Heading overseas? Or maybe you already live abroad, and you'd like a little digital privacy. If so, you need a VPN. It’s a must-have if you want to access content from back home, and it can be a critical tool if you want to keep your communications and browsing habits private, whether you're traveling or live in a place where the web is heavily censored. Proton VPN is our Editors’ Choice winner and our number one choice thanks to its global server network and charitable service programs in countries with aggressive surveillance policies. Next up is ExpressVPN with its excellent global server coverage, making it the next best choice for travelers. However, there are plenty of other worthy options on this list that might work even better for you, so read on for all of our top picks.
Overview
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Best OverallProton VPN
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Best for Diverse Server OptionsExpressVPN
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![NordVPN]()
Best for Premium FeaturesNordVPN
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![CyberGhost VPN]()
Best for Task-Specific ConnectionsCyberGhost VPN
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![Surfshark VPN]()
Best for Extra Security FeaturesSurfshark VPN
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Best for First-Time UsersTunnelBear VPN
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![Windscribe VPN]()
Best for Affordable PrivacyWindscribe VPN
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Best for Flexible PricingIVPN
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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Credit: Proton
![Proton VPN]()
Best OverallProton VPN
Pros & Cons
Proton is the best VPN overall, and it's our top pick for international travel thanks to its generous free servers and charitable efforts for people in privacy-restricted countries. We like its free tier, too. Tack on a laundry list of advanced privacy tools in a friendly UI, and you have an excellent, private service that you can rely on no matter where you are.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Proton packs a ton of features into its reasonably priced subscription. Each plan allows 10 simultaneous device connections, so you can secure most of your devices without worrying about disconnecting. You can try Proton for free with its generous plan, which gives you a handful of servers to choose from and doesn’t come with any data limits.
Privacy and security: You want a private VPN if you’re accessing content that is restricted in your country. Proton takes privacy seriously with a steadfast commitment to transparency and accountability that you don’t often see in the VPN space. All of Proton’s apps are open-source, so you never have to question if there’s a hidden vulnerability that could compromise your data. Additionally, the Proton Foundation is the company's people-before-profit organization that has worked with individuals in authoritarian countries to grant unrestricted internet access through free accounts and privacy-focused initiatives.
Speed and performance: Proton’s premium servers place the service in the middle of the pack, with a 20.11% decrease in download speeds, a 43.21% decrease in upload speeds, and a 351.26% increase in latency.
Streaming: We had no issues streaming Netflix with Proton. Proton’s premium servers worked flawlessly, granting us access to every regional catalog we tested. Our speeds were steady as well, so you shouldn’t have to worry about any annoying buffering issues on video sites.
User experience and ease of use: Despite being an affordable VPN, Proton’s apps feel anything but cheap. The VPN app is streamlined and easy to use for beginners and experienced users alike. Features are easily accessible and clearly labeled on both desktop and mobile interfaces. It’s easy to tell when you’re connected to a server, and you can access advanced options with just a couple of clicks.
Who It's For
Users who want a free VPN: Proton’s free version is robust and packs in many features that competing free options lack. It’s a great tool for securing your privacy on a budget. If you can deal with the limitations, Proton’s free version is more than viable as your main VPN.
Privacy-conscious users: Proton’s unwavering commitment to transparency and privacy makes it one of the best options for the privacy-conscious. With open-source apps and regular audits, you can keep tabs on exactly how the company is responding to threats to user data.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Can Manually Select Server In Free Version Free Connection Speeds Limited No Free Version Free Version Server Limit US, Netherlands, Japan Free Version Data Limit Unlimited Free Version Simultaneous Connection Limit 1 Geographically Diverse Servers No Ads In Free Version? Yes Public Third-Party Audit Server Locations 129 countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 10 Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, IKEv2 Learn More Proton VPN Review -
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Credit: ExpressVPN
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Best for Diverse Server OptionsExpressVPN
Pros & Cons
ExpressVPN has one of the most diverse server networks, ensuring you can access your favorite content no matter where you are located. The company even has coverage in underserved regions such as Africa and the Middle East.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol is known for its reliability and is backed by post-quantum encryption, making it well-suited for accessing global content. You can also take advantage of built-in server obfuscation for further anonymity while you’re on the go.
