8 Best VPN for Travel in 2023 (International Traveler Tested)

Are you heading out of the country? Then you should opt for a travel VPN to securely connect to regional WiFi, avoid location-based advertisements, and access streaming networks.

A VPN is a helpful tool that offers a secure connection to public WiFi, avoids location-based ad targeting, skips government censorship protocols, and protects your online activity. This “virtual private network” helps remove intrusive ads, blocks malware, and facilitates secure internet access.

An effective travel VPN needs to deliver privacy for those using public WiFi networks. Her is a comprehensive list of the best VPNs for international travel so you can browse websites safely and securely in almost any country.
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Our Best Free VPN Recommendation

Top Pick
ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN

✔️ Jurisdiction: British Virgin Islands

✔️ Servers: 3000+

✔️ Supported Apps: iOS, Android, Linux, macOS, and Microsoft Windows.

✔️ Works with: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Sky, HBO, Torrenting, Kodi

✔️ Money-back guarantee: 30 Days

✔️ Special offer: 3 months FREE on annual plan

Our score:

9.8

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Go to ExpressVPN

30-Day Free Trial

 

Best VPNs for International Travel: Top Picks!

 
#1 Best Overall

ExpressVPN

NordVPN

Surfshark Atlas VPN
VPN Provider ExpressVPN NordVPN Surfshark Atlas VPN
Number of servers: 3000+ 5000+ 3200+ 750+
No. of Server Countries 91 60 100 38
Streaming Netflix, BBC iPlayer Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu Netflix, Hulu, iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Disney+ Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime
Platforms Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS, console, smart TVs Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Amazon FireTV
Max connections 6 5 Unlimited Unlimited
Our Review We rate VPNs based on factors such as Speed, User Experience, Bandwidth, Countries Supported, Pricing, No Log Policy etc.
Excellent – 9.8
star-rating
Excellent – 9.7
star-rating
Good – 9.6
star-rating
Good – 9.5
star-rating
Free trial VPNs offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, but you must subscribe to the 1-month plan first. 30 days 30 days 30 days 30 days
Link Try Free Now Try Free Now Try Free Now Try Free Now

1) ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a well-respected free VPN for traveling purposes, run by Express Technologies and based in the British Virgin Islands. This VPN offers a fast connection, reliable transmission, and high-end security features.

This free VPN for traveler protects users’ browsers when using public internet connections. ExpressVPN works well for multiple systems, features a Smart DNS system, and utilizes a router app for comprehensive connectivity.

ExpressVPN

Key Specs:

Supported Platforms:
Android, Windows, Linux, iOS, and MacOS
No of Servers: 3000+ Server Countries: 94 Kill switch: Yes
Data Allowance: Unlimited Customer support: 24/7 Live Chat Support Split Tunneling: Yes
Able to unblock:
HBO Max, Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
No Logs: No activity logs Ip addresses: Dynamic, shared, or dedicated Simultaneous Connection: 5
Free Trial: Yes – 30 days Fast Speed: Yes Today Best Deal’s: Check Now!

Features:

  • Automatic protection: ExpressVPN protects users’ IP addresses. Private DNS protects web browsers against third-party interactions.
  • Social media use: ExpressVPN is compatible with WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.
  • No-logging policy: No-logging prevents Internet Service Providers from being able to see what a user is doing.
  • High-end Features: ExpressVPN offers a few high-end features, like a kill switch, simultaneous unlimited connections, split tunneling, dynamic IP addresses, and super-fast speed.
  • Unlimited bandwidth: ExpressVPN provides unlimited bandwidth to increase speed and cut internet lag.
  • Split tunneling: Users can protect their traffic while browsing.
  • Auto-connect: Auto-connecting to a VPN prevents a user from connecting to a public WiFi network.

Pros

Offers a dedicated router app
Always-on security audit
Gives comprehensive features for its value
31-day money-back guarantee

Cons

Speeds are relatively average.
Linux app is limited.

Visit ExpressVPN >>

30-Day Free Trial


2) NordVPN

NordVPN is a popular Travel VPN provider which has a large number of servers, fast speeds, secure connections, a RAM server network, an auto-connect feature, and a kill switch.

