Traveling to a new country offers thrilling experiences, opportunities to explore diverse cultures, and perhaps a much-needed break from the daily grind. However, your digital security should remain a top priority.
Connecting to unfamiliar networks in hotels, airports, cafes, or even through roaming connections can expose your personal information to various risks, including identity theft, cyber-attacks, and unauthorized data access.
A VPN becomes an essential tool here. VPNs safeguard your online privacy, ensure unrestricted access to content, and allow for secure transactions even when away from home.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the benefits of using a VPN while traveling, how it works, and the top VPNs to consider for your next trip. Let’s explore why a VPN is an optional tool and a must-have for safe and seamless travel.
Steps to Use a VPN When Traveling Abroad
Follow the below steps to use a VPN when traveling abroad.
1. Choose the Right VPN Provider:
Before you travel, research and select a VPN provider that fits your needs. Consider factors such as security features, speed, server locations, and customer support. Opt for providers with global servers, especially in your home country, so you can access region-specific content.
2. Install the VPN on All Devices:
Once you’ve chosen a VPN, download and install it on all the devices you’ll be bringing with you, such as your smartphone, tablet, and laptop. Many providers allow multiple simultaneous connections, so you can protect all devices with a single subscription.
3. Connect to a VPN Server:
When you connect to Wi-Fi networks abroad, open the VPN app and select a server. Depending on your purpose, you may want to connect to a server in your home country (for accessing regional content) or in a country close to you (for better speeds).
4. Enable Essential Features:
Enable features like a kill switch, which disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, and DNS leak protection, ensuring that all data is routed through the encrypted VPN tunnel.
Why Do You Need a VPN When Traveling Abroad?
Below are reasons for using a VPN when traveling abroad.
1. Secure Public Wi-Fi Connections:
Public Wi-Fi networks in airports, hotels, and cafes are convenient but often insecure. Hackers can set up fake networks or use unencrypted Wi-Fi to intercept data, exposing your personal information, login credentials, and financial data. A VPN encrypts your connection, ensuring that your data is unreadable to anyone trying to intercept it.
2. Access to Blocked Content:
Depending on the country you’re visiting, certain websites and social media platforms may be restricted. A VPN lets you connect to servers in other countries, bypassing these restrictions.
This means you can still access your favorite streaming services, social media accounts, and other content regardless of local regulations.
3. Avoiding Censorship in Certain Countries:
In some countries, internet access is highly regulated and censored. With a VPN, you can bypass these limitations and access news, information, and communication channels that might otherwise be unavailable. It’s a way to retain digital freedom while respecting local laws.
4. Secure Online Banking and Transactions:
When traveling, you may need to check your bank balance, transfer funds, or make payments. A VPN secures these activities by encrypting your data, preventing unauthorized access, and ensuring that sensitive information is not exposed.
5. Preventing Geo-Tracking and Maintaining Privacy:
Traveling exposes your IP address to new locations, which can be tracked by websites, advertisers, and even certain government authorities. A VPN hides your IP address, helping you maintain privacy and reduce geo-tracking by advertisers and websites.
6. Avoiding Price Discrimination:
Some websites and services, like flight booking sites, offer different prices based on your location. A VPN allows you to compare prices from different regions, helping you find better deals on flights, accommodations, and more. By connecting to a server in a specific country, you can avoid inflated prices and potentially save money.
Best VPNs for Traveling Abroad
Here are some of the top VPN providers that are well-suited for travelers:
1. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is known for its high-speed connections, excellent security features, and extensive server network in over 90 countries. Its user-friendly apps make it simple to use on mobile and desktop, and it offers a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy, ensuring total privacy.
Features
- 3,000+ servers in 94 countries for excellent global coverage.
- High-speed connections with Lightway protocol designed for speed and security.
- AES-256 encryption for robust data protection.
- Network Lock (kill switch) feature to protect data if the VPN connection drops.
- Strict no-logs policy, ensuring privacy.
- User-friendly apps available on various devices (smartphones, tablets, routers).
- 24/7 customer support and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. NordVPN
NordVPN is a strong choice for travelers with advanced security features like Double VPN, which routes your data through two servers, adding an extra layer of encryption.
It has over 5,000 servers in 60+ countries, providing both speed and reliability. NordVPN also includes a CyberSec feature that blocks malicious websites, further protecting you from potential threats.
Features
- Over 5,000 servers in 60+ countries, providing speed and reliability.
- Double VPN feature for routing data through two servers, adding an extra encryption layer.
- CyberSec feature that blocks ads, malware, and malicious websites.
