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Traveling can be an exciting and thrilling experience, but using public Wi-Fi networks can be dangerous for your online privacy and security. I believe that a good VPN, or virtual private network, can protect your online activities from prying eyes while on the road.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the features you should consider when choosing the best VPN for travel. If you are interested in making money while traveling abroad, I invite you to check this article: how to make money while traveling and living abroad.
How to Choose the Best VPN for Travel?
While traveling is all about exploring new cultures and experiencing new ways of life, the digital world can be a risky place for travelers.
Not only do you risk losing sensitive personal and financial information, but you could also find yourself locked out of services and websites that you may need.
Thankfully, VPNs can help you stay safe and connected while on the go. Here’s how to choose the best VPN for travel.
Whenever choosing a reliable VPN, always remember to opt for VPN providers with robust security protocols, strict no-logging policies, and a wide server network to ensure you have a great traveling experience without any worries about your online privacy being compromised.
1- Security
The primary goal of a VPN is to provide security and privacy, especially when using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. The VPN should use military-grade encryption, such as AES-256, to protect your online activities from hackers and cybercriminals.
A good VPN should also offer a kill switch to automatically disconnect your internet connection if the VPN connection drops, preventing your online activities from being exposed.
2- Server Coverage
When traveling to different countries, you will need a VPN that has servers in those locations to bypass geo-restrictions and access region-specific content.
A VPN with a vast global network will also provide you the option of accessing content from your home country while abroad. I suggest you look for a VPN that has servers in the countries you plan to visit.
3- Connection Speed
A slow VPN connection can ruin your online experience, especially when streaming or downloading large files.
I encourage you to choose a VPN provider that has fast connection speeds, preferably with a no-logs policy.
Typically, a no-logs policy ensures that the VPN provider does not store any information about your online activities, providing you with the utmost privacy.
4- Price and Customer Support
The cost of a VPN varies widely from provider to provider, but it doesn’t always correlate with the quality of service.
I suggest you look for a VPN that offers a balance between the price and the features you need. Also, check out the customer support options before making a purchase.
Generally, the best VPN providers offer 24/7 customer support via live chat, email, or phone.
5- User-Friendliness
When you are already navigating unfamiliar territory, the last thing you want is to figure out how to use a complicated VPN.
I encourage you to choose a VPN that is easy to set up and use, with an intuitive interface for both desktop and mobile devices, which will make your travel more seamless, allowing you to focus on your adventures.
Best VPNs for Travelers
Traveling can be exciting, but it can also be risky when it comes to cybersecurity. Thankfully, a good VPN can help keep you secure and connected while on the go.
Here are the best VPNs for travelers:
1- ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is undoubtedly one of the best VPNs to use while traveling. With thousands of servers in 94 countries worldwide, you can be sure of fast and reliable connections wherever you are.
ExpressVPN’s service has an optimized network geared towards streaming services and bandwidth-intensive activities, making it perfect for travelers who want to stay connected with friends and family back home.
Additionally, ExpressVPN has robust security protocols, including military-grade encryption and a strict no-logs policy to ensure your online activities always remain private.
2- NordVPN
NordVPN is another excellent choice for travelers who prioritize security and privacy. NordVPN’s servers are spread across several countries worldwide, and the service boasts robust features, including Double VPN and Onion-over-VPN, to name a few.
NordVPN service also has a strict no-logging policy, meaning your data is always safe and private.
3- Surfshark
Surfshark is another VPN service provider that has gained a reputation for being much faster and cheaper than its competitors.
Surfshark service has servers in different countries worldwide and is optimized for streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. Additionally, Surfshark has a strict no-logging policy, ensuring your online activities remain private.
4- CyberGhost
CyberGhost is an excellent choice for travelers who want easy-to-use software and an extensive server network.
With thousands of servers in different countries worldwide, CyberGhost has one of the most extensive server networks compared to other VPN providers.
CyberGhost service also has easy-to-use software and a strict no-logging policy, making it an excellent choice for travelers of all skill levels.
5- Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a VPN service provider that prioritizes its users’ privacy and security. Private Internet Access’s service has an extensive network of reliable servers in different countries worldwide, making it an excellent choice for travelers, even in remote locations.
PIA’s software is also user-friendly, making it perfect for travelers of all skill levels. Additionally, PIA boasts robust security features, including a strict no-logging policy, to ensure your online activities remain private.
6- Astrill
Astrill has fewer servers than ExpressVPN and NordVPN, but it is the best VPN for those traveling to China.
Astrill is also a little expensive compared to other VPNs, and their customer service is not the friendliest. I have been using Astrill for over 2 years without any big issues.
What to read next:
- 14 Best and Safest Countries for Digital Nomads to Move To.
- Can You Make Good Money as a Translator? (7 factors to increase your earning!)
- Is it Safe to Start an Online Business?
Wrapping Up
I believe that a VPN is a crucial tool for anyone traveling, but choosing the right one may take some due diligence.
Remember that the best VPN for travel should have robust security, server coverage in the countries you’ll be visiting, fast connection speeds, affordability, quality customer support, and a user-friendly interface.
Whenever choosing, I encourage you to keep these features in mind if you want to have a great adventure knowing your online activities are secure and private.