Why You Should Use a VPN Abroad (And How to Get Started)

Traveling opens up a world of exciting possibilities—new cultures, cuisines, and places to explore. But while you're busy capturing postcard-worthy photos, your online security can often take a back seat. Unfortunately, traveling can expose you to numerous cybersecurity risks, particularly when using public Wi-Fi or engaging in online activities far from home.

That’s where a Virtual Private Network (VPN) comes in. A VPN acts as your personal bodyguard in the online world, shielding your data and granting you unrestricted internet access, no matter where you roam. Whether you’re a digital nomad, frequent flyer, or just someone who values online privacy, a VPN is a must-have tool in your travel toolkit.

In this guide, we’ll break down the benefits of using a VPN abroad, show you how to choose the right one and give you simple steps to get started.

Why Use a VPN Abroad?

Traveling without a VPN is a bit like sightseeing without a map—you can still do it, but you’re leaving yourself unprotected and may miss out on valuable opportunities. Here’s how a VPN can level up your travels:

1. Stay Safe on Public Wi-Fi

Picture this: You’re sipping coffee in a charming Parisian café, connecting to the free Wi-Fi to check your emails. While convenient, public Wi-Fi is a goldmine for hackers looking to steal your personal data. This could include passwords, credit card details, or sensitive work files.

A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it nearly impossible for hackers to access your information. It’s like adding an invisible shield around your data, giving you peace of mind while browsing anywhere—whether on a café’s Wi-Fi, at an airport lounge, or in your hotel room.

2. Access Geo-Restricted Content

Ever tried watching your favorite Netflix show only to discover it’s unavailable in the country you’re visiting? Streaming platforms, news sites, and even social media platforms impose geo-restrictions in certain regions. A VPN solves this by masking your IP address and allowing you to “appear” as though you’re browsing from a different country—unlocking blocked content and staying connected to a piece of home.

3. Avoid Price Discrimination

Airlines, hotels, and car rental companies often adjust prices based on your location. A VPN lets you browse travel deals as if you were located in another country, often leading to significant savings. Imagine finding cheaper flights or hotel rates simply by switching your virtual location!

4. Protect Your Privacy

Traveling can unknowingly expose your online activities to government surveillance or ISP (Internet Service Provider) tracking. Some countries monitor and control internet usage, raising privacy concerns for travelers. With a VPN, your online actions remain private and secure, no matter where you're located.

5. Prevent Account Lockouts

Banks and social media platforms sometimes flag logins from unfamiliar locations as suspicious, leading to temporary account lockouts. A VPN lets you use a local IP address, reducing the likelihood of triggering these security measures and ensuring uninterrupted access to your accounts.

Try Surfshark Now!

Try NordVPN now!

How to Choose the Right VPN for Travel

With so many VPN options available, how do you know which one to trust? Here are the features you should prioritize:

1. Speed and Performance

Slow connections can be frustrating, especially when video streaming or working online. Look for a VPN with fast server speeds to ensure a seamless browsing experience.

2. Server Locations

Choose a VPN with servers in a wide range of countries. This gives you more flexibility to access content and secure the best deals no matter where you are. For instance, Surfshark and NordVPN provides access to over 3,200 servers in 100+ locations globally.

3. Security Features

Top-tier encryption, a no-logs policy, and extra features like kill switches (which protect you if the VPN connection drops) are crucial. Surfshark also includes unique perks like CleanWeb to block ads and malware.

4. Ease of Use

A VPN should be beginner-friendly, with intuitive apps for all your devices. It’s a bonus if the setup process takes just minutes, like NordVPN and Surfshark do.

5. Affordable Pricing

Price matters, especially for travelers on a budget. Surfshark or NordVPN offers one of the most competitive subscription plans, with a 30-day money-back guarantee for risk-free exploration.