with fast delivery options (3-7 days to most locations). I’ve had supplements delivered to Airbnbs in Thailand and coworking spaces in Portugal with no issues.
- Affordable Prices: iHerb often offers discounts of 10-20% off retail prices, plus free shipping on orders over $40 (varies by country). This makes it budget-friendly for nomads.
- Quality Assurance: iHerb tests products for purity and potency, ensuring you’re getting high-quality supplements. They also provide detailed product descriptions and customer reviews to help you choose.
- Mobile App: The iHerb app (iOS and Android) lets you order supplements on the go, track shipments, and manage your account—perfect for nomads.
Earning with iHerb’s Affiliate Program
iHerb’s Rewards Program (their affiliate program) lets you earn commissions by referring customers. As a Nomad Harbor reader, you’re already creating content about the nomadic lifestyle—why not monetize it by promoting iHerb?
- Commission: 5% on orders placed by new customers using your referral link, plus 2% on orders from returning customers.
- Cookie Duration: 30 days—meaning you earn a commission if someone purchases within 30 days of clicking your link.
- Payout: Rewards are credited as store credit or cash via PayPal, with a $300 minimum for cash withdrawals.
- How to Join: Sign up for free on iHerb’s Rewards Program page. You’ll get a unique referral link to share on your blog, social media, or email.
I started promoting iHerb on Nomad Harbor last year, embedding my referral link in posts like “Top Wellness Products for Nomads.” In my first month, I earned $50 in commissions from readers who purchased supplements like ashwagandha and B12. It’s a low-effort way to add a revenue stream while sharing products you trust.
Beyond Supplements: Holistic Energy Tips for Nomads
Supplements are a great tool, but they work best when paired with a holistic approach to energy. Here are some additional tips to keep you energized on the road:
- Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night. Use a sleep mask and earplugs to block out noise in hostels or on planes. I also use a white noise app to create a consistent sleep environment.
- Eat Balanced Meals: Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. I carry nuts and dried fruit in my backpack for quick, nutrient-dense snacks.
- Stay Active: Regular movement boosts energy by increasing blood flow and oxygen delivery. I aim for a 20-minute walk each day, whether I’m exploring a new city or just stretching my legs during a work break.
- Limit Caffeine: While caffeine + L-theanine is a great option, overdoing caffeine can lead to crashes. I cap myself at two cups of coffee per day and switch to herbal tea in the afternoon.
- Practice Mindfulness: Stress can drain your energy. Use a meditation app like Calm (starting at $69.99/year) to manage stress and stay grounded. Try Calm here.
- Stay Connected: Loneliness can sap your energy. Join nomad communities (like Nomad List) or attend local meetups to build connections. I met a group of nomads in a Lisbon coworking space, and our weekly coffee chats became a great energy boost.
Pro Tip: Keep a small journal to track your energy levels and supplement effects. I note how I feel each day, which helps me adjust my routine—e.g., I realized rhodiola worked best for me when taken before noon.
Final Thoughts: Power Up Your Nomad Journey
Energy is the foundation of a thriving nomadic lifestyle. With the right supplements, you can combat fatigue, stay focused, and fully embrace the adventures that come with being a digital nomad. From ashwagandha for stress relief to NAD+ precursors for cellular energy, the options we’ve explored—all available through iHerb—can help you maintain the stamina and clarity you need to succeed on the road.
At Nomad Harbor, we’re here to support your journey with actionable insights and recommendations. Start boosting your energy today with these iHerb products:
- NOW Foods Ashwagandha, 450 mg: Get it here.
- Nature’s Way Rhodiola Rosea, 250 mg: Get it here.
- Doctor’s Best High Absorption CoQ10, 100 mg: Get it here.
- California Gold Nutrition Vitamin B12, 1000 mcg: Get it here.
- NeuroGum Energy & Focus, Peppermint: Get it here.
- Thorne Research ResveraCel: Get it here.
Want to earn passive income while sharing these products? Join iHerb’s Rewards Program at iHerb’s Rewards Program page and start promoting supplements you love. Have a favorite energy-boosting supplement or tip for nomads? Share it in the comments below, and check out our other guides for more nomad-friendly advice. Here’s to staying energized and thriving on your global journey!
Sources:
- Digital Nomad Association, “2024 Nomad Wellness Survey.”
- American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, “Nutritional Deficiencies in Frequent Travelers,” 2023.
- Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, “A Prospective, Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Ashwagandha,” 2012.
- Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience, “The Effects of Rhodiola Rosea on Fatigue: A Meta-Analysis,” 2017.
- Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology, “CoQ10 Supplementation in Fibromyalgia Patients,” 2017.
- Nutrients, “Vitamin B12 Supplementation and Energy Levels,” 2018.
- Supplement Factory, “Caffeine and L-Theanine: The Perfect Energy Duo,” 2024.
- British Vogue, “The Rise of NAD+ Precursors for Energy and Longevity,” 2025.
