Traveling to different countries often means dealing with internet restrictions and security risks on public Wi-Fi. A good VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help protect your personal data and give you access to websites from your home country while abroad. NordVPN and ExpressVPN rank as the top choices for travelers, offering strong security features and servers in many countries.
Here are the latest recommendations on the best VPNs for travel in 2025:
🛡️ Top Travel VPNs for 2025
1. NordVPN
NordVPN continues to lead the pack as the best all-around VPN for travel. It boasts a massive global server network with excellent coverage and strong performance. Its NordLynx protocol ensures high speeds, even on hotel Wi-Fi or mobile hotspots. A new feature, NordWhisper, helps bypass censorship and VPN blocks in restrictive countries. NordVPN also includes malware protection and strong encryption, making it an excellent choice for both privacy and streaming access while abroad.
2. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is known for its simple interface and reliability. It supports over 100 countries and is ideal for travelers looking to access streaming services or avoid censorship. Its proprietary Lightway protocol offers fast and consistent connections, and it works across virtually all platforms, including phones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs.
3. Surfshark
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN that doesn’t cut corners. It allows unlimited device connections, making it great for families or travelers with multiple gadgets. It offers strong obfuscation features that help users stay connected in countries with heavy internet restrictions, and its speeds are competitive with top-tier providers.
4. Private Internet Access (PIA)
PIA is best for advanced users who want deeper control over their VPN settings. It includes customizable encryption, a reliable kill switch, and an independently audited no-logs policy. While its interface may not be as beginner-friendly as others, it delivers great performance for the price and is excellent for torrenting and secure browsing during domestic or international travel.
5. Proton VPN
Proton VPN is ideal for streaming-focused travelers. It’s built by the team behind ProtonMail and is known for its strong commitment to privacy and transparency. The VPN Accelerator feature helps reduce speed drops on long-distance connections, and it supports more than 20 Netflix regions along with other popular streaming platforms.
6. Opera VPN Pro
Opera VPN Pro is a lightweight and integrated option for users already using the Opera browser. It recently added full-device support and increased server capacity, making it a convenient tool for casual travelers. With a free trial and low monthly pricing, it’s an easy entry point into secure browsing on the go.
🧠Choosing the Right VPN for Your Travel Style
| Travel Priority | Recommended VPNs |
|---|---|
| All-round performance | NordVPN |
| Beginner-friendly | ExpressVPN |
| Budget-conscious | Surfshark, PIA |
| Streaming-focused | Proton VPN, NordVPN |
| Browser-only simplicity | Opera VPN Pro |
âś… Recommendation
For travelers seeking the best mix of speed, security, and versatility, NordVPN remains the top choice. It offers excellent performance, works in most regions around the world, and includes added features that go beyond just encrypting your connection.
If you want something more intuitive or cheaper, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and Proton VPN are strong alternatives—each offering a unique advantage depending on your travel needs. Whether you’re backpacking through Europe, working remotely from Asia, or simply streaming shows from a beach resort, there’s a VPN on this list built to match your journey.
When picking a travel VPN, you need to think about speed, server locations, and ease of use on different devices. Some VPNs work better for streaming shows from home, while others focus more on keeping your banking and email safe on hotel networks. The right choice depends on your specific travel needs and budget.
1. NordVPN – Great for extensive travel with 7,200+ servers
NordVPN stands out as a top choice for travelers who need reliable connections across the globe. With over 7,200 servers in 118 countries, it offers one of the most extensive networks available today.
This wide coverage means you’ll likely find a nearby server no matter where your adventures take you. A nearby server typically means faster speeds and more stable connections – exactly what you need when working or streaming from hotel rooms or cafes.
Security is another area where NordVPN shines. The service uses strong encryption to protect your data from hackers who often target public Wi-Fi networks that travelers use. This protection is essential when connecting to airport, hotel, or restaurant networks.
The app works on many devices including phones, tablets, and laptops. You can connect up to six devices with one subscription, making it perfect for family travel or for protecting all your personal gadgets.
NordVPN also helps bypass geographic restrictions. Want to watch your home country’s streaming services while abroad? It can help you access content that might be blocked in your current location.