Privacy and security: ExpressVPN is transparent about its data practices. The service does log aggregate data on user usage, but the company claims none of this information can be tied back to user accounts. Biannual transparency reports reinforce this claim, as do the 22 independent security audits Express has undergone.
Speed and performance: ExpressVPN decreased download speeds by 18.55%, upload speeds by 7.45%, and increased latency by 95.62%. These scores place it ahead of most services, making it a solid choice for data-intensive tasks like streaming or downloading videos.
Streaming: Netflix access was seamless with ExpressVPN. We put it up against five regional catalogs in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan. It performed well, giving us unrestricted access to every single one.
User experience and ease of use: ExpressVPN has a slick, easy-to-use interface. Its single-button connection screen makes it a breeze to connect, and the settings menu offers plenty of advanced features for those who want to fine-tune their connection.
Who It's For
Travelers: ExpressVPN is for those who want fast, reliable access while on the go. Its global server network is leading-class, making it easy to connect from anywhere.
Mobile users: ExpressVPN’s simple mobile interface makes it easy to use without needing any prior knowledge.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 105 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 10-14 Supported Protocols on Android Lightway Supported Protocols on iOS OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS Lightway, OpenVPN, L2TP Learn More ExpressVPN Review -
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Credit: NordVPN
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Best for Premium FeaturesNordVPN
Pros & Cons
NordVPN has maintained a consistent and modern design across all its platforms for many years. It has also consistently delivered impressive performance scores in our tests. All this comes at a price, though, as NordVPN charges well above the average monthly price we've seen across the industry. You get your money's worth and more with Nord’s premium subscription, which offers plenty of excellent features for bypassing censorship and content bans around the world.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol is fast, open-source, and reliable. It also provides access to split tunneling and multi-hop connections. Nord’s Threat Protection Pro keeps you safe from malware and blocks nasty trackers that could try to keep tabs on your browsing habits. Further, its global server network makes it a stellar pick for travelers.
Privacy and security: Nord maintains transparent privacy standards through third-party audits and a frequently updated transparency report. NordLynx uses open-source technology, so you can take a look at what makes the service tick. Nord doesn’t keep logs, and its no-logs policy has been independently verified in multiple security audits by VerSprite, Cure53, Deloitte, and PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC).
Speed and performance: Nord has consistently delivered excellent performance in our tests. It reduced our download speeds by just 5.20%, upload speeds by 5.78%, and increased our latency by 58.14%. Just keep in mind that your experience may vary depending on your proximity to a Nord server.
Streaming: Streaming with Nord was streamlined. We didn’t experience any buffering or stuttering with videos. Additionally, Nord managed to unblock every regional Netflix library we tested.
User experience and ease of use: Nord’s desktop apps can be a tad cluttered and overwhelming, especially if you’re new to VPNs. The dashboard is excellent for advanced users, as it offers a range of useful menus and tools. For an easier user experience, we recommend the mobile version of Nord. It has all of the same great features but in a more digestible format.
Who It's For
Users who need premium security: NordVPN does it all, but it's not cheap. That said, it provides a consistent, full-featured experience across all platforms.
Video streamers: People looking to access local streaming content will appreciate NordVPN's extensive server selection. Nord’s speeds were steady enough to grant stable, reliable video streams.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 118 countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 6 Supported Protocols on Android NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN Supported Protocols on iOS NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec Supported Protocols on macOS NordLynx (based on WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2 Learn More NordVPN Review -
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Credit: CyberGhost
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Best for Task-Specific ConnectionsCyberGhost VPN
Pros & Cons
More servers don't always mean better performance, but they do increase the likelihood of finding one in your ideal location. CyberGhost VPN might have the largest global server network, with over 9,600 servers, though many are virtual locations.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: CyberGhost has ample server coverage in over 100 countries, giving it one of the most diverse server networks on this list. The service has plenty of task-specific servers for streaming, torrenting, and more. It also scored well in our latest bout of speed tests, making it a good choice for reliable connections regardless of where you're located.
