The best travel VPNs to stay safe and access your favorite content

The best VPN for travel is ExpressVPN, which has servers in 94 countries and 160 locations. ExpressVPN provides a fast, reliable connection and offers top-notch security features, such as private DNS. 

While I've tested many VPN services, I have used ExpressVPN exclusively on my travel laptop -- and I have yet to be convinced to switch. I've also found it to be reliable for streaming services, no matter where I am in the world.

It supports the most popular mobile platforms as well as a wide range of other platforms and devices. Even when not traveling, ExpressVPN can secure your internet connection from just about any device.

The best travel VPN for you will strike a balance between security and speed. Some VPNs prioritize encryption and other security measures over performance, and while this won't affect your web browsing or streaming speeds too much, it's still a factor to consider. 

However, my top VPN, ExpressVPN, isn't the cheapest, and there may be other functionalities like unlimited device connections that influence your decision.

I looked at a list of different metrics to rank the best travel VPNs, including ping speeds, encryption, platform compatibility, and the number of servers each service has worldwide. 

Also, I ensured every pick offers strong security, so your data will not be visible while using the program, and certain features (like a kill switch) are included. I also considered the importance of server and country availability, as the more expansive the network, the more user choice. 

A VPN is a virtual private network. These services allow users to browse the internet privately and to securely connect to public Wi-Fi networks with a layer of protection that masks data. VPNs give users the ability to change their virtual location by redirecting the connection through servers located worldwide. A VPN will also encrypt your traffic, so your online activities are kept hidden from prying eyes.

However, if your online activities are being monitored at the ISP level -- say, by a government -- they may recognize the signature of a VPN. While they can't see what you are doing, they will know you are using VPN connections.

VPNs are useful in unblocking geo-restricted content and can be a vital tool for accessing information in countries with repressive governments. They are important services for anyone that wants to maintain a high level of safety and privacy online. 

A travel VPN is a virtual private network that provides a secure internet connection while you travel. It encrypts your online traffic and hides your IP address, protecting your sensitive data from cybercriminals and government surveillance. It also allows you to bypass internet censorship and geo-restrictions.

A VPN is useful when you have to rely on public internet hotspots, such as those made available at hotels. While you should avoid using them as much as possible for security reasons, if you have no other option, a VPN will help protect your privacy.

Using a VPN might slow down your internet speed to some extent because the data has to be encrypted and decrypted before being transmitted. However, a good travel VPN will have minimal impact on your speed, and the added security is worth the small loss in speed.

In most countries using a VPN is legal, but there are some exceptions. Some countries, such as China, Russia, and Iran, have banned the use of VPNs, while others have restrictions on VPN usage. Therefore, it's important to research the local laws of the country you're traveling to before using a VPN.

There are several sources. First, it's always a good idea to reach out to your VPN vendor. They often have a good feel for the countries their services operate in and will often post guidance on their websites. If you're a U.S. citizen, you may wish to consider contacting the U.S. State Department. 

It lists travel advisories for U.S. citizens, and they have foreign service officials who can provide general guidance. Check the travel advisories web page. Your nation's foreign ministry may have a similar service if you're outside the United States.

If you're looking to understand which countries either ban or discourage VPN usage, NordVPN has a legal guide that lists countries with severe restrictions, bans, and possible penalties for breaking VPN laws. 

No, no way. VPNs can generally protect your data while it's in motion. But if your computer or phone is seized (whether or not it's encrypted), it's possible law enforcement can access your data. Some governments might simply hold your devices for whatever reason they deem useful. 

Online services you access in-country might have less protection than the very same services in your host country. Of course, there are also normal travel security issues, like being careful what you spend, how you handle cash, who you trust, and so on that could carry risks during travel.

Yes. Don't assume any network endpoint is safe when traveling. Always make sure your connections are encrypted when communicating from any network connection.

Many VPN services claim you can save hundreds of dollars on flights by using a VPN to change your location. And there are plenty of blog posts with anecdotal evidence supporting the theory that a VPN can help cut the price of your plane ticket. But the reality is less clear, and the most likely scenario is that no one knows for sure how much (if at all) a VPN can help you score cheap flights.  

Airfare prices are set by algorithms based on complicated factors, such as demand. You could notice a price difference using a VPN to spoof your location, but the change in cost may or may not be related to your location. From a practical standpoint, it's difficult to account for every possible variable. Also, given the amount of data available on consumers, maybe the real advantage of using a VPN is remaining anonymous.

Another way to look at it is if a VPN actually reduces the cost of airfare, it's most likely not going to have as big of an impact as other factors. There are other tactics for booking cheap flights that should be higher on your priority list. Booking early and keeping an eye out for price drops (check if there are change fees before booking), or traveling during days or times of day when there is less demand are great ways to secure the best possible prices on flights.

To set up a travel VPN, subscribe to a VPN service and download the VPN software for your device. Then, open the software and sign in using your credentials. Choose a server location and connect to the VPN. Once connected, your internet traffic will be encrypted, and your IP address will be hidden.

If the services I've highlighted in our best travel VPNs list aren't a good fit for you, there are other reputable options worth trying out. Proton VPN, VyprVPN, and Atlas VPN are all secure and reputable providers that could better suit your needs. 

You can also check out ZDNET's guide on the top VPNs for more options.