Can You Use a VPN Abroad?

Anyone who has traveled abroad before will know it comes with its fair share of challenges. This can range from safely navigating unfamiliar locations and terrains to consistently staying connected with loved ones back home. Most adept travelers in the modern age will agree that a safe, cheap, and effective Virtual Private Network (VPN) is among the most crucial tools to ensure a smooth tourist experience. However, is it possible to use a VPN during your adventures? And, if you can, how exactly will it benefit you abroad? In this article, we will thoroughly examine the specific advantages of utilizing a VPN while traveling abroad, including how to select the most suitable one for your needs.

Using A VPN 

In 2024, it is widely accepted that using the most reliable, stable, and secure VPN connectivity services is incredibly important. A VPN lacking sufficient safeguards from hackers and other cyber criminals will leave you exposed, additionally so in places with public Wi-Fi such as airports, cafes, and hotels. 

Before purchasing a VPN it is critical to analyze its security features, performance, pricing, and general features. This can make choosing your VPN an overwhelming and unnecessarily stressful process due to the numerous viable options currently available like SurfShark, ExpressVPN, and PureVPN. However, according to Techopedia’s software reviews expert Aleksandar Stevanovic, NordVPN is said to be the most secure VPN on the market right now.

For anyone who has not used a top-ranked VPN yet, it is highly recommended to do so, especially when traveling abroad. As outlined by the software reviews expert, Aleksandar Stevanovic, using one of the best VPNs will not only safeguard your online activity and IP address, but also allow you to watch your favorite content on Hulu, Netflix, or Amazon Prime despite any geo-restricting or blocked content.

Why Is It Recommended To Use A VPN Abroad?

Using one of the best VPNs available on the market today for your travels abroad will undoubtedly allow you numerous benefits. Firstly, it will guarantee your online security and privacy, which is especially important when using public Wi-Fi networks in airports, subways, cafes, and hotels. Anyone accessing and utilizing a public Wi-Fi network without an established VPN for personal protection is putting themselves at risk of having their private details stolen by hackers or other cyber criminals. However, simply using one of the highest-rated VPNs on your cell phone, tablet, or laptop while traveling, will fundamentally eliminate the possibility of hackers being able to access any of your data.

At the same time, having the ability to instantly and safely bypass any geo-restrictions, by using a VPN on your device, is enormously advantageous, especially while traveling. It is relatively widely known that VPNs allow you to access your favorite content on your chosen streaming platform despite any geo-restrictions. 

Additionally, VPNs can assist you in identifying, analyzing, and booking the cheapest flights, travel insurance, and accommodation possible as your device’s IP address is constantly being masked by advanced software. Purchasing a respected VPN will effectively help you find better prices that were not made available to users in your current location.

How You Can Choose The Best VPN For Travelling

Before making the all-important selection of the VPN you will use on your travels abroad, there are several critical factors you must first thoroughly consider. The main features to look out for when choosing a VPN for traveling are its overall security, reliability, and practicality. Moreover, VPNs that come standard with a transparent no-logs policy, the latest encryption software and technology, and a kill switch, if possible. 

If you are willing to invest a bit more into the best VPN for all your travel needs, select one with consistently high data speeds. This will allow you to make and receive video calls or even stream live videos safely, securely, and opaquely, anywhere in the world on any Wi-Fi network. While it may not always be possible, choosing a VPN provider with a large number of reliable data servers in numerous countries, especially the one you plan to visit, will ensure that download and upload rates remain consistent, reliable, and robust no matter how intense your data connectivity needs may be.

Despite most modern and top-rated VPNs being remarkably easy to use, ensuring you select a VPN with user-friendly websites and mobile applications, accessible on all your devices, is vital. Being in a foreign country while trying to work out how to use VPN software is unnecessary stress, and it can be avoided by purchasing a platform known for its ease of use. For example, NordVPN is rated as the fastest and most secure VPN for personal and travel use, with the company offering the added benefit of round-the-clock user support for anyone encountering hassles while away from home.

General Travel Safety Tips

While using a VPN is essential for online security, it’s also important to consider your overall safety when traveling. Firstly, always protect your belongings. This means, always keep your valuables secure. Always use a money belt or hidden pouch to store your passport, money, and important documents. Try being mindful of your surroundings and avoid displaying expensive items in public.

Secondly, always stay aware of your immediate surroundings. Ensure you stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times. Research your destination beforehand to identify any areas that may be unsafe. Trust your instincts and avoid situations that make you feel uncomfortable. At the same time, it is crucial to always use trusted forms of transport. This means, utilizing reputable transportation options such as licensed taxis or ride-sharing services. 

Furthermore, avoid accepting rides from strangers unless you are faced with an emergency while ensuring you always verify the identity of your driver before getting into any vehicle. And finally, ensure personal emergency preparedness at all times, you can never be too safe or too vigilant: Have a plan in case of emergencies. Know the location of the nearest embassy or consulate and keep their contact information handy. Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and have a basic understanding of the local language.

What Are The Main Advantages Of Using A Vpn Abroad?

The answer to that question will differ from person to person. Yet, most experienced travelers choosing to adventure in 2024 will agree that the main advantage of using one of the top-rated VPNs while abroad is the ability to instantly access your favorite geo-restricted content. Popular platforms such as Hulu, Netflix, and Amazon Prime are known to possess alternative content libraries depending on what they are accessed. With a good VPN, you can effortlessly connect with an official data server in your home country, allowing you to watch your favorite shows as if you were on your couch.

Moreover, practical concerns relating to personal privacy and security, especially on your mobile device or laptop are frequently referenced as being among the main advantages of using a VPN while traveling. By investing in the most highly respected providers such as NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or even Cyberghost, during your travels, you can rest assured that your personal data and online safety are safe from any hackers or cyber criminals. Despite most travelers not giving it too much thought, using public Wi-Fi networks without a VPN in tow significantly increases your chances of being hacked and your most sensitive personal data stolen.

Conclusion

Using a VPN while traveling abroad is not only permitted but also highly recommended. Investing in one of the top-rated VPNs such as NordVPN, ExpressVON, or CyberGhost will ensure your personal privacy, safety, and security while on your travels, allowing you to enjoy yourself without the stress of having your critical personal data stolen by cybercriminals.