Best Work from Home Supplies - Essential Equipment

In recent years, more people than ever have embraced flexible work arrangements. Whilst remote working and digital nomad lifestyles have been growing in popularity for a decade or more, recent global changes have accelerated the shift, making home-based worksites far more common. For many, this has led to increased productivity and freedom, but it also brings new challenges. Creating a comfortable and efficient work environment in your own living room or designated place can be tricky, especially if you are used to a traditional office. If you’re going to work long hours from the comfort of your own home, or while travelling as a digital nomad, you need the right technology, office furniture and supplies.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll examine the best work from home supplies and essential equipment you should consider. Every remote worker has specific needs, of course, so not everyone will require the same gear. Nonetheless, certain categories of items will benefit nearly anyone who works outside a typical business office environment, whether you’re a remote employee, independent contractor, or a freelancer forging your own path. From ergonomic chairs to second monitors, from laptop stands to uninterruptible power supplies, we’ll explore what makes sense for your home office setup. We’ll also consider items that ensure comfort, productivity and health, so you can thrive in the long term. If you’re ready to upgrade your remote work experience, read on for everything you need.

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1. Why Having the Right Work from Home Supplies Matters

Before we dive into the necessary equipment, let’s address why this topic is so crucial. Working from home (or from any remote location such as a coffee shop or co-working space) can seem straightforward: bring your laptop to the kitchen table and crack on. In reality, creating a dedicated home office setup or a functional mobile workstation can have a remarkable impact on your mental health, productivity and job satisfaction.

Ergonomics: For those spending long hours typing and clicking, having an ergonomic chair, a good desk at the right height, and accessories like a laptop stand can prevent conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome or chronic back pain.
Focus and Efficiency: With family members or housemates around, or even if you’re in a small apartment, distractions abound. Proper gear, especially good-quality noise-cancelling headphones, helps filter background noise, so you can concentrate better.
Professionalism in Virtual Meetings: If you frequently participate in video calls, a high-resolution webcam, a reliable microphone or headset, and proper lighting can make your presence look and sound more professional.
Organisation: A chaotic desk or lack of office supplies leads to wasted time. Having the right items, like a to-do list organiser, filing systems and stationery, ensures everything you need is within easy reach.
Longevity and Reliability: Investing in durable, good-quality home office equipment reduces the risk of technical issues or power outages becoming critical. A reliable uninterruptible power supply, for instance, can save your work if the electricity cuts out.
Health and Well-being: Taking regular breaks, using supportive furniture and maintaining a tidy workspace can foster better mental and physical health. Remote workers often find that a well-organised and dedicated workspace directly correlates with reduced stress levels.

When you’re working full time from home, or even part time in a hybrid scenario, these factors become even more important. With that in mind, let’s move on to what you need in your home office (or on the road) to get the best out of your work hours.

2. Setting Up Your Workspace: From Desk to Office Chair

2.1 The Right Desk: Standing or Seated?

The foundation of any home office is your desk. If you’re working from a dining table or kitchen table, you may find you can’t maintain a healthy posture for very long. Investing in a proper desk, be it a traditional seated option or a standing desk, can transform your work environment.

Desk Space: Assess how much physical room you have. If you live in a small apartment or share space with family members, a compact desk with built-in storage might be ideal. For those with more real estate in their home space, a larger desk with plenty of room for multiple devices could be the best option.
Standing Desk Benefits: Standing desks are popular among remote workers for a reason. Standing intermittently can reduce back pain, support better posture and may help combat the negative health effects associated with sitting for extended periods. Many modern standing desks are adjustable, letting you switch between sitting and standing as needed, helping break up lengthy sedentary sessions.
Seated Desk Pros: A traditional office desk is often more affordable and widely available. When paired with an ergonomic chair, you can maintain a healthy posture. If space is at a premium, consider a wall-mounted desk or a compact design that neatly fits in a corner.

Regardless of which style you choose, ensure that the surface area accommodates your computer setup, particularly if you plan to use external monitors, a second screen or a laptop stand. Keep items like notepads, a water bottle and other work-related items within easy reach.

