Best VPNs for travel in 2024

When you travel abroad or even just around the country, you should always ensure your online security is covered. Connecting to public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes, or hotels can be risky, so it’s crucial to rely on a VPN to protect your personal information. A VPN not only keeps your data safe from hackers but also lets you access the content you love, no matter where you are in the world.

For example, when you’re in Asia, you can still watch your favorite shows that are only available back home or catch up on local news. Some content can only be accessed from certain countries, and VPN traffic helps you get around those restrictions.

Before you head out on your next vacation or work trip, it’s really important to pick the right VPN and set it up before you go. With the help of the Cybernews research team, I tested more than two dozen VPNs to see which ones work best in different countries.

Whether you’re a domestic traveler, working abroad, or exploring new places as an international traveler, I’ve put together a list of the top 5 VPNs that will keep you safe and connected on your travels.

Our top-rated VPNs for international travel

1. NordVPN – the best overall VPN for travel in 2024
2. Surfshark – VPN for international travel with unlimited devices
3. Proton VPN – best free VPN for travel
4. ExpressVPN – user-friendly VPN for Europe
5. Norton Secure VPN – reliable VPN for domestic travel

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Comparison of the best travel VPNs

Why you should use a VPN for travel?

When you travel, a VPN should be your go-to companion for online privacy and accessing content. Whether you’re connecting to public Wi-Fi at an airport or hotel, a VPN encrypts your internet traffic, protecting your data from prying eyes. This way, you can browse securely, stream your favorite shows, and even access your bank account without worrying about who might be watching.

When I travel, I rely on a VPN for these exact reasons. It gives me peace of mind knowing that my data is secure and that I can enjoy the content and services I need, no matter where I am.

To get a third opinion, it is recommended to look into Reddit. Users on Reddit often talk about how a VPN is essential for unblocking streaming services while abroad so you can watch movies just like you would at home. But it’s not just about entertainment – using a VPN also helps when I’m looking for cheap flights or hotel deals. By masking my location, I can find better prices that might not be available if sites knew where I was searching from.

Another thing I’ve found useful is accessing my online banking securely while traveling. Without a VPN, some banking sites might block access if they detect that I’m in a different country. With a VPN, you can set your location back home and access your accounts without any issues. Plus, it adds an extra layer of security, which is especially important when dealing with financial information on public networks.

In short, whether it’s for protecting your data, finding travel deals, or just keeping up with your favorite shows, a VPN is an essential part of any travel kit. It’s one of those things you might not realize you need until you start using it, but once you do, you won’t want to travel without it.

The best VPNs for travel in 2024 – detailed list

Together with a team of experts, I reviewed more than two dozen VPN services for travelers abroad and compiled a list of 5 VPNs that have successfully passed all assessments. The key testing metrics were server location count, connection speed, security feature reliability, app usability, price-to-value ratio, and more.

1. NordVPN – the best VPN for travel overall in 2024

Try NordVPN – #1 choice for travel

Based on my testing, I found NordVPN to be the best VPN for traveling, both domestically and internationally. It offers an excellent arsenal of security features and a massive server fleet, providing fast and reliable connections. NordVPN is also one of the most secure VPNs, so you can fully rely on it regardless of your location.

NordVPN is one of the fastest VPNs we tested that offers 6300+ servers across 111 countries. During my tests, I had no trouble connecting to a server in the UK and unlocking Netflix UK, BBC iPlayer, and other popular streaming platforms. The app, for me, was very easy to use and felt well organized. I was also able to find cheaper hotels and flight tickets using the NordVPN app in different locations.

What I also like about NordVPN is that it offers up to 10 simultaneous connections, meaning you can share it with family members or friends – very useful when traveling. If you need more, then I suggest Surfshark, as it allows unlimited connections.

I find NordVPN fairly affordable, with prices starting at just $3.09/month. And you can even try it with a free trial if you're using an Android.