- Kill switch and DNS leak protection for uninterrupted security.
- No-logs policy audited by third parties, assuring privacy.
- User-friendly apps available on multiple platforms with six simultaneous connections.
- Competitive pricing, especially with long-term plans.
3. Surfshark
For budget-conscious travelers, Surfshark provides excellent value with unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning you can protect all your devices with one account. It has servers in over 65 countries and offers CleanWeb, a feature that blocks ads, malware, and phishing attempts.
Features
- Servers in over 65 countries for solid global coverage.
- Unlimited simultaneous connections, allowing protection across all devices.
- CleanWeb feature blocks ads, malware, and phishing attempts.
- NoBorders mode to bypass restrictions in heavily censored regions.
- Kill switch, DNS leak protection, and strong encryption.
- Budget-friendly pricing, making it great for value-conscious travelers.
- 30-day money-back guarantee for risk-free testing.
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is known for its ease of use and dedicated servers for streaming, torrenting, and general browsing. With over 7,000 servers worldwide, it ensures reliable connections and high speeds, making it ideal for accessing region-locked content and using public Wi-Fi securely.
Features
- 7,000+ servers worldwide for reliable, high-speed connections.
- Dedicated servers for streaming, torrenting, and regular browsing.
- Strong AES-256 encryption and automatic kill switch.
- Intuitive apps available on various platforms with seven simultaneous connections.
- Strict no-logs policy to maintain user privacy.
- Extended 45-day money-back guarantee, offering ample time to test it.
- Specialized servers optimized for accessing region-locked content.
5. Private Internet Access (PIA)
PIA is a popular choice for privacy-focused users, offering customizable encryption levels and a strict no-logs policy. It has thousands of servers in over 70 countries, making it a versatile choice for traveling. PIA is also known for its affordability and strong security features.
Features
- Thousands of servers in 70+ countries, providing extensive coverage.
- Adjustable encryption levels, allowing for balanced speed and security.
- Advanced security features like a kill switch and DNS leak protection.
- Affordable plans with strong privacy features and a no-logs policy.
- Supports up to 10 simultaneous device connections.
- User-friendly apps available on a range of platforms.
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
Conclusion
When traveling abroad, a VPN is an indispensable tool that offers both security and convenience. From protecting your data on public Wi-Fi to bypassing geo-restrictions, the benefits of a VPN extend beyond just internet privacy.
A reliable VPN allows you to explore new destinations while staying connected, safe, and unrestricted online. Whether for work, leisure, or personal security, investing in a VPN ensures that your travel experience remains seamless and secure.
Choose a VPN that fits your needs, install it on all your devices, and enjoy a hassle-free online experience on your next adventure abroad.
FAQs
Is using a VPN legal when traveling abroad?
Yes, in most countries, using a VPN is legal. However, some countries have restrictions on VPN usage, such as China, Russia, and the UAE. It’s best to check local laws and regulations before using a VPN in a new country.
Can I use a free VPN while traveling?
While free VPNs are available, they often have limitations such as slower speeds, data caps, and fewer server options. Many free VPNs also lack essential security features, and some may log and sell user data. For reliable protection, it’s better to invest in a trusted paid VPN.
Do I need a VPN if I’m only browsing social media and checking emails?
Even for simple online activities like checking emails or browsing social media, a VPN is recommended, especially if you’re using public Wi-Fi. This helps prevent unauthorized access to your accounts and keeps your data secure.
Can I use my VPN for streaming services while abroad?
Yes, one of the advantages of a VPN is the ability to access your home country’s streaming libraries. Connect to a server in your home country, and you should be able to access streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, or BBC iPlayer as if you were at home.
How can I ensure my VPN connection is stable while traveling?
To maintain a stable VPN connection, choose a provider with a large server network and connect to servers that are geographically close to your location. Download offline content where possible, and enable automatic reconnection and kill switch features for added security.
Can a VPN protect me from all cyber threats while abroad?
While a VPN provides excellent protection by encrypting your internet traffic and hiding your IP address, it is not a full cybersecurity solution. Complement your VPN use with antivirus software, avoid downloading unknown files, and be cautious about sharing personal information online.
What should I do if my VPN is blocked in a country I’m visiting?
Some countries actively block VPNs. If this happens, you can try using VPNs with obfuscation features, which disguise your VPN traffic as regular internet traffic. ExpressVPN, for example, offers stealth servers designed to bypass VPN blocks. Alternatively, contact the VPN provider’s support for guidance on accessing blocked services.