You don't have to leave your privacy or security at home when you travel. Without your own trusted Wi-Fi, you'll probably need to rely on a cellular connection or an unknown, public, and open Wi-Fi hotspot. The problem is that when you don't own or control an internet hotspot, you won't know what is lurking there. Honeypots, surveillance, and a lack of basic access protections can all put you at risk, but this is where a virtual private network (VPN) can assist you.
VPNs mask your IP address and provide a layer of encryption that can protect you from a multitude of online threats to your security and privacy, including online spying, profiling, and data collection. In some countries, VPNs are also essential tools to avoid censorship and ISP-level website blocks. As a bonus, using a VPN can help you access your streaming services when you are in a new location.
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What is the best travel VPN right now?
My pick for the best travel VPN overall is NordVPN due to its excellent security, speed, and fast and reliable connections. This VPN also performs well in my tests for unblocking streaming services and offers a vast server network, giving you plenty of choice concerning where you want to be "located" while you are online. Two-year plans start at $3.09 per month.
Alternatively, if you don't mind trading some speed for affordability, Surfshark is your best bet at only $1.78 per month.
Also: We tested the most popular VPNs in New York, London, and Tokyo - this one is the best for traveling
In 's latest update, we refreshed our guide and top picks based on new home and lab speed tests. We also refreshed our FAQs to better answer your most frequent questions.
The best travel VPNs of 2026
You can depend on NordVPN no matter where you're connecting from, making it my top pick as a travel VPN in 2026.
Why we like it: My testing consistently found that NordVPN provides fast, reliable connections and service across a wide range of situations.
After years of use, I found it to be user-friendly and quick to connect. Most of the time, it can access Netflix and other popular streaming services without a problem. This is undoubtedly a benefit when traveling, ensuring you never miss your favorite shows.
NordVPN is one of my favorite VPNs for streaming, and it has high success rates in accessing geo-blocked content. The service also supports peer-to-peer (P2P) sharing and offers a second layer of encryption through its Double VPN feature, as well as a dedicated IP bolt-on service.
NordVPN supports all major platforms and offers browser plugins for Firefox, Edge, and Chrome. The company offers 10 simultaneous device connections under one account. I would like to see this become unlimited in the future, as some cheaper services have no such restrictions.
The company is also behind NordWhisper, a protocol designed for users facing VPN server connection issues due to restrictive network policies.
Review: NordVPN
Overall, NordVPN is one of the best VPNs for travel today. In a new service update, NordVPN said it has reached 100Tbps capacity across 211 locations in 137 countries, offering you a wide range of location options to choose from. Regarding user data, the firm's latest independent assurance assessment backed its no-logs claims.
Who it's for: NordVPN will suit most users, considering its reasonable price point, excellent speeds, user-friendly and interactive user interface, and strong server network. I've found it performs well while abroad, including when connected to rather unstable Wi-Fi points.
Customers like that the VPN app is easy to use and offers good speeds, but some have flagged inconsistent pricing.
Prices start at $3.09 per month on a standard two-year plan, and $5 per month on a one-year plan. If you also want cybersecurity protections and coverage for identity theft, consider a premium subscription.
You could also try out NordVPN without being locked in by taking advantage of the company's 30-day money-back guarantee.
Who should look elsewhere: ExpressVPN might be the right alternative if you prioritize server choice and security above all else. Want a lower monthly price? Check out Surfshark. Is speed your top priority? Consider ExpressVPN.
NordVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, and routers | Countries: 137 | Kill switch: Yes | Logging: Email address and billing information only | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android | Trustpilot rating: 4.2 | Google Play rating: 4.6 | App Store rating: 4.7
- Large server network
- Reliable and fast connections
- Stylish user interface
- Easy to use
- No unlimited simultaneous connections