Privacy and security: CyberGhost’s service is backed by a comprehensive, easy-to-read privacy policy that clearly states the company does not retain, sell, or trade user data. The VPN releases quarterly transparency reports and is regularly audited by privacy firms such as Deloitte.
Speed and performance: CyberGhost performed well in our latest round of speed tests. We saw a 13.96% reduction in download speeds, a 4.46% decrease in upload speeds, and a 92.46% increase in latency.
Streaming: We pitted CyberGhost against five regional Netflix catalogs: The US, UK, Australia, Japan, and Canada. It was able to access each region’s specific content catalog without running into blocks or restrictions.
User experience and ease of use: All of CyberGhost’s apps are organized and easy to use. The design is straightforward, and the dashboard houses a wide array of menus for quick navigation. It’s always clear when you’re connected thanks to a large power button icon on the right side of the dashboard.
Who It's For
Travelers: CyberGhost VPN has a steep monthly cost. However, it might be worthwhile if you plan on traveling frequently or need to spoof your location often, since CyberGhost has the network to support it.
Task-specific users: CyberGhost is for users who want dedicated server options for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. The VPN's advanced NoSpy servers make it an excellent choice for those who need uncompromising privacy.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 90 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 7 Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, IKEv2 Learn More CyberGhost VPN Review -
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Credit: Surfshark
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Best for Extra Security FeaturesSurfshark VPN
Pros & Cons
Surfshark VPN is expensive, but it offers an all-in-one security suite you can manage in a single app while traveling. Unlimited devices mean that you can secure every device you use while you're on the go without having to connect and disconnect to make space.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Surfshark's network has strong global coverage, with presence in 100 countries, making it a good pick for accessing regional content. Advanced connection options, such as multi-hop and post-quantum encryption, make it easy to tailor your security preferences. Surfshark aims to be a one-app security solution. You can configure an antivirus, ad blocker, and additional identity protection tools all in one place.
Privacy and security: Privacy policies can be confusing and dense. Surfshark takes a better approach, offering an in-depth yet digestible policy that explains how the company handles data. The service has verified these claims with frequent third-party audits and quarterly transparency reports.
Speed and performance: Surfshark's performance was impressive. We only saw a 3.25% decrease in download speeds, a 6.07% decrease in upload speeds, and an 83.92% increase in latency.
Streaming: Netflix access was no problem for Surfshark. It accessed every regional catalog we tested without running into blocks. We did not experience stuttering or slow load times even when connected to distant locations.
User experience and ease of use: User experience is consistent between applications. Each version of Surfshark has a sleek design with clearly described features. It's easy to pick up and use as a new user, and it has enough depth for more experienced users to tinker with.
Who It's For
Media Streamers: Surfshark is a solid choice for those looking to watch their favorite shows from anywhere without compromising on security. The VPN was one of the fastest we have tested, and it unblocked regional Netflix catalogs with ease.
Users who want a one-app solution: The biggest selling point for Surfshark is its ecosystem of privacy tools. It's a good choice for those who may not want a handful of subscriptions to different services. With Surfshark, you can configure an array of tools all from a single control hub under one account.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 100 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, IKEv2 Learn More Surfshark VPN Review -
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![TunnelBear VPN]()
Best for First-Time UsersTunnelBear VPN
Pros & Cons
TunnelBear VPN is a simple, powerful Canadian-based VPN service that doesn't cut corners on privacy—it has released annual audits for years and has one of the best privacy policies in the industry. TunnelBear VPN also offers a free subscription that lets you test the service in the region you plan to travel to, though you will be limited to 2GB of data per month.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: TunnelBear has servers in 45 countries and doesn’t place a cap on simultaneous device connections. You get advanced obfuscation with GhostBear, a protocol that mimics HTTPS to bypass common VPN blocks. With over 8,000 servers worldwide, TunnelBear is easy to recommend for travelers looking for a private and affordable VPN.
