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How to Use a VPN to Get Cheaper Flights: An Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to use a VPN to get cheaper flights and save big on your next trip.

If you travel a lot, you know how important it is to find the best flight deals. Spending too much on flights means that you have less money to enjoy great meals, fun activities, and cool accommodations.

Have you thought about using a VPN to save money on your next trip? A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help you get cheaper flights by hiding your location and making it appear as if you’re browsing from a different country.

It’s honestly much easier to do than you might think to use a VPN on flight tickets to save you money.

Why does using a VPN save money?

Airlines and travel booking sites use a pricing model called dynamic pricing. This means that prices can change depending on factors like your IP address, your purchase history, browsing habits, your ZIP code, demand and supply, and even which Wi-Fi you’re connected to, among other factors.

Using a VPN to change your IP address to another location means that websites might show different prices based on that location. This means that if you use a VPN to change your location, you may get a cheaper price if the new location has lower demand for flights.

A bonus is that you can also use a VPN to find lower prices on hotels and even car rentals using the same idea!

Does changing the IP address impact the price of an air ticket?

Important! This is definitely not a guaranteed method of saving money on flights. It really depends a lot on the pricing model the website is using for flights, and whether or not prices vary on location.

Even though this isn’t a 100% guaranteed travel hack, we’ve had great luck in the past booking flights in different countries, at prices that were much less than we’d seen in Canada.

For example, while in Mexico, we found cheap one way flights from Cancun, Mexico to Madrid, Spain for $160 USD all in. Similarly, while in Istanbul, we were able to book a one-way flight from Istanbul, Turkey to Toronto, Canada for just $288, including taxes and fees. That’s far cheaper than we’d found while physically based in Canada.

There are plenty of other reasons to use a VPN when you travel as well, including:

  • streaming your home country’s Netflix shows or local only websites
  • protecting your privacy on the road
  • preventing theft of personal information
  • accessing social media sites that may be blocked in the country you’re visiting

Couldn’t I just use Incognito mode instead of a VPN?

Your browser’s incognito mode is great for hiding your browsing history from other people on the device you’re using and for less cookie tracking. However, incognito mode doesn’t change your IP address (your devices internet address, which most sites can track and get a rough approximation of your actual address) while a VPN will change your IP and help keep you anonymous.

Since your location is attached to your IP, incognito mode means that your location will still show to flight websites.

Can just changing the language save money on flights?

We occasionally see stories that changing the language on a website can save money on flights.

We’ve tried this language changing hack in the past, and had mixed results. It also means that you’ll need to book flights in another language. If you don’t speak the language fluently, even with Google translate, you do run a risk of not understanding the terms and conditions fully.

How to Use a VPN to Get Cheaper Flights

Here’s our step-by-step guide on how to use a VPN to save money on your next flight, in five easy steps.

Step 1: Choose a Reliable VPN Provider

The most important step, in my opinion, to using a VPN is choosing a reliable and safe VPN partner. They’re not all built the same, so it’s absolutely crucial to choose a reputable, safe VPN.

A good VPN should offer IP addresses in many different countries, strong encryption, and a no logs policy.

These days, I’m using Private Internet Access.

Private Internet Access (also known as PIA) is great at hiding your IP address and encrypting your internet connection. All PIA apps are 100% open source, meaning that you, and security experts, can look under the hood to see how everything works.

PIA has over 30 million downloads, and has been around for more than 10 years. It offers thousands of next-gen servers in over 83 countries and each US state, and there’s unlimited bandwidth.

This one’s hugely important for security, so I’m going to go full geek for just a couple of sentences here, and explain what everything means along the way. Here goes: PIA has an independently audited (by Deloitte) no-logs policy.

A no-logs policy means that the VPN provider doesn’t keep any record of what you do online. There’s no record kept of IP addresses you use, data you transfer or websites you visit, keeping your online activities totally secure and private.

If a VPN provider keeps logs, this means that someone could potentially access this information. The logs could be accessed by hackers, authorities, or simply advertisers. With a no-logs policy, there’s simply no information for the VPN provider to give out, even if they receive a request for user data, or if they’re hacked. A no logs policy helps keep your privacy protected and your sensitive information safe. And Private Internet Access is a great choice for this.

It’s also important to mention Private Internet Access can protect up to 10 devices simultaneously with just one subscription. This means you can use it for yourself and the people you are traveling with.

And if you ever have any questions, or would like more tips and tricks, Private Internet Access has a 24/7 Customer Support service, ready to cater to your every need.

Step 2: Download and Install the VPN Software

Once you’ve chosen a reputable VPN provider like Private Internet Access (PIA), download and install the VPN software on your device.

Just visit the VPN provider’s website, choose the plan that suits your needs best, and follow their instructions to download and install the VPN software.

It took me less than five minutes to download and install the PIA VPN software on my desktop. The process is intuitive and fast.

Step 3: Connect to a Server in the Desired Country

The next step is what intimidates most people, but it’s honestly incredibly simple.

Using your VPN, connect to a server in the country where you want to appear as if you’re browsing from.

Important: If you’re logged into your internet browser, be sure to log out. If you’re logged in, Chrome, Bing, or other browsers set your location based on your account information, overriding the change you’re making with the VPN. Also make sure you’re logged out of any airline or travel booking websites, for the same reason.

For example, if you want to book a flight, while appearing as if you’re in Mexico, you’ll need a VPN to connect to a server located in Mexico. This will make it appear as if you’re there, even if you’re actually in another country.

With Private Internet Access, all it takes is one click to connect to a server. Then you’re ready to start browsing and find those sweet, sweet deals.

Which is the cheapest country to set your VPN location to for the cheapest flight bookings?

There’s no firm answer to what’s the most affordable country to book a flight from. Prices can vary greatly, depending on both your departure date and destination.

That said, in the past, we’ve had good luck with these destinations:

  • South American countries, like Peru or Argentina

Other flight hackers often mention:

  • Philippines

So, you may have to play a little bit by changing your location a few times to see what lands you the cheapest flight.

Step 4: Start Searching for Flights

Once you’re connected to your desired country’s server through the VPN, start searching for your flights.

Try a travel booking website to start, as this will give you multiple flights and airlines to choose from. After that, be sure to try the airline directly, as prices sometimes differ directly from the airline and a booking website.

Prices will reflect the country you appear to be browsing from.

Tip: When at all possible, we book with the airline directly, as this makes changes to flights and communication easier. If you’ve ever had to deal with a large, faceless, travel booking website when changing a ticket, you’ll understand how frustrating the experience can be.

If you don’t find a good price, try changing your VPN’s country again.

For international flights, I get a baseline price by first searching from my home country. Then, I set my VPN to the country I’m flying to, to see if the flight is cheaper. If this doesn’t get a cheaper flight, I set my VPN’s country to the home country of the airline. After that, I start searching through the list of countries above, in step 4.

Step 5: Compare Prices and Book Your Flight

After you’ve searched for flights, it’s time to compare prices and book your flight.

Make sure to compare the prices with other airlines and travel booking websites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal. If you find a cheaper flight, consider booking it immediately, as prices can change quickly.

Important tip! Before you book, check the terms and conditions. I once found fantastically cheap flights from Quito, Ecuador to the Galapagos. Unfortunately for me, when I checked the terms and conditions, I found those cheap prices only applied to citizens of Ecuador. The flights were about 20% more expensive for us.

Step 6: Change the VPN’s location back

Once you’ve booked your flight, don’t forget to change the VPN location back. This makes sure you can keep browsing and downloading based on your default location.

So, does using a VPN to change your location get you cheaper prices?

The answer is yes. Sometimes it can be a simple, affordable, and effective way to save money on your next trip.

By hiding your location and making it appear as if you’re browsing from a different country, you can access lower flight prices and get more value for your money.

Just remember to choose a reliable VPN provider like Private Internet Access (PIA), connect to the desired country’s server, search for flights, compare prices, book your flight, and disconnect from the VPN.

Happy travels!

More great reads:

  • How to Get High-Speed Wi-Fi When Traveling
  • How Not to Fry Your Electronics Overseas: A Quick Guide
  • Skyroam Solis Review – How We Get Unlimited WiFi Anywhere We Travel

How to Get Insanely Cheap Flight Tickets: 7 Airline Hacks That'll Save Money

Planning a trip and searching for the lowest airfares? Find out how you can find insanely cheap flights almost every time.

Planning a trip abroad has never been easier. You can check out every aspect of your holiday online, and the flights are no exception. Most travelers head to a flight comparison site, enter a destination, and begin poring over results. Everyone likes uncovering a cheap flight ticket or two!

Once you find your cheap flights, you must move fast. Sometimes it feels like the more you check the flight price, the more it increases. Are airlines tracking your interest and raising the fare?

Read on to find out how you can find insanely cheap flights almost every time.

How Do Airlines Choose Cheap Flight Tickets?

There are several common misconceptions regarding flight prices and how airlines gauge demand. Most ideas center around the idea of tracking. Airline companies track your online movements and ramp up the ticket costs as soon as you visit the site, using cookies to keep tabs on you. Could that be true?

Do Airlines Use Cookies to Increase Prices?

The idea that airlines and flight comparison sites use cookies and third-party trackers to gauge interest-specific routes isn't new. Understandably, no airline has ever confirmed that this practice is real. Similarly, no price comparison site will confirm that they actively gouge their customers---it would be a savage act of terrible PR.

The world's most popular flight comparison site , Skyscanner, maintains a document stating the opposite . The Skyscanner statement comprehensively denies that they use cookies to refine flight prices. Other sources corroborate the flight comparison sites.

"If the airlines were to raise prices because of browser cookies (targeted individually), there would be air travel whistle-blowers and senators running to microphones for legislation to prevent it,"  says FareCompare CEO Rick Seaney. "What people see when they shop multiple times, and prices are changing is a reflection of inventory changes, data caching techniques and the fact that prices generally get more expensive closer to the departure date, even within a day."

Airfarewatchdog flight analyst Ricky Radka also confirms that "What happens to make people think the airlines are tracking the search, is that the closer it gets to the departure date, the more people look---which is when airfare will increase."

It doesn't always feel like that, though. Prices appear to change within minutes, much to the chagrin of consumers on the hunt for insanely cheap flights.

Airlines Do Use Dynamic Pricing and User Profiling

For all the airlines like to deny how they use cookies against potential customers, there are some strong indications otherwise.

For instance, in 2018, airline revenue management software provider, PROS, confirmed that many of their clientele now use dynamic pricing.

Dynamic pricing structures  do  consider user location, customer accounts, previous flight data, shopping trends, and more, to create specialized individual flight prices that differ from customer to customer.  PROS clientele  includes Lufthansa, Virgin Atlantic, Qantas, Emirates, Southwest, and many more.

Currently, each airline has just 26 fare classes. That's one for each letter of the alphabet (literally). Airlines can update the prices for each fare class four times per day for domestic flights, and hourly for international flights.

The current flight pricing structure was put into place in 1978, after The Airline Deregulation Act. However, airlines are finding it difficult actually to shift from that system---but that time is now.

Dynamic Flight Pricing Leads to Price Discrimination

There are more than a few people voicing concerns regarding dynamic fare pricing. One of the biggest issues dynamic pricing presents is the tracking and grading of individual customers, which will undoubtedly lead to flight fare discrimination toward any number of potential customers.

Any system that gauges a customer's suitability for a specific price should remain open for analysis. The reality is that the backend of such a system will never see the light of day, lest it exposes shady and discriminatory practices.

Consumer Reports, formerly the Consumers Union, states in a report from 2018 [PDF] that "Despite the notion that algorithms are neutral and objective arbiters, algorithms can exacerbate bias or have unexpected discriminatory effects."

Earlier, in October 2016, a Consumer Reports study across nine of the top travel search sites cited "42 pairs of different prices on separate browsers for the same sites retrieved simultaneously."

The report led to Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer calling the situation "a sad state of affairs that might just violate consumer protections."

Flight Route Profiling

Flight route profiling has existed for a long time. For instance, a flight from London to Lanzarote is primarily marked for leisure. Airlines know that demand during school holiday periods will dramatically increase.

They also know that parents will look to  find the best deals months in advance  and as such, prices around those periods remain high, despite the number of available seats and current demand.

A switch to dynamic profiling is unlikely to change this scenario. It could, however, impact in other ways.

If you're checking out flights on a high-end Mac, in San Francisco, the dynamic pricing might assume you have higher income and show you higher prices. How about checking prices for a return overnight trip from New York to Chicago?

Dynamic pricing might assume you're a business person, check your previous flight purchase history, and show you price knowing that you will pay it regardless of cost.

7 Flight Hacks to Find Cheap Tickets

Everyone wants to find an insanely cheap flight. The reality is that the ridiculous flight deals are few and far between. You might get incredibly lucky from time to time and find a flight ticket with a massive discount. But the reality is that airline ticket prices react to demand and the proximity to the flight.

Still, there are a few handy tricks you can use to knock a few dollars from your airfare.

1. Use a VPN to Find Cheaper Flight Prices

If the airlines use dynamic profiling, you can fight back by using a VPN to change your location. For instance, you can use ExpressVPN.

MakeUseOf readers can grab an exclusive 49% discount for ExpressVPN using this link  to change your IP address as to appear from one of 94 countries.

Here are a few examples of price differences I found using ExpressVPN, with the locations and the differences. I ran the same price comparisons using a fresh Lubuntu Linux installation, with a completely new browser.

Our test flights are:

  • New York JFK to London Heathrow
  • Miami International to Paris Charles de Gaulle
  • Tokyo Narita to San Francisco International

All departing on September 11th and all returning on September 18th, using the exact same flights for each flight price check site. Check out the difference in price between Skyscanner, Momondo, and Google Flights using the scenarios.

Note: I had to use Google's ATX Matrix for the ExpressVPN Hong Kong server as Google Flights are unavailable in Hong Kong---it returns the same prices though.

A few things become clear immediately.

  • Google Flight prices remain extremely constant, regardless of location. Thus, you should know how to use Google Flights alerts to save money when going through it.
  • Using a VPN uncovered significant discounts when booking cheap airline flights from the Netherlands.
  • For the most part, discounts are only in tens of dollars, with one or two notable exceptions. However, if you're booking cheap flights for several family members, these savings do add up.
  • Using a VPN to search for cheaper flights don't always uncover discounts.

The last point is important. Using a VPN will not always help you find discounts, so you'll have to play around with locations to figure out what works. It is also trip specific. The VPN server and flight combination might give you a discount at one time, but not others.

2. Be Flexible to Find Cheap Flight Deals

Flexibility is key to finding a cheap flight deal. If you can travel at any time, you can work your way through the cheapest dates for your destination.

If you cannot travel at any time (which is the reality for most of us!), try and remain flexible with your destination. Skyscanner and other flight comparison sites allow you to search for "Everywhere" using the Cheapest Month option. It'll show you the cheapest locations, in the cheapest month, from your departing location.

There is always a deal somewhere. It often takes looking at the bigger travel picture to see where it is.

3. Alternate Airports

Following on from flexibility, you can try and fly from and land at different airports. Many of the major global cities have multiple international airports. Switch between them to check for price differences (though make sure to factor in your travel into the city too).

Switch up your departure location, too. If you can travel between several different outgoing airports, include them in your base search so you can compare fares easily. For instance, trip-building site Kiwi.com lets you do both (add different departure and destination airports).

4. Check for Airline Fare Errors

Now and then, airlines slip up. A price update goes wrong, hits the market, and suddenly you're flying to Seychelles for $40 round-trip. Okay, the airline fare errors are never quite that dramatic, but if you catch one, you can make mega-savings.

One of the most recent examples came from Cathay Pacific, which sold $16,000 business class tickets from Da Nang, Vietnam, to New York, for $675.

One of the best places to check for airline fare errors is Secret Flying . They post airline fare errors as soon as possible, hopefully before the airline catches their mistake.

The difficulty is that some airlines will not honor the mistake fare. Airlines can cancel the mistake fare at their discretion. Furthermore, the prospect of ultra-cheap airfares is slowly dwindling. The mistakes often stem from manual user input mistakes: a slipped key, a misplaced decimal point, and so on.

The move automation means that airlines no longer rely on manual input for price updates (which you can completely understand), and an update to airline pricing systems, such ATPCO. The Airline Tariff Publishing Co (ATPCO) maintains flight pricing data for over 400 airlines. A recent update to their system reduced the time to fix a fare mistake from 1 hour down to 15 mins for domestic flights, and from almost 24 hours down to 1 hour for international flights.

Mistake fares will still crop up---but you're going to have to be ready to pounce when they do.

5. Book Your Flights Early And at Specific Times

I'm a little skeptical of this, and so are other online flight specialists. However, in the quest to find cheap flights, you'll try anything, right?

You should always attempt to book your flights early. Although the figures differ, the best time to book a flight is between three to six in advance.

The team over at Airfarewatchdog believe booking your flight late on a Tuesday evening or early on a Wednesday morning is the best time of the week. That's because many carriers release their new sales late on a Monday or a Tuesday morning. As the new fares filter through the market, prices adjust, and you might snag a cheap flight ticket.

6. Set Airline Fare Price Alerts

If you're not using flight price tracking alerts already, you should start right now . If you have a specific destination in mind (or even a bunch!), you can set price alerts that notify you when the flight ticket prices reach a certain level of discount.

7. Book Individual Flights

Finally, consider booking individual flights instead of using the connecting flight option. It will take you a little longer to book your full itinerary, but you can sometimes knock a few dollars from the price of your trip.

Just make sure to book with enough time between your flights, accounting for collecting your bags and making the trip to the next gate in the terminal (or in a different terminal, and so on).

You Can Find the Best Cheap Flights!

Insanely cheap flights are hard to come across. But a good cheap flight deal is well within your grasp. Figuring out what you consider a great cheap flight deal is important. Are you talking 10% off a $100 fare? Or are you hoping to find 70% off a $500 fare?

Tempering your expectations means you won't get frustrated that you're not finding a bonkers flight discount, but happy to grab a cheap fare when it pops up.

What do you conclude from this? Check all your options, at all times, and always double-check across the cheap flight ticket comparison sites. Otherwise, you should check out our tips for using Google Flights effectively .

And if you're checking out flights for  a vacation with friends , take a look at some additional tips for having a wonderful trip.

VPNoverview.com Unblock Save Money How to Find and Book Cheaper Flights With a VPN in 2024

How to Find and Book Cheaper Flights With a VPN in 2024

Lauren Mak

Need an excellent travel hack? With flight prices climbing every year, we all want to save money on traveling where we can. With this one app, you can find the best flight deals on the international market from the comfort of your home.

Here’s how you can use a virtual private network (VPN) to find cheaper flights on websites like Kayak and Skyscanner:

  • Get a VPN . Based on our tests, NordVPN is the best VPN for flight hunting. It has fast speeds and an extensive server network, allowing you to find cheap flights all over the world.
  • Download and install the VPN software on your device.
  • Log into the NordVPN app with your account.
  • Connect to a server in a different country . Generally, flights are more affordable in mid- and low-income regions.
  • Find the best deal by using a flight search engine!

Continue reading the article below for a detailed step-by-step guide on using a VPN to get cheaper flights and more tips to get the best deals!

Icon representing VPN discount deals

Finding cheap flights online can be difficult. Luckily, we’ve got the perfect travel hack! With a VPN, you can change your virtual location and score cheaper flight tickets and better deals .

Depending on where you live, you might be paying more for flights compared to other people. Luckily, a VPN lets you change your virtual location to a country with cheaper flights.

Planning a trip soon? Out of the 30+ VPNs we’ve tested, NordVPN takes the win thanks to its fast speeds and airtight security. It also has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can search for the best flight deals completely risk-free. Time to book your next holiday!

How to Get Cheap Flights With a VPN

Using a VPN to get cheap flights is a straightforward process. When you connect to a VPN server and visit flight comparison sites like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Google Flights, you can see local fares and choose the best deal.

Steps to take to get cheap flights with a VPN

Before you begin, it’s best to clear your cookies and browsing history. We also recommend using incognito mode to avoid getting tracked.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting cheap flights with a VPN:

NordVPN

  • Fast and large worldwide network of VPN servers
  • Perfect for privacy and streaming
  • Trusted by many, with over 14 million users

NordVPN installation process, downloading VPN

  • Head over to your favorite flight-comparison flight (Skyscanner, Kayak, etc.). Time to compare flight fares and book the cheapest flights.

Not satisfied with your flight choices? Keep trying VPN servers in different locations so you can find a better deal!

Which countries have the cheapest flights?

During our testing, we successfully viewed flight deals from different countries using NordVPN . Want to know the cheapest country to book flights from with a VPN? Here are some ideas:

  • South Africa

Keep in mind that the above is not an exhaustive list. Aside from your geographic location, fares can also depend on travel dates and your destination country.

Domestic flights can be a lot cheaper when booking from the same country . You may also get better prices if you book from the region your airline is based in. For example, you can connect to a Swedish VPN server to get cheaper fares with Scandinavian Airlines.

We tried scoring a flight between Atlanta and Mumbai. When we searched from the US without a VPN, the best price was $689 from KLM Royal Airlines. When we did the same after connecting to a NordVPN server in India, the price for the flight was $635 .

Skyscanner-Flight-Comparison-Screenshot

Wondering which VPN to use to book cheap flights? Have a look at our top 5 below!

The Best VPNs to Book Cheap Flights

We tested several VPNs to find the best VPN for cheaper flights. The five VPNs below are our top picks. These are some of the fastest VPNs on the market right now, and they’ve all got large server networks, allowing you to compare flight prices in different countries and regions.

1. NordVPN: Best VPN for cheaper flights

Homepage of a NordVPN website, July 2023

NordVPN is the best VPN to get deals on flights, thanks to its extensive server network, fast speeds , and airtight encryption . We didn’t experience any issues when testing NordVPN and trying to find cheaper flights, and we could bounce around between virtual locations quickly and easily.

Why you should choose NordVPN:

  • 6139 servers in 67 countries : NordVPN has servers in some of the cheapest countries for booking flights, including Mexico, Vietnam, and Romania.
  • Threat Protection : Compare flight prices on different websites without being tracked. Your data is encrypted with 256-bit AES encryption, and NordVPN blocks malware-infected websites from opening. NordVPN’s ad blocker also keeps annoying ads and pop-ups at bay, which can be rife on some flight comparison sites.
  • Run select traffic through your VPN : With NordVPN’s split-tunneling feature , you choose which traffic runs via your VPN. If you only want to use your VPN for booking flights and no other activities, split-tunneling lets you do so.
  • Great discounts : NordVPN is a pretty affordable VPN! We got a fantastic 67% discount on our last NordVPN subscription.

During our NordVPN tests, this provider proved itself time and again. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee , so you can try the VPN service risk-free.

To limit variation in flight prices, we recommend using incognito mode on your web browser. Keep in mind that this doesn’t hide your location (only a VPN does that!) but it will limit tracking.

2. Surfshark: The best cheap flights VPN

Screenshot of Surfshark homepage

If you’re looking for cheap flights, then you probably don’t want to spend too much money on a VPN, either. Surfshark is the perfect VPN for you if you’re looking for an affordable but premium VPN . It’s one of the most affordable VPNs on the market, and you can use it with an unlimited number of simultaneous connections.

Why you should choose Surfshark VPN:

  • Server locations in 100 countries : While Surfshark has fewer servers than NordVPN (3200+ servers), it covers a much larger base. You can book cheap flights from India, Pakistan, and Malaysia, as we discovered during our Surfshark tests .
  • Keeps zero logs: With Surfshark, you won’t have to worry about your privacy. This no-logs VPN uses RAM-only servers, meaning your data is automatically wiped from its servers. Surfshark’s CleanWeb filter gets rid of ads and keeps you safe on any booking site.
  • Unlimited simultaneous connection s: You can use one Surfshark account on an unlimited number of devices. This VPN will barely cost you anything if you split the bill with others. Get Surfshark with your friends today and find cheap airline tickets for your next group holiday!
  • Top streaming VPN : Another point in Surfshark’s favor is the fact that it’s one of the best streaming VPNs ! With a VPN, cheap flights and entertainment are at your fingertips.

This VPN is one of our absolute favorites.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA): Huge server network to search for cheap flights

Screenshot of PIA website

If you’re looking for a VPN with the largest server network , Private Internet Access (PIA) is the answer! This makes browsing for flight tickets a walk in the park.

Why you should choose PIA:

  • thousands of servers in 91 countries : With PIA, you can book cheaper flights from various locations, including Albania, India, and Egypt.
  • Great ad-blocker : You won’t have to worry about malicious software slipping through the cracks. We found this feature especially helpful when browsing flight comparison sites that tend to show a lot of ads. Moreover, PIA is a verified zero-logs provider that uses RAM-only servers.
  • Beginner-friendly VPN : If you’ve never used a VPN before, PIA is very user-friendly! During our PIA tests , we found its app very intuitive and liked the fact that it lets you switch easily between servers. All the settings are straightforward and easily accessible.
  • Affordable subscription plans : PIA subscriptions are very cheap, on par with Surfshark. You can also use its 30-day money-back guarantee to get a refund if you’re unsatisfied.

We tested PIA to see if all its features worked as they were supposed to. It’s an easy-to-use VPN for cheaper flights!