Speed is crucial when traveling, and NordVPN delivers with fast, reliable connections. This means less waiting and more enjoying your digital content, whether you’re video calling family or watching movies in your hotel room.
The service includes a feature called CyberSec that blocks ads and protects against malware – adding another layer of security while exploring new networks. Their no-logs policy means your browsing activity isn’t recorded, giving you privacy during your travels.
NordVPN offers competitive pricing with various subscription options. While not the cheapest option, the extensive server network and reliable performance make it worth considering for frequent travelers.
Setting up NordVPN is straightforward, with easy-to-use apps that even tech beginners can handle. This simplicity is valuable when you’re on the go and need protection quickly in a new location.
2. ExpressVPN – Reliable streaming with a premium touch
ExpressVPN stands out as a top choice for travelers who want to stream content while abroad. It’s been crowned the Best VPN by CNET thanks to its consistent performance and reliable security features.
Travelers love ExpressVPN because it helps them access their favorite shows and movies no matter where they are. The service offers servers in 105 countries, giving users plenty of options to connect and bypass geo-restrictions.
Speed is where ExpressVPN really shines. Many VPNs slow down your connection, but ExpressVPN maintains lightning-fast speeds even when streaming HD content. This means no frustrating buffering while trying to watch your shows in a hotel room.
Security is another strong point. ExpressVPN uses strong encryption to keep user data safe, which is especially important when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks in airports, cafes, or hotels.
The app works on almost any device including phones, tablets, computers, and even smart TVs. This flexibility is perfect for travelers who might use different devices depending on their situation.
While ExpressVPN offers premium features, it does come with a higher price tag than some competitors. However, many users feel the reliable service is worth the cost, especially when compared to some cheaper options that may have overcrowded servers and slower speeds.
The user interface is clean and simple, making it easy for anyone to connect to a server with just one click. This simplicity is valuable for travelers who need quick protection without a complicated setup process.
ExpressVPN also offers a helpful feature that automatically reconnects if your VPN connection drops. This extra layer of protection ensures travelers’ data stays secure even if they experience network issues.
Customer support is available 24/7 through live chat, which can be a lifesaver when traveling in different time zones and experiencing connection problems.
New users can try ExpressVPN risk-free with its 7-day free trial on mobile devices or take advantage of a 30-day money-back guarantee on all platforms.
3. Surfshark – Budget-friendly with strong security features
If you’re looking for a VPN that won’t break the bank but still offers top-notch protection, Surfshark is an excellent choice. This service has built a reputation for combining affordability with powerful security features.
Surfshark uses military-grade encryption to protect your data while traveling. This level of security helps keep your personal information safe from hackers on public Wi-Fi networks at hotels, airports, and cafes.
One standout feature is Surfshark’s built-in Kill Switch. This automatically cuts your internet connection if the VPN drops, preventing any accidental data leaks. The service also includes an Ad Blocker to stop annoying pop-ups and potential malware.
Travelers will appreciate Surfshark’s split tunneling option. This lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which don’t, giving you more control over your connection. It’s helpful when you need to access both local and international content.
Surfshark has earned recognition as an excellent VPN for casual users. It’s fast and user-friendly, making it perfect for travelers who want security without complexity.
The service boasts a large server network spanning many countries. This global coverage means you can connect from almost anywhere during your travels. More servers also help maintain good speeds even during peak usage times.
Privacy-conscious travelers will be pleased with Surfshark’s impressive privacy policy. The company doesn’t track your online activities, giving you true anonymity while browsing in foreign countries.
Streaming fans take note – Surfshark is great for accessing entertainment services while abroad. You can watch your favorite shows from home no matter where your travels take you.
Experts regularly name Surfshark among the best travel VPNs due to its value proposition. It delivers premium features at a much lower price than many competitors.
While no longer the absolute cheapest option, Surfshark still offers excellent value for money, especially with long-term subscription plans. The price-to-feature ratio remains one of the most competitive in the industry.
4. CyberGhost – Excellent for privacy-focused travelers
CyberGhost stands out as one of the best VPNs for beginners who care about privacy while traveling. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy for anyone to set up and use, even if you’re not tech-savvy.