2. Surfshark – the best international travel VPN for unlimited device support

Try Surfshark while traveling

My research proved that Surfshark is the top travel VPN for cost-conscious users. While Surfshark has fewer servers than NordVPN, the country coverage is as wide, and it excels in offering unlimited simultaneous connections. Besides, it is one of the cheapest VPNs on the market.

Surfshark offers a wide enough server fleet of 3200+ servers across 100 countries and my testing showed it has no trouble unblocking Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+, YouTube TV, and other popular platforms from different locations buffer-free and in HD. I found its apps very intuitive and user-friendly.

As online safety is crucial when traveling, I like that Surfshark VPN includes numerous safety features besides the expected top-tier encryption and kill switch. CleanWeb is similar to NordVPN’s Threat Protection and blocks ads and malware. My favorite addition to the features’ arsenal is the Rotating IP, which periodically alters your IP address for improved anonymity.

Based on our VPN speed testing, Surfshark is another fast VPN, following NordVPN. With the WireGuard protocol, it retained an average speed of 86%.

With the special NoBorders mode, I could easily bypass online censorship and restrictions. The feature automatically connects to a VPN server when the provider detects you’re connecting from a location known for censorship.

Surfshark’s plans are very affordable, and while the pricing starts at just $2.19/month, you don’t need to commit to a full-term subscription right away. The provider includes a 30-day money-back guarantee you can use to get a full refund if you end up not liking the service.

3. Proton VPN – the best VPN for privacy-focused travelers with a free version

Visit Proton VPN

Proton VPN is a standout option for those prioritizing privacy during their travels. With over 8300 servers in 112 countries, it offers reliable connections and strong security features, making it ideal for use in regions with restrictive internet policies.

During Proton VPN testing, it delivered consistent speeds, especially when using the WireGuard protocol. Streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video were easily unblocked, allowing seamless access to region-locked content.

Proton VPN enhances security with Secure Core, which routes your traffic through multiple servers in privacy-friendly countries, adding an extra layer of protection and making it harder to trace your online activity. It also includes features like DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and Tor over VPN for an extra layer of anonymity – perfect for travelers using public Wi-Fi. The app is user-friendly, though slightly less polished compared to Surfshark.

Proton VPN allows up to 10 simultaneous connections and supports all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Pricing starts at $3.59/month, and its free version offers a great way to test the service before committing. It’s a strong choice for privacy-focused travelers looking for solid performance and security.

4. ExpressVPN – the best secure international travel VPN

Try ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is an excellent travel VPN for people who prioritize digital security and privacy on the go. Unofficially, this VPN has 3000+ servers in 105 countries; however, the real number of servers is no longer disclosed by the provider. Nonetheless, it offers superb protection features and privacy assurances while providing solid connection speeds. Sadly, while I found ExpressVPN to demonstrate top-tier performance during my tests, it comes with an above-average price tag.

I find ExpressVPN almost on par with NordVPN in terms of security and privacy. It covers the basics with strong AES-256 encryption and a reliable kill switch on all apps. Besides that, I think the unique Threat Manager, which blocks data sharing and tracking between various apps and websites, very useful for travel. I like that the service includes a password manager (ExpressVPN Keys) at no extra cost, making it a well-rounded cybersecurity service while traveling.

In-house ExpressVPN tests confirmed that this service is one of the best at unlocking restricted foreign content. I found it can easily unblock Netflix, Hulu, Max, Disney+, and more. Just like NordVPN, ExpressVPN uses a proprietary tunneling protocol (Lightway), and it delivers excellent connection speeds suitable for high-quality video streaming anywhere. When I tested the VPN’s speeds, it retained around 77% of the original internet speeds.

You can get the wide-reaching ExpressVPN service for $6.67/month, which I find pretty expensive compared to other market leaders like Surfshark or NordVPN. Luckily, if you want to test this VPN before a long-term commitment, you can try it for 30 days with a money-back guarantee.