4. ExpressVPN: Reputable VPN for booking flights

Screenshot of ExpressVPN homepage website

This VPN provider has built a great reputation for itself over the years, and every time we test ExpressVPN , we understand why. With servers in thousands of countries around the world, you can easily find cheap flights on a flight comparison site like Expedia, Kayak, Google Flights, and Skyscanner.

Why you should choose ExpressVPN:

  • High-end security features : Your location is always hidden when you use ExpressVPN, and your data is protected with military-grade encryption and time-tested VPN protocols .
  • Switch between servers easily : With just a single click, you can switch between ExpressVPN servers and compare flight prices on different sites. The automatic kill switch ensures none of your data leaks through when switching between locations.
  • 24/7 live chat support : ExpressVPN is a user-friendly VPN that’s easy to use. There’s also a support team available around the clock to answer any questions.
  • Short-term subscription plans : While ExpressVPN is not as affordable as other VPN services on this list, it’s one of the few VPNs that gives huge discounts on shorter-term subscription plans. Right now, you can get 49% off.

We highly recommend ExpressVPN for booking your next trip!

5. CyberGhost: Cheap VPN with 9440 servers

Screenshot of CyberGhost homepage, June 2023

CyberGhost has thousands of servers spread across 100 countries . This makes comparing prices when shopping for cheaper flights as easy as possible.

Why you should choose CyberGhost:

  • Budget-friendly VPN : CyberGhost makes saving money on flights even cheaper! You get a lot of bang for your buck, with subscriptions going as low as $ 2.19/month. You can even make use of the 45-day money-back guarantee. Plenty of time to book your next trip!
  • Verified no-logs VPN : This VPN uses the most trusted VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. It also has a strict no-logs policy, keeping your data private at all times.
  • Built-in tracker blocker : If you make use of the Private Browser feature, you get a built-in ad and tracker blocker. On top of that, there’s a split-tunneling feature.
  • Easy-to-use app : There’s a CyberGhost app for every major operating system, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. When testing CyberGhost , we could also use its software on seven devices at once.

Want to read more about CyberGhost? Check out our full experience in this CyberGhost review. Ready to go on holiday? Make use of CyberGhost’s 45-day free trial to find the best deals today!

How Does a VPN Help You Get Cheap Flights?

With a VPN, flights are easier to come by. You can scan the web for the most affordable flight prices across different countries. But how does pricing work, and why do prices for the same flights vary?

How does airline ticket pricing work?

Location pin hidden behind IP address panel with change/restart icon

The websites you visit, including budget airlines and flight comparison sites, collect data to profile you and determine your interests. To do so, they track your IP address and install cookies on your browser.

Airlines, in particular, will use algorithms to determine their flight prices . This is done using vast amounts of customer data. While airlines deny they use algorithm-based pricing, many believe it’s a common practice.

Ticket prices are also influenced by demand and the country you’re in. In more affluent countries, for example, a plane ticket price tends to be much higher, while cheaper prices are more common in other regions.

The solution? Use a VPN

A VPN hides your IP address , allowing you to spoof your location and appear like you’re somewhere else in the world. You can virtually jump between locations and compare prices for the same flight from different countries.

With a VPN, finding cheaper flight tickets and browsing airline websites becomes a piece of cake. But there are other benefits to using a VPN, too:

  • Save money on other online purchases : With a VPN, you can unlock discounts when shopping online .
  • Keep your private data safe : A VPN protects your internet traffic from third parties like hackers, websites, and your internet service provider (ISP), who may try to monitor your online activities. All your data gets routed through an encrypted VPN tunnel.
  • Streaming : One of the best benefits of using a VPN is that you can unblock streaming services that are otherwise not available to you. For example, you can access Disney Plus or unblock Netflix from anywhere.
  • Improve your online security : The best VPNs have malware detection and ad blockers. When looking for flights online, you won’t accidentally click on a malicious link or be bombarded with ads all the time.

Can I Use a Free VPN to Find Cheap Flight Tickets?

Free VPN shield icon with dislike

While there are some good free VPNs out there, we don’t recommend using a free VPN to find and book cheap flight tickets.

You need fast internet speeds and access to a vast server network to scour the web for cheap flight tickets. Unfortunately, a free VPN for flights isn’t likely to live up to the task.

These are some reasons why a free VPN may be unsuitable for finding cheap flights:

  • Small server network : Most free VPNs have a limited server network, and often these servers are not in locations where you can get cheap flight tickets.
  • Data caps : Most free VPNs have data caps. You may need to browse various websites for extended periods to get cheaper flights, and data caps prevent you from doing this.
  • Risky software : Many free VPNs contain malware or may expose you to malware as they don’t come with malware protection and ad blockers like premium VPNs.

With a premium VPN like NordVPN, you get access to a massive server network, malware protection, and an ad blocker. Also, there are no data caps or bandwidth limits.

In most countries, using a VPN is perfectly legal. Some countries, like China, Russia, or Iran, however, heavily restrict or even forbid the use of VPNs. NordVPN has obfuscated servers that mask your VPN traffic, making it difficult for anyone to detect that you’re using a VPN. However, obfuscated servers don’t make VPN use in these countries any less illegal.

Other Tips to Help You Get Cheaper Flights

It can be difficult to find affordable flights, especially as ticket prices increase across countries. Besides using a VPN, here are some tips to help you dig up cheaper plane tickets.

Some of the tips to help you get cheaper flights online

1. Clear your cookies and browsing history

Cookies are pieces of data stored in your browser by the websites you visit. Flight booking sites and flight search engines use cookies to track and analyze your online behavior.

Here’s how you can clear your cookies and prevent flight sites and search engines from tracking your browsing habits:

  • On Chrome : Go to Menu > More tools > Clear browsing data. In the “Time range” section, select “All time” to clear all your cookies. Tick the boxes next to “Cookies and other site data” and “Cached images and files.” Then click on “Clear data.”
  • On Firefox : Go to Menu > History > Clear recent history. Under “Time range to clear,” select Everything. Under History, tick the boxes next to Cookies, and click “Clear Now.”
  • On Safari : Go to the menu, and click on Preferences > Privacy > Manage Website Data > Select the websites > Remove or Remove all.

2. Use a flight search engine or comparison site

Wondering where to book cheap international flights? We recommend you check flight comparison site s or use a flight search engine when searching for cheap flights or error fares.

On these sites, you’ll get an overview of the flight prices from different budget airlines. Below, we’ve compiled our favorite flight comparison sites to find cheaper flight tickets:

Check multiple sites before booking since different sites can offer different rates even for the same flight.

3. Opt for flexible travel plans to save a lot of money

Not bound by holidays or set on a particular travel destination? You can save a lot of money on your next flight if your time, date, and destination are flexible . Here are two tips to keep in mind when looking for the cheapest flight rates:

  • Travel off-season : In the off-season, ticket prices tend to be a lot cheaper than during holidays or summer. Flying at less convenient times (like early in the morning or late at night) can also make a big difference.
  • Don’t have a set destination : If you’d like to be surprised, most airline comparison sites have an option that shows you the cheapest location to fly to in a certain period. This can be a fun, spontaneous way to travel and save money on airline tickets!

Know when to book! There’s something known as the “Prime Booking Window” for flights. For international travel, it’s recommended you book your ticket 2.5 to 6 months in advance. For domestic flights, you’ll get the best deals between 20 to 115 days before departure.

Final Thoughts: Get Huge Discounts on Flights With NordVPN

NordVPN logo small

With a VPN, you can save hundreds of dollars on flights when buying tickets online. A VPN also protects you against malicious software and blocks ads, making online shopping a safer and more enjoyable experience.

NordVPN is the best VPN for cheaper flights. It allows you to change your location with one click and find cheaper flight prices across the web. The NordVPN mobile app works just as well when you’re on the go.

Take advantage of the NordVPN free trial and book flight deals for the next 30 days at no cost. Enjoy your next flight!

Besides ticket prices, you can also save money on subscriptions and score incredible discounts with a VPN. Read the articles below for more information:

  • Save Money on Your Netflix Subscription
  • How to Save Money on Subscriptions With a VPN
  • How to Get a YouTube Premium Discount and Save Money

Have any questions about using a VPN to find and book cheap flights? Check out our FAQ below for quick answers! Leave us a comment if we haven’t answered the question on your mind.

Airlines base their pricing on several factors, including location. As a result, flight prices tend to be cheaper in some countries. A VPN allows you to change your virtual location and find the most affordable flight tickets from anywhere in the world.

No, it’s not illegal to use a VPN to find cheaper flights. You do have to make sure that the country you’re located in doesn’t restrict or forbid VPNs. In some places, such as China or Iran , VPNs are prohibited.

We don’t recommend using a free VPN to book cheap flights. To get the best deals, you need a VPN that has servers in several locations worldwide. Additionally, you want a VPN that keeps malware and ads at bay. Free VPNs have a limited number of servers, lack security features, and have a daily or monthly data cap.

A VPN offers many advantages when traveling:

  • It keeps you safe on public Wi-Fi .
  • It keeps your data hidden from third parties and allows you to browse the web anonymously.
  • It protects you from malicious software.
  • It allows you to access geo-restricted content on streaming sites and other platforms.

It’s unclear why airline prices differ. However, we know that fares are based on several factors, including your location, the distance of the flight, the time of the year you’re booking, and so much more. Some airlines are also known to target “budget” travelers.

Generally, low- to mid-income countries tend to have cheaper flight tickets. During our tests, we connected to VPN servers in Malaysia, India, Portugal, Turkey, South Africa, Mexico, Thailand, and Romania to find more affordable flights.

Lauren Mak

Lauren Mak Author

Senior journalist.

Lauren is an internal censorship and security-focused journalist with an eye for how technology affects society. With a background in International Relations and North American Studies, Lauren has a passion for helping understand the importance of privacy, freedom, and internet safety.

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Looking for a vpn.

Take a look at our overview of the most trustworthy, fast, and safe VPN services. Extensively tested by our experts.

Looking for a VPN?

Pocket-lint

Best travel vpns: stream and work safely on the go.

Safety, privacy, and access for every international travelers' peace of mind.

When traveling abroad, digital safety can be a concern as you're possibly more vulnerable to threats like bank fraud and hacks. Additionally, it's inconvenient that some platforms back at home tend to charge more, or block me from using subscriptions while I'm overseas. A reliable VPN can easily help resolve these challenges.

Depending on your needs, there are several things to check when picking the best travel VPN. The most essential ones are security features and servers - ensure the VPN offers servers in locations where you want to access the content. Connecting to US servers, for example, gives you access to Netflix US content from abroad. Whether you're looking for a budget VPN or one that is secure from censorship (in countries like China), we've got you covered with the top options you can use on vacations or work-related travels.

Private Internet Access

The best travel vpns: our top picks.

A feature-packed VPN suited for international travel

ExpressVPN offers high-end streaming and protection features, allowing you to have a stress-free vacation abroad.

  • Obfuscated servers worldwide
  • Fast server connections for 4K streaming
  • IP leak protection
  • Slightly expensive plans
  • Doesn't offer dedicated IP

What sets ExpressVPN apart is that all its servers are obfuscated to avoid detection by platforms like Netflix or countries with internet censorship. You can easily keep in touch with family and friends while traveling to places like China where certain apps are blocked.

The VPN is loaded with robust security tools, using the highest encryption standards to safeguard your data and Wi-Fi connections against hacks and network spying. A kill switch feature called Network Lock blocks internet access if your VPN connection abruptly drops, say due to an unstable internet connection. That way, your IP address and location information isn't exposed when the VPN stalls due to poor network.

ExpressVPN delivers fast server speeds for streaming 4K videos , especially if you switch to its built-in internet tunneling protocol called Lightway. Plus, you can simultaneously use it on laptops and mobile devices while traveling because it supports multiple connections. It may be a bit pricier than rivals due to the high-end value, starting from $8.32/month.

A secure VPN for travel

NordVPN integrates the best protection tools to keep you safe everywhere without significantly compromising internet speeds.

  • Threat Protection feature on PC and phone
  • Built-in NordLynx protocol for secure and fast connections
  • Specialty servers
  • Threat blocker can block legitimate sites
  • Has constant annoying updates

Offering advanced protection, NordVPN is also one of the best VPN software for travel. Safety is often a big priority when traveling abroad, as you will be connecting to hotel and airport W-iFi networks that are closely monitored by the Wi-Fi administrators.

NordVPN encrypts connections using AES 256-bit encryption and also has a built-in Auto-connect feature that instantly turns on VPN protection on hotspot networks. Another feature on the app, Threat Protection, warns you from clicking malicious links you might be unaware of while traveling to foreign countries.

The network of over 5,000 servers in 60+ countries makes NordVPN an ideal VPN for international streaming and bypassing geo-restrictions. There are obfuscated and specialty servers like MultiHop and Onion Over VPN for secure browsing and torrenting. Connections are also fast on most servers, thanks to an optimized in-house tunneling protocol called NordLynx.

NordVPN's monthly and yearly subscriptions are flexible and offer value for money, with prices starting from $3.19/month. You can always find a pocket-friendly plan, depending on how long you plan to stay overseas.

A VPN for travel to China

Surfshark's double obfuscation helps you get past network and geographical restrictions. It offers servers in slightly more countries than rival VPNs.

  • NoBorders tool to keep VPN working anywhere
  • Compatible with more devices
  • Unlimited connections
  • Split tunneling is not offered on iOS
  • Not based in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction

Surfshark VPN is loaded with useful features to avoid inconveniences while traveling overseas like Camouflage and NoBorders. The two work hand-in-hand to disguise your issued IP address and VPN traffic as regular internet, so you can bypass network or country-specific restrictions without getting detected. Ideally, SurfShark is the best VPN for travel to China since it can detect censored networks and suggest servers that work.

Also, the server network spanning 100 countries makes Surfshark one of the best VPNs for travel abroad. You never run out of options when looking for IP addresses to unblock international content on platforms like Netflix, Disney+, or BBC iPlayer. Its speeds are reliable too, allowing you to stream high-quality videos (I'd recommend using the WireGuard protocol).

If you find ExpressVP's or NordVPN's extended plans a bit pricey, Surfshark can be a more cost-friendly alternative with prices as low as $2.39/month. It also allows you unlimited device connections. I only wish they provided the obfuscation Camouflage Mode tool on the other supported protocols like WireGuard. The feature (currently only usable on the OpenVPN tunneling protocol) enables you to access blocked services without detection.

An intuitive app for user convenience

CyberGhost offers a friendly feel you’d encounter on your regular chat app. The optimized servers for streaming platforms and channels worldwide are a huge bonus.

  • Ample global server presence
  • Automatic Wi-Fi protection
  • Offers dedicated IP
  • Some features lacking on Mac and iOS
  • May be significantly slow on some distant servers

CyberGhost apps are designed with the user in mind, especially VPN beginners. Installing the app takes less than three minutes, and servers are clearly labeled to help you find streaming, gaming, or P2P (torrenting) servers.

You'll encounter almost the same intuitive user interface across smartphones and laptops. However, the Mac and iOS apps lack some features found on Windows and Android like split tunneling, a feature that lets you route some apps and websites on the VPN and exclude others. Also, the subscriptions are relatively affordable, starting from $2.19/month.

With as many as 9,000 servers distributed across 90 countries, you might be spoiled for choice on which one to choose for your travel destination. However, CyberGhost’s Best Location feature simplifies things by recommending a fast and secure server in any country or city of your choice.

The VPN doesn't compromise on security either as it deploys the AES 256-bit cipher and data encryption, alongside other safety tools like a kill switch and identity leak protection. An Automatic Wi-Fi Protection feature protects you on unsecured networks overseas by automatically launching the VPN when a new Wi-Fi is detected.

Many available servers to facilitate effortless connection

PIA has one of the largest server counts across the globe, which also helps to minimize server congestion that can slow your connections.

  • Ample servers in Europe and the US
  • Highly customizable security and speed features
  • Limited tunneling protocols offered
  • Not based in a privacy-friendly country

PIA runs a massive network of over 30,000 servers, and most of these are in Europe and the US. You have access to many server options to utilize for booking cheap flights to Europe or watching content back home in the US.

Notably, PIA offers an ad/tracking/malware blocking feature called MACE. Turning this setting on minimizes pop-up and banner ads you encounter online, while also warning you from visiting risky websites with malicious intent.

Also, you can customize PIA's encryption — choosing between AES 128-bit and 256-bit encryption. The latter is the most secure while the former can deliver slightly faster connections. On the downside, the VPN offers a limited number of tunneling protocols (mostly WireGuard and OpenVPN Scramble). IKEv2 which is equally known to be secure and fast is missing on most apps.

Aside from an extensive server network, PIA is among the most affordable premium VPNs. The longer subscriptions go as low as $2.03/month. There's also a money-back guarantee in place, so you can claim a refund if it fails to meet your expectations.

Unmetered connections ideal for group travels

IPVanish offers you a "grab all you can" deal with affordable plans that allow you unlimited connections for you and your crew.

  • Easy and straightforward Windows app
  • Privately owns and monitors its servers
  • Has split tunneling
  • The kill switch only usable on the OpenVPN protocol
  • Doesn't offer static IP addresses

IPVanish doesn’t restrict the number of devices you can use with your license. You and your family or travel companions can comfortably share one subscription while going overseas, paying as low as $2.99/month.

There are a lot of feature similarities between PIA and IPVanish (the former also allows unlimited connections). However, I recommend IPVanish if you’ll be mostly using laptop devices because its PC app looks much better and offers slightly more internet tunneling protocols, including IKEv2.

The network of 2200+ servers in 75 countries falls short of what PIA offers. But IPVanish has a slight edge in that it provides obfuscation on the OpenVPN protocol (to avoid getting blocked on restricted airport or hotel networks overseas).

Additionally, the VPN deploys all the essential security tools to protect you from hacks, including AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection. You can also choose the apps or websites to tunnel through VPN, thanks to a split tunneling feature.

Giving you a variety of installation options

As a software product from CERN scientists, ProtonVPN has a reputation for security and speed. Also, it supports a variety of platforms, making it a convenient VPN option for travel.

  • Offers a free version
  • Has a speed boost feature
  • Uses privacy-friendly servers
  • Unreliable customer service
  • Can occasionally disconnect from the internet

ProtonVPN offers native apps for mobile travel devices, as well as extensions for Chrome and Firefox browsers. It works on all major phone and PC platforms, including Linux. Setting up the VPN on your browsers ensures you're protected on the go (without the need for an app) while traveling overseas.

The VPN's presence in 68+ countries makes bypassing geographical content blocks easy. International streaming activities are well-supported too, with optimized servers offered in most global locations. There's also a VPN Accelerator feature that boosts speed and can be useful if you travel to countries with slow internet speeds.

Encrypted and Secure Core servers (which route internet traffic through privacy-friendly countries) help to minimize risks of hacks and data theft. Plus, you can confidently use censored internet and WiFis abroad, thanks to features like the Stealth protocol which helps to disguise your VPN traffic. The subscriptions are fairly priced, with the extended 2-year plan starting from $4.99/month.

A zero-budget VPN with generous free features

Of all free VPNs, almost none throw in as many servers and basic security features as Windscribe. If you're just looking to test a VPN before fully investing, this is a great option.

  • Free servers in more than 10 countries
  • Works with most streaming platforms
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Comparatively small server network
  • Slow customer support

If you're looking for a free travel VPN, Windscribe is one of the best options. It offers IP addresses in 10 countries at no cost, including the US, Canada, the UK, Germany, Switzerland, and many more.

You can use the free app without registering, but this would limit you to 1 device and a restricted bandwidth of only 2GB per month. Signing up and confirming your email increases bandwidth usage to 10GB per month and lets you connect unlimited connections (for free). This is pretty decent and can easily handle light browsing activities like Skype and checking work emails.

Going premium (which starts from $5.75) unlocks many more features, including access to servers in over 60 countries and 100 cities. Plus, paid services are more secure and trustworthy in the world of VPNs because you get advanced protection features. When traveling to a destination with serious geoblocks and security concerns, it's advisable to upgrade.

The bottom line: What is the best travel VPN?

It's a daunting task to pick a travel VPN from hundreds currently offered in the market. Each has taken an aggressive marketing approach that can easily fool you into buying a service that's not suited to your travel needs. Since you don't know what challenges you'll encounter abroad, choosing a well-rounded VPN service is key.

ExpressVPN is the best overall pick for overseas travel. It has a high success rate with bypassing geo-blocks on platforms like Netflix, thanks to reliable obfuscated servers in over 90 countries. The proprietary Lightway protocol supports smooth 4K streaming, while built-in security features can easily ward off cyber threats on unsecured Wi-Fi.

NordVPN is packed with advanced protection features to protect you from potential hacks and invasive snoops abroad targeting unsuspecting hotspot users. Like ExpressVPN, there is a built-in internet tunneling protocol (NordLynx) that can sustain fast speeds over long distances, allowing you to stream high-quality videos.

How I chose the best travel VPN

I've been testing and reviewing VPN and encryption services for many years now. My criteria for choosing the best travel VPN is thorough and based on firsthand experience with the VPN software. Primarily, I checked a combination of features that may be useful to a traveler going overseas, these are the essentials to consider for travel VPNs:

  • Solid protection features: Traveling abroad exposes you to a myriad of online and offline threats, including identity theft, hacking, financial fraud, stalking, and many more. Therefore, I checked for crucial security and privacy tools like AES-256-bit encryption, a kill switch, identity leak protection, obfuscation, and a no-logs policy (apps that don't keep activity records).
  • Server network: If you intend to get an IP address for accessing your subscriptions back home or anywhere else, you must choose a VPN offering servers in that country. My shortlisted VPNs run servers in many countries and locations to offer you IP addresses anywhere.
  • Content unblocking capabilities: Most streaming services have figured out ways to detect and block VPNs. I've only included VPNs that can reliably bypass VPN-detection firewalls on geo-restricted platforms like Netflix, Disney+, YouTube TV, Max, and many more.
  • Speed and performance: Usually, VPN encryption slows down internet connections. I picked services that register minimal speed drops and are stable. That way, you can seamlessly stream or carry out data-intensive activities online without noticeable slowdowns.
  • User-friendliness: These platforms should offer straightforward apps suitable for anyone who hasn't experienced VPNs before. It's easy to find servers and settings for boosting your connections.
  • Compatibility with travel devices: All the listed VPN services provide downloadable apps for mobile devices, including laptops (Windows, Mac, Linux), phones (Android and iOS), and various tablets.
  • Pricing: Affordability is also an important aspect when choosing the best travel VPN. I did a comprehensive price analysis and only recommended services offering value for money.

Why should I get a travel VPN?

A travel VPN provides safety while touring overseas. Without a VPN, you can be easily hacked on Wi-Fi hotspots abroad, losing critical information like email logins and online bank account details. Encrypting your connections protects you from cyberattacks and malicious spying by Wi-Fi network administrators.

A VPN also lets you access geo-restricted content and services by offering you IP addresses in many countries worldwide. You can watch your favorite shows back at home with a valid streaming subscription or use messaging and video chat apps on restrictive networks abroad.

What is an Obfuscated VPN, and why do I need one?

An obfuscated VPN (or VPN with obfuscation) uses some built-in mechanism to hide the fact that you're using a VPN. This is useful when bypassing geoblocks on platforms like Netflix because they can't detect and block you from accessing geo-restricted content. Also, an obfuscated VPN allows you to use blocked apps and websites undetected in countries or networks with tight internet censorship.

What is VPN tunneling?

Tunneling refers to the back-and-forth transfer of data between your device, VPN servers, and the internet. The data transmitted to and from your device is always encrypted and secured with cryptographic keys so that no one can hack or read it. This enables you to stay safe while browsing online or using public Wi-Fi networks where hackers prey on hotspot users.

Which is the best VPN for international travel?

ExpressVPN is the best travel VPN because it prevents most cyberattacks and can unblock most geo-restricted platforms from overseas with ease. Its vast global network of obfuscated servers makes it easy to get past any firewalls that detect and block IPs issued by VPN services.

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The Four Best VPN Travel Hacks

Contents Why You Need a VPN Before and While You’re TravelingFind the Best Airfare and Hotel DealsConnect to Public Wi-Fi Safely While Traveling AbroadAvoid Hackers While Using In-Flight Wi-FiAccess Banned Content in Countries with High...

The Four Best VPN Travel Hacks

Director of Marketing @ Batten

travel hacks vpn

Why You Need a VPN Before and While You’re Traveling

Find the best airfare and hotel deals, connect to public wi-fi safely while traveling abroad, avoid hackers while using in-flight wi-fi, access banned content in countries with high censorship, our top expert-recommended vpns, time to get your travel on.

Whether you are traveling home to see family for the holidays or finally booking that dream vacation you put on hold for the last two years, everyone can appreciate a good travel hack. When you use a VPN, or virtual private network, has a multitude of benefits when it comes to protecting you online. But did you know that virtual private networks also offer several massive benefits for travelers? Once you know about the pros and cons of a reputable VPN service , you’ll recognize a few of these benefits and probably want to take advantage of the others you may not have thought of.

Prepare today for peace of mind tomorrow.

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A VPN provider reroutes your internet traffic through servers abroad to keep your online presence anonymous. That’s how it hides your website traffic from hackers, your internet service provider, and tracking software. One consequence of this is that depending on where a server is located, your airfare website could present you with cheaper flights. Flight prices to a foreign country often depend on the destination of where a website thinks you are located. If I am looking for a flight from New York to Tokyo, airline tickets are going to be expensive. But if I use a VPN to reroute my internet data to a server in Singapore, those same tickets will appear much more affordable. And when you use a VPN on booking sites to find the best airline deals, you can find some significant savings. With a VPN, a cheap flight can be found to nearly anywhere!

