Over time, I’ve learned that working remotely in cafés requires not just focus, but practical awareness — especially when your laptop is tied to your livelihood.
Why I Don’t Bring My Main Laptop to Cafés
Ideally, it’s nice to work in a café with friends, knowing someone can watch your things if you need to step away. But that’s not always the case.
There are moments when you need to make a quick trip to the restroom, order another drink, or step outside to take a call. And while most cafés feel safe, they are still public spaces. The familiar sign that says, “Please do not leave your belongings unattended. Management is not responsible for lost items,” exists for a reason.
This isn’t about assuming the worst. It’s about avoiding unnecessary risk. My main laptop holds my files, my work tools, and in many ways, my livelihood. I don’t want to put myself in a position where a single careless moment could cost me more than convenience.
Why a Chromebook Makes Sense for Me
When I work from cafés, I usually don’t need heavy software or advanced programs. Most of my tasks are browser-based and cloud-based — Google Docs, email, dashboards, light content work, and administrative tasks.
A Chromebook is lightweight, portable, and simple. It allows me to work without carrying a heavier, more expensive machine. Since I’m often just changing environments for a few hours to refresh my focus, I don’t need full performance power. I just need reliability.
Another reason this setup works for me is financial practicality. My Chromebook isn’t brand new — I bought it pre‑loved. That was intentional.
Because most of my work is cloud-based, all my files are saved through Google’s ecosystem. Even if something unexpected were to happen, my data would still be secure. I would be sad to lose the device, of course — but losing a pre‑loved Chromebook worth around ₱1,800 is very different from losing a ₱30,000 primary laptop.
Remote work in public spaces isn’t just about productivity. It’s also about protecting what allows you to keep working.
Choosing a Chromebook is less about downgrading and more about matching the tool to the task.
What a Chromebook Cannot Replace
That said, a Chromebook is not a replacement for everything.
It’s not ideal for:
- Heavy video editing
- Advanced design software
- Complex file management
- Large offline workflows
For high-performance tasks, I still rely on my main laptop — just not in public cafés.
Remote Work in the Philippines Requires Practical Choices
A lot of remote work content online highlights the latest gadgets and aesthetic setups. And while those are nice, they’re not always necessary.
For me, remote work in the Philippines is about sustainability. It’s about choosing tools and environments that support long-term stability, not just short-term appearance.
Using a Chromebook in cafés allows me to:
- Work lightly
- Reduce financial risk
- Protect my primary device
- Stay flexible
If you work remotely from cafés, do you bring your main laptop — or do you use a lighter setup?