5. Norton Secure VPN – travel VPN with many international servers

View Norton Secure VPN

Norton VPN is an excellent VPN while traveling to Europe or the US due to its servers being concentrated on those continents. Although Norton Secure VPN does not disclose its exact number of servers, these are spread across 28 countries, and when I tested it, I could unblock popular streaming platforms like BBC iPlayer, Max, and YouTube TV from abroad.

To secure your connection when traveling, Norton VPN offers comprehensive security with the help of AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and the secure OpenVPN tunneling protocol. While Norton doesn’t offer the industry-standard WireGuard protocol like other providers on my list, OpenVPN can still ensure secure and fast connections. A few other features I find useful for travel include Ad-Tracker Blocking and Wi-Fi Security.

Because Norton Secure VPN only has servers in 28 countries, it’s less versatile than NordVPN or Surfshark, and it is not ideal for unblocking far-away foreign content. That said, when I tested the VPN, it worked well with European and US content. I could easily unblock BBC iPlayer, YouTube TV, and Max. On the other hand, I had no luck with Hulu and some Netflix libraries. As for performance, my Norton Secure VPN speed tests showed it retains around 74% of the original connection speed – enough for decent performance.

Norton Secure VPN prices start at $3.33/month, and you get to cover up to 10 simultaneous connections. You can also buy it together with the Norton 360 antivirus. The VPN is included in Deluxe and Select plans, with prices starting from $49.99/year. There’s a generous 60-day money-back guarantee you can use in case you don’t like the services.

How we tested VPNs for travel

When testing VPNs for travel, I made sure each one could meet the needs of travelers. With the help of the Cybernews research team, I evaluated each VPN on various devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, over the course of two days. Here’s how I tested them, focusing on key factors weighted by importance:

• Security and privacy (30%). I focused on encryption standards, no-logs policies, and the kill switch to ensure strong protection. I tested each VPN for solid encryption (like AES-256), confirmed they don’t keep logs of user activity, and made sure the kill switch worked reliably to protect privacy if the connection dropped.
• Speed and performance (25%). Speed and server availability are critical for a smooth experience while traveling. I measured each VPN’s connection speed, especially for streaming and downloading, and assessed server availability across various countries to ensure low latency and consistent performance.
• Ease of use (10%). I evaluated the user interface and device compatibility, making sure each VPN was simple to use and functioned well across different platforms. This is essential for travelers who rely on multiple devices.
• Customer support (10%). When traveling across different time zones, 24/7 customer support is essential. I assessed the availability of round-the-clock support and reviewed the quality of each VPN’s knowledge base, including tutorials and troubleshooting guides, to ensure help is readily available whenever you need it.
• Cost and value for money (5%). Finally, I compared pricing plans to the features offered, favoring VPNs that provide good value. I also looked at the availability of free trials or a strong refund policy to ensure users can test the service before committing.

By focusing on these factors, I was able to identify the best VPNs for travel in 2024, ensuring my recommendations are based on thorough and practical testing.

Which travel VPN best suits your needs?

Choosing the right VPN for your travel needs depends on what you prioritize most during your trips. If you’re looking for a VPN that excels in almost every area, NordVPN is the top choice. With its strong security features, fast speeds, and extensive server network, it’s perfect for travelers who need reliable performance, whether they’re streaming, working remotely, or simply browsing. It’s also ideal for those who want extra features like Double VPN for enhanced privacy.

For travelers who need to secure multiple devices without spending too much, Surfshark is the best option. It offers unlimited simultaneous connections and strong performance at an affordable price. Surfshark is great for families or traveling with your buddies, allowing everyone to stay protected without breaking the bank.

If privacy is your main concern, especially when traveling to regions with strict internet censorship, Proton VPN is the way to go. With its Secure Core feature and a commitment to privacy, it’s ideal for journalists, activists, or anyone who values online anonymity. Plus, its free version lets you test the service before upgrading to a full plan.