Just like when looking for airfare, the best VPN services will help you book hotel stays with better prices as well. By concealing your IP address and encrypting your data, hotel websites can’t use that information to charge you a more expensive price. The price difference will be most notable when booking stays out of the country. Since you can use a VPN to change your location to a destination closer to where you are looking to book a hotel, you’re likely to see lower prices. You may or may not notice such drastic price fluctuations when you’re booking out of state, for example.

To find the best deals on airfare and hotel rooms while using a VPN, remember these tips:

  • If you are looking for domestic flights, choose the closest server to your destination. A cross-country flight can be on the pricier end. But if your server shows up as the next closest metropolis, you’re likely to get a better deal.
  • Many booking sites penalize you for looking for the same flight over and over again. By using a VPN, you can avoid seeing the same flight go up in price just because you’re comparison shopping.

Happy airfare and hotel hunting!

travel hacks vpn

Free Wi-Fi can be a major help when traveling abroad, especially when it comes to keeping in contact with friends and family, checking your accounts via online banking, or accessing travel plans and directions. However, just like here in the States, there could be threats lurking in publicly available internet connections. The numbers reveal an epidemic: 25% of travelers were hacked while abroad .

A public internet connection is a prime target for hackers and cybercriminals looking for easy ways to access your information. It’s one of the methods that can lead to identity theft . It’s also an easy avenue for malicious viruses to attach themselves to your personal computer, tablets, and phones. It’s best to avoid open internet connections like public WiFi networks as much as possible. Whether it’s at the airport, on a plane, at a coffee shop, or even in your hotel lobby. It’s better to wait for a network that has at least some security, including requiring a password to join.

However, if you have a virtual private network, worries about public WiFi can be forgotten. Since one of the main benefits of a good VPN is that it encrypts your device’s data, it’s nearly impossible for a hacker or cybercriminal to access your data or devices. So if you need to pull up the directions to your AirBnB for the third time and are desperate for an internet connection, your VPN software can protect your internet usage from hackers looking to access your bank account or credit card details when you aren’t looking.

Did you know that in-flight Wi-Fi has almost no security protections to speak of? When you’re excited about international travel to other countries, you aren’t thinking about whether your internet connection is secure when you’re looking at your online banking account or credit card limit.

Tourist-frequented locations are highly targeted by cybercriminals. Remember that 25% of travelers being hacked statistic up above? Travelers are focused on enjoying their trip or worrying about a business presentation when they’re traveling for work. Cybersecurity protection isn’t top of mind, particularly when traveling abroad. Excitement, preoccupation, and even sleep deprivation all lead to missed opportunities for travelers to protect themselves from hackers while going online.

In fact, it isn’t only cybercriminals who could be watching your every digital move as you use your personal device on a flight. Government agencies use insecure connections like the ones on planes to gain access to a variety of individuals’ data. In a leaked NSA document that’s dated as far back as 2010 :

“What do the President of Pakistan, a cigar smuggler, an arms dealer, a counterterrorism target, and a combatting proliferation target have in common? They all used their everyday GSM phone during a flight, and were tracked by the SIGINT system.”

While many average citizens aren’t typically concerned with their information being accessed by a government entity , it proves the point of how unsafe connecting to public Wi-Fi can be.

For anyone traveling to a country known for their online censorship (China, North Korea, Iran) VPNs have the capability to bypass those lockdowns. Because a VPN works on the basis of having your encrypted data bypass through another (or several!) server located in another country, you can access banned content. So, even if you are in China, your VPN will cause your online traffic to look like it is located in another country, bypassing restrictions from the Chinese government. This can be especially effective if you have a good VPN that allows for multiple server redirects. NordVPN , for instance, calls this feature “Double VPN”: it encrypts your data twice, making it nearly impossible for your data to be tracked.

While not having access to the same streaming content through apps like Netflix or Hulu is one low-risk reason people use a VPN, accessing banned content can be very important. Government employees and journalists, for example, may need to work around firewalls and content bans in order to effectively do their jobs. In cases such as these, you could be required to access a government network before going online or using a mandated VPN service.

Now that you know the top four ways that a VPN can benefit you as a traveler, it’s time to choose the right VPN for you. We have a handy guide that we wrote to break down what features make the most sense depending on your lifestyle . But to keep things simple, we’ll share our top two VPN picks based on our cybersecurity advisor’s recommendations:

Nord VPN

WHY WE RECOMMEND IT

  • Hides your IP address on public WiFi like airports or coffee shops from hackers.
  • It has a fast setup, a friendly interface, and a notably pleasant user experience all around.
  • The browser extension is discreet and can be paused to access VPN-restricted sites.
  • They don’t blast you with emails or cross-selling.
  • Anyone looking for a simple, quiet, and reliable VPN.

ExpressVPN

  • It offers a simple user interface that makes it easy to use while providing excellent browsing protection.
  • Block your internet provider’s ability to track and share your online activity data.
  • Compatible with virtually any device ranging from your router to your computer to even your AppleTV.
  • 24/7 support over live chat/email to troubleshoot your connection any time of the day or night.
  • Individuals who want a simple VPN for secure working, whether in a coffee shop in their hometown or while traveling worldwide.

You’ve got the tools, you’ve got the tips, now it’s time to use your VPN to take advantage of its many benefits when planning a trip and while traveling.

Curious about other cybersecurity tools that can keep you safe online? Check out our full Resources blog about cybersecurity and all our expert-recommendations in our Marketplace .

travel hacks vpn

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Best Travel VPN in 2024

Our hand-tested rundown of the best travel VPNs of 2024

A man using a VPN in an airport next to red luggage

  • How to choose
  • Best Travel VPNs

What makes a good travel VPN?

Do i really need a travel vpn.

ExpressVPN – the best Travel VPN overall

Surfshark – the best cheap Travel VPN

Private Internet Access – the best travel VPN for the US

Many countries restrict or censor the internet, which can be a real pain for travelers. A travel VPN will not only safeguard your sensitive information from hackers and governments but also give you access to your favorite streaming content and essentials like WhatsApp, Skype, and banking portals. The best VPN can mask your real IP address and make it look like you’re in your home country, so it’ll be impossible for prying eyes to track your online activities when abroad.

However, the market is flooded with VPNs claiming to be the best, and choosing an ideal fit for your needs can be an uphill task. After comparing dozens of VPNs across criteria like server reach, speeds, unblocking abilities, security, and value for money, our team of experts and I have compiled this list of the top 5 VPNs for travel.

Our detailed guide will give you a thorough understanding of every provider, allowing you to make the right choice for your use case and budget. If you're looking for a quick answer, here are our top 3 picks right now: 

1. ExpressVPN – An excellent premium all-rounder

1. ExpressVPN – An excellent premium all-rounder ExpressVPN is our #1 VPN overall, with servers all around the world. No matter where you’re traveling, you'll be protected by its class-leading security and privacy features, including obfuscated servers and an audited no-logs policy.

With detailed guides, friendly 24/7 support, and a simple interface, ExpressVPN is one of the most beginner-friendly VPNs. It's also great for streaming, unblocking every platform we've tested it with. Try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and get 3 months free on the 12-month plan.

2. Surfshark – Great performance from budget provider

2. Surfshark – Great performance from budget provider Surfshark is a superb VPN for traveling with large groups, with unlimited simultaneous connections and compatibility with all types of devices across the board. It’s also the fastest provider we’ve tested, edging past rivals ExpressVPN and PIA.

With servers in a huge number of countries, fantastic unblocking abilities, and nifty privacy features, Surfshark provides excellent value for money and is the best budget VPN. It also has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it out and see if it’s for you. 

3.Private Internet Access – The best Travel VPN today

3. Private Internet Access – The best Travel VPN today Private Internet Access is a popular name in the industry thanks to its verified no-logs policy, unlimited simultaneous connections, massive server count, and dedicated streaming servers. 

With tons of privacy add-ons, PIA excels on the security front. Also, it just undercuts Surfshark as one of the the cheapest providers. Be sure to make the most of its 30-day money-back guarantee to see how it compares with Express and Surfshark. 

How to choose a travel VPN

You should look for a VPN provider with a wide network of servers around the world so that no matter where you go, there’s always a server nearby. It’s recommended you prioritize services with obfuscated servers as they provide more secure connectivity in regions like China, where the internet is heavily restricted.

Obfuscated servers make your VPN traffic look like regular internet traffic, and even your ISP wouldn't know that you are using a VPN. This will help you bypass tools that are meant to block VPNs.

You should also look at the streaming performance of a VPN before you make it your travel buddy. Ideally, you’d want your VPN to unlock all popular streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, and BBC iPlayer , but there are several options that even unblock platforms like 9Now and 10Play. 

Next up, your VPN should be fast enough to allow streaming in HD or 4K . A rapid VPN will also ensure stable connections, giving you peace of mind that your VPN protection won’t be sluggish or lapse unexpectedly.

It’s also important that your VPN has 24/7 friendly support because you’re going to want your issues to be resolved quickly when in a foreign country. Last but not least, a money-back guarantee gives you peace of mind in case you don't get along with a particular product.

Our expert choices of the best Travel VPNs in 2024

1. expressvpn.

The best travel VPN

Server locations: 160 | Countries: 94 | Available on: Windows, Android, iOS, Mac, Linux (command-line only), Routers, almost everything else | Obfuscated servers: Yes | 24/7 support: Yes | Streaming sites unblocked: Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, ITVX, All4, 9Now, 10Play

✔️ You want access to content all over the world: ExpressVPN's 160 server locations in 94 countries and excellent unblocking make it an ideal pick for streaming, regardless of the streaming platform or your location. 

✔️ You want a beginner-friendly interface: All ExpressVPN apps are easy to navigate and user-friendly, with lots of helpful guides and 24/7 support. 

✔️ Your top priority is privacy and security: With an audited no-logs policy and features like Threat Manager built-in password manager, ExpressVPN is one of the most secure VPNs. 

❌ You're on a tight budget: ExpressVPN isn't cheap, but it delivers excellent value for its price. However, if you're looking for cheaper options, consider Surfshark or PIA. 

❌ You travel with several devices: ExpressVPN allows just five simultaneous connections. While that's still enough for solo travels, if your needs are more ambitious, services like Surfshark or PIA will suit you better.  

ExpressVPN is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a secure and reliable travel VPN that you can set and forget and bank on to unblock all kinds of content no matter where you are. With friendly 24/7 support, easy-to-use apps, and tons of helpful guides, Express is as beginner-friendly as they come. Try it first-hand with its 30-day money-back guarantee.  

ExpressVPN has tons of individual server locations – 160 locations in 94 countries, even in obscure and restrictive countries like China, Indonesia, and Iran – making it my #1 VPN for traveling since there will almost always be a high-speed ExpressVPN server near your location. 

It’s also one of the most privacy-focused VPNs with RAM-only servers and proprietary Lightway protocol that ensures a speedier, more secure, and more reliable connection. Couple this with an effective kill switch and Express’s auto-connect feature, and you’ll never have to worry about your internet traffic being exposed to governments or malicious users. 

The auto-connect quickly re-establishes connection with a VPN server in case your current connection accidentally fails. This will save you the trouble of constantly having to check whether you have an active VPN connection – one less thing to worry about when you’re out and about.

> Try our #1-rated VPN ExpressVPN risk-free for 30 days

ExpressVPN’s superior unblocking abilities add to its usability as a travel VPN – you can relax in your hotel room at night by streaming your favorite content from around the world without worrying about whether your current location has any geo-blocks or not. 

Not only does Express provide the best coverage in US and Europe, but it also has 26 locations in the Asia-Pacific region. Express’s massive reach helps it unblock everything, from Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, to 9Now, 10Play, and even K-Dramas.

In my ExpressVPN review I found its 5 simultaneous connections to be a little stingy, especially when competitors like PIA and Surfshark offer unlimited connections. But ExpressVPN wins in device compatibility – it has simple apps for not only Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, and Linux but also routers, Chromebooks , Amazon Fire Stick, and Kindle Fire.

ExpressVPN isn't the cheapest, and you’d be better off with Surfshark or PIA if you don’t want to spend a lot on a VPN. However, with reliable connections across the globe, simple and easy-to-use apps, helpful guides, and 24/7 customer support, it's the best overall package. Take it for a test run with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. Surfshark

An excellent affordable Travel VPN

Server locations: 143 | Countries: 100 | Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (GUI), routers and more | Obfuscated servers: Yes | 24/7 support: Yes | Streaming sites unblocked: Netflix, Amazon, Disney, BBC iPlayer, Hulu

✔️ You want a VPN for all your travel buddies: A single Surfshark subscription will cover the devices of all your family members and even friends, thanks to unlimited simultaneous connections.

✔️ You want a fast VPN: Surfshark is the fastest VPN I’ve tested, peaking at a speed of 950 Mbps, ensuring a smooth and lag-free experience. 

✔️ You want a budget VPN: Surfshark offers excellent value for money, with prices starting at less than $2.50 a month. 

❌ Kill switch is a priority for you: The kill switch isn't Surfshark’s strongest suit, but it’s overall decent and works well most of the time. However, for a foolproof kill switch, NordVPN or ExpressVPN are better alternatives. 

❌ You're a Windows user: Surfshark doesn’t roll out updates for all Windows versions below 8.1, and there's no 7-day trial option for Windows devices across the board.   

Surfshark provides exceptional value for money with industry-leading speeds and unlimited simultaneous connections. It’s a streaming beast and unblocks all platforms swiftly and securely with no shortage of security measures. Don’t miss out on one of the top VPNs for traveling with a group, and put it to the test with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

In my Surfshark review I named the Netherlands-based provider the best cheap VPN I’ve tested, and with unlimited connections as its key offering, it's an excellent travel VPN if you're with a family or a fairly large group. One Surfshark plan will cover as many devices as you want it to, and the device compatibility is on a par with the likes of Express and Nord, covering almost everything from Android to Linux devices to routers. 

On the streaming front, there’s nothing Surfshark can’t unblock, be it Netflix, Amazon Video, BBC iPlayer, YouTube , Disney+, 10Play, 9Now, or any other streaming platform. Despite the unlimited connections, Surfshark maintains a robust no-logs policy, and none of the users on any plan will have their data logged or privacy jeopardized.

Surfshark is present in more countries (100) than most VPNs I’ve tested, and although its server count (3,200) is not as impressive as Nord or PIA, it's more than enough for anyone traveling abroad.

In terms of speed, Surfshark is a runaway winner as it consistently clocks over 950 Mbps – higher than other VPNs I tested. However, the speed dropped down to 150 Mbps when I set it to use the OpenVPN protocol, meaning it’s not your best option if you’re looking to install Surfshark on a router or want to use it with a third-party app. 

As a great China VPN, the Surfshark app will automatically switch on the NoBorders mode if it detects any kind of restrictions on your network. The NoBorders mode will then go ahead and fetch you a list of the best high-performing servers on your network capable of bypassing the restrictions you’re facing. This is ideal for digital nomads and travelers that keep moving from one country and network to another.

Surfshark offers excellent value for money, and its security suite with 256-bit AES encryption, an intuitive kill switch, ad and malware blockers, and Surfshark’s native antivirus Surfshark One add to the overall appeal of Surfshark. Try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee and see if it’s for you.

3. Private Internet Access

Great value and effective for the US

Server locations: 100 | Countries: 84 | Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (GUI), routers, and more | Obfuscated servers: No | 24/7 support: Yes | Streaming sites unblocked: US Netflix, Amazon, Disney Plus, Hulu

  ✔️  You want a reliable traveling VPN: PIA has proved its no-logs claims in court twice, so you can rest assured that your online activities remain private.

✔️ You travel with multiple devices: PIA supports unlimited simultaneous connections, so you don’t have to worry about getting logged out before sharing it with your travel buddies. 

✔️ You want a huge server network: PIA has over 20,000 servers, ensuring that no matter where you are, there’s a server nearby. 

  ❌ You want to stream 10Play:  PIA ran smoothly on almost every platform I tried, but unfortunately, 10Play couldn’t make the cut. 

❌ You want a beginner-friendly VPN: The highly configurable PIA has a lot to offer to the tech-savvy, but newbies might find it difficult to wrap their heads around all that it offers. 

❌ You want a built-in password manager: PIA is no doubt trustworthy when it comes to privacy, but it lacks a password manager. If that’s a must for you, go with ExpressVPN or NordVPN.  

Private Internet Access is a superb bargain pick with a high degree of customizability and unlimited simultaneous connections. Although not the most beginner-friendly, it has professional 24/7 support and lots of resources on its website to answer any queries. With a massive server network and class-leading privacy, PIA is fast and unblocks everything with ease. Try it with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

PIA hits it out of the park as a travel VPN with over 20,000 servers across 84 countries, including a server in every state in the US. While its total number of countries is slightly less than both ExpressVPN and Surfshark, it still has servers in highly restrictive countries like Turkey and China and makes streaming local news sites and television shows there a breeze.

However, PIA falls short and is unable to bypass restrictions in countries like Iran, Syria, Cuba, Myanmar, and a couple of others, so unless you have any plans to travel to these countries, PIA is more than a decent option. 

In my Private Internet Access review I was impressed that the provider had increased its simultaneous connections to cover unlimited devices (previously 10), and at just a little more than $2 a month, it makes for a compelling package, especially for the long term, where you get even more discounts.

PIA is one of the most secure VPNs , having proven its no-logs policy in court, twice. A unique MACE feature is a culmination of various blocking functionalities – ads, trackers, and malware. There’s also a super handy browser extension that comes with more blocks on intrusive internet elements like third-party cookies, location access permissions, website referrers, and more.

The only letdown I ran into was that PIA’s mobile and tablet apps are not the most intuitive and lack attention to detail – unlike ExpressVPN and NordVPN apps – but are still overall beginner-friendly. 

PIA speeds do not beat industry leaders like Surfshark and NordVPN but given that you really only need around 20 Mbps for streaming content in HD, PIA’s 500 Mbps is more than sufficient. Talking about streaming, 10Play was the only streaming platform PIA couldn’t get through but other than that, I have no complaints.

To sum it up, PIA is the cheapest provider on my list today, and its free email breach scanner and Boxcryptor license to encrypt and secure your cloud storage make it all the more value for money. There’s a generous 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it without putting any money on the line.

Security giant is a great VPN for traveling

Server locations: 60+ | Countries: 60 | Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (CLI), routers, and more | Obfuscated servers: Yes | 24/7 support: Yes | Streaming sites unblocked: Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, ITVX, All4, 9Now, 10Play

✔️ You want to watch Netflix while traveling: As the best VPN for Netflix , Nord unblocks all the Netflix libraries, even niche locations like Japan, and pretty much every other streaming platform too. 

✔️ You want an all-in-one VPN: With class-leading security, fast speeds and superior unblocking at a reasonable price, NordVPN is the perfect quality-cost mix.

✔️ You don’t want to compromise on security: NordVPN is a delight for privacy purists, thanks to features like Double VPN, Onion over VPN, and add-ons like a built-in antivirus and pop-ups and ad blockers.  

❌  You want unlimited simultaneous connections: NordVPN supports a reasonable 6 simultaneous connections, but competitors like Surkshark and PIA provide unlimited simultaneous connections. 

❌   You mostly use your phone while traveling: While not a deal breaker, NordVPN Android and iOS apps aren’t as comfortable to use compared to their desktop version.

❌   You want servers all around the world: NordVPN's 5,000+ servers are present across 60 countries – not quite up to the mark in terms of range when stacked up against the likes of ExpressVPN and Surfshark. 

NordVPN is an all-in-one solution that is fast, beginner-friendly, value for money, and a delight for privacy purists. It comes with a built-in antivirus for extra safekeeping in foreign countries. A huge number of servers and superior unblocking abilities make it a top streaming VPN, perfect for small families. Try it risk-free with a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. 

NordVPN is often placed near the top of my lists, such as my Netflix guide, but it doesn’t quite clinch the best travel VPN tag for two main reasons – limited reach and a small number of simultaneous connections. 

Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark have servers in nearly 35 more countries than Nord. And if you want a VPN to cover all the devices of everyone in your traveling fleet, I’d recommend Surfshark or PIA over Nord, both of which come with unlimited simultaneous connections.

That said, Nord’s unique WireGuard-based protocol, which goes by the name of NordLynx, is faster than other protocols, including OpenVPN, and connects to a NordVPN server quicker, provides higher speeds, and all this without any drop in privacy or security. In my recent rounds of testing, Nord peaked at 820 Mbps, and the average of 790-800 Mbps speaks volumes about its consistency. It’s only really behind Surfshark in terms of speed.

Nord is also one of the most private VPNs , thanks to features like Double VPN, obfuscation technology, two implementations of the kill switches, and an independently-audited no-logs policy.

The Double VPN feature routes your internet traffic through two VPN servers instead of one, encrypting your data twice. And Nord’s special obfuscated servers make your VPN traffic look like regular traffic, making it possible for you to use the VPN in highly restrictive countries like China and Iran. In fact, it’s a particularly great China VPN , so for those that travel there frequently, take a closer look.

As the best provider for Netflix, In my NordVPN review it unblocked everything, including the US, UK, Canada, and Japan Netflix libraries. Besides this, platforms like BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, 10Play, and more proved to be no problem for Nord. You can stream your favorite movies and TV shows no matter where you are in the world.

Overall, NordVPN is a great all-in-one solution for travelers and small families that prioritize security and speed over everything else and don’t want to splurge on a premium service like ExpressVPN. Plus, Nord comes with a ton of resources and easy-to-use apps that make it extremely beginner-friendly. 

5. CyberGhost

Streaming-centric VPN that’s great for entertainment on the go

Server locations: 116 | Countries: 91+ | Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (CLI), routers and more | Obfuscated servers: No | 24/7 support: Yes | Streaming sites unblocked: US Netflix, Amazon, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max

✔️ You’re on a budget: Available at less than three dollars a month, CyberGhost is neck-and-neck with Surfshark and PIA as one of the best budget VPNs.

✔️ You’re looking for the longest money-back guarantee: While the industry standard is 30 days, CyberGhost shines through with a 45-day money-back guarantee so that you have more than enough time to be sure before committing.

✔️ You’re a beginner: CyberGhost has a simple and navigable interface, plus lots of tutorials and detailed guides to make the experience smooth for those new to VPNs. 

❌ You're a streaming addict: If your watchlist is mostly UK Netflix and Disney Plus, CyberGhost may disappoint you as it couldn’t get past both these platforms in my most recent testing.

❌ You want a VPN for your family: Although CyberGhost’s 7 simultaneous connections are better than rivals Nord and Express, it falls behind Surfshark and PIA with unlimited simultaneous connections. 

❌ You want the best customer support: CyberGhost’s customer support is not troublesome in the slightest, but that of NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and PIA are just better. 

CyberGhost  is fast, reliable, and one of the best VPNs for beginners. With a whopping 45-day money-back guarantee, it’s an ideal pick for those who need a longer test run before committing. There’s also a free trial, the duration of which varies from one device type to another.

CyberGhost is an easy-to-use VPN for traveling, and with over 9,000 servers in 91 countries and multi-year plans costing less than $2.50 a month, the provider certainly scoots past the likes of Express and Nord in terms of reach and affordability. 

In my CyberGhost review , I tested for speed and was pleasantly surprised. Its WireGuard protocol averaged 540-730 Mbps, so it’s definitely speedier than Express and even PIA on a good day. But it’s the OpenVPN speeds that impressed me the most about CyberGhost. While other providers like Surfshark could only eke out 150 Mbps tops when set to use their OpenVPN protocol, CyberGhost peaked at a very respectable 380 Mbps. 

Irrespective of the country you travel to, your data will be protected by essentials like 256-bit AES encryption, an audited no-logs policy, a kill switch, and an ad blocker and anti-tracker to keep viruses and hackers at bay. 

CyberGhost’s ability to unblock your local banking site for fast and secure transactions and its above-par security on public Wi-Fi makes it a nifty tool for people traveling abroad for an extended vacation. 

And if you’re someone like me who loves to tuck their gaming console under their arms and carry it everywhere you go, you’ll be glad to know that you can set up CyberGhost on your gaming console without any hassle, thanks to its SmartDNS support.

CyberGhost can be hit-and-miss when it comes to streaming. While it unblocks most streaming platforms like US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime with ease, it couldn’t get me access to UK Netflix and Disney Plus, which could be a deal breaker for some. But there are dedicated servers for both streaming and downloading, and both those options – “For Streaming” and “For Downloading” – are put in plain sight in the CyberGhost app.

CyberGhost’s customer support lacks consistency, but it works just as you’d want it to 7 out of 10 times. With the highest money-back guarantee of 45 days and a free trial of 3 to 7 days, depending on your device type, there’s no reason you shouldn’t give CyberGhost a try.

The essentials of a good travel VPN include servers in a wide range of locations, 24/7 friendly & prompt support, and obfuscated servers for assured protection in privacy-unfriendly countries like China, Russia, and Iran, where Western websites like Google, YouTube, and Instagram are not accessible due to government restrictions.

A travel VPN will spoof your real IP address and make it look like you’re in a different region so that foreign governments can’t go snooping around your online activities or restrict your internet usage in the slightest. 