Privacy and security: TunnelBear’s privacy policy is thoughtfully designed and easy to read. Every point is illustrated with a real-world example of how TunnelBear handles that specific instance, inquiry, or data point. TunnelBear has undergone seven separate independent audits that have verified the company’s stalwart stance on privacy. Regularly updated transparency reports hammer this point home, revealing that the service has never handed over user information in response to an inquiry or lawful order.
Speed and performance: TunnelBear performed below average in our most recent bout of speed tests. It decreased our download speeds by 83% and our upload speeds by 72%. Latency also saw a significant 109% increase. Keep in mind that speed tests vary based on a variety of local factors, so we don’t recommend buying a VPN based on speed tests alone.
Streaming: Streaming with TunnelBear was reliable. The VPN unblocked Netflix in all tested regions without fail. TunnelBear has servers in 45 countries, giving it a broad global coverage. While it may not have the most comprehensive server network, it services the most popular countries that offer regional streaming catalogs.
User experience and ease of use: One of TunnelBear’s standout features is its intuitive, fun design. The fun, brightly colored interface is easy to use and features bears at every turn. It’s not too cluttered. It’s not too sparse. This interface is just right. A map makes it easy to tell where you’re connecting to, and you’ll get a cute animation of a bear tunneling to the region that you choose to connect to. Advanced features and additional configuration options are just a couple of clicks away.
Who It's For
First-time VPN users: TunnelBear VPN is very straightforward. Its whimsical design makes it easy for first-time VPN users to approach. Its free version also lets you try it without risk and ensure it will work exactly for what you need. With no restrictions on the number of simultaneous connections, TunnelBear is a good choice for families or anyone with numerous devices.
Users who want a free VPN: The full TunnelBear app is free as long as you stay under the 2GB per month cap. It’s a great way to try the premium service before subscribing to a plan. You can try it out for free without having to input any payment information or personal details.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Are All Features Available In Free Version? Blocks Ads Can Manually Select Server In Free Version Free Connection Speeds Limited No Free Version Free Version Server Limit All Servers Free Version Data Limit 2GB per month Free Version Simultaneous Connection Limit Unlimited Geographically Diverse Servers No Ads In Free Version? Yes Public Third-Party Audit Server Locations 45 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited Supported Protocols on Android OpenVPN Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, OpenVPN Learn More TunnelBear VPN Review -
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Credit: Windscribe
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Best for Affordable PrivacyWindscribe VPN
Pros & Cons
Windscribe's above-and-beyond dedication to user privacy and data transparency makes Windscribe a solid pick for maintaining rock-solid privacy regardless of your location. Its generous free tier lets you try it out without committing if you’re unsure whether it will work in your region.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Windscribe’s premium plan allows unlimited simultaneous device connections and provides access to a sizable physical server network with connections in 69 countries. You can also use advanced features such as split tunneling. If you’re unsure if the VPN is the right pick for you, then you can try it out for free. With the free plan, you get 10GB of browsing data per month if you confirm your email address, or 2GB if you don't.
Privacy and security: Windscribe doesn't log your data. Its fast and anonymous signup process allows you to use the VPN app without giving up a lot of data about yourself. Next, you can pay for the app using various payment methods, including cryptocurrency. On Windscribe's website, you'll find the company's ethics statement and a transparency report detailing every request it receives from law enforcement. This is an excellent policy that we hope more VPN companies will adopt in the future.