When you’re on the go, CyberGhost helps you stay anonymous by masking your real IP address. This feature lets you spoof your location to access content from back home or find better deals on flights and hotels.
Security is a top priority with CyberGhost. The service encrypts your data when you connect to public Wi-Fi at airports, hotels, or cafes. This protection keeps hackers from seeing your personal information or banking details.
The VPN offers blazing fast servers across numerous countries, giving travelers plenty of options to connect. Fast speeds mean you can video chat with family or stream shows without frustrating lags or buffering.
Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate CyberGhost’s generous 45-day money-back guarantee. This extended trial period gives you plenty of time to test the service during your trip.
CyberGhost works on all major devices including Windows, iOS, Mac, Android, and Linux. This compatibility means you can protect your laptop, phone, and tablet with a single subscription.
The service helps travelers bypass geo-restrictions that might block access to their favorite websites or services. Whether you need to check your bank account or watch your home country’s TV shows, CyberGhost keeps you connected.
For 2025, CyberGhost continues to enhance its privacy features for international travelers. The company maintains a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your browsing activity stays private even from the VPN provider itself.
5. Private Internet Access – Trusted for multiple devices
Private Internet Access (PIA) stands out as a reliable VPN choice for travelers who use multiple devices. With a single subscription, you can protect up to 10 devices at once, making it ideal for families or tech enthusiasts who travel with several gadgets.
PIA has been in the VPN business for over 10 years, building a solid reputation in the industry. Many users have used PIA for years with positive experiences, noting that it works “wonderfully” across their devices.
The service offers strong security features that travelers need. Their app is fully open-source, which means anyone can check the code for security issues. This transparency helps build trust with users who care about privacy.
Speed is crucial when traveling, and PIA delivers. The service provides fast connections that won’t slow you down when working from hotel Wi-Fi or coffee shops abroad. This makes it suitable for video calls, streaming, and other bandwidth-heavy activities.
For budget-conscious travelers, PIA offers good value. Their plans are reasonably priced compared to competitors, and they frequently run discounts. Plus, they back their service with a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you time to test it during your travels.
Some Reddit users consider PIA more trustworthy than free VPNs since the company has a business model that doesn’t rely on selling user data. Their no-logs policy has reportedly been tested in court, adding another layer of credibility.
The apps are easy to use across different platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. This simplicity is helpful when you’re busy navigating new places and don’t want to fiddle with complicated settings.
Customer support is available 24/7 through live chat, which can be a lifesaver if you encounter issues while in different time zones. Having immediate help when traveling internationally provides peace of mind.
For streaming enthusiasts, PIA can unblock various content while abroad, though it may not be as consistent as some competitors in accessing all streaming platforms.
6. ProtonVPN – Known for its strict no-logs policy
ProtonVPN stands out in the travel VPN market with its strict no-logs policy. This means they don’t track or store your online activities while you’re connected to their service, giving travelers peace of mind about their privacy.
Based in Switzerland, ProtonVPN benefits from some of the world’s strongest privacy laws. This location adds an extra layer of protection for users concerned about government surveillance while traveling abroad.
The service offers both free and paid plans. Their free option is actually one of the best no-cost VPNs available, though it has some limitations for travelers.
Paid plans unlock access to servers across the USA and many other countries. This server variety helps travelers access content from home or bypass regional restrictions they might encounter on the road.
For security-conscious travelers, ProtonVPN offers Secure Core servers. These route your connection through multiple countries before reaching its destination, making it even harder for anyone to track your online movements.
The service also includes useful extras like DNS filtering that blocks ads, trackers, and malicious scripts. This feature can be particularly helpful when connecting to unknown networks in hotels or airports.
Many users choose ProtonVPN specifically because of its strong security focus. On travel forums, people often mention their trust in the company’s commitment to privacy as a main reason for selecting this service.
The apps are user-friendly across various devices, making it simple to stay protected whether you’re using a laptop in a coffee shop or a smartphone at your hotel. Connection speeds are generally good enough for most travel needs like video calls and streaming.
While not the cheapest option, ProtonVPN’s pricing is reasonable considering the strong privacy features provided. For travelers who prioritize security over cost, it represents good value.