A travel VPN should also be able to cater to a large group, meaning it should offer multiple simultaneous connections – the more, the better. Lastly, it must boast superior unblocking capabilities. This will allow you to continue watching your favorite TV shows and local channels from back home.

Unless you want to expose your personal information and what you do online to prying eyes like hackers, ISPs, and foreign governments, a travel VPN is an absolute must.

Also, if you want to keep in touch with your home country’s content even when you’re out and about, a travel VPN becomes indispensable. This is because not all countries allow every streaming service to operate freely, and sometimes, it’s the streaming platform itself that differentiates between regions. 

Netflix, for example, has different libraries in the UK, US, India, Japan, and so on. For someone in the UK traveling to the US, a travel VPN will give him access to the UK Netflix library by deceiving the service to make it look like he’s in the UK. 

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Krishi Chowdhary

Krishi is a VPN writer covering buying guides, how-to's, and other cybersecurity content here at Tom's Guide. His expertise lies in reviewing products and software, from VPNs, online browsers, and antivirus solutions to smartphones and laptops. As a tech fanatic, Krishi also loves writing about the latest happenings in the world of cybersecurity, AI, and software.

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How to find the best (and why use) VPN for travel

By Joan Torres 9 Comments Last updated on December 28, 2023

travel hacks vpn

Skip all content and get ExpressVPN

It’s the one I personally use and the fastest while traveling.

When you travel in a foreign country, one of the common problems that arises is that your personal data, passwords, and files can be publicly exposed, as you are more dependent on public Wi-Fi networks, one of the easiest ways for hackers to get into other people’s devices. 

Furthermore, it can also happen that some websites and internet services may be blocked, your favorite Netflix TV show may not be available in that particular country or booking a flight from that specific destination is more expensive. 

Well, the fact is that all these problems can be easily solved by using something called a VPN (Virtual Private Network), as it allows you to connect to a different server from a different location. 

No worries, in this post I will walk you through the importance of using a VPN for travel , plus how to find the right one, depending on which kind of traveler you are. 

Here you will find:

Table of Contents

  • 5 Reasons to use a VPN for travel
  • Best VPNs for traveling
  • Top VPN for traveling
  • Cheapest VPN for traveling
  • Most value-for-money VPN for traveling
  • How to use a VPN

Should you use a free VPN?

5 reasons to use a vpn when you travel.

The best and fastest VPN while traveling. 3 months for free with below link:

There are several reasons for using a VPN while traveling:

1 – To prevent hackers from stealing your data, especially to stay safe on a public Wi-Fi

Either from your hotel or a cafeteria, when you are traveling abroad, you are continuously connecting to public networks, and that is particularly dangerous because it means that all your personal data, such as passwords and credit cards may be exposed to prying eyes. 

Public networks tend not to be secured and, for this reason, it is one of the most preferred ways for hackers to steal other people’s info.

By connecting to a VPN, your data will automatically be encrypted, making it impossible for a hacker to steal it. 

This should be the top reason to use a VPN while traveling. 

2 – To access blocked sites

You should know that in countries like China, the United Arab Emirates , Iran or Oman , the internet is censored, and popular websites and services, such as Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Skype, and large etcetera, may be blocked. 

If they are blocked, the only way to access them when traveling in these countries is by using a VPN, as it will allow you to connect to a country of your choice.

For example, if you connect to a server located in London, you will be able to access Facebook , because Facebook is not banned in the United Kingdom. 

3 – To access specific content from your home country

As you may know, the internet user experience varies enormously per country. 

If you are Googling in the Philippines, you will get different results than if you do it from the USA. 

Moreover, the content available on Netflix or HBO in Thailand is quite different from Netflix USA, so you may not be able to watch the last TV show you got addicted to. 

You should also know that you can only watch HBO from the country you subscribed, which means that if you have UK account and you travel to Mexico, you won’t be able to access it. 

The best VPNs for travel have a large list of countries to choose from, so you will be able to connect from the country you want to.

travel hacks vpn

4 – To get better deals, such as cheaper flights

Did you know that depending on the country you are connecting to, the price of a flight ticket may change?

When you look for a flight ticket, it is recommended to check a couple of locations before booking it. 

5 – To prevent your bank account to get frozen

For security reasons, when you try to access your online bank account from a foreign country, they may ask for some extra verification steps or, in the worst-case scenario, they may block your account directly, and that is something you don’t want to happen you are traveling. 

It actually happened to me when I tried to access my PayPal account from Iran . It got automatically blocked and, since there is no PayPal customer service in Iran, in order to access it, I had to make a very expensive phone call to Spain. 

The best VPN when traveling

If you check some techy-oriented sites, you will see that authors use very complicated terms such as DNS queries, PPTP protocols and crazy stuff like that. 

Their articles are more oriented to professionals but seriously, you don’t need to know any of that when using a VPN for travel. 

That is why I have classified them into the following criteria:

  • Level of security provided
  • Speed (a VPN slows down your connection)
  • Number of countries you can connect from

Moreover, there are other features which are usually gathered by all GOOD VPNs for traveling, including the ones recommended in this article:

  • They are super user-friendly
  • Available for both Android and iPhone
  • Can be used on both desktop and mobile
  • Offer a 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Are compatible with Netflix (Note that Netflix is really good at detecting VPNs and proxies and depending on the server you connect to, it may not work, but this happens with all VPNs).

And based on that criteria, these are the best VPN for travel:

Fastest VPN for international travel – ExpressVPN

Cheapest VPN overseas travel – Private Internet Access

Most value-for-money VPN for traveling abroad – Cyber Ghost

Fastest VPN for traveling abroad – Express VPN

travel hacks vpn

Price for 1 month –  12.95USD

Price for 6 months –  9.99USD a month

Price for 1 year –  6.67USD a month

The best VPN for:

Travelers who want the fastest securest VPN in the market.

Digital Nomads who are continuously on the road and need a powerful connection.

Travelers who want to watch mainstream videos, do Skype Calls, or any activity that requires a good internet connection.

Not good if:

You are price sensitive.

ExpressVPN is the most premium VPN in the market and the most recommended for foreign travel. 

It is extremely fast, super reliable and, according to internet geeks, it offers impeccable double encryption, making it the safest VPN in the market.

Moreover, it allows you to connect to 3,000 servers from 160 cities in 94 different countries.

I have tried quite a few VPNs but, as a long term traveler and someone who works online, ExpressVPN is the one I am currently using, especially because it so fast that, usually, I don’t even remember that I am actually connected to a VPN. 

Special offer through my link

Get 12 + 3 months for free!

travel hacks vpn

The cheapest VPN for traveling – Private Internet Access

travel hacks vpn

Price for 1 month –  from 11.99USD

Price for 6 month s –  from 7.50USD a month

Price for 2 years –  from 2.11USD a month

Very cheap, especially if you get the 1 to 2-year plan.

Very good price for budget travelers who go on short trips and just want a VPN for very simple browsing.

If you go on a short trip (and only want it for 1 month), you can get ExpressVPN for 1 more USD only

You require the fastest internet connection

Private Internet Access is another great VPN for traveling abroad. 

Of all the trustworthy VPNs, Private Internet Access is not the fastest but it’s the cheapest in the market, so it might be the best choice for budget travelers.

For someone like me, with an online job, which needs a strong internet connection, I decided to move to ExpressVPN because of some speed issues with Private Internet Access which was noticeable when I was connected to a public Wi-Fi network.

Still, it was good, really, relatively fast, experts claim that it is also very secure, and you can connect to 83 different countries.

Get 2 years + 3 months free!

travel hacks vpn

The MOST value-for-money VPN for travel – Cyber Ghost

travel hacks vpn

Price for 1 month –  12.99USD

Price for 6 months –  6.99USD a month

Price for 2 years – 2.11USD a month

Good value for money. For this price, you can’t find anything better.

Long-term travelers, as it offers a super cheap 2-year plan.

Travelers who go on short trips and just want a value-for-money VPN

You need the fastest connection, as it is not as fast as ExpressVPN.

CyberGhost VPN offers an outstanding level of security, with strong encryption features due to with over 15 years of experience and 9,000 state-of-the-art VPN servers.

Actually, some speed tests have proven that CyberGhost VPN is faster than ExpressVPN, due to its unlimited bandwidth and traffic.

Additionally, CyberGhost VPN subscriptions secure up to 7 devices at once, protecting your identity and information across all your favorite operating systems and gadgets. Plus 24/7 customer service is available via live chat or email.

A true value-for-money right? And if you sign up for the long-term plan, the monthly price becomes very, very low.

SAVE 84% + 3 Months FREE

travel hacks vpn

How to set up a VPN for traveling

The first time I heard about VPNs, I kind of understood the concept, yet I thought it would be such a complicated thing to use or install on your computer.

I couldn’t be more wrong. VPNs are designed so the least tech-savvy person can use them, as all you have to do is choose one country from a list and click on connect.

Step 1 – Enter ExpressVPN website through this link  and choose your plan

Step 2 –  Download Express VPN to your desktop or get the App on Google Play or Apple Store.

Step 3 –  Choose a location from the list and connect – It is so easy!

travel hacks vpn

Some budget travelers may prefer not to pay for a VPN. 

Sure, you can do this, but you should know that free VPNs have the following disadvantages:

  • They are extremely slow
  • You get infinite ads
  • Usually, they are only available for mobile, not desktop
  • Forget watching Netflix
  • The country or server cannot be selected but they assign one randomly
  • They are not secure

Seriously, for a couple of dollars a month, a good VPN is a game changer.

best VPN for travel

Great article, i think every traveller should read it. I remember the days when I was younger… never thought about any VPN or security service like that, this gives me chills. Anyway, I’ll share your article with my friends (as I’m already using NordVPN). Have a good day!

Wow, this is suuuper interesting, I honestly never had this idea. But it totally makes sense. I want to go travel for a little longer next year and I totally will get myself a VPN. Greetings from Vienna Dorie

Expressvpn is best while travelling

You have mentioned ExpressVPN as the best which is true but it is also a lot more expensive than other variables. I like NordVPN and I don’t know whether you have heard of PureVPN (they even promote themselves as vpn for travelers). Can you share your opinion on which vpn would be best if someone is looking to travel to China, as I heard a lot of vpns are banned there and only those which are approved by Chinese government work there

Hi Eve, ExpressVPN works in China. I have tried it myself and it still works. I heard of PureVPN, yes, but there is not much of a price difference vs ExpressVPN and is not as great. I don’t know if it works in China.

I used Nord VPN while traveling and had no issues apart from a few hangups here and there. I only used the VPN when I “needed” to, like when logging into financial sites, not just browsing. Regardless of promises, I think using any VPN makes the internet slower, but not too bad. Either way, it’s better than having accounts frozen or not being able to access what you need to!

i am relatively new to this site but I appreciate all i have learned here. i have been in contact with a young man from Pakistan .. if he travels with me within his country do I still have to sign on with a travel company? is there ways around it if indeed that is true as it seems you do not travel with others except perhaps when you run trips…. i only took one tour to see the Magellan Strait years ago but no other time in life and I am now 77 years of age having now been to only 67 countries yet I do not collect countries as I revisit them many times as there is too much to see in a country thus a one time deal in not sufficient whatsoever …. and of course I grew up at a different time than many young people who are trying to circle the globe these days. All the best with your life and your work Walter May

Greetings, I’m trying to find out if there are regular trains from Chisinau to Odessa , and not having much luck. Any recommendations ? Thanks and best, Peter

in my opinion Peter …. I would not be spending any time in a country which is at war with Russia. I find no real reason to do so. I have visited Ukraine a half dozen times … have good friends who live there and many say they have not had problems yet a few others who are not friends have written to say they have no money — perhaps true as many people in life never plan for their futures … If your travels take you there … I wish you a safe journey. All my best to you — I have no current knowledge on trains in Ukraine. Happy Travels!!

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Helpful Apps and Websites for Travel

Written by Dan

Updated on January 30th, 2024

A tin can with a map on it next to a window.

Here are some new ideas for the best and most useful websites, apps, tools and services that make your life easier during travel. Our top travel apps are subscriptions, free services and crowd-sourced data apps that provide cool travel hacks.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Table of contents

  • The best insurance: World Nomads Travel
  • Priority Pass Airport Lounge Access
  • The best travel VPN: ExpressVPN
  • Venmo (or PayPal)
  • Free ATM Debit Card like Fidelity or Schwab
  • Currency Exchange by XE.com & XE App
  • Clarity Money
  • YouTube Premium
  • Prime Video
  • Google Flights
  • Secret Flying
  • Going (formally Scott’s Cheap Flights)
  • Chase Ultimate Rewards
  • City Mapper
  • Google Maps

MyFitnessPal

  • Google Translate
  • How to book hostels on the go: Hostelworld

Booking.com

  • Google Photos
  • Adobe Lightroom
  • Amazon Photos

Worldtimebuddy

  • Traveling Mailbox
  • OOTD: the Office of the Day App
  • Authentic Jobs
  • Hacker News: Who’s Hiring?
  • BBC en Español

Traveling is hard. Really hard (OK, sometimes). Before apps existed, we used to do it ourselves with paper, pen, fold-out maps and notes scribbled on paper.

Luckily, times have changed, and now apps can do so much that there’s nearly always “an app for that” (where did that saying come from?).

Are you planning to travel as a digital nomad or do something specialized like gluten-free travel ? There are apps that can help you do things like pin down specialty food, coworking spaces , mapping, communication and more.

As we describe in our story of how we dated long distance through travel , apps played a huge part in our relationship… and still do!

Apps can also help you do things on the go. You can look up live exchange rates as a travel money hack , try to save money while traveling by using photos as your souvenirs and even learn a new language for travel with some helpful — and fun — new apps.

Let’s see the apps that have helped us most and the ones we are currently using.

Useful Travel Apps for Convenience and Travel Hacks

Google Fi is one of my top-recommended services that you can get if you’re interested in traveling. Whether or not you’re about to go on a short trip or a long trip, Google Fi can help you. Actually, if you want an awesome cell phone plan for home, Google Fi works for you as well.

If you are already sold on Google Fi. You can sign up using this link !

The most useful feature of Google Fi is the ability to use the same phone and the same phone number in most countries. Every time I land in a new country, I take out my phone and I have service right away, with Google Fi. There’s no need for me to find local SIM cards or struggle to find WiFi.

When I’m not traveling full-time, I have a cellphone plan as part of a family plan, at home in the US. I keep that phone around when I’m home because there is more data attached to that plan. During these times, when I am not traveling, I pause my Google Fi plan and it saves me a little bit of money.

I used my Google Fi phone plan to tether local data when I was working from a small cabin in Argentina and needed to check something for work. The data can get expensive because you pay for your usage. The good news is that if you use a lot of data, Google caps how much you’ll pay. You’ll never be surprised with a $300 phone bill.

Now that Google is rolling out other phones to use with Google Fi (before now, it was only Google phones that you could use!), there’s no reason to not try it out for your next trip. It even works in most off-the-beaten-path destinations that you might be considering.

A woman is taking a picture of her phone with a red case.

The best insurance: World Nomads Travel

Travel insurance is important to have when you’re on the road, whether for a short trip or during long-term travel. Outside of the United States, you can pay out-of-pocket for some medical expenses and it can equal the amount of a standard doctor co-pay; however, if there’s ever an emergency, hospital visits or emergency evacuation can be expensive.

Luckily, World Nomads is a well-trusted and an amazing travel insurance provider.

Outside of health coverage, World Nomads helps cover other travel-related struggles, like lost baggage, theft and injury.

Priority Pass Airport Lounge Access

Becca and I wouldn’t know what to do in an airport without Priority Pass . We intentionally show up to airports early in order to get to the Priority Pass lounge, whenever we have a travel day. We’re lucky enough to have received Priority Pass through our credit card, Chase Sapphire Reserve.

Every airport lounge is different, depending on where in the world it might be located or depending on which airline or company runs it. Airport lounges give you a nice place to sit and relax before your flight.

Some airport or airline lounges offer nap rooms, showers, full meals, drinks, WiFi and so much more. We’ve been to a lounge in Hong Kong that has a noodle bar!

Some airport lounges aren’t as luxurious as others, and might offer simple snacks and drinks, like nuts and water. We’re not luxury travelers, but our Priority Pass membership is one of our main luxuries that we have come to love.

If you’re interested in trying Priority Pass , you can take a look at the stand-alone version of membership, or check out the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card, which includes a membership in the annual fee.

A plane flying in a clear blue sky.

The best travel VPN: ExpressVPN

A VPN is a good tool to have if you’re visiting websites that aren’t encrypted (HTTP only) or if you’re in a country where there are firewalls that block many websites (like China). You can also use a VPN to get benefits, like spoofing your location and watching location-specific shows online.

I use my VPN for two major reasons:

  • YouTube Premium is the only content that I watch. I don’t subscribe to Netflix, Hulu or any other service. Some countries don’t allow downloading YouTube videos, so you can download videos using a VPN!
  • Some websites restrict functionality if you’re not located in your home country (for example, music sites, banking sites and some others). For those cases, I’ll connect to a VPN in order to proceed with my task.

Try ExpressVPN!

The Best Apps for Money Hacks While Traveling

Venmo (or paypal).

Venmo and PayPal are two useful ways for paying friends while you’re traveling. Consider the typical situation of when you go out to eat: the bill is huge and the server is unable to split the bill.

If you’re traveling in a country and you only have big currency or no cash at all, it’s typical for someone to either cover you so that you can pay him or her back later, or pay for the entire bill.

Venmo and PayPal are the standard ways to pay a monetary amount from your bank account to other people’s bank accounts. It’s important to mention that Venmo is only supported in the USA. If you try and get Venmo in another country, you’ll probably run into issues. I suggest getting Venmo before you leave, if you don’t already have an account.

Free ATM Debit Card like Fidelity or Schwab

Ready for my travel money hack ?

I use two bank accounts as my primary checking accounts when I travel. I have a checking account with Fidelity and Charles Schwab . These bank accounts don’t charge an ATM fee when you withdraw money. This is useful for taking out smaller amounts of money whenever I want to. I avoid trying to optimize each visit to an ATM and it eliminates this type of stress.

I automatically deposit a small amount of money into these two checking accounts every month. I do this so that I never have to worry about empty checking accounts!

I should mention that both of these accounts reimburse ATM fees 30 days after a fee is charged. So, while my ATM receipt shows that I got charged a foreign bank fee, this fee gets reimbursed by the bank within about a month. No pain here!

Currency Exchange by XE.com & XE App

I’ve used Currency by XE.com in the past, but Becca actually uses this currency service a lot (it’s free to use!).

You can track how your home currency is doing compared to the currency in the country where you are traveling. I usually use Google, so I’d input, for example, “200 COP to USD.” From here, I get the conversion for what 200 COP equals in USD. This is a great money and budgeting hack while on the go.

Another trick is to remember the simple math to convert a currency. For example, the Peruvian Sol is always approximately three per 1 USD. So, I try to remember which values equate to which values in my home currency.

Another example is the Colombian Peso. To convert Colombian Pesos to United States Dollars, you divide by 3000. This won’t give you exact results, but it will give you a good ballpark and you’ll start to understand the value of what things cost, instead of always using your phone’s calculator or free XE.com app.

Clarity Money

Becca uses the Clarity Money app to track expenses and manage a budget. Clarity is an app with a nice interface that can help you clearly see what you’ve spent and which categories it falls into.

The best feature it has is that it has an easy search function to, for example, see what you’ve spent at [X store] over [X period of time]. That’s a cool way to see if you’ve spent excessively on shopping or non-necessities and that you need to slow down.

It can also help you budget and be sure you’re setting aside money in different types of buckets for certain goals (like travel, of course).

Mint is another money-tracking app that puts all your accounts together (if you give permission to link them) and you can see things like how much you’re saving over time and your net spend or gain over a month, for example.

When you open Mint, you can see your recent transactions (if you link your credit cards) and you can double-check the categorizations that have come up. In this way, you can see how much you’ve spent on “Restaurants” in the month of June, to give an example.

The best thing about Mint is that it sometimes notifies me if I’ve gotten charged a fee by a bank, before the bank even does. This has helped shift finances when I get back to a laptop, or notify and inform my bank I’d like to arrange a time to discuss.

Using Honey can help you save money when you buy anything online. It’s a browser extension that runs in the background and automatically applies coupon codes and notifies you when there is a deal or a sale. Super cool!

Entertainment Apps for Travelers (TV, videos, music, etc.)

Youtube premium.

I mentioned above that I watch a lot of YouTube videos . YouTube Premium enables ad-less playback of videos and supports downloading videos to your phone. Before a long flight, I’ll usually download some interesting videos to watch (sometimes I do this from the Priority Pass lounge).

I use YouTube instead of Netflix and I’ve never had any issues nor do I ever feel like I’m missing out on anything.

Netflix is great to have when you take long flights or have a rainy day where ever you are. You can download videos onto your phone when you don’t have access to the internet or cell service.

We’ve totally been on long bus rides in Colombia with nothing to do for 8 hours. If you’re traveling internationally, you can use a VPN to spoof your location to another region.

If you’re into new movies, a subscription to STARZ can help you be the first one of your friends to see what’s out.

If you get tired of the shows on Netflix, you can try Hulu ! Hulu will have different programming than some of the other streaming services. If you watch a lot of TV/shows/movies, check out Hulu.

Prime Video

Prime Video is great if you already pay for Amazon Prime. It’s great because it’s free. You don’t have to pay for Prime Video if you already pay for Amazon Prime . Check it out to see if you like the show and movie selection.

Keep an eye out for Prime Day to get the best Amazon Prime deals for travelers !

Spotify helps me get through repetitive tasks while I’m working. I’ll usually have Spotify open throughout my day of work. I’ll download a few songs to my phone and I will use that playlist when I go running or want to listen to music on a flight.

Do yourself a favor and get some bluetooth headphones like AirPods .

Best Apps for Travel Hacks During Flights and Transport

You can book a plane ticket or train ticket, or, you can do a lot of fun research beforehand to make sure you’re getting the best price, best connecting flight , best flight time and best airport.

Why not check out these apps and websites for flights and travel hacks while you’re on the go, or planning a trip? A single app can change a whole travel experience.

Before a flight, I’ll check my seat selection with SeatGuru . It will tell you things like, “the seat doesn’t recline.” Fun fact — I almost never recline my seat. I’m a good person to sit behind! These tips don’t work for every single airline and flight path, but they can save you from an uncomfortable experience.

Google Flights

When I do my flight research, I like to search via Google Flights . The search is fast and the site is really simple and easy to use. There’s not much of an upsell to rent a car or stay in a hotel, like with some other booking sites. Google Flights is a good way to get a benchmark of flights before you choose where or when to go.

Remember that if you’re aiming to use up an airline voucher , this has to be done through the airline website itself. Don’t worry though, because Google will always take you there when you click into a flight.

Secret Flying

Secret Flying is completely free and claims it will find you the cheapest deals online. This includes mistake fares or errors fares, and how to find these types of flight deals that come from mistakes made that are not yet corrected.

To browse error fares, head to the “Error Fares” section of the website, but the key is to get these fares while they’re hot and before they expire (or get corrected by the flight company or airline).

Going (formally Scott’s Cheap Flights)

Going is a membership-based website where by subscribing, the company claims you can save around $550 on average.

To get 20% off your first year of a Premium subscription to Going, use our exclusive code: HALFHALF20 , when purchasing.

You’ll get email alerts about cheap flights that depart from your favorite airports, and the flight deals you receive are vetted by Scott’s vetted flight experts. Two million people around the world use Going and many say that they’re able to take trips three times a year, for the price of one. This is cool to consider if you plan to fly frequently.

So, are you ready to have a new way to save money on flights and airfare? Sign up for Going here.

Rome2Rio was originally a very useful and popular website among the backpacker crowd, and now it’s an app. Rome2Rio shows you every mode of transport to get you from one city to another, or one place to another. In the app, you can see the prices and you can book transport if it’s in a service that exists online.

Up there with the legacy fame in the way that Rome2Rio has been an indispensable website for travelers over the years, Seat61 seems to be the original train travel hack website.

With a new focus on train travel as the eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to airplane travel, Seat61 helps you travel affordably by train (or ferry) in places where ‘you thought flying was the only option.’ Cool!

Kiwi.com is an excellent service if you want to get a general idea of how much it costs to fly to a certain region. I’ve used Kiwi to help determine how much it costs to go to Europe from New York City, for example. Most flight-booking engines give you price from city to city. Kiwi enables you to find the cheapest flight to “somewhere” South America from Chicago, for example.

Priceline can help you find the best deals for hotels, flights car rentals and vacation packages. It’s best to shop around when you’re pricing out your travel logistics. Priceline is a great tool to allow you to see prices from various vendors.

Chase Ultimate Rewards

I mentioned above that I use my Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card to get Priority Pass .

The same credit card gives miles per every dollar spent. Those miles start to add up when you buy things that qualify as purchases in travel, food and other expense categories. You can redeem those miles for travel services like flights, cars and hotels.

You can also transfer those points to travel or airline partners, like United and JetBlue. Using Chase Ultimate Rewards has been helpful in saving money when taking long flights. I’ve used my points to book flights all the way from Europe to New York, and from New York to Vietnam .