NordVPN is a VPN service produced by Nordsec Ltd that provides applications for Windows, Linux, Android, iOS, macOS, and Android TV. This VPN company is based in Panama due to the lack of data laws and has remote offices in Lithuania, the UK, the Netherlands, and Panama.

NordVPN

Key Specs:

Supported Platforms:
Windows, Linux, Android, iOS, macOS, and Android TV
No of Servers: 5500+ Server Countries: 60 Kill switch: Yes
Data Allowance: Unlimited Torrenting: Yes No Logs: No activity logs
Able to unblock:
Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, etc.
Split Tunneling: Yes Ip addresses: Dedicated Simultaneous Connection: 6
Free Trial: Yes – 30 days Fast Speed: Yes Today Best Deal’s: Check Now!

Features:

  • Double VPN: NordVPN offers Double VPN to protect users’ data with an extra layer of encryption. Double VPN protects IP addresses and increases user privacy.
  • Split tunneling: NordVPN uses split tunneling to let users choose the apps that need VPN protection. This allows faster speeds while maintaining high security.
  • Private DNS: Private DNS helps protect against DNS security breaches. This DNS provides faster DNS processing and prevents logging online activities.
  • Kill Switch: NordVPN uses a Kill Switch to prevent data from leaking to the web if the connection drops.
  • Secure Encryption: NordVPN uses advanced encryption standards and IKEv2/IPsec.
  • Smart Play: NordVPN offers Smart Play to help users stream content. Smart Play encrypts the internet connection and allows users access to their favorite sites.
  • Access to streaming services: Gives access to many popular streaming services globally. Some of the popular sites are Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and more.
  • Fast and stable connection: NordVPN ranks at the top among speed and stability.
  • No logs: NordVPN offers no-log practices, which never keep data or information from users’ online actions.

Pros

Gives access to many popular streaming services globally
Features a diskless infrastructure setup
Allows you to automatically connect to the VPN
Delivers multi-device protection

Cons

Speeds typically hover at an average
Torrenting support is Limited.
App connections can be slow.

Visit NordVPN >>

30-Day Free Trial


3) Surfshark VPN

Surfshark VPN is one of the top VPNs for traveling options. This VPN features unlimited connection capability, high-speed performance, unlocking features, auto-connection features, and lightweight apps.

Surfshark VPN also offers a private search service, a data leak detection tool, and personal data removal system that provides comprehensive security. This VPN service is based in the Netherlands and has remote offices in Germany, Poland, and Lithuania.

Surfshark

Key Specs:

Supported Platforms:
Windows, iOS, MacOS, Linux, Android, Android TV, Apple TV, etc.
No of Servers: 3200+ Server Countries: 65 Split Tunneling: Yes
Data Allowance: Unlimited Torrenting: Yes Kill switch: Yes
Able to unblock:
YouTube TV, Netflix, iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Hulu
No Logs: No activity logs Ip addresses: Static Simultaneous Connection: Unlimited
Free Trial: Yes – 30 days Speed: Slow Today Best Deal’s: Check Now!

Features:

  • Kill Switch: The Kill Switch feature from Surf Shark VPN helps users protect their privacy if the VPN connection drops. This helpful tool keeps data protected, crypts traffic, and protects a user’s identity.
  • WireGuard: Surfshark VPN uses WireGuard to manage and scale high-speed connections.
  • IKEv2: Internet Key Exchangev2 is a quick and safe method to let users change networks.
  • Split tunneling: Split tunneling lets users decide which information they need to encrypt. This allows users to use two IP addresses and maintain a high-speed WiFi connection.
  • Clean Web: Clean Web blocks ads, protects users against malware, blocks video ads, and prevents cookie pop-up ads while browsing.
  • Streaming services: Surfshack VPN is compatible with major streaming services.

Pros

The auto-connect feature is convenient.
Diskless integration
Enforces a no-logs policy

Cons

Slow speeds can impact experience.
No longer independent
Only offers a static IP address.

Visit Surfshark >>

30-Day Free Trial


4) AtlasVPN

AtlasVPN is a popular VPN for travel from Nord Technologies that was recently introduced in the market in 2019. Since then, it has taken off in the past three years to become one of the top VPN options for those looking to save money.