The service has earned positive reviews from tech experts too. CNET describes it as offering “power user privacy without sacrificing speed,” making it suitable for travelers who need both security and performance.
7. VyprVPN – Offers unique Chameleon protocol for bypassing censorship
When traveling to countries with internet restrictions, VyprVPN stands out as a strong choice for keeping your connection free and open. This provider offers something special that many competitors don’t have.
VyprVPN’s Chameleon technology is their custom-built protocol designed specifically to beat censorship. Unlike standard VPN protocols, Chameleon scrambles metadata to prevent detection by deep packet inspection.
This makes VyprVPN particularly useful for travelers heading to places with strict internet controls. The Chameleon protocol can help you access blocked websites and services even in countries with heavy online restrictions.
The latest version, Chameleon with Smart IP, takes things further. It automatically changes your VyprVPN server IP address during your session to make detection even harder.
Travelers to China will find VyprVPN especially helpful. The service is designed to defeat China’s Great Firewall, allowing access to blocked services like Google, Facebook, and WhatsApp while visiting.
VyprVPN owns and manages its entire server network. This gives them more control over security and performance compared to providers who rent servers from third parties.
The app is easy to use across various devices including phones, tablets, and laptops. You can connect up to 30 devices at once on a single account, which is generous for families traveling together.
Speed tests show VyprVPN performs well for video streaming and general browsing. While not the fastest VPN available, it offers reliable connections that work for most travel needs.
Price-wise, VyprVPN sits in the mid-range compared to other premium VPNs. They offer monthly and yearly plans, with significant discounts for longer commitments.
For travelers concerned about privacy, VyprVPN follows a strict no-logs policy. This means they don’t track or store information about your online activities, adding another layer of protection while abroad.
8. Windscribe – Allows customizable plans with free data option
Windscribe stands out as a flexible VPN choice for travelers who want control over their service. This provider offers customizable plans that work on unlimited devices, making it perfect for those traveling with multiple gadgets.
The most attractive feature for budget-conscious travelers is Windscribe’s free tier. Users get 10GB of monthly data without paying anything. This free plan gives access to servers in 11 countries, which is enough for basic travel needs.
To get the full 10GB free data allowance, users just need to confirm their email address. The company doesn’t require this information, but verifying helps unlock the maximum free data.
Travelers will appreciate that Windscribe’s free plan comes with no ads and no activity logging. The service encrypts browsing activity and blocks ads, giving users privacy while exploring new places.
For those who need more data or country options, Windscribe offers paid upgrades. Previously, some users had access to larger free data plans (20GB, 30GB, 50GB, or 60GB), but these have been reduced to the standard 10GB free plan.
The service works on all major platforms, making it easy to set up no matter what devices travelers bring along. Its straightforward interface makes connecting to secure servers simple, even for VPN beginners.
Windscribe’s build-your-own-plan option lets travelers pick exactly which server locations they need. This means you only pay for access to countries you’ll actually visit, potentially saving money compared to standard VPN packages.
9. TunnelBear – Friendly interface, ideal for VPN beginners
TunnelBear stands out with its friendly user interface that makes it perfect for people just starting to use VPNs. The cute bear theme isn’t just for show – it actually helps make complex VPN concepts easier to understand.
New users will appreciate how TunnelBear simplifies the VPN experience. Instead of confusing technical terms, you get simple options and clear visuals. This approach removes the intimidation factor that often keeps people from trying VPNs.
The app works on many devices including Mac, PC, iOS, Android, and even as a Chrome extension. This flexibility means you can protect your connection no matter what device you bring on your travels.
Security is solid with TunnelBear. The service uses OpenVPN encryption to keep your data safe. Tests show no leaks, which means your information stays protected as you browse.
TunnelBear has built a strong reputation for privacy and transparency. This matters when you’re traveling and connecting to unknown networks in hotels, cafes, and airports.
One drawback is the free version, which is somewhat limited. While useful for trying the service, it restricts how much data you can use. Still, it’s a good way to test if TunnelBear meets your needs before buying.
The simple map interface shows exactly where your connection is routing through. Just click on a country, and the bear tunnels to that location. This visual approach helps you understand what’s happening with your connection.
For travelers wanting to watch shows from home or access blocked websites, TunnelBear makes the process straightforward. No complicated settings – just pick a country and you’re set.