Travel cards like the Chase Sapphire (and Freedom) credit cards are the best way to start travel hacking . You can really get hooked. Once you start accruing miles and points, you’ll never travel without thinking, “How many points will this flight cost me?” again.

Best and Most Useful Map, Transport and Location Apps

I like Maps.ME as an alternative mapping app. The app’s main focus is offline mobile maps, so this combo is perfect for getting to your destination without using any data.

I’ve found that the maps and directions are better in Maps.ME than in any other map app - the directions are easier to follow, in my opinion. Despite this helpful feature, I still find myself using Google Maps because it’s what I’m used to.

Maps.ME helped out during my hike in Iceland . One of my friends had the app installed and used it to find a hot spring in the middle of nowhere. Well, the hot spring was well-known, but it was an adventure for us to get there!

Maps.ME does a better job helping you get through trails and other places that don’t have roads.

Don’t fall into the same trap that I did! Give Maps.ME a try.

City Mapper

I’ve used City Mapper in the past when I was visiting London. The Tube stations and reliability was better than any other map app at the time. All of my friends in London used it and recommended that I use it, too.

Google Maps doesn’t always have to be the go-to mapping app. Sometimes a city has a general preference for another app based on what features it can offer.

Moovit is a popular app in Israel .

When I was in Israel, Google Maps had trouble with GPS and determining where addresses were in relation to where I was. Moovit fixed that problem! It made walking around and getting directions much easier.

Moovit “knows” everything about the buses in Israel, specifically. If you want to go anywhere in Israel by public transit, download Moovit in order to get there in the best way!

During my travels in South America, Uber has been one of the only taxi apps that I can use. Uber is much safer than regular taxis, specifically in Latin America.

Taking Uber is also easier if you’re not as comfortable speaking a language other than your own. Uber allows you to set your pickup and drop-off location, and everything else is taken care of.

A yellow taxi parked on a street.

I’ve heard from locals in Mexico and Colombia that using Uber has helped them go out at night and get to otherwise geographically-challenging locations. This means that the app has changed people’s lives, for the better!

When Lyft is available, I prefer to use Lyft. What can I say — I have a soft spot for pink mustaches.

Lyft, Uber and other ride-sharing apps generally do the same thing. They allow you to set your location and easily get to your destination. When I was in San Francisco, Lyft was often used in place of public transportation. A Lyft ride can be about the same cost as a one of their public transportation methods.

Also, in San Francisco, there are special Lyft programs for people that take Lyft to work. There’s a specific route that you can jump into with other passengers. This helps keep the cost down, and you can rely on the route in order to get to work efficiently. Seems more eco-friendly, right?

A man driving a car with a cell phone in his hand.

Taxify tends to exist in cities that do not typically have Lyft or Uber available. This isn’t always true, but I’ve found this to be the case most of the time.

I mainly have used Taxify in European cities. The same strategy for having a safe and easy ride is true here. The difference with Taxify is that regular cabs can use the app. This is because Taxify isn’t necessarily a “ride-sharing app” like Lyft and Uber are.

Grab is the equivalent of Uber in places like Vietnam . The difference is that you can pay by credit (set up the credit option from your home country before you leave, to be safe) or cash, upon the completion of the ride.

Google Maps

Google Maps is the most common app for getting around. It handles walking, biking, driving and public transportation options. I like to use Google Maps to create stars and labels for some of the places that I frequently visit. This makes it easier to get back to those locations easily.

One of my favorite features is the ease of download of offline maps. Downloading offline maps is helpful in saving data if you’re using Google Maps outside of WiFi. Also, if you don’t have any data, you can still use maps when you’ve downloaded the data.

I’ve been using Swarm since before it was Swarm. Swarm used to be a part of Foursquare by way of “Foursquare Check-ins.” They broke it off into a new app that creates a gamification layer to visiting new places. These places can be cafes, bars, hotels, cities, airports and more. You get stickers and points for the places that you check in to.

Your friends can also see where you visited and where you currently are, if they use the Swarm app as well.

My favorite feature is to be able to look at where I’ve been in the past. If you ask me, what’s that cool restaurant that you visited in Belgrade? I’ll be able to search through my Swarm history and tell you the name and location of the restaurant. I checked, and the restaurant that I was thinking about is called Smokvica .

A woman is holding up a smartphone with a map on it.

Best Apps for Health for Digital Nomads and Travelers

We like to focus on health when we travel. During long-term travel, you may go through spurts of a high interest in health and activity, counteracted by periods of when you don’t care so much. Not everyone’s interested in health, but some people define their lives and progress by it.

Google Health now has metrics like active minutes per day, miles or km walked in a day, heart health and more.

The app tracks ‘Heart Points’ and ‘Move Minutes’ to help show how much activity you’ve had in a day, and then shows a bar graph of your steps over a week. This can be cool to see if for example you walked 7 miles a day like we did, in Barcelona, Spain .

This app is also on Google Play Store .

If you’re interested in what you consume in a day, MyFitnessPal helps you track calories and consumption activity through an app that helps total these metrics. It can be really interesting and can give some clarity to your habits.

If you’ve been indulging in lots of pizza and pasta in Italy, excessive empanadas in Colombia or too many bowls of pho in Vietnam, you might start with a resolution to get more fit and drop some pounds while traveling for a while.

WeightDrop helps track your weight, if you have a scale nearby. You can see over time how your weight changes, if you like to measure your progress in that way. This is not for everyone, but can be an interesting thing to track over a year.

Best Apps for International Communication While Traveling

Communicating across oceans used to cost a ton of money or take a while. Now, you’ve got either instant communication, or asynchronous communication , and there are tons of ways to do both.

If you’re going to be abroad and out of your home country, why not try a few different ways to communicate with friends and family back home, and with travelers you meet along the way?

Google Translate

English is becoming spoken and understood in many different cities and countries all over the world. I’m really grateful that English is my first language.

Whenever I am in a new place where people do not understand English, I try to learn my hellos, goodbyes and thank yous in the local language. I’ll usually have Google Translate open on my phone to help translate words from another language that I am not familiar with.

My favorite feature about Google Translate is its ability to translate text from an image. A perfect application of this is in translating a menu. You can take a picture of the text on a menu and then you can understand it!

A street sign with a bicycle on it.

WhatsApp has been forever useful in communicating with everyone. I use it every day to talk with friends and family, but I have also used it to communicate with locals that I meet.

It’s a universal text message application that almost everyone around the world uses. WhatsApp is incredible!

It’s amazing that once you leave the USA, many people use this instead of iMessage or regular text messaging.

Slack is how I keep in touch with more professional contacts. I am a member of several Slack communities that all offer different things.

Slack by itself is nothing. You need an invite from a specific group, organization or company to make something out of Slack. You’re able to join as many communities as you want, after you get that invite.

The workspaces and Slack communities that I belong to help me find work, stay in touch with other travelers, talk about photography and so much more.

Most meetings that you take for interviews and work calls with be on Zoom . A fun tip for Zoom, is to explore within the video settings and remove your background. Instead of superimposing a background of a beach, you may actually be at a beach.

Krisp can block out background noises for you and the person on the other end of the call. This is great if you are in a noisy cafe or airport.

Best Apps for Booking Accommodations While Traveling

If you want more information about how we book accommodations, feel free to check out our article that we wrote about finding accommodations .

A bed with a blue comforter.

Airbnb has been helpful when booking places to stay for a trip. Airbnb has one of the better filtering systems out there. You can choose a place to stay based on a number of different options. Do you want a kitchen? Do you want a single home? Do you a queen-sized bed? Cool. Airbnb can be how you find an optimal place to stay, whether that place is an apartment, a house, a room in a hostel or room in a guesthouse.

VRBO is a great tool when you’re looking for something more like a vacation. You’ll find some of the best vacation rentals when you’re looking to get away. You can also use this to connect with home-owners if you’re interested in doing any long terms stays somewhere.

How to book hostels on the go: Hostelworld

I use Hostelworld to get an idea of where the cool neighborhoods are in a city. This is sort of a flawed system because sometimes the hostels are in the party part of town. This is usually true in Europe, but it’s helpful in Central and South America, because hostels are usually also located in the safest parts of a city.

We also use Hostelworld to find out which cities in a country are best to stay in. Hostelworld helped a whole bunch when we went to Colombia, Argentina and Portugal.

I’ll use Booking.com if Hostelworld and Airbnb do not return quality results. When I was in Patagonia, I noticed that Booking.com had way better options than AirBnb did. Hostelworld and hostels were not as popular for the smaller towns. Booking.com helped us a lot in the coasts of Portugal during our road trip, and in Sri Lanka, where hostels are not yet a huge thing.

Trying to decide between all the types of accommodations? Check our guide for Hostels vs. Airbnb vs. Hotels .

Productivity and Data Management For Travelers On the Go

If you’re a digital nomad or remote worker on the go and you’re looking for travel apps to make your work life easier, check out these suggestions.

Dropbox is great for a professional setting. You can use it to collaborate with others by sharing files and keeping shared assets organized. I use Dropbox for sharing files with clients and keeping my own files organized and backed up. By the way, if you use this link to sign up for Dropbox, you’ll get 500MB of storage for free!

For traveling, I like to use Dropbox to keep a copy of important documents, like a copy of my passport and other banking records. It makes finding these items really easy if you’re like me and can’t remember your passport number. You can quickly open Dropbox and browse toward the location in which you’ve saved those documents.

I’ve been using 1Password for almost five years. I have over 400 logins saved. It’s incredible that I’ve even logged into 400 different websites. Nevertheless, each one of those websites uses a different password.

Because every website has a different password, if that website’s data were ever compromised, my password that the hacker would get is basically useless for logging into any other account that I have.

1Password is essentially a flexible database. You can store whatever you want inside of 1Password. At a high level, it’s a secure vault that can keep varied types of information. You can store credit card information, phone numbers, lists and more.

Storing your credit cards and other information is a good idea if your wallet ever gets lost or stolen. Having a record of your credit card numbers is incredibly useful if you need to call a bank and report the card as lost or stolen.

Over the years, I’ve bounced around using a few different to-do apps. I used Teuxdeux for a few years before switching to Todoist . The reason that I switched was because I wanted to have more control over my to-do items. I use to-do lists to plan my day and Todoist provides a lot of functionality.

When you’re traveling, you can plan on-the-fly itineraries of your trip using Todoist. Let’s say that you want to visit 10 interesting sites in total. You can spread them out throughout your stay and use a simple to-do app to track your progress or plan.

In my case, Trello is sort of like Todoist, except that it’s for more long-term, non-time-sensitive information. I put big ideas into Trello along with long-term goals.

You can use Trello to plan a list of things that require feedback from other people, and you can plan lists of items that include images and other attachments. Imagine that you’re planning to take a three-month trip. What are all of the steps that you need to take in order to leave? It’s different for everyone, but planning the steps in an app like Trello can help make that process easier.

Backblaze is my favorite product to talk about. Most days, I forget that I have it running in the background. It keeps all of my data safe and gives me peace of mind that I’ll never lose a file or a photo.

If you take a lot of travel photos or do a lot of writing when you travel, making sure that your data is backed up, especially if you’re saving everything to an external hard drive, is an important part of traveling. It’s easy to lose a hard drive or damage a hard drive. Backblaze has a simple interface that backs up all of your data in the background.

Big white coffee mug next to a MacBook Pro on a wooden table desk in a coworking space

Best Apps for Photography for Travelers on the Go

Google photos.

Google Photos is an incredible tool for organizing, viewing and storing your photos. If you have an Android phone, like a Google Pixel or something else, photos automatically backup to Google Photos. iPhones require you to download the app before using the service.

My favorite uses for Google Photos are the search and the assistant. Being able to search for locations is so useful. I can search for something like, “Jamaica,” and easily find photos from my trip to Jamaica back in 2012. Even though I didn’t geo-tag those photos or even have cell data, Google can predict that I was there based on other factors and show me those photos.

Google Photos has an assistant that shows you cool information. It can make GIFs from your photo bursts and can make a collage of photos based on similar other ones. If you have a large volume of photos like I do, this type of information is fun to look back at!

As a tip, Google Photos is crucial to have for working out storage on your phone. Even if your iCloud is enabled, you might find that your photos have “filled up” your phone storage. If that happened to you recently, fix your iPhone’s photo storage with these tips.

A woman is taking a picture on her cell phone.

Adobe Lightroom

Lightroom is my preferred tool for editing photos. Without a computer, I can take photos from my camera, edit them on Lightroom Mobile and then share them on social media. I don’t typically do this, but sometimes I do.

Lightroom is a good way to catalog all of the photos that you take when you travel. Lightroom CC has a similar search process to Google Photos. You can search for generic terms like “dog” and get a bunch of dog photos.

Woman holding a Google Pixel 2

Amazon Photos

Amazon photos won’t let edit your photos, but you can use the service to help backup and view your photos. It comes free with Prime. Amazon Prime will also be useful if you want to watch Prime Video.

Virtual Remote Work and Digital Nomad Apps

The apps below make work possible when you’re away from home, or when your home is ‘away’ from home all the time.

Working remotely is a big part of how I am able to travel for long periods at a time. At any time when I need to sign a contract, DocHub can help. You can have your signature ready to go and you can easily drop it on a line that requires your signature. You can than export that document as a PDF and send it off to where it needs to go. So cool!

A big part of travel is understanding how to deal with time zones. It’s currently 10:45 pm here in Mexico, but in New York City, it’s 11:45 pm. In Dubai, it’s 8:45 am. Good morning, everyone!

When you have to set up a meeting with someone in another time zone or figure out what time it is back home, Worldtimebuddy can help. You can add a few different cities and easily see an overlap of what time it is everywhere.

A clock on the side of a building.

Traveling Mailbox

When I was traveling full-time, I used Traveling Mailbox on a weekly basis - this service allowed me to receive physical mail while I was traveling. In the past, I sent mail to my parents’ house or let it pile up in the location where I was staying.

The Traveling Mailbox service was especially useful because I run my own business. I often get sent mail that is associated with my business, and I’m able to see a physical scan of my mail items online.

This has been helpful in permitting me to not rely on others to collect my physical mail.

A man driving a mail truck on a street.

OOTD: the Office of the Day App

This app knows where you are (if you give it your location), and it’ll find you a place to work, as recommended by other digital nomads .

Depending on where you are, you can search (for example) for a place to work in Los Angeles, or Bangkok, Thailand. Each entry comes with ratings for features like WiFi, outlets, ability to make/take phone calls, credit card usage and outdoor space.

Recommend it to a friend, as it gets better as more people use it!

Remote Work Job Boards for Digital Nomads

For a more comprehensive list of work from home websites , check out our full list on remote jobs!

RemoteOK is one of the more popular job sites for finding remote work. It has a simple interface for browsing and searching for different remote jobs. All of the jobs are remote, so there isn’t any remote or location filter like you’d see on other job sites. Most of the jobs on this site are developer-focused, but you will find jobs for marketing, customer service and a few other types of industries.

A laptop sitting on a wooden table.

Every year or two, I give Upwork a shot. I am curious as to which types of jobs you can apply for and which skills are in demand. It takes a lot of time for someone to become popular on the Upwork platform. You’ll get rewarded for the work that you do and how often you get hired.

I personally haven’t had too much success with Upwork. Most of the proposals that I submit as a developer often go unnoticed because there is a lot of competition. If you’re looking for work, give Upwork a try and let me know how it goes!

I’m on Fiverr . There, I said it. It took me a long time to create a gig and give the platform a shot because Fiverr has a reputation that I didn’t want to be associated with. However, times have changed and I’ve found the platform to be interesting.

There is a lot of competition for certain types of jobs or gigs, but it’s fun to play with the market and AB-test various different gigs to get a sense for what is popular.

The more and more that I played with Fiverr, the more I realized that you get rewarded for using the site more. The more your gigs get ordered, the more you appear in the search results. Depending on many 5-star ratings you have, the more you will rank higher for high-competition gigs. It makes sense: Fiverr wants to reward quality people because the company takes a cut of your income, per job.

Authentic Jobs

Authentic Jobs has been a place where I’ve searched for jobs for so many years. I can’t remember the first time that I heard about Authentic Jobs, but it’s been there with me for a few different career hires.

Authentic Jobs has a filter for remote positions. My favorite filter is actually displaying types of roles, like part-time, full-time and contract roles. There aren’t too many positions listed, but the ones that are listed are usually high-quality. The jobs that are posted are mostly design and development jobs.

For my entire career, I never took LinkedIn seriously. Until recently, my tag line was, “Hire me for pizza advice.” I mean, you can totally still hire me for pizza advice. When you visit my LinkedIn profile now, it paints a more professional picture. There’s a time to be playful, but I started to realize that LinkedIn wasn’t the place for that.

You can share your professional knowledge about travel through LinkedIn. After traveling with Remote Year, I realized that sharing specific travel-related advice on LinkedIn is an effective way to find a new travel community and a way to attract readers to your content.

Hacker News: Who’s Hiring?

I’ll admit that my consumption of Hacker News articles has dropped off significantly. I’ll still vouch for the quality that their monthly job posting has. The best part about this job board is that it’s crowd-validated. The posts get up-voted, so the most popular and interesting job posts bubble to the top.

If there’s a really obvious question about the posting, someone probably answered it in the thread below the post. There’s no filter for remote jobs because it’s a text-only service. However, good ole’ CMD + F “remote” always returns a few interesting positions to check out.

A woman typing on a laptop while sitting at a table.

Helping You Work Remotely

Even if you think you have remote work down to a science, it’s never too late to add a new work hack to your work and travel life. While we list lots of tips for working remotely on our website, check out the tools that make it work for us below.

When I was living in New York City, I started working remotely from my neighborhood on days with bad weather. After doing this during a few snow storms, I quickly realized how effective I could be by not going into an office. I started working from home more frequently because of the productivity benefits that I saw.

I quickly got bored working from my living room. I started to look for more cafes to work from near my apartment in Park Slope. After stumbling on a few cafes with bad WiFi and limited power outlets, I found Workfrom .

Workfrom has crowd-sourced a global network of cafes that share helpful stats like how many power outlets exist, how fast the WiFi is and if the cafe has good food or coffee. I added a few of my favorite neighborhood stats to the Park Slope map!

Interior of a cozy cafe, with white quartz tables and blue and teal wooden chairs next to a wooden bar

I like how simple Nomad List is. It gives you a generalization for how it is to travel to and live in a city that might be really far away. If you’re going to Hanoi , you can see criteria about how safe it is there, how the internet is there and other helpful stats like air quality.

While it’s an average of a lot of different data points, you can get a good idea about what it’s like to be there.

If you subscribe to Nomad List, you can enter in all of the places that you’ve been to and also connect with other travelers with the Nomad List Slack community.

News Apps: How to stay in touch with what’s going on

Usually when we’re traveling, Becca refreshes the NYTimes app every morning. It pre-loads, at least in summary form, so if we’re on a train or bus without WiFi for the rest of the day, she can still skim through headlines in each section and get briefed on what’s going on.

There’s nothing worse than being out of the loop. With phones, apps and WiFi, you can now stay connected anywhere (even when you don’t feel like it - ugh!).

Also free, but with no limits on articles per month like the NYTimes app, the CNN app has tons of articles. It doesn’t pre-load as well, so expect to use it only when connected to WiFi.

BBC en Español

Maybe you read the BBC in English, but Becca reads it in Spanish. If you don’t read Spanish, and you’re not looking for a way to practice Spanish, what we do suggest is getting a news app in the language you ARE trying to learn. This helps with word recognition and key words, even if you skim for only a few minutes per day.

Apple News is one of the default apps that comes with the iPhone. It creates an aggregation of top stories drawn from many news sources, so you get variation. You can also choose which ‘beats’ you’d like to see, from travel to science to fashion.

Apps for selling stuff and downsizing before travel

When we decided to travel for 10 months on a remote work digital nomad trip , we sold all our furniture. And got rid of a lot of clothes (that we could have made money on if we had just taken the time to sell it all).

We also got rid of things like coffeemakers, bikes, electronics… you name it. We had to downsize, and because we had just decided to go on Remote Year , we had to do it fast.

It’s too bad that we didn’t discover Poshmark until we saw ads for it on the subway after we got back from our trip. The way we started selling on Poshmark was because we went through our belongings after getting back from our trip, and realized we (awkwardly) hadn’t missed some of it. So we started posting listings for our name-brand items on Poshmark.

Poshmark is an app that lets you create listings with photos and details for clothes, shoes, bags, accessories and jewelry. It’s mostly for people who want to buy (and sell) name-brand things at a discount if it’s gently used. We had the most luck with Poshmark after returning from travel, but that’s because we didn’t know about it beforehand.

We recommend Poshmark if you have a lot of name-brand or luxury items you can part with, and you’re downsizing your wardrobe before setting off on the road for a while.

Mercari is like Poshmark but it’s for “anything.” You can sell electronics, bags, luggage, household items and more, in a type of marketplace where buyers can barter. You can also set your settings to ‘eat up’ the mailing fee, or charge it to the buyer. There’s lots of options. We haven’t had luck on it yet, but we’re trying to get rid of a few things we’re done using.

While not an app (yet?), Craigslist was a way we sold our furniture before we ended our lease in order to travel-long term. We also used the ‘Free’ section to get rid of things we couldn’t sell and didn’t want to have when we returned (like the coffeemaker mentioned above!).

Craigslist works by setting up listings, adding photos and locations, and then waiting for buyers to contact you via email. Because we sold furniture over Craigslist, and the world is a big place, we recommend meeting buyers in public places if you can, if the item is small. If you’re selling furniture or something large, have someone else in your home with you when the buyer comes for pickup.

Best apps for learning a language for travel

Did you ever want to learn a new language for your trip ? We often do, and we often have picked up some basics in a very new language while traveling. We know how to say ‘carrot’ in Vietnamese, ‘thank you’ in Lithuanian and ‘tap water’ in Portuguese. These can be super important!

Drops came as a surprise, and we found it while looking up ways to learn some Vietnamese on the plane ride over to Hanoi . Drops is like a swipe-right swipe-left app, but with simple words in another language.

This makes learning a new language really fun!

Looking to learn a new language for your upcoming trip? Try Duo Lingo , which is a fun way to brush up on basics for a language or learn a new one.

As you’ll find in our article about tips for learning languages , there are lots of ways to learn languages, but doing it on the go is easy. With an app like Duo Lingo, you can get some vocab in during a flight, bus ride or taxi ride.

Pleco is the #1 easy dictionary for English-Chinese and Chines-English. It’s great for when you’re in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau and Singapore. It’s like a dictionary made fun again.

Mondly is a free app that comes in lots of languages. We downloaded it for some languages to learn before we went on trips!

We hope these apps helped improve your travel experience. Now that you’re ready to go, check out our checklist for what to do before going on a trip .

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Article updated on March 9, 2024 at 5:15 AM PST

Best VPN for Travel

Enjoy extra privacy and circumvent geographical restrictions while roaming with CNET's favorite VPNs for travel.

Our Experts

travel hacks vpn

We intensively test each VPN, making sure it meets our standards for privacy, speed and usability.

Best Overall VPN

Privacy protection and transparency

  • Strong commitment to privacy and transparency
  • Forward-thinking security enhancements
  • Excellent for streaming
  • Streamlined, easy-to-use app across platforms
  • Privacy-friendly jurisdiction (British Virgin Islands)
  • DNS leaks detected (but immediately addressed)
  • Only eight simultaneous connections
  • Apple TV app needs work

ExpressVPN is currently CNET’s pick for the best VPN overall, scoring an 8.8/10 on our VPN rating scale. It’s a veteran VPN provider that consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to privacy and transparency. It’s also excellent for streaming and the easiest VPN app to use on any platform. But for the best, you’ll need to pay a premium -- ExpressVPN is one of the most expensive VPN providers currently on the market. The service costs $13 a month, $60 every six months or $100 a year, which is considerably more expensive than the $11 a month or $60 a year that Surfshark charges. NordVPN is more in line with ExpressVPN on price at $13 a month or $100 annually (after a promotional $60 price for the first year).

ExpressVPN delivers the most consistent and streamlined VPN app experiences across platforms. Its minimalist interface is simple to use for advanced VPN users and beginners alike. The app settings are easy to navigate and finding a server location is straightforward. We like how the app always connects in a snap, which isn’t always the case with other VPNs -- like Surfshark -- which often struggle to connect immediately on the first attempt. If you want the best for streaming, ExpressVPN is a good bet because it effortlessly unblocks all sorts of streaming content, including Netflix , Disney Plus, Hulu and Amazon Prime Video. The provider also recently bumped its simultaneous connection allowance up to eight, which is slightly more generous than NordVPN’s six simultaneous connections, but considerably less than the unlimited simultaneous connections allowed by others like Surfshark, PIA and IPVanish .

Though fast enough for most any online activity, ExpressVPN’s speeds are not quite as fast as some of its competitors , based on our latest speed tests. In 2024, we measured a 24.8% average speed loss with ExpressVPN. This is still fast, considering that many VPNs can slash your internet speeds by 50% or more. However, we saw substantially better speeds from NordVPN (11% speed loss) and Surfshark (17% speed loss). Still, ExpressVPN’s speeds were largely consistent and aligned with our expectations across protocols and server locations. Overall, we registered the fastest speeds through ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol on MacOS (7% speed loss). On the other end of the spectrum, the slowest speeds we measured were through OpenVPN on Windows, at a 48% speed loss. Overall, speeds were generally faster to relatively closer server locations like New York City and the UK, and slower to distant locations like Australia and Singapore. Either way, ExpressVPN’s speeds were still plenty fast enough for general browsing as well as for more data-intensive activities like streaming, gaming and videoconferencing -- especially if you use Lightway.     