This popular VPN service offers apps for Windows, Android, iOS, and macOS, providing customers with unlimited connections. It also helps customers to enjoy the ability to unblock streaming services, high connection speeds, and low-cost travel VPN services.

Atlas VPN

Key Specs:

Supported Platforms:
Windows, iOS, MacOS, Linux, Android, Android TV, Fire TV, and Amazon Fire Stick.
No of Servers: 750+ Server Countries: 38 Split Tunneling: Yes – only in the Android app
Data Allowance: Unlimited Torrenting: Yes Kill switch: No
Able to unblock:
BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Hulu, YouTube TV, Amazon Prime
No Logs: No activity logs Ip addresses: Hide My IP Address tool Simultaneous Connection: Unlimited
Free Trial: Yes – 30 days Fast Speed: Yes Today Best Deal’s: Check Now!

Features:

  • Wire Guard: Atlas VPN uses Wire Guard to encrypt connections. It is one of the best travel VPN tools that helps you to maintain connections during disruptions, uses cryptography to disguise websites, and protects users’ data.
  • Split tunneling: Split tunneling lets users protect their data while still being able to access local servers.
  • MultiHop+: MultiHop+ rotates VPN locations to keep users’ online information safe and encrypted.
  • SafeSwap: Atlas VPN offers SafeSwap servers to provide users with many IP addresses. This prevents hackers from finding the source when traveling abroad.
  • Blocks malware: Atlas VPN blocks malware, such as phishing and viruses, by using Safe Browse. Safe Browse disables third-party trackers and protects user data from unsafe websites.
  • No connection restrictions: Atlas VPN does not place any restrictions on the number of connections. This allows a user to have devices running at the same time.
  • Unblocks streaming services: Atlas VPN offers reliable streaming for multiple servers.
  • Live support: Atlas VPN offers fast email support, quick responses, and problem resolution online.

Pros

Blocks unsafe ads
Provides unlimited connections
Blocking option is built-in.
Offers a free version to try out

Cons

Only the paid plan unblocks streaming services.
Advanced features are limited.
Doesn’t work in China
Small number of servers

Visit AtlasVPN >>

30-Day Free Trial


5) ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN is a high-security VPN service that works well in countries worldwide. This is one of the best choices for users who use various streaming services while traveling, such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime.

Proton VPN is owned by Proton AG, a Swiss company that is also in charge of Proton Mail, an encrypted email service that protects email data and user content. This VPN and email service are both based in Geneva, Switzerland.

ProtonVPN

Key Specs:

Supported Platforms:
Windows, iOS, MacOS, Linux, Android, Android TV, and Chromebook.
No of Servers: 1904 Server Countries: 61 Kill switch: Yes
Data Allowance: Unlimited Torrenting: Yes Site to Site: No
Able to unblock:
Netflix, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime.
No Logs: No activity logs Ip addresses: Dedicated Simultaneous Connection: 10
Free Trial: Lifetime Basic Free Plan Fast Speed: Yes Today Best Deal’s: Check Now!

Features:

  • Kill Switch: The ProtonVPN Kill Switch helps protect users from accidental disconnections. This tool also prevents users from using the internet without accessing the VPN first, which can lead to data breaches.
  • Long-distance servers: ProtonVPN offers servers in various locations to prevent overcrowding.
  • Unlimited bandwidth: This VPN does not have any data or bandwidth limits for streaming or protecting data.
  • Streaming: ProtonVPN works well for streaming, as it is compatible with media sites like Disney, Netflix, and many others.
  • Respectable speeds: ProtonVPN offers fast processing speeds when it comes to browsing the web or streaming video.
  • Global network: ProtonVPN is usable in 63 countries and features over 1,700 servers.

Pros

Reliable choice for unblocking Netflix
Encryption is impressively strong.
Has a ‘Secure Core’ for extra privacy
No DNS Leaks

Cons

Lacks an auto-connect function
Blocked by multiple websites
P2P support is limited
Few servers in Asia

Visit ProtonVPN >>

Lifetime Basic Free Plan


6) Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access is an open-source VPN that uses military-grade encryption to help users maintain their privacy and security. This service prides itself on providing high-end and super-fast services across the United States. PIA keeps information secure by reducing risks, blocking ads, and connecting with other VPN tools.