Speed and performance: Windscribe's speed and performance were solid. Download speed test scores decreased by only 10.66%, upload speed test scores decreased by 13.20%, and latency increased by 67.01%. Windscribe delivered reliable, above-average speeds, making it excellent for streaming video and downloading content.
Streaming: Using Windscribe, we were able to watch Netflix without any restrictions. We could access the entire library when connected to five Windscribe servers in Australia, Canada, Japan, the UK, and the US.
User experience and ease of use: Minimalists will appreciate Windscribe's modest app interface. The Settings menu includes a helpful guide to all of the app's features. For example, if you don't know which VPN protocol to use, open the information button next to the setting's label and read the corresponding support page, which explains what the feature is and how to use it.
Who It's For
Users who want anonymity: For those who need the ultimate in identity protection—including a completely anonymous signup process that doesn't require an email address to get started and the option to pay for your plan in crypto
Users who want advanced browsing controls: Windscribe offers a content-filtering feature called R.O.B.E.R.T. You can use it to block ads, gambling content, malware, porn, social media, and more during your browsing.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Free Version Data Limit 10GB Per Month Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 69 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited Learn More Windscribe VPN Review -
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Credit: IVPN
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Best for Flexible PricingIVPN
Pros & Cons
IVPN offers flexible pricing options: you can pay for a week, a month, a year, two years, or three years. The cheapest one-week plan starts at just $2, so you can try the service before committing to a longer subscription to make sure it works in your country. The $10-per-month pro plan is still affordable and adds support for seven simultaneous devices and multi-hop capability.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: IVPN supports seven simultaneous device connections and offers advanced features such as a kill switch, split tunneling, and multi-hop. AntiTracker does what its name implies: blocks unwanted trackers and ads while you browse the web. IVPN’s multi-hop implementation stands out by allowing you to build custom paths rather than choose from pre-made options. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to opt for the slightly more expensive Pro plan to access advanced options like multi-hop.
Privacy and security: You don’t have to provide any personal information to use IVPN. Each account is tied to a unique identifier instead of a traditional username or password. You can even send cash directly to IVPN to pay for your account if you don’t want a credit card or any other payment method tied to your subscription. Beyond payment options, IVPN has an in-depth privacy policy, doesn’t keep any logs, and undergoes frequent third-party audits from Cure53 to verify its policies.
Speed and performance: IVPN performed below average in our latest round of speed tests. It slowed our download and upload speeds by 80.24% and 85.01%, respectively. Latency increased by 155.81%.
Streaming: We test every VPN to see if it can access five regional Netflix catalogs: the US, UK, Japan, Canada, and Australia. IVPN performed well and gave us unrestricted access to each region’s library without any issues.
User experience and ease of use: IVPN has a simple, straightforward interface that we found easy to use. Despite its simplicity, it has plenty of configuration options so that you can tailor your connection to your specific needs. All operating systems share a similar design and experience, which makes it easy to switch between devices and platforms.
Who It's For
Short-term users: IVPN has the most flexible subscription terms we’ve seen. If you only need a VPN for a few days, the one-week plan is an excellent choice we rarely see from competing companies.
Users who want transparency: IVPN's policies suggest that the company is committed to protecting your online identity. The app doesn't require an email address to sign up; it's open source, accepts crypto payments, and features private DNS servers.
Specs & Configurations
Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Server Locations 32 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 7 Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, OpenVPN Learn More IVPN Review -
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Best For | Best Overall | Best for Diverse Server Options | Best for Premium Features | Best for Task-Specific Connections | Best for Extra Security Features | Best for First-Time Users | Best for Affordable Privacy | Best for Flexible Pricing | Best Overall | Best for Diverse Server Options | Best for Premium Features |
Supported Protocols on macOS | WireGuard, IKEv2 | Lightway, OpenVPN, L2TP | NordLynx (based on WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, IKEv2 | WireGuard, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN | WireGuard, IKEv2 | Lightway, OpenVPN, L2TP | NordLynx (based on WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2 | |
Supported Protocols on iOS | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | OpenVPN, IKEv2 | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec | WireGuard, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | OpenVPN, IKEv2 | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec | |
Supported Protocols on Android | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | Lightway | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | OpenVPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | Lightway | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN | |
Simultaneous VPN Connections | 10 | 10-14 | 6 | 7 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 | 10 | 10-14 | 6 |
Server Locations | 129 countries | 105 Countries | 118 countries | 90 Countries | 100 Countries | 45 Countries | 69 Countries | 32 Countries | 129 countries | 105 Countries | 118 countries |
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Buying Guide: The Best VPNs for International Travel in 2026
Why Do You Need a VPN for International Travel?