2.2 Investing in an Ergonomic Chair

Next to the desk, the chair is the most crucial piece of office furniture you’ll need for a home office setup. If you’re sitting for extended periods, a subpar chair will result in back pain, sore wrists or shoulder tension. When searching for an ergonomic chair on Amazon or elsewhere, look out for:

Lumbar Support: This helps maintain the natural curve in your lower spine. Good lumbar support is essential for preventing or minimising long-term back pain.
Adjustability: The best office chairs allow you to customise seat height, armrests, tilt tension and other settings. Because every individual is different, you want to ensure your chair can meet your specific needs.
Cushioning and Breathability: Proper padding is important for comfort, but so is ventilation. A mesh back, for example, allows airflow to keep you cool during long hours.
Neck and Head Support: If you often find yourself craning your neck forward, a headrest can help you maintain better posture.

Although you can find cheaper options, investing in a solid ergonomic chair is an absolute must-have if you’re working from home full time or for many hours at a stretch. Spending a bit more upfront can spare you costly medical bills and discomfort in the long run.

3. Essential Technology for Remote Work

3.1 Laptops and Desktop Computers

For many remote employees and digital nomads, the laptop is the centrepiece of their work. However, some prefer a desktop computer for additional power and stable performance. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each:

Laptop Computers:
- Pros: Portability, ideal for those who travel frequently or shift between work locations. Modern laptops often come with built-in cameras and decent battery life, making them suitable for video calls.
- Cons: Smaller screens can lead to eye strain without an external monitor. Keyboards can be less comfortable than full-size external keyboards, which can exacerbate carpal tunnel and wrist strain if you’re typing constantly. Battery life varies, and you may still need a power source or rechargeable batteries for accessories.
Desktop PCs:
- Pros: Generally more powerful, offering better performance for tasks like video editing, graphic design or gaming. They also allow easy upgrades (like adding more RAM or swapping out your graphics card).
- Cons: Lack of portability, requires a permanent home office or desk space. For those in small flats, it can be challenging to find a suitable place for a full tower, monitor and other peripherals.

If you’re a digital nomad, a laptop is almost certainly your best gear choice. If, however, you’re stationed at home full time and require heavier computing power, a desktop PC can offer excellent value and performance.

Recommended Tip: Look for devices with at least 8GB of RAM if you’re doing routine office tasks. If your job duties involve demanding software, 16GB or more will serve you better. Ensure you have enough USB ports or consider a hub for plugging in extras like external keyboards, mice or a second monitor.

3.2 Laptop Stand or Monitor Risers

If you opt for a laptop as your primary machine, you’ll quickly find that hunching over the built-in screen leads to neck and back pain over the long term. A laptop stand is a simple, cost-effective solution that elevates your screen to eye level:

Adjustable Angle and Height: The best laptop stands let you tweak the angle, so your neck remains neutral and not strained downwards.
Portability: Look for a lightweight, foldable design if you’re a digital nomad hopping between countries, or if you like working in different areas of your home.
Ventilation: Some stands come with open backs or fans to help dissipate heat. This can extend your device’s longevity.

If you’re using a second monitor or external monitors with a desktop, you might invest in monitor risers or stands. These lifts help bring your screens to eye level, promoting better posture.

3.3 Keyboards and Mice

Many people who work remotely prefer using external keyboards, whether mechanical keyboards with tactile feedback or a sleek wireless keyboard that reduces clutter.

Mechanical Keyboards: Loved by many for their responsiveness and tactile feel. They’re great for fast typists but can be louder than membrane or chiclet keyboards.
Wireless Keyboard: Minimises cable clutter, a boon for those who crave a tidy workspace. Some models have rechargeable batteries, whilst others require replacements. Make sure you have spares or a charging cable handy.
Ergonomic Options: If you experience sore wrists or suspect you might develop carpal tunnel, an ergonomic keyboard can help position your hands naturally. Paired with a cushioned wrist rest, it can substantially reduce strain.
Mice: An ergonomic mouse or a trackball can alleviate stress on your wrist. Bluetooth mice free up your USB ports, and rechargeable versions can be more convenient than relying on disposable batteries.