Private Internet Access offers 24/7 customer support from real-time employees, provides 100% transparency when using software, features 10+ years in the industry, and has millions of happy customers around the world.

Private Internet Access

Key Specs:

Supported Platforms:
Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux
Total number of servers: 29,000+ Countries: 74+ countries
Fast Speed: Yes No-logging policy: No activity logs
Free Trial: No- 30 days money-back guarantee Simultaneous connections: Unlimited IP Addresses: Anonymous
Split Tunneling: Yes Kill Switch: Yes Today Best Deal’s: Check Now!

Features:

  • Antivirus: Private Internet Access provides Antivirus software. This malware protection service helps track, log, and analyze viruses that could enter a person’s computer system. Antivirus produces a web shield, facilitates cloud-based storage, and creates detailed security reports.
  • No logs policy: The no-logs policy from PIA means this service never tracks crucial information. This includes your IP address, browsing history, bandwidth consumption, VPN timestamps, DNS questions, and connections.
  • Dedicated IP address: PIA provides every user with a unique static IP address that only they can access. This gives every user exclusive ownership, a no-logs policy, and easy account access.
  • VPN Router: The VPN router protects and controls devices, secures consoles, and prevents data leaks.
  • Large server choice: PIA has almost 30,000 servers in 77 countries, one of the largest-spread networks in VPNs on the market today.
  • Flexibility: PIA provides users with flexible options for encryption. This ensures every user can access information and maintain a high internet speed.
  • User-friendly: PIA provides an interface that is good for new users and advanced users alike, providing a simple interface, easy installation on Linux, and nearly 20 languages.

Pros

Torrent speeds are fast.
7-day free trial lets you try the VPN out
Overall performance is impressively responsive.
A reliable option for unblocking streaming services

Cons

Not all servers are torrent-friendly.
Customer support is sometimes inconsistent
Only offers 5 simultaneous connections.
Netflix’s performance can be slow.

Visit PIA >>

30 days money-back guarantee


7) CyberGhost

CyberGhost VPN is a VPN service that provides P2P torrenting to unblock streaming. This tool uses military-grade encryption to access public WiFi networks. It also offers multi-device compatibility with over 6,000 servers and 87+ countries around the world.

The VPN is based in Bucharest, Romania, and features software for iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows systems. This anonymization service is owned, maintained, and developed by CyberGhost SA.

CyberGhost

Key Specs:

Supported Platforms:
Windows, Linux, Mac, iOS, Android, FireStick
No of Servers: 9,000 Server Countries: 92 Split Tunneling: yes
Data Allowance: Unlimited Torrenting: yes Kill Switch: yes
Able to unblock:
Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer
No-logging policy: No activity logs Ip addresses: Dedicated Simultaneous Connection: 7
Free Trial: No – 45-Day Money-Back Guarantee Fast Speed: Yes Today Best Deal’s: Check Now!

Features:

  • AES 256-bit encryption: CyberGhost features high-end military-grade encryption that blocks hackers. Users can connect to public WiFi, join unsecured networks, and encrypt devices without worrying.
  • Kill switch: It uses an automatic kill switch. The Kill Switch prevents data from leaking during the connection phase.
  • Anonymous downloads: CyberGhost VPN makes it possible to become anonymous when browsing the internet, downloading information, or connecting to servers.
  • Huge server network: This VPN for travel has a network of over 9,000 servers in over 90 countries for widespread usage.

Pros

Unblocks 35 streaming platforms
Maintains a strict no-logs policy
WireGuard delivers safe encryption.

Cons

Doesn’t have an app for routers
Not the fastest option for residents in UAE or China
Long-distance speeds can be slow.

Visit CyberGhost >>

45 days money-back guarantee


8) VPN Unlimited

VPN Unlimited is one of the top travel VPNs which is best suited for those who want a lifetime VPN service at a low price. Founded in 2013, the VPN is headquartered in the United States and has servers in 80 locations. This high-end encryption service helps secure users’ data by using two-factor authentication, ping tests, and split tunneling.