You may have heard that your data is at risk or that hackers can pilfer your personal logins with ease while you pop in and out of different public Wi-Fi networks. Those claims are often aimed at getting you to buy a service, because the risk, while real, is extremely rare. Thanks to widespread HTTPS adoption, the web is much more secure overall, and you’re unlikely to be the target of a direct attack just because you’re checking your work email in an overpriced airport restaurant.
That said, I still recommend a VPN for your next international trip. It’s a great way to ensure that you don’t get locked out of any accounts or miss out on shows you may be in the process of binging. Different countries have different catalogs of streaming services like Netflix, so you might find that your favorite show is region-locked to your home country. A VPN allows you to connect to a server back home and access your account as though you never left.
A VPN is worth investing in if you’re worried about surveillance or censorship. Many countries are implementing age verification legislation, making it difficult to access services you may be accustomed to without submitting to invasive measures such as facial scans. A VPN can route your traffic through a nearby server in a country that doesn’t have those same censorship blocks in place.
The stakes get higher if you’re visiting a country where travelers are under direct, oppressive surveillance. A faltering connection could result in direct consequences, such as fines or even jail time, if you’re found accessing content that violates the government's restrictive policies. That's why I don’t recommend specific VPNs for countries with these measures, since getting it wrong can mean more than Netflix blocking access to your favorite show. For example, it’s easy to recommend VPNs for Canada because there are no repercussions for VPN use or traffic. However, it gets a lot more complicated when you consider a VPN for China, given the country’s penchant for banning VPNs and punishing those who use them. The VPNs recommended in this article are my picks for international travel overall, but keep in mind that I have not tested these services in oppressive countries.
Still, I do get frequent questions about choosing a VPN in a specific country. Instead of giving direct recommendations, I’ve included sections below for each country that outline how I would select the best service or a noteworthy alternative for that area. This is a framework based on my experience with VPNs and on how I choose the ones I personally trust. Surveillance measures are constantly changing, so proceed with caution if you aim to visit a region with restrictive policies in place.
How to Choose the Best VPN for China and Hong Kong
China has some of the longest-standing internet restrictions in the world, with its Great Firewall (GFW) dating back to 1998. This closed internet makes it incredibly difficult for citizens and travelers to retain access to media and outlets outside of the country. As a traveler, you need to be extremely careful if your plan is to bypass those restrictions and connect to the outside web.
It’s not easy to get a VPN once you’re in the country, since most options that aren’t locally owned and operated are blocked or banned. You’ll need to install a VPN before you go, but even that approach has risks if your phone gets searched when entering the country. You may run into issues accessing local payment systems, such as Alipay, while you’re there, even with a VPN up and running. Installing ahead of time doesn’t guarantee success either. The service may not work reliably or at all once you’re there. Despite those difficulties, you shouldn’t just choose any random service that claims to work in China. My main considerations for China and Hong Kong, in order of importance, go as follows:
- Privacy: Ensure the service is regularly audited and backed by a verifiable no-logs policy.
- Obfuscation: Check for stealth protocols and make sure you can select an option that disguises your VPN traffic as HTTPS.
- Servers: Ample server support, both within China and in neighboring countries, is a must.