The speed is adequate for most travel needs like checking email, browsing websites, or watching videos. While not the fastest VPN available, it balances speed with simplicity.
10. Hotspot Shield – Fast speeds with a free version available
Hotspot Shield stands out in the VPN market, particularly for travelers who need reliable connections. This VPN service has earned a reputation as one of the fastest VPNs available, as verified by Ookla’s Speedtest.
The speed advantage makes Hotspot Shield excellent for streaming, gaming, and video calls while traveling. You won’t have to deal with frustrating buffering when trying to watch content from your home country.
For budget-conscious travelers, Hotspot Shield offers a free VPN option that provides basic protection. This can be helpful for quick security needs without committing to a subscription.
The free version does have limitations compared to the premium service. However, it still provides essential security features that travelers need for basic protection on public Wi-Fi networks.
Coverage is impressive with Hotspot Shield’s network of over 1800 VPN servers spread across more than 80 countries. This global reach means travelers can find nearby servers almost anywhere they go.
The Windows version is particularly robust, offering strong performance on laptops – the device most travelers rely on. The service also has apps for Mac, iOS, and Android, covering all devices you might take on your trip.
User experience is straightforward with an intuitive interface that doesn’t require technical knowledge. This simplicity is valuable when you’re in a rush at an airport or trying to connect from a hotel room.
Connection stability is another strong point. Hotspot Shield maintains connections even when switching between networks or dealing with spotty hotel Wi-Fi – a common travel headache.
Privacy features include standard encryption and a no-logs policy, though some users may want to research this aspect further before trusting the service with sensitive information.
Why Use a VPN When Traveling
Traveling exposes your digital life to new risks and limitations. A VPN helps keep your information safe and lets you enjoy the internet as if you were home.
Protecting Personal Information
When you travel, you often connect to public Wi-Fi networks in hotels, cafes, and airports. These networks are not secure and have vulnerabilities. Hackers can easily spy on these connections to steal your:
- Passwords
- Credit card numbers
- Personal messages
- Banking information
A VPN creates a secure, encrypted tunnel for your data. This protection makes it much harder for anyone to see what you’re doing online.
Hotel Wi-Fi is especially risky. Many travelers don’t realize that hotel staff or other guests might monitor network traffic. A VPN is the only way to ensure all data you send remains secure.
Some countries also monitor internet usage more than others. Using a VPN helps protect your privacy from government surveillance too.
Accessing Restricted Content
Ever tried to watch your favorite show while abroad, only to see “This content isn’t available in your region”? This happens because many streaming services limit content by location.
A VPN lets you connect to servers in your home country. This makes websites think you’re still at home, giving you access to:
- Your regular Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+ library
- News sites that block international viewers
- Banking services that might flag foreign logins
- Social media platforms blocked in certain countries
Some travelers find VPNs essential for circumventing geographical restrictions when abroad. This isn’t just about entertainment – it can help you access important services too.
Business travelers especially benefit from location flexibility. They can access company resources that might be restricted to certain regions.
Choosing the Right VPN for Your Needs
Selecting a VPN for travel requires careful consideration of performance, usability, and device support. These factors directly impact your experience when connecting from hotels, airports, and other locations abroad.
Speed and Performance
VPN speed can make or break your travel experience. Nobody wants to wait minutes for a simple webpage to load while trying to find directions in a foreign city.
Look for VPNs with consistently fast servers in your travel destinations. ExpressVPN and NordVPN both offer excellent speed across their global networks.
Pay attention to:
- Server count and locations – more servers generally means less overcrowding
- Connection protocols – WireGuard and OpenVPN offer good balances of speed and security
- Split tunneling features – allow some apps to bypass the VPN for better performance
Many top providers like Surfshark and Private Internet Access now include built-in speed test tools to help you find the fastest server for your location.
Ease of Use
When you’re navigating unfamiliar places, the last thing you need is a complicated VPN interface.
User-friendly apps make connecting to secure servers simple with just one or two clicks. Most top VPNs now feature:
- Quick connect buttons that automatically select the best server
- Favorite servers lists to save your commonly used connections
- Clear visual indicators showing when you’re protected
Surfshark stands out for its exceptionally clean, simple interface that even VPN newcomers can use without confusion.