VPN Unlimited

Key Specs:

Supported Platforms:
Mac, iOs, Windows, Android, Linux
Total number of servers: 3000+ servers Countries: 80+
Split Tunneling: No IP Addresses: Dynamic
Simultaneous connections: Unlimited Free Trial: Yes – 7 Days Maximum supported devices: 5
Kill Switch: Yes Speed: Slow
No-logging policy: No activity logs Today Best Deal’s: Check Now!

Features:

  • Streaming: VPN Unlimited offers Keep Solid. This provides access to popular services like HBO Now, HBO Max, HBO Go, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, ESPN+, CBS All Access, Rail Play, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Channel 4, and many others.
  • MonoDefense: Customers have the option of choosing the MonoDefense security bundle. This bundle combines VPN Unlimited, DNS Firewall, SmartDNS, and Passwarden.

Pros

Features Optimal Server and Optimal Protocol services to maximize performance
Encryption is at a military-level grade.
The server network is extensive.
No logs are maintained by the VPN.

Cons

Comes with a premium price
Connections can be sluggish.

Visit VPN Unlimited >>

7 Days Free Trial

FAQs

Travel VPNs are legal in some countries, whereas others are not. Using a VPN for travel could be against the law in certain locations or breach the specific VPN’s terms of service.

Users should check the VPN’s specific rules and see the country’s laws before going. For example, certain countries have surveillance or censorship laws. These countries may have heavy fines, imprisonment, or other punishments for using VPNs.

Some countries where VPNs are illegal are China, Russia, Turkey, Belarus, Iraq, UAE, Oman, Iran, Egypt, Turkmenistan, North Korea, Uganda, and India.

Before visiting a specific country, the best thing to do is to look at the country’s specific laws on privacy, censorship, and surveillance. For those worried about using a VPN in a country where VPNs are illegal, it is best not to do so. However, If you need to, you should connect to a server within the country to avoid suspicion.

The easiest method to get started is to find out which VPN works best for your needs based on the available countries, number of servers, pricing, and features. Every VPN server has its own unique setup methods and sign-up protocols. Once you have chosen the best VPN for travel, you can sign up and pay for your VPN subscription. Lastly, download the VPN apps on your devices.

There are certain features to look for in the best VPN for international travel:

  • No-logs policy: Choosing an international VPN that does not keep track of personal information is key to avoiding security breaches.
  • Money-back guarantee or free trial: A money-back guarantee is usually a telltale sign the VPN has faith in their services.
  • Very secure encryption protocols: Choosing an international VPN that offers IKEv2 to maintain a secure VPN connection during internet drops is the smartest.
  • Multi-device compatibility: Users should choose an international VPN service compatible with multiple devices for added flexibility.
  • Fast performance: Choose a VPN with fast processing speeds and high bandwidth (or unlimited) to avoid slow performance.
  • Kill switch: A Kill Switch helps protect users’ information from leaking online, which can help safety while browsing.

A VPN lets users change their location to be ‘based’ in different countries while accessing a server. Users can select a server from a country that offers the lowest price for flights or hotels. This means there is potential to find better deals on tickets, airfares, hotels, and other location-based items.

For example, if there are deals for people based in a specific country, you can set your international VPN location to that location.

Best VPNs for International Travel: Top Picks!

 
#1 Best Overall

ExpressVPN

NordVPN

Surfshark Atlas VPN
VPN Provider ExpressVPN NordVPN Surfshark Atlas VPN
Number of servers: 3000+ 5000+ 3200+ 750+
No. of Server Countries 91 60 100 38
Streaming Netflix, BBC iPlayer Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu Netflix, Hulu, iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Disney+ Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime
Platforms Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS, console, smart TVs Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Amazon FireTV
Max connections 6 5 Unlimited Unlimited
Our Review We rate VPNs based on factors such as Speed, User Experience, Bandwidth, Countries Supported, Pricing, No Log Policy etc.
Excellent – 9.8
star-rating
Excellent – 9.7
star-rating
Good – 9.6
star-rating
Good – 9.5
star-rating
Free trial VPNs offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, but you must subscribe to the 1-month plan first. 30 days 30 days 30 days 30 days
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