How to Use a VPN While Traveling: A Step-by-Step Guide
A VPN is an essential tool for travelers: it provides a secure internet connection, lets you access your favorite websites, and helps bypass regional restrictions. If you’re using a VPN for the first time or want to learn how to set it up before your trip – this guide is for you.
Why Do Travelers Need a VPN?
- Security on Public Wi-Fi
Hotel, airport, and café networks are often unsecured. A VPN encrypts your traffic, protecting your personal data.
- Access to Familiar Websites and Services
Some platforms (like banking apps, streaming services, or online stores) may be blocked abroad.
- Bypass Price Discrimination
VPN lets you compare prices for hotels, flights, or car rentals by switching your virtual location.
- Internet Freedom
In certain countries, popular messengers and social media may be restricted – VPN helps you stay connected.
Step 1: Choose a Reliable VPN Provider
Start by selecting a trustworthy VPN that offers fast speeds, apps for all your devices, and a strict no-logs policy.
We recommend two proven options:
- NordVPN – One of the most popular and fastest VPNs on the market. Great for streaming, with servers in over 60 countries.
- Surfshark – Allows unlimited device connections, making it ideal for families or groups. Supports the modern and fast WireGuard protocol.
Both services offer a 30-day money-back guarantee – so you can try them risk-free.
Step 2: Install Your VPN Before the Trip
- Sign up on the provider’s website.
- Download the VPN app on your smartphone and laptop.
- Log in and test the connection at home to avoid issues while traveling.
- Set up auto-connect on public networks – especially useful for mobile devices.
Step 3: Use Your VPN While Traveling
- Turn on your VPN when connecting to Wi-Fi in hotels, cafés, or public transport.
- Switch your virtual location if a website or service is unavailable.
- Use your home country’s location to access streaming platforms, banking apps, or government services.
- If the connection slows down, try another server or enable the “quick connect” feature
Tips:
- For some websites (like online banking), it’s best to keep using the same VPN location – e.g., if you logged in from France, continue using France.
- Some platforms may temporarily block VPN access – switching servers or enabling traffic obfuscation (available in NordVPN and Surfshark) often helps.
- ВIn countries with internet censorship, turn on Stealth VPN or Camouflage Mode (available in Surfshark).
A VPN is not just about security – it’s also about convenience, freedom, and access to the information you need, wherever you are. Choose a reliable service, test it before your trip, and you won’t face internet issues on the road.