When we most recently evaluated ExpressVPN for privacy and security, we uncovered an alarming bug in its Windows app that sent our DNS requests to our ISP instead of to ExpressVPN’s dedicated DNS servers when we had the split tunneling feature enabled. This meant that our true IP address, general location and the websites we visited were exposed. We notified ExpressVPN, who immediately disabled split tunneling from its Windows app as a temporary solution while engineers got to work on a permanent fix. We were impressed with the transparency with which the company acknowledged the situation, promptly publishing a and a comprehensive . Shortly thereafter, ExpressVPN was able to roll out a fix to its Windows app that resolved the DNS issue and . During our tests with the updated app, we detected no leaks with or without split tunneling enabled. In addition to impressive transparency efforts, ExpressVPN’s privacy protections are top-notch and forward-thinking. If you’re not satisfied with the service, you can request your money back within 30 days of your purchase.

  • Best Cheap VPN

Extensive features at a great price

  • Lots of unique security features
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • RAM-only server network
  • Inconsistent speed performance
  • 14 Eyes jurisdiction (Netherlands)
  • No transparency reports

Surfshark is a wallet-friendly VPN that doesn’t skimp on features, speed or servers. At $11 per month, $48 annually (then $60 yearly after your initial 12 months) or $60 total for two years (before spiking to $60 every 12 months), Surfshark is one of the cheapest VPNs available. Despite its modest price, you’ll enjoy a generous network with over 3,200 servers in 100 countries for finding a reliable connection across the globe. Moreover, Surfshark provides unlimited simultaneous connections (ExpressVPN only gives you eight while NordVPN offers just six) making it a great multidevice VPN .

Our lab tests found an impressive 17% average speed loss, which matches some of the fastest VPNs on the market, like ExpressVPN and NordVPN. Thanks to its blisteringly fast connectivity, you can easily perform internet-demanding tasks like 4K streaming and competitive gaming . I could stream geo-protected content from Netflix, Disney Plus and Amazon Prime Video. Watching Star Trek: The Next Generation on Netflix -- usually a Paramount Plus exclusive -- was a real treat (although I’ve got a Paramount Plus subscription and the complete series on DVD). Aside from its Windows, MacOS, Android and iPhone apps, Surfshark has a GUI Linux app, which means you can pack your Steam Deck or Linux laptop.

Surfshark’s robust privacy features make it a solid choice for working with sensitive data -- like circumventing geo-specific censorship while traveling. You’ll find a stringent no-logging policy, AES-56-bit encryption and a kill switch. Aside from these basics, Surfshark features amenities including Dynamic Multihop and IP Rotator, making it even harder to uncover your IP address and further strengthening privacy. Its RAM-only servers and obfuscation further bolster Surfshark’s already strong data protection. Unfortunately, Surfshark’s jurisdiction falls under the 14 Eyes, so folks with tight security needs -- like journalists working with sensitive data -- might be disappointed. I’d also like to see more regular and comprehensive audits to match the transparency of competitors like Nord and Express. Nevertheless, Surfshark punches well above its weight class, delivering outstanding bang for your buck without sacrificing privacy and performance. 

Best Cheap Alternative

Budget-friendly and transparent

  • Extremely cheap prices
  • Open-source apps
  • Linux GUI app
  • Solid privacy and transparency
  • Great for streaming service unblocking
  • US jurisdiction
  • Middling connection speeds
  • Lacks more advanced features found in rival VPNs

Private Internet Access brings a lot to the table, particularly for regular travelers. Its large server network blankets the globe with 35,000 servers in 91 countries. While ExpressVPN and Surfshark deliver more individual country choices, PIA’s sheer number of servers lets you easily find an optimal connection. It’s an especially great VPN for folks traveling domestically or to one of the worldwide locales where Private Internet Access maintains a decent presence. In our experience, we found PIA unblocked Disney Plus, Netflix and Amazon Prime Video on both US and UK servers, making it a good VPN for streaming . 

Its wallet-friendly pricing sets you back just $12 monthly, $40 annually or $79 for three years. By comparison, most VPNs like NordVPN and ExpressVPN typically charge $100 a year. While the value-packed Surfshark charges $48 for your first year, its price jumps to $60 after its initial sweet introductory pricing, whereas PIA foregoes price hikes for attractively transparent pricing. 

Despite its relatively low cost, PIA doesn’t cut corners. Although it’s not the most feature-rich VPN, you’ll get a solid privacy suite, including a kill switch that stops your internet if your VPN gets disconnected, split tunneling for using a VPN for some apps but not others and 256-bit encryption. There’s multihop, which routes your connection through another server for additional privacy, and obfuscated servers, making it tougher for apps or ISPs to identify when you’re using a VPN. PIA also boasts unlimited simultaneous connections -- the pricier NordVPN and ExpressVPN limit you to six and eight, respectively. 

Unfortunately, PIA delivered middling internet speeds in our testing with an average speed loss of 49%. All VPNs slow down your connection somewhat, with the fastest VPNs offering an average internet speed loss 20% or less. For instance, NordVPN -- the quickest VPN we benchmarked -- provided a best-in-class 11% reduction, while Surfshark clocked a solid 17%. Folks with faster internet connections like fiber shouldn’t notice a difference even with a higher speed loss, but PIA isn’t ideal for people with slower speeds like satellite internet users. But with its decent features, pricing transparency and subscriptions that significantly undercut the competition, PIA remains a solid VPN that boasts a generous server network, unlimited simultaneous connections and relative affordability compared to VPN rivals.

Best VPN for Speed

Perfect for power users

  • Reliable, competitive speeds
  • RAM-disk servers
  • Feature-rich software
  • Visual server map could use additional functions
  • Discounts steeper for longer contracts
  • Only six simultaneous connections allowed

is one of the most well-known VPNs on the market, partly thanks to its widespread marketing campaigns. However, Nord remains a popular virtual private network option because of its exceptionally fast connections, privacy-focused features and excellent geo-unblocking for streaming services. Its combination of user-friendly design that doesn't compromise on settings makes it an outstanding choice for casual VPN newcomers and seasoned power users alike. NordVPN’s global server network comprises more than 6,000 servers spanning over 60 countries, making it a good option for a VPN when traveling. With that many servers, you’re likely to find something nearby, even while abroad. Granted, the country count is a little short of the international reach of competitors like Surfshark and ExpressVPN, but a planned expansion in Q1 of 2024 should increase Nord's server count to 100 countries.

In our 2024 speed tests , NordVPN solidified itself as hands-down the fastest VPN. Using its NordLynx VPN protocol, we measured an average internet speed loss of just 3.2% with Windows and 12.6% on MacOS. On OpenVPN, we recorded an average internet download speed loss of 10.1% on MacOS and 18.8% with Windows. Whether you choose an OpenVPN connection or the NordLynx protocol, you’ll enjoy the smallest possible internet speed degradation. With apps for Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android/Android TV, iOS/iPadOS, browsers and even Apple TV, Nord runs on almost any platform you can think of.

We appreciate NordVPN's commitment to privacy and security. In addition to features like Onion over VPN (Tor) and a Double VPN, which deliver additional encryption, a 2023 audit by Deloitte backed up its no-log claims for improved transparency. Folks with serious privacy needs can even buy a Nord subscription with cryptocurrencies for pseudo-anonymity. While zero-logging policies are challenging to verify with absolute certainty, third-party audits provide peace of mind. On the entertainment side, we had no issues streaming US and UK Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Disney Plus libraries on most devices -- another perk when traveling abroad. 

At $13 a month, $60 a year or $96 total for two years, NordVPN sets you back less initially than premium VPN rivals like ExpressVPN , but more than budget-oriented companies like Surfshark and PIA. However, subsequent price hikes drive the price to $100 a year, which aligns with many other VPN providers, including Express. Overall, NordVPN sports advanced privacy features in an intuitive service. 

Best Beginner VPN

Simple, newbie-friendly interface

  • Simple, user-friendly interface
  • 24/7 customer support with live chat and phone support
  • IPVanish identified during DNS leak tests
  • Buggy features with platform limitations

IPVanish offers 2,200 servers in 55 countries, a smaller international selection than many competitors; ExpressVPN and Surfshark tout 100 or more country locations. Nord and Proton both offer over 60 countries. In our experience, IPVanish's internet download speeds were somewhat uneven, with fast speeds marred by occasionally noticeable dips, which could impact gaming or 4K streaming . Despite its intuitive apps, IPVanish’s Quick Connect feature sometimes failed syncing with an optimal server, so we often just resorted to selecting one manually.  

Still, IPVanish provides plenty of perks, including unlimited simultaneous connections, reasonably fast internet download speeds and user-friendly apps. It streams and unblocks region-restricted content from Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video and Disney Plus with aplomb. At $13 monthly, $42 annually or $72 total for two years (both the 12- and 24-month plans jump to $90 per year after the sweet introductory pricing), IPVanish saves you money upfront compared to companies like ExpressVPN or NordVPN. While IPVanish works fine for casual use, you can get a VPN with a much larger server network and more robust privacy features, both of which benefit travel. Nevertheless, IPVanish’s user-friendly apps make it a great choice for beginners seeking a VPN to add peace of mind and allow for streaming abroad.

Open-Source VPN

The only free plan we recommend

  • Highly transparent
  • Open-source
  • Unlimited free plan
  • No live chat support
  • Split tunneling only available on Android and Windows
  • Occasional speed dips

Proton VPN is an outstanding option for privacy-minded folks, with its open-source apps, Secure Core servers, Tor over VPN and full-disk encryption, which enhance security. The Swiss-based VPN company is therefore an excellent option for use while traveling, since its VPN adds best-in-class privacy, a benefit for situations like preventing your internet service provider from tracking your browsing history. Pricing is simply average at $10 monthly, $72 annually or $120 for two years -- but Proton’s unmatched privacy and transparency justify the cost. Note that we don’t recommend a two-year subscription despite attractively low prices because of the way VPNs change so quickly: Your initially fast, secure VPN provider might suffer slow servers or a data breach over a year.

You’ll enjoy a modest 3,000-plus servers in more than 70 countries with paid plans, and Proton includes the only free tier we recommend -- letting you connect to servers in five countries (the US, Japan, Poland, Romania and the Netherlands). But its average 36% internet download speed loss is pretty high. Despite its top-notch privacy, Proton’s middling server roster of 71 countries is considerably less than Express (105), Surfshark (100) and PIA (91), though it’s more than Nord (64) and IPVanish (55). Proton VPN is a solid pick for privacy-conscious travelers, and -- assuming you’re visiting one of the three countries its no-cost tier supports -- is a terrific free VPN.

What is the best VPN for travel?

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for travel overall, with more than 3,000 servers in over 105 countries. While some competitors include more simultaneous connection locations, Express trounces its rivals with generous global options.

Surfshark is an excellent value VPN provider, with a terrific feature set and 3,200 servers in over 100 countries.

Private Internet Access works well for security-minded people on a budget, with its whopping 35,000 servers peppered throughout 91 international spots.

About VPNs for travel

A virtual private network, or VPN , masks your IP address, which, like a digital version of your home address, provides information about your physical location. VPNs fulfill various needs , including bolstering privacy, unblocking geographically protected content and circumventing bandwidth throttling. That suite of features makes them particularly useful services when traveling. Whether you want to stream region-restricted movies and shows while traveling, log into your online banking app from abroad without triggering a CAPTCHA or add an extra layer of protection on public Wi-Fi (like at the airport terminal and your hotel), a VPN is essential for travel.

Here at CNET, we’ve thoroughly assessed dozens of VPNs, running speed tests, checking for DNS leaks, streaming videos and comparing prices to analyze value. When rounding up the top travel VPNs, we primarily focused on each provider’s server locations by number of countries and total options. However, we also heavily considered privacy features, device compatibility and general performance. Let’s dive into the best VPNs for travel to keep you connected wherever you roam.

Other VPNs we tested

With 10,322 servers spanning 100 countries, CyberGhost offers loads of choices for international travel. It’s decent for streaming from Netflix, BBC iPlayer and other sites. However, you’ll need to use specific servers optimized for streaming -- ExpressVPN, NordVPN and Surfshark don’t require specialized servers for geo-unblocking. CyberGhost remains wallet-friendly at $13 per month, $42 every six months or $57 total for 26 months of service (you’re billed annually after 24 months of service on its two-year plan). 

But CyberGhost lacks advanced privacy features like obfuscation , which makes it more difficult to determine that you’re using a VPN. Obfuscated servers could be useful when running a VPN at school, work or in a country where virtual private networks are frowned upon. Moreover, its high internet speed loss isn’t ideal for demanding applications like 4K streaming or gaming. CyberGhost does provide some useful features, including a kill switch , which shuts off your internet if your VPN gets disconnected and split tunneling for selectively choosing some apps, but not all to route through your VPN. All told, CyberGhost is acceptable for casual use like streaming videos or web browsing, and its exhaustive server network is particularly well-suited to travel. However, its uneven speed loss and middle-of-the-road privacy features mean you’ve got better choices. 

Read our CyberGhost review .

  • Hotspot Shield

Sporting over 3,200 servers in 80-plus countries, Hotspot Shield works well enough for globe-trotting. We like its reasonable 26% average speed loss and excellent streaming support. Still, its lackluster pricing of $13 per month or $96 annually runs you more than faster, more secure VPNs such as ExpressVPN, NordVPN and Surfshark. Because Hotspot Shield is based in the US -- part of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance -- it’s not great for privacy-concerned users. Likewise, its closed-source Hydra Catapult VPN protocol and unnecessary data collection give us pause in recommending it over other options, particularly when you can spend less money to get a faster VPN with better privacy.

Read our Hotspot Shield Review .

How we test VPNs for travel

While I couldn’t use this article as an excuse to travel extensively, I have country-hopped regularly -- with notable stints in the UK, Peru and Sierra Leone. On a trip to Rome in 2019, I downloaded a VPN on my laptop and Android phone before leaving so I could stream Netflix from the hotel and access my Gmail without triggering a security alert (at the time, I was using VPN Unlimited, although I’ve since switched to ExpressVPN). To select the best VPNs for travel, we rigorously assessed dozens of providers by running speed tests, checking for DNS leaks, poring over terms of service, using apps and streaming videos. We researched VPN provider server networks, factoring in the overall number and country locations, which dictate whether a virtual private network is suitable for globe-trotting.

Why you should use a VPN for travel

A VPN makes a great travel companion thanks to its privacy features and geographic unblocking. Since a VPN encrypts your internet traffic, it protects your data to a degree from others on a public Wi-Fi network seeking unencrypted data. Websites you visit don’t see your actual IP address and instead view an IP given to you by your VPN software, making it harder to view personal information such as your physical location or online activity. But you’re still susceptible to malware, viruses and phishing attacks, so keep in mind that a VPN isn’t an antivirus software replacement . 

VPNs can also spoof apps and internet-connected services like websites into thinking you’re located in a different region. For example, you might be on holiday in the UK but want to access your Gmail without triggering a security login. Or perhaps you’d like to stream a movie only available on US Netflix while in Canada. Using a VPN, you can make it appear like you’re in a different city or even country. Whether for entertainment purposes or bypassing CAPTCHAs, VPNs can circumvent location restrictions.

For more geographically specific VPN information, check out our guides to the best VPNs for Canada and Japan .

Factors to consider in a VPN for travel

There’s a lot to think about when selecting a VPN for travel. Leveraging our years of expertise in the VPN space coupled with what you’ll need when traveling, here’s what to look for: 

Server network

Specifically for travel, you’ll want a large VPN server network. While more overall connectivity options are beneficial, you’ll also want plenty of countries if you plan on any international travel. Many servers in a smaller handful of countries might work if you only travel to one of those spots. But for regular international adventures, greater country choice comes in handy. 

VPNs add a layer of protection by encrypting your traffic and masking your IP address, making it harder for cyber attackers to access your browsing data. When traveling, you’ll likely use open wireless networks at an airport terminal, in the hotel lobby or at a coffee shop, but a VPN protects your data from eavesdropping, whether by cyber criminals or snooping ISPs. 

Device compatibility

You’ll want a VPN that runs on the gadgets you’re bringing on your trip. Make a list of the devices you want to bring along with a VPN installed and ensure your provider has apps for those electronics. Luckily, most providers offer solid Windows, MacOS, Android and iPhone apps. While many offer Linux VPN apps, only a few feature a graphical user interface, which is more beginner-friendly than a command-line interface. If you want to tote your Linux laptop or a Steam Deck along, look for a VPN with a Linux GUI app. Although most folks don’t travel with streaming devices, you might tote along a Fire Stick, Android TV box or Apple TV for your hotel room. 

All VPNs throttle your internet upload and download speeds somewhat, but the fastest options drop your connectivity by an average loss of only 10% to 20%. Especially if you’re performing internet-intensive tasks like streaming video in 4K, Zooming for work, gaming or uploading YouTube videos, you’ll want a fast VPN. Even if you aren’t, reliable internet speeds are great for a better experience checking your email and browsing the web. 

Streaming support

Aside from privacy, many people use VPNs to unblock region-restricted content. For instance, you can use a VPN to watch BBC iPlayer -- normally available only in the UK -- from other countries, like the US. Similarly, a VPN is useful when traveling. If you’re on holiday in a foreign country but want to access Netflix libraries from your home country, a VPN makes that possible. Check which VPNs unblock the streaming services you want to watch from abroad. 

VPNs range from around $13 a month to about $90 annually. Generally, you’ll get a discount by paying for a year or more of service upfront. However, we don’t recommend shelling out for more than 12 months at a time. While the VPN you pick might initially be fast, secure and excellent for streaming, it could get acquired by a shady company, suffer a data breach or get slower during a year. Thus, we suggest sticking to an annual plan for the best value and the least risk.  

Best travel VPN FAQs

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for travel overall, with its extensive network of 3,000-plus servers in 105 countries. A diverse server selection makes ExpressVPN the best VPN to use internationally as well as when roaming domestically.

Can you use a VPN for travel?

You can use a VPN while traveling. While VPNs have multiple uses, they’re great for bolstering online privacy while using unsecured Wi-Fi networks -- like at the airport -- and unblocking geo-restricted content, such as streaming your home country’s Netflix library from abroad.

Which VPN is the best for changing countries?

The VPN that’s best for changing countries depends on which country you need to connect to, since providers offer different country servers. But in general, ExpressVPN and Surfshark are excellent choices, each boasting more than 100 countries to pick from. The more individual country choices you’ve got, the better a VPN is for switching locales.

What are a VPN’s pros while traveling?

Using a VPN while traveling delivers several benefits, including additional privacy, unblocking geographically restricted content and avoiding censorship of social media or news websites in certain countries.

Is it worth getting a VPN for travel?

Yes, it's worth getting a VPN for travel. A virtual private network set to a server in the country you're physically located in lets you enjoy an encrypted connection while on public Wi-Fi. Moreover, by using a VPN server from your home country while traveling abroad, you can avoid CAPTCHAs and access streaming service libraries from your country of origin.

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Security.org

Best VPN for Travel in 2024

Our top picks.

  • Camouflage mode lets you use the VPN even in countries with strict VPN laws
  • Multihop technology protects you from ID thieves and other hackers when you’re traveling
  • Servers available in more than 60 different countries
  • Allows you to get around government censorship no matter where you might be traveling
  • Strict privacy policy means no government agency in any country can gain access to your browsing history
  • AES-256 encryption secures your connection back to the home office when you’re traveling for business

Private Internet Access VPN

  • Provides easy access to U.S. servers when you’re traveling
  • Affordable monthly rates mean you can sign up for a VPN while you’re traveling, then cancel it when you’re back home
  • Ten simultaneous connections keeps your family safe at home while you’re safe abroad

Leading a nomadic lifestyle is rewarding, but it also comes with its fair share of risks and dangers. Now, when we say travel dangers, we usually think of tourist scams or criminals like pickpockets. But there’s another type of danger to be wary about – digital dangers.

Connecting to public Wi-Fi is inevitable when you’re out seeing the world. From booking an Uber to your hotel to checking today’s weather, free public Wi-Fi networks provide the most convenient option for connecting to the internet.

However, open networks like that are risky. Anyone around you can connect to the same network, and with a little networking know-how, it’s possible for them to peek into your online activity. Even worse, more sophisticated hacks like man-in-the-middle attacks 1  can lead to stolen passwords, identity theft, and spear phishing 2 – a type of phishing scam that targets specific victims based on their browsing profile.

The short of it is that we need a trustworthy VPN when traveling to protect our data from possible hackers. Besides that, using a VPN has other benefits – it lets you bypass censorship if you visit a country with less online freedom and access sites available only in your home country. In any case, these were the best VPNs we tested in our recent travels across Asia.

How We Picked The Best VPNs for Travel

Our team recently traveled across Asia for a long overdue team-building. We visited the Merlion Park and Sentosa Island in Singapore, several temples in China, Disneyland in Hong Kong, and the pristine beaches in the Philippines. Although we were on vacation, we used that opportunity to test and compare VPNs for travel – while actually traveling.

Of course, we didn’t want to be glued to our phones and laptops throughout the journey, so we started with 13 candidates that would battle it out to make it to this list – the same highly-recommended options in our list of the best VPNs of 2024 .

Let’s get one thing out of the way first: The main reason we want to use VPNs in our travels is to enjoy privacy and digital security , and since we tested the cream of the crop of the VPN industry, you can expect the highest level of privacy and security from any of them. They all offer 256-bit AES encryption, they all use the latest and most trusted VPN protocols, and they all passed our IP address leak tests.

To compare which ones are best to use for our nomadic journeys, we focused on the user experience, particularly these three factors:

  • Server locations: The number doesn’t matter as much as where the servers are located. Ideally, we want to see servers in our home country (United States), in the country we are traveling to, and surrounding countries with good internet infrastructure. You’ll soon see why.
  • Speed: Of course, speed is another priority. You shouldn’t be caught in an endless loading screen while searching directions to the nearest dinner spot or booking an Uber during rush hour.
  • Pricing: Traveling can be expensive; luckily, VPNs are affordable. Still, some VPNs offer better pricing and value than others.

With those factors in mind, we selected the five best VPNs to use for traveling. Here’s what they offer in a nutshell.

What To Look For in VPNs for Travel

Just as we take travel essentials with us, there are certain features to look for in the VPNs we use for travel. We’ll highlight them all here in case you want to do some testing of your own.

  • Encryption: Encryption protects your data so that it stays private from your ISP and other people on your network – useful when on public Wi-Fi. The standard VPN encryption is 256-bit AES, and we’d recommend nothing less than that.
  • Servers in your home country: Having access to a server in your home country is critical. That way, you can continue to have access to websites and services you normally use, in case they’re blocked or not available in your destination country.
  • Servers in or around your destination country: The closer you are to a server, the faster your speed is likely going to be. Having access to servers in your destination country ensures you can stay protected while enjoying fast speeds.
  • Extra privacy features: While not absolutely needed, extra features like malicious site blocking and obfuscation can come in handy.
  • App compatibility : This should be a given; you need VPNs that work with the specific devices you use.
  • Customer service and support: Whether you’re traveling to a different state or a different continent, you should have access to customer support in case you need any help with your VPN.

Those are some of the most critical factors you’ll need in a VPN for travel. We found that NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Private Internet Access, Surfshark, and PureVPN offer those features best, but if you’re traveling to a specific country, we might also have different recommendations for it. For example, check out these country-specific VPN reviews:

  • Best VPNs in Japan
  • Best VPNs in the Netherlands
  • Best VPNs in France
  • Best VPNs in Korea
  • Best VPNs in Spain
  • Best VPNs in Mexico

Are Free VPNs Good for Traveling?

Let’s suppose you’re traveling for only a few days – you’re probably thinking that a free VPN is the most practical option for you. Well, you’re not wrong. However, bear in mind that some free VPNs are risky. Instead of protecting your privacy, using a free VPN from an unreliable provider might end up compromising your data. That’s because a lot of free VPNs don’t offer adequate protection. Some will even collect your data and sell it to data brokers or advertisers. They have to make a profit somehow.

If you’re planning to use a free VPN, stick to the best free VPNs we tested. These are from reputable brands that offer free versions of their premium software to attract new users. You could also try VPN free trials . Just bear in mind that free VPNs have limitations. They might impose a data or time limit on usage, have a limited selection of servers, or have reduced speeds.

Our suggestion is to go with an affordable VPN instead. And as you’ll see in our list of the best cheap VPNs , some of the most affordable options are also the best VPNs for travel.

Correctly Setting Up a VPN for Travel

Once you’ve selected a VPN to use, the next step is setting it up. Setting up a VPN for travel is no different than setting up a VPN for your home computer or smartphones. Just download the VPN app on all your devices and log-in to your account.

That said, we have a few helpful tips that we learned from our recent trip.