Instead of relying on a VPN, an eSIM could be a better option. You can purchase one and activate it from your home country, and it will bypass the GFW since it's tied to a carrier that operates outside of China. You’ll retain access to your normal apps, but don’t expect any encryption or privacy. Pairing an eSIM with a VPN can be a solid combination if you aim to connect to local networks and want to maintain some privacy.
How to Choose the Best VPN for Russia
Russia employs similar blocks to those used by China, making access to many regular services impractical without a workaround. The eSIM trick isn’t quite as effective, either. You can still get one that grants access to calls and texts, but you won’t be able to access social media platforms or apps like Discord from back home.
Recommended by Our Editors
A VPN for Russia can route your connection outside the country, but even my top options have intermittent success due to Russia’s advanced blocking and VPN-detection algorithms. Keep in mind that having your VPN connection detected or otherwise compromised could result in punitive action from the government—proceed with caution.
I recommend using advanced obfuscation servers and settings, if available, to improve your chances of flying under the radar. These servers are slower, but they give you a better chance of securing a connection by disguising your VPN traffic as normal HTTPS traffic. I’d also consider a service with a strong server presence in or near Russia, as you’ll experience more reliable, faster speeds when connecting to a server close to your location. The frequent fluctuations in Russia’s economy make price a practical priority as well. You can view the full pricing breakdown of every VPN I’ve tested in the chart below:
There is another, much more technical option if you’re tech-savvy—a virtual private server (VPS). You can rent a server from a cloud provider (or self-host) and remotely connect to it while you’re in Russia to secure a private, residential IP address outside of the country. Connecting to a VPS would allow you to access content in your home country without restrictions, and it’s unlikely to be detected by any blocks or government algorithms since it doesn’t appear as VPN traffic. It does, however, take some know-how or a willingness to learn since it’s not nearly as straightforward as a plug-and-play VPN.
How to Choose the Best VPN for Ukraine
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in early 2022 and is still ongoing in 2026. The war is not just being fought on the ground. Cyberattacks and digital surveillance play a crucial role on both sides, which makes for a lot of unknowns when connecting to the web within the country. I cannot recommend a VPN for Ukrainian citizens due to the dire consequences of detection. Using the wrong service and leaking your location could lead to online retaliation or even a targeted, physical attack. For that reason, the advice below for picking a VPN is for those outside of Ukraine trying to access local content or connect with those already in the country.
There has been an outpouring of support for Ukraine from some tech companies, so many VPNs actually have a physical server presence in the country despite the war. It is possible to get a local connection in Ukraine, as multiple providers have physical servers in Kyiv. Those connections will be the best bet for accessing local content, such as news and other local media platforms. It's also worth considering performance. You'll likely be connecting from a distant region, so any impact on your connection will feel significant. It may not be possible to get the fastest speeds over such a distant connection, but you can pick a VPN with consistent, reliable servers for a better experience. I test every VPN for performance, and the chart below outlines my results:
Otherwise, the same criteria that apply to other censored countries apply here. Make sure the VPN you’re choosing is proven to be secure through audits and has never handed user data over to authorities. For messaging, I recommend using a private, encrypted messaging service if you’re trying to contact a friend or family member in Ukraine.
How to Choose the Best VPN for the UK
The UK recently passed age verification laws that require you to verify yourself as an adult to access a range of social media platforms and websites. However, there are no blocks or proposed measures in place to ban or otherwise restrict VPNs. A good VPN for the UK will have plenty of servers in the country and a verifiable, audited no-logs policy. Some nice extras to look out for are support for local streaming services like BBC iPlayer, obfuscated servers for extra anonymity, and unlimited device connections for complete coverage.
It Takes More Than a VPN to Stay Secure
VPNs are excellent privacy tools, but you can’t rely on one to protect all aspects of your personal data. Even the best VPN won’t do anything against malware or secure your login information. I recommend pairing a VPN with an antivirus, password manager, and multi-factor authenticator to better safeguard your data while you travel.