3.4 Noise-Cancelling Headphones and Audio Gear

If you share your home with others, background noise can hamper your concentration on conference calls or solo work. Noise-cancelling headphones are a great way to create your own quiet environment:

Over-Ear Headphones: These provide strong noise cancellation and typically excellent audio quality. Brands like Sony, Bose and Sennheiser offer popular models.
In-Ear Buds: If you prefer lighter headphones or travel frequently, noise-cancelling earbuds can be more portable.
Microphone Quality: For virtual meetings, look for headphones with a decent built-in microphone. Alternatively, a separate USB microphone can deliver clearer sound, especially if you appear in webinars or create podcasts.

Many modern laptops have built-in cameras, but you might consider a dedicated webcam if you want higher resolution for video calls. A headset or pair of earbuds can also help maintain boundaries with family members, letting them know you’re “at work.”

3.5 Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

Power outages are more common than we like to admit. If you’re working on critical tasks, a sudden outage can be catastrophic, especially if you haven’t saved your progress. A UPS acts as a battery backup for your computer and other devices, allowing you enough time to save your work and shut down properly:

Power Capacity: Measured in VA (volt-amperes) or watts, ensure the UPS can handle the load of your desktop computer, monitors and any other essential devices.
Automatic Voltage Regulation: Some UPS units stabilise voltage, protecting your equipment from power surges and dips.
Runtime: A UPS won’t keep your computer running for hours, but even 10–15 minutes can be enough to conclude vital tasks and shut down safely.

For laptop users, a UPS can still protect external monitors, modems and routers, so you don’t lose internet connectivity abruptly.

4. Essential Office Supplies and Accessories

4.1 Stationery and Organisation

Though we live in a digital age, paper notes and stationery can still enhance productivity. If you need to jot down quick ideas or maintain a to-do list by hand, having the right office supplies on your desk is beneficial:

Notepads or Journals: Great for brainstorming, meeting notes or daily planning.
Pens, Pencils, Highlighters: Keep a variety at hand. Quality pens can make note-taking more pleasant.
Sticky Notes and Tabs: Useful for marking important sections in notebooks or reminding yourself of urgent tasks.
Desk Organiser or Drawers: Keep clutter in check. Everything from your phone to paperclips should have a home.

4.2 Cable Management

Tangled cables are not only unsightly but can also waste time when you’re trying to track down the correct charger or USB-C cable. Keeping cables tidy can help maintain a minimalist look and reduce stress:

Cable Ties or Sleeves: Keep wires bundled neatly.
Under-Desk Trays: Perfect for hiding power strips and outlets.
Label Maker: If you have a variety of chargers or wires that look the same, labelling them can be a great idea for quick identification.

4.3 Lighting Solutions

A well-lit workspace can do wonders for your mood and clarity. If you frequently engage in virtual meetings, lighting also impacts how you appear on camera:

Desk Lamp: An adjustable LED lamp can brighten your workspace without harsh glare.
Natural Light: If possible, position your desk near a window, though you may need curtains or blinds to prevent screen glare.
Backlighting for Video Calls: Ring lights or panel lights can dramatically improve your on-camera appearance, making you look more professional in video calls.

4.4 Water Bottle, Coffee Makers and Hydration

When you’re working from home, it’s easy to forget about hydration or rely too heavily on caffeinated drinks. Keep a water bottle at your desk as a reminder to drink throughout the day. You might also have a coffee maker nearby if you enjoy a pick-me-up without having to venture to the kitchen for every cup.

5. Connectivity and Internet Speed

5.1 Choosing the Right Internet Plan

When your livelihood depends on your ability to connect with colleagues, clients or business partners, stable internet speed isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Evaluate your internet service provider options carefully:

Bandwidth: If you often participate in video calls or upload large files, aim for a plan with robust upload speeds as well as download speeds.
Latency and Stability: For real-time applications, latency can matter as much as raw speed.
Backup Options: Some remote workers keep a secondary connection, such as a mobile hotspot, to remain connected during service disruptions.

5.2 Networking Equipment

Routers, extenders and mesh systems can expand Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. If your workspace is far from the main router, a powerline adapter or mesh Wi-Fi kit might be more reliable than a single router:

Wired Connections: For the most stable connection, consider running an Ethernet cable directly from your router to your computer. If that’s not feasible, look for a powerline or mesh solution.
VPN Usage: If your work assignments involve sensitive data, your employer might require you to use a VPN. Ensure your router or device can handle the extra load of encrypting traffic without massive speed drops.

