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There's no reason you have to wait for a New Year to start making major changes in your life. If you've been reading wistfully about working professionals leaving their boring jobs to travel the world and work wherever they want, there's no reason you can't do the same. With the proper skills, you can land a remote position that allows you to become a digital nomad. Then, it's just a matter of deciding where to go and what gear to pack.

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Before you get carried away looking at mobile and multi-functional travel accessories, you should make sure to have a powerful, ultralight laptop that doesn't cause you strain when traveling for hours at a time. However, loss, theft, and damage are extremely likely while traveling, so the latest, pricey models aren't necessarily the best options. This refurbished MacBook Air from 2013 could be a great alternative, especially at just$270.99.

This MacBook Air weighs only 3 lbs, yet it is an absolute powerhouse. The Intel i5 processor provides excellent performance, particularly when combined with 8GB of RAM. Plus, this unit features 256GB of fast SSD storage, so you won't lack room for work files or all the gorgeous photos and videos you'll capture on your journeys.

Of course, being able to work from anywhere means not being tethered to electrical outlets, so you may appreciate that the MacBook air provides up to nine hours of battery life off a single charge. And if you want to stream your favorite entertainment on the go, the notebook features a beautiful high-definition display outputting to 1,440 x 900. Plus, the Intel HD Graphics 5000 unit offers smooth, seamless content viewing.

MacBook Air 13.3" Core i5 256GB - Silver

$270.99 at StackSocial

This 2013 model has a Grade B refurbished rating, which means that while you might encounter light scratches or dents on the body, it'll function like new. So you get all of the outstanding specs of a new MacBook Air at a fraction of the price. A Magsafe Charger is included, as well.

Get a laptop that can do all you need, wherever you are. This 13.3-inch MacBook Air from 2013 is on sale for just$270.99, nearly 80% off the original$1,299 retail price.

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