One piece of tech that I couldn’t live without when travelling is a VPN. Not only does it keep my data protected when using public WiFi networks, but it also allows me to access all my favourite shows whilst on the move.
And whether I’m travelling or not, a VPN can place me virtually in another country so I can watch TV shows from other countries (like The Handmaid’s Tale), or browse websites that may otherwise be limited.
But not all VPNs are equal, so not all are effective at keeping your data protected or allowing you to access streaming sites like Netflix or HBO.
Which is why I’ve put together this guide of the best VPNs that I use/have used as a full-time traveller. I have presented my ‘best overall’ option, which is the one I now use on an ongoing basis, alongside a few other worthy options that may be more suitable for your needs, including a free option (but do keep in mind that this is limited).
Travelling soon? Check out my favourite eSIMs for staying connected on the go 
My top picks
- Best overall (and for Netflix): NordVPN | Skip to review
- Best for reliability: ExpressVPN | Skip to review
- Best free version: ProtonVPN | Skip to review
- Best for multiple devices: Surfshark | Skip to review
NordVPN
- Connection speed: Excellent – the fastest!
- Server locations: 9000 servers in 118 countries
- Devices: Up to 10 devices
- Cost: From $3.39 a month
NordVPN is undoubtedly the best overall VPN available and is the one I use daily myself. It is affordable, has the fastest speeds, the largest quantity of servers and the most countries, can be used on up to 10 devices, and comes with added extra features.
These features include a built-in ad blocker, anti-malware, and online threat protection. The adblocker works a charm, and can be used for all devices, including desktop, laptop, tablet, and mobile. Meaning you can block ads on websites and apps. Best bit, these safety and privacy features can be used even when not using the VPN!
And when it comes to consistency of speeds and effectiveness of the VPN, NordVPN has always far surpassed any other company I’ve tried. Particularly when it comes to accessing streaming sites like Netflix, which are typically quite strict with VPN use. Find out more about NordVPN in my full review.
NordVPN has a sister brand, Saily (read my Saily review here), which offers affordable eSIMs with great connections across 200+ destinations. Check out their eSIMs here.
ExpressVPN
- Connection speed: Excellent
- Server locations: 3000+ servers in 105 countries
- Devices: Up to 14 devices
- Cost: From $4.99 a month
Another solid option is ExpressVPN. It is the second fastest in this list, and is also a very reliable option – one that I used for a good few years before discovering NordVPN.
In day-to-day life, I wouldn’t notice the difference in speeds. Especially when just working in a coffee shop or video chatting. It also handles streaming platforms like Netflix and BBC iPlayer really well.
ExpressVPN offers 3000+ servers in 105 countries, and you can connect up to 14 devices! It is also really user-friendly and perfect for anyone who isn’t particularly tech-savvy and just wants a simple interface to help them switch virtual locations.
ProtonVPN
- Connection speed: Great (paid), okay (free plan)
- Server locations: 100s on free plan (over 10,000 on paid)
- Devices: 1 device on the free plan, up to 10 devices on a paid plan
- Cost: Free limited plan, or from $3.59 a month
If all you are after is light protection when browsing the internet and you aren’t choosy about which locations you are virtually placed in, then Proton VPN’s free plan will suffice. It is the best free plan I’ve found, mostly because of the variety of locations and the fact that there are no data limits.
However, I have found that the free version is quite limited for heavy travel use as it doesn’t support streaming and only allows for one device connection. If you want to watch Netflix or need a more stable connection for work, I’d definitely recommend looking at their paid plan.
One of the main reasons I trust Proton is that it is based in Switzerland. This means they benefit from some of the world’s strongest privacy laws, keeping your data well out of reach of surveillance alliances.
Their paid plan offers a massive jump in performance, with access to over 15,000 high-speed servers and the ability to protect up to 10 devices at once. It’s a fantastic middle-ground if you want Swiss-standard security and reliable streaming whilst you’re exploring.
PROMOTION: Get Proton VPN Premium for 1 month at $1
Surfshark
- Connection speed: Good
- Server locations: 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries
- Devices: Unlimited devices and rotating IP
- Cost: From $2.19 a month
If you are looking for an effective VPN that you can use on unlimited devices, then Surfshark is the one for you. It may not be the speediest, but it does offer a good amount of servers across 100+ countries, and for the average person, the speeds won’t be that noticeable.
It is perfect for large families or people with many devices. Typically, most other VPNs limit you to 8-10 devices, which isn’t good for larger families with multiple devices, e.g. when each family member has both a phone and a laptop or tablet.
On top of this, one of Surfshark’s unique features is a built-in Rotating IP function, which changes your IP address for you every couple of minutes whilst keeping your connection stable. Allowing you to stay as untrackable as possible!
VPN comparison table
I have compiled all the key information into this comparison table so you can find the most suitable VPN service for you!
| Brand | Speeds | Devices | Servers | Price p/m |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | The fastest | Up to 10 | 7800+ | From $3.39 |
| ExpressVPN | Great | Up to 8 | 3000+ | From $4.99 |
| ProtonVPN | Good | 1 (on free plan) | 3000+ | Free version |
| Surfshark | Good | Unlimited | 3200+ | From $2.19 |
My go-to travel health insurance:
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