6. Health and Well-Being: Beyond the Basics

6.1 Posture and Movement

Spending a lot of time at your desk can lead to musculoskeletal issues if you’re not careful. Here are practical ways to preserve your physical health:

Stretching Exercises: Periodically stand up, stretch your wrists and arms, and roll your shoulders. A simple routine can ward off stiffness.
Standing Breaks: Even if you don’t have a standing desk, you can still take intervals (for example, every 20–30 minutes) to stand up, walk around or do a brief set of squats or lunges.
Proper Chair Adjustments: Keep your feet flat on the floor, knees at roughly a 90-degree angle, and elbows near your sides when typing.

6.2 Eye Health

Staring at screens for long stretches can strain your eyes:

Screen Distance: Maintain at least an arm’s length from your monitor. Adjust the font size or screen resolution if you’re squinting.
Lighting: Avoid glare by positioning light sources to the side or behind your screens.
20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

6.3 Mental Health and Boundaries

It can be tempting to blend your work life with personal time when your office is at home. Establishing boundaries is crucial for mental well-being:

Designated Place to Work: Even if it’s just a corner of the living room, keep that spot as your work environment. Avoid mixing your home space with your workspace too extensively.
Set Work Hours: Decide when your workday begins and ends. Resist the urge to check emails late at night.
Communicate with Family Members: Let them know your schedule and emphasise the need for quiet during important virtual meetings.

7. Going Mobile: Digital Nomad Essentials

For those who aren’t just working from home but also travelling, the “office” can be anywhere, be it a co-working space in Bali or a hotel room in London. Here are specific items that can help you function effectively as a digital nomad:

Lightweight Laptop: Modern laptops can be both powerful and lightweight. Look for long battery life, robust performance and a sturdy build to withstand travel.
Travel Router or Hotspot: If you’re uncertain about local Wi-Fi reliability, a personal hotspot or portable router helps ensure stable connectivity.
Portable Monitor: A slim, lightweight second monitor can expand your screen real estate without too much extra bulk.
Battery Banks and Chargers: Keep your devices charged during transit. Multi-port chargers let you power multiple gadgets at once.
Packing Cubes or Organisers: Keep cables, chargers and office supplies neatly stored to avoid a tangled mess.
VPN Subscription: When connecting to public Wi-Fi in coffee shops or hotels, a VPN can protect your data and privacy.

Additionally, consider the local power source. In some countries, you’ll need travel adapters to accommodate different plug types. It’s also wise to bring a USB-C cable or a universal charging cable that can handle multiple devices.

8. Specific Needs for Remote Employees vs. Independent Contractors

8.1 Employer-Provided Office Equipment

Many companies, recognising the rise of remote work arrangements, now supply or subsidise necessary equipment for remote employees. This may include:

Laptops, Monitors, Keyboards: Larger organisations often provide the hardware employees need to complete their job duties.
Office Chairs and Desks: Some businesses reimburse you for ergonomic office furniture.
Internet Stipends: A stipend for internet costs or partial coverage of your monthly bill.

If you’re a remote employee, check with your HR department to see what’s available. You may be entitled to a reasonable accommodation for a medical condition, or you might receive an allowance for your home office setup. This can drastically lower personal expenses for the best purchases.

8.2 Contractor or Freelancer Obligations

Freelancers and independent contractors typically need to handle all equipment costs themselves. However, these expenses can often be deducted as business expenses on your taxes (subject to local regulations). Thus, whilst you do pay for your own kit, you may benefit from certain tax deductions. Always keep receipts for work-related items, from your good desk to your external monitors.

9. Additional Gear You Might Not Have Considered

9.1 Phone Stand

If you use your phone for work calls or occasionally reference messages, a phone stand keeps it upright and accessible. This is particularly useful during video calls or if you’re referencing a second screen on your mobile.

9.2 Webcam Covers or Privacy Screens

Working from home often means you’re more conscious about privacy. A simple slider that covers your webcam can grant peace of mind when the camera isn’t in use. Privacy screens for monitors can also help reduce visual hacking if you’re working in a shared space.

9.3 Rechargeable Batteries and Chargers

From wireless keyboards to Bluetooth mouse devices, you might be cycling through batteries more often than you think. Having a set of rechargeable batteries and a charger is more cost-effective and eco-friendly in the long run.

9.4 Desk Plants and Décor

It might sound trivial, but a bit of greenery or pleasant décor can improve mental health and create a more inviting workspace. Simple additions like a succulent or a small desk plant can bring life to an otherwise utilitarian setup.

9.5 Document Scanner or All-in-One Printer

Depending on your field, you may occasionally need to scan, print or copy documents. A compact, all-in-one printer (with wireless connectivity) can be a lifesaver. Alternatively, portable scanners are available if you often deal with forms and contracts while travelling.

10. Best Practices for Maintaining Your Home Office Setup

Spending money on excellent office equipment and supplies is only the first step. You’ll also want to maintain these items and your workspace for long-term success.

Regular Cleaning: Dust can accumulate on monitors, keyboards and inside computers. Regularly wipe surfaces and vacuum or blow out vents to keep devices cool and running efficiently.
Cable Checks: Over time, cables can fray or become loose. Inspect them occasionally and replace any that look worn.
Operating System and Software Updates: Keep your devices up to date to ensure maximum security and performance.
Backups: Always back up critical work. Whether via cloud services or external hard drives, ensure your data is protected. Having both local and cloud-based backups is a good approach.
Ergonomic Reassessments: As you use your office space, your posture might evolve. Periodically check that your chair height, desk positioning and monitor angles still align with ergonomic principles.

11. Recommended Product Ideas from Amazon

To help you narrow down your choices, here’s a curated list of products worth considering. Of course, Amazon’s selection changes constantly, so feel free to explore the latest deals and user reviews to find the best options for your specific needs.

Standing Desk:
A popular electric adjustable standing desk that seamlessly transitions between sitting and standing. Look for desks with memory presets so you can save your ideal heights.
Ergonomic Chair:
A mesh-backed chair with adjustable lumbar support and headrest. Some chairs allow you to tilt and lock at different angles, which is great for posture breaks.
Laptop Stand:
A lightweight aluminium stand that is foldable and offers multiple height levels. Some stands come with built-in cooling fans to help maintain laptop performance.
External Keyboard and Mouse:
A wireless keyboard and ergonomic mouse combo. Look for rechargeable sets if you want to avoid constantly replacing batteries.
Noise-Cancelling Headphones:
Over-ear Bluetooth headphones with active noise cancellation and a built-in microphone. Ideal for blocking out background noise and enhancing audio quality on calls.
Second Monitor:
A 24- or 27-inch full HD or 4K monitor for extended screen real estate. Look for models with adjustable stands or VESA mount compatibility.
Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS):
A reputable UPS with enough wattage to support your desktop computer, monitor and router. Choose one that provides at least 5–10 minutes of battery backup during a power outage.
Cable Management Kit:
A pack of cable sleeves, ties and clips to keep your workspace tidy and cords untangled.
Desk Organiser:
A modular organiser with compartments for pens, sticky notes and other stationery. Some come with phone stands integrated.
Webcam:
A dedicated HD or 4K webcam with autofocus and a privacy shutter. Ideal if your laptop’s built-in camera isn’t up to scratch.
Printer/Scanner:
A compact wireless all-in-one printer that supports scanning and copying. Perfect for small offices or those who need occasional document handling.
Bluetooth Speaker:
A small but powerful speaker for listening to background music when you don’t need headphones. This can also provide better audio quality for casual video watching.
Ring Light or Desk Lamp:
A dimmable LED lamp with adjustable brightness and colour temperature. Helps reduce eye strain and improves appearance in video calls.
Portable Power Bank:
A high-capacity power bank with USB-C compatibility to keep your phone, tablet or small laptop charged on the go. Essential for digital nomads.

12. Budget Considerations and Gradual Upgrades

You don’t have to buy every item right away. Working remotely can be expensive if you try to purchase the most cutting-edge gear all at once. Instead, consider prioritising:

Comfort and Ergonomics: Start with a good chair or desk. Your body will thank you in the long term.
Essential Tech: If your computer is outdated or slow, that should be your next upgrade. A reliable machine is key to completing work assignments efficiently.
Productivity Boosters: Noise-cancelling headphones or an external monitor can make a massive difference in daily workflow.
Extras: Once you’ve covered your basics, look at smaller, nice-to-have items like a document scanner, fancy desk lamp or mechanical keyboard.