  • Install the VPN in advance before the trip. It takes just a couple of minutes – you can do it while packing – and it saves you from the hassle of scrambling to download when the trip starts.
  • Add servers to your ‘Favorites’ list. Most VPNs allow you to make a list of servers you frequently use. We suggest including servers in your home country and destination country.
  • Practice. Yes, practice using your VPN, especially if you’re new to the app. Most VPN apps are easy to use, but it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with where features exactly are. For example, with the NordVPN app, you can’t access the settings directly from the app’s default screen. You need to go to your account profile and click on the gear icon in the top right corner of the screen.
  • Research about internet privacy laws and practices in your destination country. That will allow you to adjust your VPN settings accordingly. If you’re headed to a country that is not privacy-friendly, for example, it might be best to amp up your VPN’s privacy features like encryption and obfuscation.

On that note, are VPNs legal ? Let’s find out.

Where Are VPNs Legal and Illegal?

In the United States, VPNs are completely legal as long as your internet activity doesn’t break any laws. Those who commit online crimes, even if they use VPNs, are liable to be punished by law.

The U.S. is just one of the many countries where using a VPN is legal. However, you have to keep in mind that there are also a handful of countries where using a VPN is illegal, monitored, or strictly controlled. The laws of each of those countries regarding the use of VPNs vary. Some outrightly ban VPNs, while others have a list of VPNs not allowed to be used in their countries.

In any case, if you have plans to visit these countries, do your own due diligence before using a VPN:

  • North Korea
  • Saudi Arabia
  • United Arab Emirates

The need to protect your privacy and digital security is great when you’re traveling. There are many types of online dangers you could encounter, and using a VPN can shield you from many of them.

However, the need to protect yourself doesn’t end once you’re back to your homebase. Digital security requires your year-round commitment, and so we recommend continuing your use of a VPN at home, at work, and whichever corner of the Earth your travels take you.

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23 Digital Nomad Travel Hacks to Save Time and Money

digital nomad travel hacks

Last Updated on 4 March 2024 by Brittany

If there’s one thing digital nomads are always on the lookout for, it’s travel hacks. Living a life of full-time travel and working remotely from your computer requires you to be savvy with money, time management , and research skills. 

You work hard for the money you earn with your digital nomad job. You don’t want it to go to waste overpaying for travel expenses. When you follow these digital nomad travel hacks, you could actually save money on your overall lifestyle compared to if you were location-dependent, especially while living in a cheap destination .

You’ve probably heard of travel hacks for vacationers and backpackers, so how are digital nomad travel hacks any different? Well, since you’re living a lifestyle and not just spending a week or two traveling, there are certain habits to adopt that will save you money as you live and travel abroad.

In this article, I’m sharing some of my favorite digital nomad travel hacks that won’t only save you money, but also your valuable time. Plus, you’ll learn essential hacks for staying safe while traveling and experiencing your destination to the fullest.

digital nomad travel hacks

Travel Hacks for Saving Money Overall

Before we get into the really specific digital nomad travel hacks, I want to go over the major tricks to save money on your overall lifestyle. 

Let’s face it, the most expensive parts of the digital nomad lifestyle are dining out, booking flights, and accommodations. The rest is pretty affordable, depending on your destination of course. 

Below are three travel hacks that can save you a ton of money and even get you free travel perks and experiences. 

Sign Up for a Travel Credit Card

Did you know you can earn free flights and hotel stays just by spending money on everyday items? With a travel credit card, you can! 

With every dollar you spend, you can earn points to redeem for travel expenses and purchases. Plus, travel credit cards also usually come with no foreign transaction fees, which can save you on average 3% when using your card abroad, and other travel perks like insurance. 

Without changing your spending habits or anything, you can earn enough points to get a free flight, free hotel stays, or a free car rental. All you have to do is put your purchases on your travel credit card, pay it off, and earn the points. It doesn’t get easier than that! 

We recently wrote a blog about the best travel credit cards with no annual fee , which essentially means you’re earning free flights and more free of charge! So, if you’re in the market for a travel credit card, be sure to give it a look. 

Use an International or Local SIM Card

If you’ve ever traveled abroad and bought an international plan from your home mobile provider, you probably paid an arm and a leg just to have a few gigs of spotty data while overseas. 

This isn’t feasible as a digital nomad who spends months, even years, traveling abroad. To save on plans that can cost $10 a day, consider getting an international SIM card or a local SIM card. 

This is the absolute cheapest option to have cell phone service while traveling. In most countries, you can go to a mobile provider and get an affordable data plan without signing any hefty contracts like in the United States. 

Or you can use an international SIM card like DrimSIM . This pay-as-you-go SIM card works in 190 countries and you can opt for an eSIM, which is a virtual card connected to your phone. 

Become a Pro at Eating on a Budget 

When you visit a new destination you want to experience the culture, which is often done by eating the local cuisine. However, eating out at restaurants, especially those top-rated on Yelp, can get quite expensive.

It’s important to learn how to eat well while traveling on a budget. One way to do this is to take advantage of street food, which is often some of the best food you’ll eat for a fraction of the cost of a restaurant meal. 

You can also try local cuisine without eating a hole in your wallet by going to local grocery stores. Usually, you’ll find prepared meals and ingredients from that region that you can taste and try to cook with at home if you have a kitchen. 

When I traveled through Thailand, I preferred getting meals like pad thai from street vendors rather than going to a sit-down restaurant. It often tasted better and was a quarter of the price! 

digital nomad travel hacks

Travel Hacks for Booking Flights and Transportation

Now we’re getting to the really juicy stuff – digital nomad travel hacks for when you’re actually booking your travel. 

You’ve all heard of someone getting an incredibly cheap plane ticket to an awesome destination, but how did they do it? Whenever you search for a ticket it’s always just a bit too much. 

In this section, I’m sharing my best tips to save money when booking tickets to your next destination. 

Buy Plane Tickets Six Weeks in Advance (on a Tuesday)

The airline industry is truly the wild west in terms of travel. Some days you can find awesome flight deals for what feels like pennies while other times you’re giving up a kidney for a one-way ticket. 

Fortunately, there are some ways to ensure you’re getting a great price. 

The first trick is to book your flight at least six weeks before you plan to travel and to purchase tickets on a Tuesday. For some reason, this is when prices are statistically at their lowest. 

Another way to ensure you’re getting a great deal is to keep your flying dates flexible. Search for the cheapest month to travel to your destination and book your flight for a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday. 

Compare Different Routes and Transportation Methods

As a digital nomad, you probably enjoy slow travel and seeing as much of the world as possible. If you’re flexible in your travels, there’s no better way to save money on flights and transportation than comparing different routes and methods. 

For example, sometimes the cheapest option to get to your final destination is to slow travel taking buses and trains and staying in different cities to get there. Of course, this is only for those who aren’t on a time crunch. 

Another way to compare routes and prices is through third-party websites. For comparing flights I like to use the following:

  • Google Flights

To find the best method of transportation, I’ll use:

While this method may not always save you time, it could save you a ton of money while also helping you see places you may never have considered. 

One example I like to use from my past travels is when I had to get to Split, Croatia from the Greek island Tinos. Direct flights from Greece to Croatia were a bit out of my budget. 

So, I spent a week flying from Athens, Greece to Bologna, Italy, spent two days in Venice during Carnivale, and took a 13-hour bus from Venice to Split with a stop in Zagreb. The total transportation cost about $150. 

I also got to experience the beauty of Carnivale in Venice, which is a magical destination everyone should see at least once. 

Opt for a Bus or Train

Flying can be pretty pricey, even with budget airlines. They charge for every little thing and paying to check a bag could cost more than the actual ticket sometimes!

I’ll also let you in on a secret – I absolutely hate flying. So, when I can take a train or bus to my destination within a reasonable amount of time and price, this is what I go with. 

If you’re traveling in Europe, then the train and bus system is excellent. It’s easy to find a route that makes sense for you and grab a cheap ticket. 

In Mexico and South America, buses are also the main means of travel other than flying as well. 

I use the following apps to find bus and train tickets for my travels:

  • Busbud  
  • 12go (Southeast Asia)
  • RailEurope (Europe)

Again, you can use Omio or Rio2Rome for finding the best route option and tickets too. 

digital nomad travel hacks

Travel Hacks for Finding a Digital Nomad Accommodation

One of the most important decisions you’ll make as a digital nomad is where you’ll stay while traveling abroad. There are a few things a digital nomad accommodation must have, including reliable wifi and to fit in your budget.

Of course, there are travel hacks to find the best digital nomad accommodation for your needs. Plus, I’m sharing some super cheap options you can take advantage of too. 

Keep Your Dates Flexible

Just like when you’re searching for a cheap flight, it’s important to keep your dates flexible when booking your accommodation. 

Try to travel in the shoulder seasons to get great deals on your stay while also having the opportunity to fully enjoy your destination. 

While it may be tempting to book your stay during the low season because of a great price, it isn’t always a good idea. Take it from me. 

I booked a month-long stay on a Greek island in January. I got the apartment for a quarter of the original price, which was great. However, the weather wasn’t the absolute best and 75% of the restaurants and stores were closed. 

So, my wallet definitely won in this situation, but there wasn’t much to do while living there in the winter. 

Keep your dates of stay flexible, but be cautious of when you plan to travel to your destination. 

If you’re considering going to Croatia, you’ll find our blog post about the best time to travel to Croatia helpful.

Stay for Free as a House Sitter

What if I told you that you could stay in your destination for free? The only strings attached is that you would have to look after someone else’s house and possibly pets. 

The concept of house sitting has really taken off in the last couple of years. When you become a house sitter, you can stay in people’s places while they are traveling. It’s a win-win for both parties because you get a free stay and the owners of the house get someone to take care of their pets and home. 

Of course, it’s a bit more complicated than just reaching out to someone who is going on vacation and asking to stay at their place. You must be verified and have recommendations and sometimes a criminal background check. 

There will often be an interview as well to ensure you’re trustworthy. The work to become an established house sitter is worth it, though! 

You can learn more about how to become a house sitter here .

Stay in Hostels

Hostels are an excellent way to save money while traveling and meet people from all over the world. 

Now, you may be picturing a run-down building in a foreign country with uncomfortable bunk beds and zero privacy when in a hostel. I promise you, they have gotten much better and more luxurious over the years!

You can even book private rooms with private bathrooms in hostels nowadays. So, you can feel like you have some privacy while also taking advantage of meeting people.

Most hostels have communal areas for working, socializing, and cooking meals. You can even find some with free breakfast included each morning. 

The best place to find a hostel that has everything you want in a digital nomad accommodation is on Hostelworld . With 36,000 properties available, there’s something for everyone. 

Book Long-Term Stays

If you’re searching for accommodations on Airbnb or Vrbo , you can get a lot more bang for your buck if you book long-term stays. Most hosts offer a significant discount if you stay for a month in their property. 

If you find a property that you really like, you can also message the host and ask if you can work out a discount. Explain that you plan to stay there for a long period of time, so they don’t have quick guest turnover, making it easier for them to manage. 

Look in Local Facebook Groups

There are hundreds of digital nomad Facebook groups in specific destinations that offer local tips and even housing options. 

All you have to do is join the group and ask if there are any apartments available or where you can find an affordable one in the area. Most people are willing to help and you may find an excellent deal. 

When I stayed in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, I found a gorgeous apartment where I stayed for a month for much less than what was listed on Airbnb at the time. 

digital nomad travel hacks

Travel Hacks for Light Packing

What does packing lightly have to do with saving time and money? Well, the digital nomad travel hacks I’m about to share with you won’t only save you money on baggage fees, but it help you be more comfortable while you travel. 

You don’t want to carry around multiple suitcases or backpacks with you traveling from city to city. Especially if you’re traveling through South America or Southeast Asia, getting around with a ton of luggage can be difficult. 

So, if you can travel the world and live out of a suitcase the size of a carry-on, you’ll find that you can save a ton of money when you fly or store your bags for a few hours. 

Create a Capsule Wardrobe

This tip isn’t just for the female digital nomads! Everyone should create a capsule wardrobe when they plan to become full-time travelers. 

Having just a few items of clothing that all match can create hundreds of different outfits for all occasions. This is essential when living the digital nomad lifestyle as you never know what situations you may find yourself in. 

There are # basic concepts to creating a capsule wardrobe:

  • Choose a color scheme
  • Embrace your style
  • Consider your lifestyle

It’s important to consider the types of climate you’ll be traveling in as well. Some destinations may require sweaters while others require shorts and tank tops. 

Creating a capsule wardrobe will keep your luggage light and your outfit options endless.

Check Luggage Restrictions

If you plan to fly on budget airlines, then it’s important that you check their baggage restrictions. You may be surprised to learn that the luggage measurements for a carry-on bag on Ryanair (Europe’s main budget airline) are smaller than the restrictions for a carry-on bag on Spirit or Frontier (the US’s main budget airlines). 

Also, consider the space you’ll have while riding on trains or taking buses as well. To avoid overpaying to check baggage all the time or trying to find a way to make your luggage fit, plan for these luggage restrictions ahead of time. 

Get Organized

It’s absolutely incredible how much you can fit in just a small carry-on suitcase and a backpack. Some people live for months out of these two pieces of luggage. 

What’s their secret?

Staying organized. 

The savviest digital nomads who pack lightly are skilled in organizing their luggage, folding clothing properly, and making everything fit perfectly. 

The two items I never pack without are vacuum seal bags and packing cubes . These life-saving organizers create so much space in my luggage and help me fit everything I need. 

Download a Digital Nomad Packing List

Not sure where to start with packing your suitcase before embarking on a digital nomad lifestyle or feel like you might be forgetting something?

Then you need to download a digital nomad packing list ! 

You’ll probably find our recent article of 51 items you should add to your digital nomad packing list helpful too. 

Sometimes having everything written out can be super helpful and remind you to pack only the essentials. 

digital nomad travel hacks

Travel Hacks for Staying Safe

Taking precautions to stay safe while traveling abroad can save you a ton of money in the long run. Getting out of sticky situations can often cause lots of unexpected expenses.

But if you follow these digital nomad travel hacks to stay safe, you’ll decrease your chances of these situations from happening. 

A virtual personal network, or VPN, is absolutely essential for all digital nomads who connect to public wifi networks. Whether you’re working from a cafe or checking your email in the airport before boarding a flight, you must use a VPN. 

A VPN hides your personal information and much more to protect you from prying eyes and hackers trying to steal your data. To prevent this dangerous situation from happening, make sure to always use a VPN when connecting to wifi in public. 

You can get awesome deals on VPN services. You can save 81% on a SurfShark subscription (my preferred service) and pay just a couple of dollars a month to protect yourself while abroad. 

Get Digital Nomad Health Insurance

I know what you’re thinking – how often do you really go to the doctor in a year when you’re living at home? Probably not often. So, why would you get digital nomad health insurance while traveling the world?

Well, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your health. 

Digital nomad health insurance is quite different from travel insurance, which we’ll mention next. With this insurance, you can have regular doctor appointments, such as a routine physical, annual OBGYN appointment, or dental cleaning wherever you are in the world. 

Just like you would see a doctor at home for an ear infection or sore throat, you can see a doctor while abroad with your digital nomad health insurance. 

Some popular insurance companies amongst digital nomads include:

  • PassportCard Nomads

If you’re searching for an insurance policy, be sure to check out our article about what to consider before purchasing digital nomad health insurance . 

Get Travel Insurance

Okay, so what’s the difference between digital nomad health insurance and travel insurance? Well, above we spoke about getting routine medical treatment while traveling abroad with digital nomad health insurance. Travel insurance is protection for trip disruption and delays, lost baggage, emergency medical situations, and other travel-related situations. 

It’s a good idea to have both of these types of insurance as a digital nomad. Sometimes you can even get travel insurance included in your travel credit card so save you even more money. 

Some popular travel insurance companies amongst digital nomads include:

  • World Nomads
  • True Traveller

You can take your protection even further and purchase insurance to protect your digital nomad gear like your computer and phone with Protect Your Bubble as well.

Back Up Your Computer

In the event that your computer is stolen, broken, or stops working completely, you don’t want to lose all of your files, photos, and video. Make a habit of backing up your computer every week onto an external hard drive to ensure you never lose important items. 

digital nomad travel hacks

Travel Hacks to Experience Your Destination

Going to museums and on tours can get a bit expensive when you’re experiencing your destinations. Living the digital nomad lifestyle requires a balance of exploring foreign cities while also keeping some sense of normalcy and routine. 

Now, I’m definitely not going to tell you not to go on tours and to museums. You’re traveling the world for goodness sake! However, I am going to give you some tips for how to experience it while saving money. 

Go on Excursions and Tours

Sometimes it’s necessary to splurge a bit on a group tour or excursion, especially if it’s a difficult site to reach on your own. With an organized tour, you can really enjoy your experience without the worry of planning everything. 

You’ll also have the opportunity to meet other travelers and get insightful knowledge you may have missed if you went to the site alone. You can also find some great deals on tours, especially ones that include meals. Just be on the lookout for them.

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Take Advantage of Free Walking Tours

If you stay in hostels, you’ll find there are often free walking tours offered daily. This is an excellent way to get some exercise while seeing some of the most important parts of the city where you’re staying. 

Sometimes the tour guides do ask for a donation, so do be prepared to give a few dollars for their time. However, the information and experience you get is definitely worth it. 

If you aren’t staying in hostels, you can simply search for free walking tours online. Or you can do your own audio tour right from your phone with WeGo Trip . 

Use Student Discounts

If you’re a university student and have your student ID on you, try to use it whenever you purchase tickets to a museum or cultural attraction. Many places have discounted tickets for those with a student ID.

It may not always work due to certain restrictions and requirements, but it never hurts to ask. 

I was able to save $20 on my tour to Machu Picchu in Peru right after I graduated from my university because I had my student ID with me at the time. 

Search for Free Admission Days

Some museums have free or discounted admission days throughout the year. Some even do it once a month. If you’re lucky enough to be in a certain city when a museum has this offer, make sure to take advantage of it!

For example, the Louvre in Paris has free admission to everyone on July 14. Do remember that you should still reserve tickets, especially on free admission days. 

Interact with Local Residents

One of the absolute best (and free) ways to experience your destination is to interact with local residents. Whether you strike up a conversation in a cafe or bar or end up talking to someone on the street, making a friend with someone from the area gives you awesome insight.

You can ask about the culture and how things are done in the city. You can share your own stories and experiences as well. Plus, you’ll learn new viewpoints, perspectives, and facts about where you’re staying. 

Get More Digital Nomad Travel Hacks and Advice Every Week

If you enjoyed these digital nomad travel hacks on how to save money, stay safe, and get the most out of your destination then you should sign up for the Nomads Embassy newsletter. 

We send weekly emails with travel hacks, digital nomad news, and advice to help aspiring and experienced digital nomads live a successful remote lifestyle. 

Sign up for the Nomads Embassy newsletter

Frequently Asked Questions

How do digital nomads handle taxes and financial management while traveling in different countries.

Digital nomads should understand the tax regulations of their home country and any country they work in. Many countries offer tax treaties to avoid double taxation. Consulting a tax professional familiar with international laws is advisable. Using online banking and financial management tools can help track expenses and income across currencies.

Some digital nomads even choose a digital nomad visa with no tax liability to decrease their owed taxes for a couple of years.

What are some strategies for maintaining strong mental health and managing loneliness as a digital nomad?

Building a routine, staying connected with friends and family online, joining local or online communities of digital nomads , and making time for self-care is crucial for mental health. Exploring mindfulness or meditation apps can also support emotional well-being.

Can you recommend specific tools or apps that digital nomads use for work and productivity while on the move?

Digital nomads often use project management tools like Trello or Asana, communication platforms like Slack, and cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox. VPNs are essential for secure internet access, and time management apps can help maintain productivity.

What legal considerations should digital nomads be aware of when working from different countries, such as visas and work permits beyond tourist visas?

It’s important to research visa requirements and work permits for each destination. Some countries offer specific digital nomad visas that allow for longer stays and legal work. Always comply with local laws to avoid penalties.

How do digital nomads choose the next destination, especially considering factors like internet reliability, cost of living, and digital nomad community presence?

Internet reliability, cost of living, and the presence of a digital nomad community are key factors. Websites and forums can provide insights into these aspects. Personal interests, climate preferences, and political stability should also be considered when deciding on a new location.

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When I’m not writing and teaching people how to achieve a location-independent lifestyle, you can find me globetrotting, experiencing new cultures, and working on my amateur photography skills.

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Attorney & personal finance expert

Student debt, student loans.

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Side Hustle

17 surprisingly simple travel hacks with big impact.

  • February 7, 2024

Markia Brown

Traveling can be stressful. From idea to execution, so many things go into travel planning that it can often feel overwhelming. The beauty of seeing new places and trying new things can be overshadowed by flight cancellations, lost luggage, or unexpected travel expenses. But nothing defeats simple travel hacks with big impact.

Think back to the last trip you took. Were there parts that could have gone better? With just a few tweaks to your travel routine, you could change your entire experience. Here are some travel hacks to help you save time and money so you can focus on enjoying your travel.

travel hacks vpn

Erika Taught Me

  • Using flight price alerts and a VPN can help you find the cheapest flights
  • Take advantage of overbooked flights by agreeing to be bumped in exchange for a free flight
  • Traveling with the right credit card can provide a lot of benefits, such as lounge access and travel insurance

Travel Hacks for planning your trip

So you want to go somewhere. You may have seen a video online, heard about a place on a podcast, or always wanted to travel to a specific location. Turning that idea or suggestion into a plan is arguably the most crucial part of traveling. And for some people, it’s the most challenging part, too. Let’s review some travel hacks for planning a trip that can help you save time, money, and stress.

Travel Hacks: Set a Google Flights Price Alert

Once you clarify how you’ll pay for your travel, it’s time to move to planning the trip, including deciding your means of transportation. If you plan on catching a flight, a travel hack you should know about is Google Flights price alerts.

Google Flights is a free online search tool that lets you quickly search and compare plane ticket prices across various airlines. Google also tracks the flight price history, letting you know if the price is higher or lower than average. 

You can also set up a price alert for a specific route on a particular day. Google will notify you when a flight’s price changes. 

Travel Hacks: Book using a VPN

Airlines and booking websites offer tickets at different prices based on where in the world you access their website. Using a virtual private network, or VPN, you can make it appear like you’re viewing sites from a different location than where you are currently, potentially unlocking lower prices.

Travel Hacks: Pay with a credit card

Before making any purchases, consider using a travel credit card to fund your trip. Travel credit cards reward spending on every day and travel-related purchases with points or miles. You can redeem them for things like flights and hotel stays. Some cards even offer additional perks like complimentary airport lounge access, a statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, or early check-in when you book with partnered hotels.

Travel cards also often have travel insurance built in. Depending on the card you could rental car insurance, trip delay insurance, and trip cancellation insurance.

Here are our best travel credit cards.

Travel Hacks: Apply for expedited security

Raise your hand if you’ve ever looked over in envy at the people breezing through the TSA PreCheck line as you shuffle forward aggravatingly slowly, sometimes running the risk of missing your flight. We’ve all been there, but you don’t have to stay there. Services like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR significantly reduce airport security and customs processes' wait time and stress levels for pre-approved travelers.

Travel Hacks: TSA PreCheck

With this service available at over 200 airports, travelers can speed up domestic airport security checks by keeping their shoes on and their electronics and liquids in their bags. The membership fee and duration is $85 for five years.

Travel Hacks: Global Entry

This U.S. Customs and Border Protection program provides expedited clearance through customs for pre-approved, low-risk travelers when they arrive in the United States. It also includes TSA PreCheck benefits. The membership fee is $100 for five years.

Travel Hacks: CLEAR

This service is only available domestically and uses eye and fingerprint scans to speed up the identity verification process at airport security checkpoints. The membership fee is $189 for one year.

All three programs require an application, and some include background checks, fingerprinting, and interviews for approval. These services are ideal for people who travel frequently or want to save time and beat long lines. Several travel credit cards offer statement credits for one or more of the above services. Charge your membership to your credit card and you should be automatically reimbursed for the cost of the application.

Travel Hacks: Weigh your bags

Whether you have your bags packed two weeks in advance or throw your essentials in a bag half an hour before heading to the airport, most of us have a tendency to overpack. Avoid having to repack or dump excess items at Departures by weighing your bags before leaving home for the airport. You can purchase a luggage scale or simply use your bathroom scale. If you’re already at the airport and forgot to weigh your bags, find an empty check-in counter and use the luggage scale there. This will give you some time to rearrange your bags so you don’t have to wait in a long line only to have to repack and line up again.

Travel Hacks: Photograph your packed items

If you check luggage and it is lost or damaged, the Department of Transportation requires airlines to compensate passengers for the bags and their contents up to $3,800. To ensure you’re fully compensated, take photos of your luggage and its contents before you get to the airport. Doing this will help prove the cost of the items claimed as lost or damaged.

Travel Hacks: Track your stuff

You don’t just have to rely on the airline to track your luggage. You can place an Airtag in your checked bags for extra visibility on their whereabouts. Doing this will allow you to track the location of your luggage until it reaches the destination, and give you a head start on finding them if you do end up in different places.

Hacks while you’re traveling

Now all your planning is behind you and you’re on your way. There are still more hacks to help you make the most of your trip once you’re en route to the airport.

Request upgrades at check-in

Choosing the best seat can be a stressful experience. While you have business-class taste, you may have an economy budget. 

If you are flying economy, you can check for upgrades at the check-in counter on the day of your flight, and occasionally, it could be slightly cheaper than if you paid for an upgrade ahead of time.

