The best travel VPNs of 2024: Expert tested and reviewed

When you travel, you don’t want to leave security and privacy at home. A virtual private network (VPN) can keep your data safe and mask your online activities, enhancing your privacy no matter where you are in the world. 

Connecting to a Wi-Fi hotspot in an airport, hotel, or coffee shop may be convenient, but it isn’t secure. That’s where a VPN comes in. The best VPNs create secure, encrypted tunnels that protect your internet traffic, providing an extra layer of protection. That means your financial information or login credentials are at lower risk of exposure or theft. 

You should always use a VPN to protect your privacy, especially when you’re away from home. These services may also help you access streaming services typically available in your home region, and they may help you circumvent geolocation blocks.

Also: The best VPNs for streaming

What is the best travel VPN right now?

Our pick for the best travel VPN overall is NordVPN, due to its fast and reliable connections and its extensive server network. This VPN is also a great performer when it comes to unblocking streaming services, which you may want to do while abroad.

At ZDNET, we have extensively tested the best travel VPNs to help you find the best option to keep your connections safe and secure. Our team has years of experience in the VPN market, and we understand the most important features today’s VPN users want: stability, speed, access to services, and user-friendly apps. Read on for the rest of our tested top picks to find the best travel VPN for you.

Best travel VPNs of 2024

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NordVPN

Best travel VPN overall

In our testing of NordVPN, we found it provides a fast and reliable connection and is generally consistent across a wide range of situations. If you’re traveling, you can likely depend on NordVPN no matter where you’re connecting from, making it our top pick as a travel VPN.

NordVPN also supports (peer-to-peer) P2P sharing and is one of our favorite VPNs for streaming. It offers a second layer of encryption through its Double VPN feature and dedicated IP bolt-on service.

Review: NordVPN offers consistent speed and performance

NordVPN supports all major platforms and has additional Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browser plugins. Furthermore, the company offers 10 simultaneous device connections under one account (although we would like to see this become unlimited in the future) and a server network spanning 111 countries.

Overall, NordVPN is one of the best VPNs, especially for travel. Its 30-day money-back guarantee should give you enough time to test the product and see if it’s the right fit for you. 

After years of use, we’ve found it to be user-friendly and quick to connect. Most of the time, it can also access Netflix without a problem. Customers also like how easy the VPN app is to use and the fact that it offers good speeds, although some have flagged inconsistent pricing. 

Prices start at $3.59 per month on a standard two-year plan. One-year plans start at $4.59 per month. One and two-year plans include three months of free access. If you also want cybersecurity protections and coverage for identity theft, consider the Ultimate subscription, which begins at $6.49 per month. Alternatively, you can choose one month of service for $12.99.

NordVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, routers | Countries: 111 | Kill switch: Yes | Logging: Email address and billing information only | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days, Android

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ExpressVPN

Best travel VPN for mobile

ExpressVPN has a sizable server network in 105 countries, so no matter where you travel, you’ll likely be able to connect to a local server.

ExpressVPN is a widely used VPN provider that supports many platforms and devices. It’s also one of the best VPNs for iPhones and a top VPN for Android, making it useful for traveling, especially when you are using multiple devices on different operating systems.

Review: ExpressVPN review: A fine VPN service, but is it worth the price?

ExpressVPN’s privacy policy clearly outlines what information it collects. It doesn’t log data that could be used to identify you, such as your IP address, browsing history, or DNS queries, and an independent privacy audit in December 2023 revealed no logging or data collection issues. The company also provides an ad blocker and the option to block explicit content.

One downside, however, is that the number of simultaneous devices you’re permitted depends on your plan. The maximum is eight. For the price point, we expect this to be unlimited.

During long-term usage, we found that ExpressVPN offers some of the best overall speeds and stable connectivity, although, on rare occasions, you may need to switch servers as speeds suddenly drop, or you may encounter a website that is blocking your new IP. Customers say that while expensive, this VPN provides bang for your buck, bolstered by solid customer support.

Subscriptions begin at $6.67 per month with a 12-month plan (the “deal” has been in place for years, so consider this the standard price). This includes three months of free access and Backblaze cloud backup. You can also opt to pay $9.99 per month for six months or $12.95 for one month of access. 

ExpressVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 8 | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Linux, Fire TV, Android TV, tvOS, routers | Countries: 105 | Logging: No browsing logs, some connection logs | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days, Android and iOS

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Surfshark VPN

Best budget-friendly travel VPN

Surfshark offers reliable and fast connections at average speeds. It is also a secure option, as our recent tests found no DNS leaks.

Surfshark VPN has many features, including split tunneling, a kill switch to keep your connection secure if it drops, MultiHop (a double VPN), static and rotating IP addresses, and an ad blocker. There are also inexpensive add-on tools, including a tracker-free search engine, data breach scanner, and antivirus software.

The company doesn’t log your activity while you use the service and offers private DNS capabilities, which Surfshark calls NoBorders mode. This feature enables you to access sites regardless of restrictive border connections. Be careful, though. Countries restricting access tend to frown on bypassing those restrictions.

Additionally, Surfshark operates a live warrant canary and is independently audited.

Review: Surfshark VPN: Unlimited connections make it a solid value pick

Speeds are reasonable, especially when you consider the price point. It can be slower than competitors, but not to a drastic degree. Initial connections to servers can also be slow. 

A feature we particularly like is the option to either disconnect entirely or pause your VPN tunnel for five minutes, 30 minutes, or two hours. Customers applaud Surfshark’s customer service, but some have noted billing issues.

Surfshark subscriptions start at $1.99 per month for a two-year plan and $2.99/month for a one-year plan. One- and two-year plans give customers four months of access for free, added to the length of the contract. Alternatively, you can sign up for one month for $15.45. 

Surfshark VPN features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Ad-blocker | Two-factor authentication | Kill switch: Yes | Logging: No-logs policy | Countries: 100 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android, iOS, and macOS

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Private Internet Access

Best travel VPN for ease of use

Private Internet Access is an excellent choice if you want a set-and-forget VPN while you’re on the road. This VPN has a broad server network, but its main strengths are its simplicity and ease of use. Download, click the connection button, and the VPN will do the rest. 

We also like how the open-source, Wireguard-based VPN is laid out. Location options and customizable settings are easy to reach without technical jargon to confuse new VPN users, and everything is packaged in a stylish user interface. You can also take advantage of features including split tunneling, a kill switch, and ad blocking.

Also: Private Internet Access review

During our testing, PIA had good speeds, connection stability, and access to streaming services. Customers find the service is reliable, and it appears to work well in many locations worldwide.

If you opt for a two-year plan at $2.19 per month, you will receive two months of free access. If you want to try it out, you can buy a month’s worth of access for $11.99 or opt for a six-month contract at $7.50 per month.

Private Internet Access features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers, Fire TV, NAS | Countries: 91 | Logging: No-logs policy | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days, Android and iOS

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IPVanish VPN

Best travel VPN for unlimited connections

IPVanish is a highly customizable VPN with a user-friendly interface and app configuration options. The app gives you many server selection options and shows each location’s ping speed and server load.

These features can be valuable when you’re on the road because they allow you to choose the optimal server based on your current location, which can vary depending on your location. IPVanish is also a good VPN for streaming services.

Review: IPVanish: A VPN with a wealth of options

If you prioritize the freedom to configure your VPN to your liking while still having the ability to choose from an extensive list of countries and servers, this is the VPN for you. The user interface is basic, but it’s easy to use and lays out speed statistics, country options, and more in a simple format. Customers say this VPN is easy to use on all platforms.

IPVanish offers a discounted plan for $2.19 per month if you commit to two years. This increases to $3.33 per month for an annual plan and $12.99 for one month. 

Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, ZDNET’s parent company. For more, see our Editorial Guidelines.

IPVanish VPN features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, Kodi, routers | Logging: None, except billing data | Locations: 75 | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS

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How to use a VPN when you travel

To set up a travel VPN, subscribe to a VPN service and download the VPN software for your device. Open the software and sign in using your credentials. Choose a server location and connect to the VPN.

Once connected, your internet traffic should be encrypted, and your IP address should be hidden.

Remember, you can use a VPN on different devices, including your laptop and smartphone. While you are traveling, you should enable your VPN for any online activities, regardless of whether you are using a hotel connection or a public Wi-Fi hotspot. You will always, however, be better protected by using your cellular plan — if it is available, and it is not too expensive.

What is a VPN?

A VPN is a virtual private network that allows you to browse the internet privately and securely, including connecting to public Wi-Fi networks with a layer of protection that masks data. VPNs allow you to change your virtual location by redirecting the connection through worldwide servers. A VPN can also encrypt your traffic, keeping your online activities hidden from prying eyes.