For travelers heading to countries with strict internet regulations, ExpressVPN offers top-notch security and reliability. Its fast speeds and strong encryption make it a great choice for those who need to bypass censorship and access content securely. Although it’s the most expensive option, its robust features make it worth the investment for security-focused users.

If you’re a casual traveler who needs basic online protection, Norton Secure VPN is a solid option. It’s particularly convenient if you’re already using Norton’s other security products, like Norton 360, as it integrates seamlessly. While it lacks advanced features, it’s a good choice for those who want straightforward, easy-to-use protection without spending too much.

VPN for travel – buying guide

When choosing a VPN for travel, there are a few key factors I always recommend focusing on. First, it’s important to select a VPN with a wide list of servers in different countries. This allows you to access content from anywhere, including your home country, which can be especially useful when abroad.

Security should be a top priority. Look for a VPN that uses strong encryption, like AES-256, to keep your data safe when connected to public Wi-Fi. Features like a kill switch are also crucial, as they protect your privacy by cutting off your internet connection if the VPN drops unexpectedly.

Speed is another critical factor, especially since traveling often means dealing with slow or unreliable internet connections. A good VPN should maintain fast speeds, particularly for streaming or video calls, so you’re not left frustrated by buffering or lag.

Ease of use is also important. I suggest choosing a VPN with a simple, intuitive interface that lets you connect quickly and without hassle, even if you’re not particularly tech-savvy.

Finally, consider the price. It’s wise to find a VPN that strikes the right balance between features and cost, and I always recommend looking for one that comes with a solid money-back guarantee. This way, you can test the service risk-free to make sure it meets your needs.

By focusing on these factors, you can ensure that you stay secure and connected, no matter where your travels take you.

Expert comment

Akvilė Tamašiūnienė

Content editor and security expert

When I’m choosing a Virtual Private Network (VPN) provider for travel, security, and speed are the basics, but what really sets a VPN apart for me is its ability to bypass restrictions without getting detected. In some countries, strict regulations can block VPN connections, so I look for features like obfuscation that help the VPN blend in and avoid detection.

After testing several VPNs in different countries, I’ve found that the most reliable ones not only maintain fast speeds but also offer a seamless experience. Being able to quickly connect, whether I’m at an airport or settling into a new hotel, makes a huge difference. It’s this ease of use, combined with strong privacy features, that really matters when I’m on the move.

Where are VPNs legal, illegal, or banned?

When using a VPN, it's crucial to know where they're legal and where they could cause issues. Here’s a simple table showing the list of countries where VPNs are restricted or banned.

In most countries, like the United States, Canada, and much of Europe, VPNs are legal and widely used for privacy and accessing content. However, some countries, including China, Russia, and Iran, have strict regulations, and using an unauthorized VPN there can lead to fines or other penalties. These governments often block VPN services and monitor those who try to bypass restrictions.

How can a VPN save money while traveling?

Using a VPN can save you money when traveling. Websites often track where you’re browsing from and can show higher prices based on your location or if you’ve visited the site multiple times. To get around this, I use a VPN to change my virtual location to another country or region. For instance, by connecting to a server in a different country, I’ve been able to find cheaper flights and hotel rates.

I’ve also noticed that some websites show different prices depending on where you’re browsing from. With insights from the Cybernews research team, I tried switching my IP address using a VPN. This allowed me to compare prices from different regions, and I ended up finding some great deals that I wouldn’t have seen otherwise.

Another benefit of a VPN is accessing region-specific deals or discounts that are only available to locals. This has been really useful for booking local services, like car rentals or tours, at a lower cost than what’s usually offered to international visitors.

Finally, using a VPN helps me avoid dynamic pricing, where prices go up based on my browsing history or repeated searches. By masking my real IP address and clearing cookies, I make sure I’m seeing the most unbiased prices available.

FAQ