If you’re a digital nomad, portable items like a laptop stand or power bank might be a higher priority, whereas an uninterruptible power supply might be less crucial, unless you’re frequently in places with unstable electricity.

13. Creating a Great Work Environment for the Long Run

13.1 Personalisation and Inspiration

Your home office doesn’t have to feel drab. Consider colour schemes that boost creativity and mood. Hang inspirational artwork or maintain a digital gallery on your second screen. The more you enjoy your surroundings, the more motivated you’ll feel to settle in each day.

13.2 Work-Life Separation

One of the challenges for remote employees is turning “off” at the end of the day. If your office is in the same room where you relax, try these strategies:

Partition the Space: A room divider or even a curtain can symbolically separate work from leisure areas.
Clean Up After Work: Put away your laptop, turn off your monitor and tidy up any stationery. Visual cues that the workday is over can help you mentally switch to personal time.

13.3 Continuous Learning and Adaptation

As technology evolves, so do remote work trends. Keep an eye on new tools, apps or devices that might streamline your workflow. From project management software to advanced collaboration suites, there’s always something new that can enhance your remote work experience.

14. Frequently Asked Questions About Work from Home Supplies

1. Do I really need an ergonomic chair?
Yes. If you spend a lot of time sitting down, a supportive, ergonomic chair can prevent back pain, carpal tunnel issues and other musculoskeletal problems. It’s an investment in your long-term health.

2. Should I get a standing desk or a seated one?
It depends on your preferences, budget and space. Standing desks allow you to alternate between sitting and standing, which can improve posture and circulation. However, they can be pricier than standard desks.

3. Can I just use my kitchen table as a desk?
Certainly, if you’re working remotely in the short term. But if you’ll be working from home full time, a dedicated desk is usually better for posture and organisation. Kitchen or dining tables are often too high and not designed for day-long work sessions.

4. Why do I need a second monitor?
A second screen can massively boost productivity by allowing you to view multiple windows, documents or browser tabs side by side. It’s particularly useful for multitasking or creative work.

5. What if my employer won’t cover the costs of my home office equipment?
Many remote workers are freelancers, independent contractors or employees whose companies don’t reimburse expenses. In such cases, think of it as an investment in your comfort and productivity. Certain costs may also be tax-deductible, depending on your location.

6. How do I keep my workspace organised in a small apartment?
Focus on multifunctional or foldable furniture, vertical storage solutions (like shelves) and cable management accessories. Even a slim laptop stand and wall-mounted monitor can free up desk space.

7. Do I need a UPS if I have a laptop?
A UPS might still be useful for powering routers or external monitors during power outages, ensuring you remain connected and can wrap up work safely.

15. Final Thoughts: Customise Your Work from Home Setup

The beauty of remote work is that it allows you to tailor an environment that suits you best. Whether you’re a digital nomad who sets up shop in a different city every few weeks or a remote worker who spends each day at home, the right office equipment can dramatically enhance both your performance and your well-being. From ergonomic chairs and standing desks to powerful laptops and noise-cancelling headphones, there’s a range of products available on Amazon to meet nearly every specific need.

Keep in mind that what’s essential for one person may not be for another. A graphic designer might prioritise colour-accurate monitors, whereas a copywriter may focus on a comfortable keyboard and a quiet environment. Likewise, if you host frequent virtual meetings, investing in a high-quality webcam and microphone becomes more important.

Finally, remember that building your home office supplies is an ongoing process. As you settle into a routine, you’ll identify new ways to improve your workspace. Perhaps you’ll realise you need a better external keyboard, or you’ll decide to upgrade to a more supportive ergonomic chair. Regularly reassessing your setup helps you stay comfortable, productive and on top of your game.

Working from home full time or roaming the globe as a digital nomad presents countless opportunities for flexibility, creativity and independence. By choosing the right work from home supplies and essential equipment, you can transform your remote work experience into one that fosters professional success, personal well-being and long-term satisfaction.