FWIW: I used to use 3 screens (main one in the middle, and an extra desktop to the right and left)... and could have never envisioned going without at least one external monitor. Then I went fully remote for a few years, and switched entirely to to a Macbook (first the Air, then the Pro Retina).

I never looked back. Instead of many screens I just make generous use of OSX's multiple-desktops feature (which they call "spaces" http://support.apple.com/kb/PH14155). Instead of turning my head to look at the screen to my right, I 3-finger-swipe to the right. Instead of looking to my left, I 3-finger-swipe to the left. Etc. It's not exactly the same of course, but it works well. Surprisingly well actually.

I say that all to say, you might want to give minimal a try at first. You can always add on more gear later. But who knows, you might like it!

Oh, and I use a Tmobile hotspot, but they're all good.