Remember that good VPNs also offer easy account management and 24/7 support – crucial if you encounter issues while traveling in different time zones.
Compatibility with Devices
Modern travelers often carry multiple devices – perhaps a laptop, smartphone, and tablet. Your VPN should work smoothly across all of them.
Check if the VPN supports:
- Multiple simultaneous connections – NordVPN offers 6 connections while Surfshark provides unlimited ones
- All your device types – iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, etc.
- Router compatibility for protecting all devices on a network
Apps should maintain consistent interfaces across platforms, making switching between devices intuitive. Some VPNs also offer browser extensions, which can be handy for quick protection while using public Wi-Fi.
Smart DNS features found in services like ExpressVPN can help with streaming services on devices that don’t normally support VPNs, like smart TVs or gaming consoles in hotel rooms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Travel VPNs can seem complicated, but most common questions have straightforward answers. Here’s what travelers most want to know about using VPNs on their trips.
Which VPN is recommended for frequent travelers?
For people who travel often, NordVPN is highly recommended due to its huge network of over 7,200 servers worldwide. This extensive coverage means you’ll likely find a good connection no matter where your travels take you.
ExpressVPN is another excellent choice for frequent travelers who need reliable streaming access while abroad. It costs more but delivers premium performance.
Travelers on a budget might prefer Surfshark, which offers strong security features without the high price tag of some competitors.
How does a VPN protect me while traveling abroad?
A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel for your internet traffic, hiding your browsing from prying eyes on public WiFi networks at hotels, airports, and cafes. This protection is crucial when using unsecured networks during travel.
VPNs also mask your real location, which helps protect against location-based tracking and targeting. This extra layer of privacy is especially valuable when connecting from countries with questionable internet surveillance practices.
Your banking and personal accounts stay safer with a VPN since the encryption helps prevent hackers from intercepting your login credentials or personal data.
Are there any free VPNs that are safe for use during my international travels?
Most truly free VPNs come with significant limitations that make them risky for travel. They often have strict data caps, slower speeds, and fewer server options than paid options.
Proton VPN offers one of the better free options with unlimited data and a no-logs policy, though you’ll have access to servers in only three countries. This limitation can be problematic for international travelers.
Free VPNs sometimes make money by collecting and selling user data, which defeats the privacy purpose of using a VPN in the first place. Investing in a paid service is usually worth it for travelers.
What should I look for in a VPN service for my travel needs?
Server locations should match your travel destinations to ensure you can connect to nearby servers for better speed. More servers also typically mean less overcrowding and better performance.
Strong encryption protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard are essential for true security while traveling. These protocols ensure your data stays protected even on sketchy public WiFi.
Look for a strict no-logs policy, which means the VPN doesn’t track or store your online activities. This feature is particularly important when traveling to countries with invasive surveillance.
Connection speed matters, especially if you’ll be working remotely or streaming content. The best travel VPNs maintain good speeds even when connecting through servers in different countries.
Can I use a VPN to access content restricted in certain countries while traveling?
Yes, VPNs allow you to access your normal streaming services and websites even when you’re in countries where they might be blocked. By connecting to a server in your home country, you’ll appear to be browsing from there.
Social media platforms that are restricted in certain countries can often be accessed through a good VPN. This access helps travelers stay connected with friends and family back home.
Some countries actively block VPN usage, so not all services work everywhere. Premium VPNs like NordVPN and ExpressVPN regularly update their systems to work around these restrictions.
How do I set up a VPN on my devices before going on an international trip?
Download and install your chosen VPN app before you leave home. Many countries block VPN websites, making it difficult to download the software after you’ve arrived.
Test the VPN connection before your trip by connecting to servers in the countries you plan to visit. This test helps ensure the service works well with your typical online activities.
Set up the VPN on all devices you’ll bring—phone, tablet, laptop—since you’ll likely use all of them during your travels. Most premium VPNs allow multiple simultaneous connections.
Enable auto-connect features if available so your VPN activates automatically when connecting to unknown WiFi networks. This setup provides continuous protection without having to remember to turn it on each time.