If, however, your online activities are monitored at the ISP level — say, by a government — the snoopers may recognize your VPN’s “signature.” While they can’t see the details of what you’re doing, they will know that a VPN is in use.

VPNs are useful in unblocking geo-restricted content and can be a vital tool for accessing information in countries with repressive governments. They are essential services for anyone who wants to maintain their security and privacy online.

What is a travel VPN, and why do I need it?

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 sensitive data from cybercriminals and government surveillance. It also allows you to bypass internet censorship and geo-restrictions.

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

You may also want a travel-suitable VPN for accessing content geo-linked to your home rather than your new location.

What should I do if I experience traffic slowdowns with a VPN?

If you experience traffic slowdowns, check the VPN and Wi-Fi connection between your device, router, or access point. Sometimes, connectivity issues begin at the source, and in other cases, switching your selected VPN server may be enough to resolve speed problems or connectivity drops.

Keep in mind that if you are on the road, and you are relying on a free hotspot or hotel connection, your base speed may be lower and might not meet the standards of your home connection.

Will a travel VPN slow down my internet speed?

A VPN might slow your internet speed if the data is encrypted and decrypted before transmission. A good travel VPN should have a minimal impact on your speed, and the added security is worth the slight loss in speed.

If you use a public hotspot or hotel connection while you’re away, your speed will likely be slow at the source and not as fast as you are used to at home.

Are travel VPNs legal?

Using a VPN is legal in most countries, but some exceptions exist. Some countries, such as China, Russia, and Iran, restrict VPN usage or have banned the use of VPNs entirely. Other countries have some restrictions on VPN usage. It’s essential to research the local laws of the country you’re traveling to before using a VPN.

How can I find out what the VPN rules are for the countries I’m visiting?

There are several sources. Reaching out to your VPN vendor is always a good idea. They often have a good feel for the countries in which their services operate and will frequently post guidance on their websites.

If you’re a US citizen, consider using US State Department resources. The department lists travel advisories for US citizens and has foreign service officials who can provide general guidance. Check the travel advisories webpage. Your nation’s foreign ministry may have a similar service if you’re outside the US.

To understand which countries ban or discourage VPN usage, NordVPN has a legal guide that lists countries with severe restrictions, bans, and possible penalties for breaking VPN laws. 

Is a VPN all I need to be protected online while traveling?

No. VPNs can generally protect your data while it’s in motion. If your computer or phone is seized, however, it’s possible law enforcement can access your data, even if it’s encrypted. Some governments might hold your devices without giving you a reason.

Online services you access in another country might also have less protection than those in your host country. 

What is a DNS leak, and why does it matter?

A DNS leak is the exposure of your information — such as DNS queries — outside of secure, encrypted tunnels when you are using a VPN. If your activity is exposed, this compromises the whole point of using a virtual private network in the first place.

Most reputable VPNs will prevent DNS leaks, but if you can, use an online service like DNS leak test to check your connection.

If my hotel has a wired connection, do I still need to use a VPN?

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

Can a VPN help me save on airfare?

Many VPN services claim you can save hundreds of dollars on flights by changing your location. Plenty of blog posts with anecdotal evidence support the theory that a VPN can help cut the price of your plane ticket. The reality is less clear, and the most likely scenario is that no one knows 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 changing 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. Practically, it isn’t easy to account for every possible variable. Also, given the amount of data available to consumers, the real advantage of using a VPN may be that it remains anonymous.

Another way to look at it is if a VPN reduces the cost of airfare, it’s most likely not going to have as big of an impact as other factors. There are different tactics for booking cheap flights that should be higher on your priority list. Booking early, 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 flight prices.

Can a VPN make it look like I am in another country?

Yes. You can choose your home country as a default location, but if you would prefer to have an IP assigned from a different country — the US rather than the UK, for example — you should be able to do so. The available locations vary depending on the VPN you are using.

Can I access my streaming service abroad?

If you’re a paid subscriber to a streaming service, such as Netflix, Disney+, or Amazon Prime Video, you can often access your streaming service while you’re away from home. You can use a VPN to change your IP address to another point of origin — and if this is set to your home location, you should have access to your library.

Using a VPN to access other libraries may go against your terms of service and the streaming platform’s licensing agreements, so keep this in mind.