Travel Choose your seat wisely

Choosing the right seat on a plane goes beyond the old debate of window vs. aisle. It can depend on the kind of flight you’re on or what you’re doing after the flight. If the gate agent announces that the flight has limited overhead space, choose seats closer to the back of the plane. Most people put their bags in the first empty spot, meaning there may be more space in the back. If you have a tight connecting flight, on the other hand, choose seats closer to the front of the plane so you can deplane quickly.

Download the airline’s app

Staying up to date on all information regarding your flight is important, and one of the easiest ways to do that is by downloading the airline’s app before arriving at the airport. Some airline apps house maps of the airports so you know where to go, allow you to view the in-flight entertainment from your smartphone, and send you notifications regarding your flight, such as boarding calls.

Bring an empty water bottle

OK, this is not really a luggage hack, but it is something to include in your carry-on. Power walking through the airport can be tiring, and it can be tempting to shell out nine dollars for a 20 oz. bottle of water near your gate. If you bring an empty water bottle to the airport and through security, you can stop at Starbucks or other cafes in the terminals and get complimentary cups of water to fill it up. Many airports also have filtered water stations throughout for you to refill your bottle. This way you can stay hydrated without draining your pockets.

Rebook or refund

While airlines might be less than forthcoming when it comes to compensation for inconveniences like canceled or delayed flights, that doesn’t mean you’re on your own. If you receive a notification that your flight has been canceled, most airlines will arrange to rebook you for free on their next available flight. Suppose you choose to cancel your trip as a result of the cancellation. In that case, you are entitled to a refund for the unused travel and any additional fees paid, such as baggage fees and seat upgrades, even for non-refundable tickets.

If you receive a notification that your flight has been delayed, you may also be entitled to a partial refund in some situations. The refund could include optional fees associated with your ticket, such as baggage fees, seat upgrades, and more. Each airline has written policies about what it provides to delayed passengers. 

Related: Trip cancellation insurance: How it works

Benefit from bumping

When a flight has more tickets sold than seats available, airlines first ask volunteers to give up their seats. Usually, they’ll offer a voucher incentive or a free or reduced-rate ticket in exchange for your seat. If there are not enough volunteers, airlines will select passengers to give up their seats. This is called bumping. 

Barring a few particular circumstances, you are usually entitled to compensation if you are bumped from your flight, you have a confirmed reservation, you checked in on time, you were at your gate on time, and the airline cannot get you to your destination within one hour of your flight’s initially scheduled arrival time. 

Depending on the airline and how long it takes you to ultimately get to your destination after being bumped, you could receive up to 400% of the value of your one-way ticket. So if you paid $250 for your ticket, you could be looking at a payment of $1,000 to wait a few more hours at the airport.

Woman walking in airport holding yellow luggage. Guide to simple travel hacks when you arrived.

Hacks for once you’ve arrived

You’ve landed at your destination, and the journey is almost over! You still have to get your bags, make it to your accommodations, and settle. 

Travel Hacks: Don’t do without if your luggage is delayed

If your luggage is delayed, you should file a claim immediately. Airlines are responsible for locating your belongings, but if you track the Airtag you packed earlier, you can see where it is and coordinate with the airline to find it. Airlines must compensate passengers for reasonable, verifiable, and actual incidental expenses incurred due to their luggage being delayed, up to $3,800.

Related: Baggage delay insurance: How it works

Travel Hacks: Shuttle and then rideshare

When you’re ready to leave, most airports have a surcharge for rideshares and taxis that pick you up from the assigned areas. To avoid that surcharge, find a hotel shuttle that does not require pre-made reservations. When you get to the hotel, request a rideshare or a taxi from that location. Chances are there is no surcharge, so it should be cheaper.

Travel Hacks: Choose ATMs over currency exchanges

If you are flying internationally, avoid the currency exchange at airports. Instead, head to an ATM once you’ve reached your destination and request cash in the local currency. The exchange rates are usually better. You can then use this cash for your taxi or pocket it for other planned activities.

Travel Hacks: Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees

If you’re traveling internationally and you don’t want to be walking around with loads of cash, use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees to cover your everyday expenses abroad. Foreign transaction fees are usually around 3% of each transaction, and while that may not sound like much, those small amounts can add up quickly. Most travel cards waive these fees, but not all, so make sure you check which of your credit cards will skip the fee when spending overseas.

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I'm an award-winning lawyer and personal finance expert featured in Inc. Magazine, CNBC, the Today Show, Business Insider and more. My mission is to make personal finance accessible for everyone. As the largest financial influencer in the world, I'm connected to a community of over 20 million followers across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook and Twitter. I'm also the host of the podcast Erika Taught Me. You might recognize me from my viral tagline, "I read the fine print so you don't have to!"

I'm a graduate of Georgetown Law, where I founded the Georgetown Law Entrepreneurship Club, and the University of Notre Dame. I discovered my passion for personal finance after realizing I was drowning in over $200,000 of student debt and needed to take action-ultimately paying off my student loans in under 2 years. I then spent years as a corporate lawyer representing Fortune 500 companies, but I quit because I realized I wanted to have an impact; I wanted to help real people and teach them that you can create a financial future for yourself.

Advertiser Disclosure

Our aim is to help you make financial decisions with confidence through our objective article content and reviews. Erika.com is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as MileValue.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers. This in no way affects our recommendations or article content.

travel hacks vpn

Travel Hack: How to Save Hundreds on Airfare with a VPN

Back in January, we listed just five reasons why every connected traveler should be using a VPN . Quite frankly, there are many, many more. But one of the coolest we’ve recently stumbled across is how to use VPN software to book cheaper airfares.

Vagabondish is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Read our disclosure .

Travel booking engines can sometimes charge more based on your previous browsing history. If they know you’ve run multiple searches for the same flight over the past few weeks, you may notice your airfare suddenly going up. Which is why it’s often wise to use your browser’s private or “incognito” mode to hide your browsing history.

Macbook Air Laptop

But you’re probably unaware that booking engines can sometimes charge travelers different prices based on the location they’re booking their trip from . So, for example, a traveler in Australia and a traveler in Germany may be charged different airfares when booking the exact same ticket .

To exploit this “glitch” (we’ll assume that’s what it is), a savvy traveler need only cloak their current destination. This is where a VPN comes in as it allows you to launch the software and select which server you’d like to pass all of your browsing traffic through.

Hotspot Shield (available for PC/Mac , iOS and Android ) for example provides a simple dropdown box where users can select from a handful of countries (Japan, Australia, US, etc.) they’d like to “pretend” they’re surfing from. Switching between cloaked destinations takes less than five seconds.

This video elaborates:

Gizmodo reveals the process in more detail , breaking down how they were able to save approximately $100 (USD) by simply using VPN software to route their web traffic through Canada, instead of the United States.

There’s no guarantees here and it may take a bit of trial and error. But it’s one of the many reasons why every smart traveler should be using a solid VPN setup — both before and while they travel.

travel hacks vpn

103 Travel Hacks to Make Jet-Setting a Little Easier

We’ve put together 103 of these hacks to help upgrade your next trip. From packing pointers to tech tools, these hacks cover all aspects of travel from start to finish.

Leah Jones • Oct 27, 2023

travel hacks vpn

Hitting the road can be exhilarating, but traveling also comes with its fair share of hassles. Between crowded airports, cramped flights, and language barriers in foreign destinations, getting from point A to point B can involve plenty of headaches. Luckily, there are all sorts of ingenious tips and tricks that can make travel less stressful and more enjoyable. Whether it’s your first time backpacking abroad or you’re a seasoned jet-setter, a few simple travel hacks can go a long way in making your trips simpler and smoother.

We’ve put together 103 of these hacks to help upgrade your next trip. From packing pointers to tech tools, these hacks cover all aspects of travel from start to finish. With these tips at your disposal, you can breeze through annoying logistics and focus on creating memorable experiences. 

Travel Hacks To Help With Packing

  • Roll your clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles.
  • Use packing cubes to keep your items organized.
  • Cover shoe soles with shower caps to prevent dirtying your clothes.
  • Bring a lightweight laundry bag for separating dirty clothes.
  • Pack a reusable tote for extra items or souvenirs.
  • Make a checklist to ensure you don’t forget important items.
  • Weigh your luggage to avoid overage fees.
  • Pack essentials in your carry-on, including important documents, medication, and a change of clothes.
  • Choose versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched.
  • Use travel-sized containers for toiletries or buy them upon arrival.
  • Consider using rechargeable batteries to avoid disposable ones.
  • Carry a mini sewing kit for on-the-go repairs.
  • Prevent collar wrinkles by threading a belt through them.
  • Use straws to string necklaces and prevent tangling.
  • Carry a compact power strip for hotels with limited outlets.
  • Protect breakable items by wrapping them in soft clothing like socks.
  • Pack a versatile scarf that can be used as a face mask, fashion accessory, or makeshift bag.
  • Bring extra Ziploc bags for storing snacks and protecting electronics.
  • Place your contact information inside your luggage in case the external tag gets lost.

Travel Hacks To Help With Booking and Planning

  • Compare prices on multiple travel websites in incognito mode to find the best deals.
  • Clear your cookies and browser history before resuming searches for better deals.
  • Use a travel rewards credit card to collect points or miles, and put recurring charges on the card for year-round points.
  • Book flights midweek, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for potential cost savings.
  • Sign up for fare alerts to be notified when prices drop.
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance for peace of mind.
  • Pay in the local currency to avoid unfavorable exchange rates.
  • Download maps for your destination on Google Maps or other apps for offline use.
  • Familiarize yourself with common phrases in the local language.
  • Use City Passes for discounts and fast-track entry to attractions.
  • Make sure you have the correct visas for your destination.
  • Keep photocopies of your passport, ID, and travel documents in a separate, locked location.
  • Book early morning flights to reduce the likelihood of delays.
  • Avoid peak travel seasons to save money and reduce crowds.
  • Download your travel insurance provider’s app for easy access to policy details.
  • Use a travel wallet to keep documents organized and secure.
  • Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to protect your online privacy while using public Wi-Fi networks.
  • Consider booking hotels directly for potential better deals.
  • Avoid jet lag by gradually adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before traveling to a different time zone.

Travel Hacks for Airport and Security 

  • Check-in online to save time at the airport.
  • Expedite security and immigration processes with TSA PreCheck and Global Entry.
  • Use a mobile boarding pass to avoid printing.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle to refill after security to save money and reduce waste.
  • Keep your devices charged during long layovers with a travel-sized power bank.
  • Access flight info and entertainment through airline apps.
  • Keep your ID, boarding pass, and wallet in an easily accessible pocket.
  • Wear comfortable clothing and slip-on shoes for convenience at security.
  • Use priority pass lounges if you have a credit card that allows you access.
  • Check your gate number as soon as you arrive at the airport to plan your time efficiently.

Travel Hacks for In-Flight Comfort

  • Get restful sleep on long flights with a neck pillow and eye mask.
  • Block out cabin noise for a peaceful journey with noise-canceling headphones.
  • Airlines can get chilly, so pack a lightweight blanket and cozy socks.
  • Download movies, books, or podcasts for in-flight entertainment.
  • Choose your seat in advance for more legroom or a better view.
  • Drink plenty of water during the flight to stay hydrated.
  • Avoid carbonated drinks as they can cause bloating at high altitudes.
  • Prevent swelling and discomfort with compression socks on long flights.
  • Stand up and stretch when possible to prevent stiffness.
  • Familiarize yourself with your travel insurance policy’s coverage for unexpected flight delays.

Travel Hacks for Hotel Accommodation 

  • Inspect your hotel room for signs of bedbugs upon arrival.
  • Store important documents and valuables in the hotel safe.
  • Choose hotels that offer complimentary breakfast to save on dining expenses.
  • Bring universal plug adapters for international travel.
  • Join hotel loyalty programs to earn rewards and enjoy special perks.
  • Silence noisy neighbors or street sounds with earplugs.
  • Take advantage of hotel amenities like the gym, pool, or spa for relaxation.
  • Request a late check-out if you have a late flight to maximize your time at the hotel.
  • Consult the hotel staff for insider tips on dining and activities.
  • Add an extra layer of security to your hotel room with a portable door lock.
  • Use free Wi-Fi in cafes and public areas rather than paying for in-room Wi-Fi.
  • Arrange airport transfers in advance to avoid scams and overcharging.
  • Communicate with non-English speaking staff using translation apps.
  • Take photos of your hotel room before and after your stay for documentation.
  • Research hotels on platforms like TripAdvisor or Yelp to make informed decisions.
  • Consider using Airbnb or similar services for more space and local experiences.
  • Have a list of emergency contacts, including the local embassy or consulate.

Travel Hacks for Health and Wellness 

  • Carry basic medications and a first-aid kit for minor health issues.
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day to combat the effects of jet lag.
  • Sample local cuisine but be mindful of portion sizes to avoid getting sick.
  • Maintain good hygiene by washing your hands to prevent illness.
  • Bring motion sickness bands or medication for turbulent flights or boat rides.
  • Ensure your travel insurance covers unexpected medical expenses.
  • Walk or exercise to keep your energy levels up.
  • Enjoy alcoholic beverages in moderation to avoid dehydration and jet lag.
  • Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Communicate your food allergies to the restaurant staff.
  • Pack essential medications like pain relievers, allergy medication, and antacids.

Miscellaneous Travel Hacks

  • Scan or take photos of important documents and save them in the cloud in case you lose something.
  • Download language learning apps to pick up some basic phrases.
  • Set up notifications for credit card transactions to detect unauthorized charges.
  • Pay with contactless methods to avoid handling cash.
  • Pack your favorite snacks for a quick energy boost.
  • Pack wrinkle-release spray to refresh clothing on the go.
  • Carry a small amount of emergency cash in a hidden pocket.
  • Ensure your travel insurance covers activities like hiking, scuba diving, or extreme sports.
  • Reduce plastic waste by carrying reusable cutlery.
  • Research and respect local customs and etiquette.
  • Embrace the unexpected and be open to new experiences.
  • Buy tickets to popular attractions online to skip long lines.
  • Get a local SIM card to avoid expensive international roaming charges.
  • Stay hydrated and avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol before and during your flight.
  • Protect your home while traveling by having someone collect mail and keep an eye on your property.
  • Familiarize yourself with the local emergency number and nearest embassy or consulate.
  • Practice good manners and be courteous to locals.

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The 7 Best Travel Hacks

Travel hacks can make your trip less expensive, safer, and even more enjoyable! From getting cheaper tickets while using some online tricks to storing your batteries properly and saving energy, here are the 7 best travel hacks you should consider while traveling!

Tourists

Use Private Browsing

Travel sites and airlines use cookies on your browser to alter their pricing when you are searching for tickets online. An excellent travel hack to get cheaper tickets is using your browser’s “Incognito” function.

This way, travel companies won’t have any data on you and your searches, so they won’t be able to use those techniques to make you buy more expensive tickets.

One of the best traveling hacks you can employ is using a VPN service. A  VPN  is a virtual private network that will keep you safe from cybercriminals. It encrypts your data even when you connect to unsafe public WiFi.

This way, you can enjoy the internet safely while traveling. Apart from this, it can also be used to book cheaper rides because you can change your location with it. Every VPN allows you to change your geolocation and helps you bypass geo-restrictions.

For example, suppose you can’t access online content from your country because you are traveling to another country. In that case, you can use a VPN to trick the network into thinking that you are home or somewhere else.

Furthermore, when it comes to booking flights,  using a VPN for cheaper flights  can be a smart move. It allows you to exploit regional pricing differences, potentially helping you find better deals and save money on your travel expenses by comparing prices from various locations.

Consider Using Wise

One of the most frustrating issues when traveling is dealing with foreign currency. A good traveling hack to reduce your loss due to unfair or low conversation rates is to use Wise, an international financial institution, just like a bank.

With Wise, you can open up a multi-currency account, and you can hold, receive, spend, or send money in any currency with higher than median conversation rates and low taxation.

Use an AI Tour Guide

If you don’t know what to visit while traveling or you want to find out more about a place or monument, but you don’t have a guide, consider using an AI tour guide. Install Google Goggles on your phone and take some pictures.

If you photograph a famous or well-known place, the app will send you plenty of valuable and interesting information about it. This travel hack can make you look like an expert in local cuisine, customs, and traditions.

Use a Dummy Wallet

To avoid becoming a victim of pickpocketing, consider using a dummy wallet while you travel. Hide your real wallet somewhere safe and keep it close to you while leaving the dummy wallet more exposed. This way, the thieves will only focus on the dummy wallet instead of anything else.

Enjoy the Freebies

While traveling, you can get things for free as various companies look for people to test their wares and provide feedback. Do a bit of research on the place you are visiting, and you might find some things for free!

Choose a Good Planner & Follow Bloggers

According to the  Eva Marie Berry lifestyle blog , you can use a daily planner to save time, relieve stress, and improve productivity while traveling. Apart from this, you should consider following some traveling bloggers to know what you should expect, do, or not do in the places you plan to visit.

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Blog | Cybersecurity | 8 Online Smart Travel Hacks Supercharged by VPN

8 Online Smart Travel Hacks Supercharged by VPN

https://www.1clickvpn.com/wp-content/themes/one-click-vpn/static_media/avatar.png

1Click VPN Team in cybersecurity

07.12.2023 | 7 min read

Save money using a VPN with these online travel hacks

Table of contents

  • Change your location BEFORE ordering.
  • Delete cookies and cache.
  • Run on incognito mode.
  • Log out from your Chrome account.
  • Change currency when booking flights or accommodation.
  • Protect your device on public or airport Wi-Fi.
  • E-sims versus local sims
  • Stay safe and enjoy your trip.

A virtual private network (VPN) allows you to access the internet via an encrypted ‘tunnel’ to a secure server before connecting to your internet service provider (ISP). This means that when you’re surfing the web from your usual home or office location, that your ISP can’t tell who you are (as encryption ensures your anonymity) nor where you are located. In fact, you can choose from an international network of servers and make it seem like you are in a different country to your actual location.

This facility allows you to save money on flights and hotels both when you’re at home or away travelling. The reason for this is simple: the concept of location-demographic dynamic pricing. If that sounds like a mouthful, what it means in everyday language is that some online travel retailers offer prices on travel tickets and hotel rooms based on what they ‘think’ you can afford. They make these value-driven suppositions on factors such as the device you’re using to access the internet and your location of residence.

For example, if your internet protocol (IP) address shows that you’re accessing the travel site from downtown Manhattan, and the website’s analytics software indicates that you’re using a MacBook Pro – it looks like you’re potentially someone wealthy in their swanky New York office. The flight you’re searching for could easily inflate in price as a result. But if you use a 10-year-old HP laptop to make your price inquiry and it looks like you’re resident in a Detroit trailer park, the prices come tumbling down like rain.

By using a VPN, the anonymous connection first removes the possibility of the target website identifying your device and you can choose from an international network of servers that appear to be in Mexico, Maui or Mauritius.

The only thing to remember is that you need to close your browser, restart it, log onto your VPN and choose a server location before you head over to the website of choice. If you try to change location halfway through your ticket or hotel room search, it’s already too late – your initial location is recorded by the site immediately you access the first page.

Naturally, third-party resellers of travel tickets and hotel rooms deny that the practice of dynamic pricing based on these criteria ever exists. They explain price fluctuations by simple supply and demand economics. It may be true that as they say, airline seats sell out on a particular flight so the fewer that are left the more expensive the remaining ones become. However, many seasoned travelers try the VPN location hack discussed here and get better deals. In the final analysis, if it works, do it!

You can’t be too careful even when using a VPN to access the internet if you’re trying to get the best online prices. It’s always a good idea to delete cookies and clear any cached browser pages when looking for accommodation and travel tickets. For the uninitiated, cookies are simple text files that are stored in a web browser’s memory. They are almost like a username and password and are placed into the browser’s repository every time a user visits a website or even a page within that particular site.

Cookies therefore enable web servers to store data, such as products added to an online shopping trolley on an ecommerce site, or any search terms used for finding hotel accommodation. Cookies are stored on the user’s device and can also be used to save for subsequent pre-filling of form fields, such as passwords, names, addresses, and payment card details.

But that’s the crucial point. If an online flight or accommodation retailer detects one of their cookies, and therefore knows you’ve already looked at the cost of a flight to Honolulu last week, and now you’re looking again, you must be very keen to go. The price offered can be higher than if you are searching for the first time.

In short, if you clear your browser cache and all cookies before accessing your retailer of choice, it’s as if you’d never searched for anything on that site in the past. You’re an unknown quantity, which gives you the upper hand as a customer.

Again, even when using a VPN, it’s a good idea to get into the habit of running your browser on ‘private’ or ‘incognito’ mode. It’s important to note that this is not a substitute for the protection afforded by a VPN, because running on incognito mode doesn’t hide your web activity from ISP trackers, but it does prevent your browser from storing any cookies that websites might try to install.

The only disadvantage of running in incognito mode is that when you arrive at a website where you need to enter your username and password, these can’t be added automatically by the browser as your cookies are not present. It’s a small inconvenience, but if it saves $50 on a flight ticket, it’s almost certainly worth it.

If your Google account profile photo appears at the top RH corner of the browser when you’re using Google Chrome, it means that you’re logged in to your Google account. Depending upon your settings, this could well mean that all your search terms are being saved to your Google search history. If you log out of your Google account when using Chrome (or any other browser to be sure) then the searches that you perform won’t be remembered.

Not only can this prevent dynamic pricing hacks, but if you’re searching for a dating site and you’re already in a relationship… You get the picture!

As some travel aggregators offer disadvantageous exchange rates, it’s a good idea to check prices in various currencies and you’ll see the difference. Try this simple test:

Run on incognito mode within your VPN and search for a hotel room. Say you live in America, and you want to book a hotel in Paris, France.

Imagine that the currency on the site you’re using is set to USD $.  The price displayed for a night at the three-star Jongleurs Hotel on the Place de Pigalle is displayed as $100.  Then change the currency of the site preferences to Euros, and you might see a price of, say, 94 Euro. Next, open a new browser tab and go to an exchange rate site like exe.com. Type $100 and convert to Euros and you might well see that the rate shows 92 Euros.

Then clear your cache and restart the browser in incognito mode, then choose a server in France from your VPN. Revisit the same website and set the currency to Euros. You might not be surprised to find that the same room at the same hotel is now two Euros cheaper at 92 Euros. That’s another way that third-party resellers make money. They still pay the same amount to the hotel in question but pocket the difference on the exchange rate.

In short, always choose a VPN server in the same country where you want to stay or fly from and use the prevailing local currency to seek the best price.

There’s a clever scam that can be pulled by hackers and cyber-criminals that takes advantage of people’s ignorance or laziness when it comes to logging onto public Wi-Fi networks. First of all, don’t assume that if public Wi-Fi has a password, that makes it secure. Far from it. Imagine the following scenario:

You arrive at the airport lounge having gone through security and treat yourself to a coffee or a cold beer while waiting an hour for your flight to be called. You open your laptop and look for any public Wi-Fi networks. The network ‘Sky Café’ pops up on your device. You look at the chalkboard above the bar and it states in large letters: ‘Sky Café Wi-Fi password Sky2023’

So you type that password into your device and within moments you are connected. What you didn’t notice was that there were two networks available, both with identical labels, both called Sky Café. There’s a 50% chance that you just logged onto a hacker’s personal hotspot. He’s the hippy-looking student at a corner table with his laptop open concentrating on his emails. And the email he just sent you was entitled ‘Welcome to JFK Airport’. You click on the email, wondering if there might be a special offer on tax free shopping or whatever. But you’ve just installed the hacker’s spyware on your device. From now on, wherever you are in the world, a copy of every password or credit card that you enter into your browser is sent to that crook’s server. Bad news!

Using a VPN would prevent this from happening, because the servers used to access the internet have sophisticated anti-virus and malware detection that would disconnect your device instantly from that network if any surreptitious download was detected from an email. Sure, it’s true that virus protection software can do that too, but within a VPN it’s built in as a matter of course.

The message is simple, when traveling with any internet connected device, keep your OS software up to date, your virus protection current and use a reputable VPN wherever you go, in any hotel, airport or café.

Download the VPN and activate it before you leave home so that you can learn how to use it properly – although a chimpanzee could learn how to use one in 30 seconds! Establish your credentials and protect all your home devices, especially the ones you intend to take on vacation or your business trip.

If you don’t want to pay expensive international roaming charges, then you’ll need to install a local SIM card into your phone for mobile data; unless you already have an expensive all-inclusive international roaming package. If you can afford one of those, you probably haven’t read this far down the page!

Depending upon the age of your phone, you may well have a setting that allows you to switch between an inbuilt e-sim (not a physical device but software driven circuitry)and a physical sim card.

The advantage to this is that you can use free roaming data and inclusive minutes from your domestic service provider on the physical sim, then when the limit is reached, reboot the device to use the e-sim programmed with a local telephony provider’s details. If you know what you’re doing, this is easier and cheaper than going to a phone shop and buying a local sim card and activating it.

You can tell if your device has an e-sim facility by simply going to its settings and selecting the sim card section. If the ‘download’ button shows, you effectively download the settings from the carrier concerned and activate the e-sim with a tap.

In summary, doing a small amount of research into installing a VPN, having an e-sim enabled phone and taking sensible precautions with your device settings and location will allow you to have a worry-free holiday from technology troubles and internet baddies. Stay safe and enjoy your trips away!

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