The 10 Best VPNs for Travelers in 2025: Secure Your Data and Access Content Worldwide
Traveling in 2025 means staying connected everywhere—but staying connected safely is just as important. The 10 best VPNs for travelers in 2025 offer essential protection by encrypting internet connections. A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, secures your online presence by hiding your real IP address and encrypting your data. This keeps your sensitive information safe, especially on public Wi-Fi at airports, hotels, cafes, and other spots where hackers lurk.
In today’s world, VPNs for travel 2025 are indispensable tools. Cyber threats have risen sharply, and public Wi-Fi risks continue to grow. Whether you use a VPN for airport WiFi, a VPN for hotel WiFi, or a secure VPN for public WiFi, these services must protect your personal info anywhere you roam.
Beyond security, VPNs for international travelers offer freedom—allowing users to bypass geo-blocking and access home content abroad. Think of catching your favorite shows or reading news websites online as if you never left. For trips to restrictive areas like China, having a reliable VPN for traveling in China is crucial to bypass government censorship and enjoy open internet access despite tough restrictions.
This guide dives deep into why a VPN is necessary for traveling in 2025, how to choose the best option, a quick comparison of the top 10 services, detailed reviews, practical VPN usage tips, and answers to your common questions. By the end, you’ll be ready to pick the perfect VPN for your travels to stay safe, private, and unrestricted worldwide.
Why You Need a VPN for Traveling in 2025
Traveling internationally opens up a world of experiences, but it also exposes you to digital risks. Here’s why a VPN for international travel is no longer optional but essential.
Protect Your Sensitive Data on Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi — whether it’s a VPN for airport WiFi, hotel networks (VPN for hotel WiFi), or cafe hotspots — is inherently risky. Hackers often target these networks to steal passwords, credit card info, or even hijack sessions. A secure VPN for public WiFi encrypts all your internet traffic end-to-end, making your data unintelligible to anyone spying or snooping on the network.
Without a VPN, your data travels openly and can be intercepted. With a VPN, your information is wrapped in a secure tunnel, keeping banking details, emails, and passwords safe wherever you connect.
Bypass Geo-Blocking Restrictions Anywhere
Many streaming services, websites, and apps lock content based on where you are. Trying to watch your home country’s Netflix, sports broadcasts, or access region-locked news sites abroad can be frustrating. A VPN hides your real IP address and tricks platforms into thinking you’re browsing from your home country. Find out how.
A VPN to bypass geo-blocking lets you unlock your favorite shows, apps, and websites abroad without geographical restrictions. This is key for frequent flyers and digital nomads who want seamless access to home content abroad.
Maintain Privacy and Anonymity Online
Many ISPs and websites track your online activities and build profiles that get sold or exploited. VPNs mask your real IP, routing your activity through remote servers, which stops tracking and profiling. This is especially important on public networks where data surveillance is common. Discover privacy benefits.
With a VPN, you enhance online privacy, preventing malicious actors and advertisers from monitoring your digital footprint.
Prevent Hacking and Cyber Theft
VPN encryption is the frontline defense against hackers, spies, and cyber thieves. Especially on unsecured networks, VPNs shield your sensitive data—credit cards, passwords, personal files—from interception and theft.
Overcome Censorship in Restrictive Countries Like China
Traveling in countries with heavy internet censorship, like China, presents unique challenges. Many websites and apps are blocked, and the government restricts VPN use.
However, some VPNs remain effective by offering obfuscated servers and stealth modes that bypass blocks and DPI (Deep Packet Inspection) techniques. Learn which VPNs work best here.
Choosing a VPN for traveling in China that reliably navigates censorship is vital for accessing information and communications while abroad.
Criteria for Choosing the Best VPN for Travelers
Not all VPNs are created equal. When selecting the best VPN for travelers or a VPN for travel 2025, consider these key criteria:
Strong Encryption and Advanced Security Protocols
Security is paramount. Look for VPNs using AES-256-bit encryption—industry standard for military-grade protection. Supported VPN protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard ensure fast, secure connections while maintaining online anonymity.
Speed and Reliability
Travelers need high speeds to stream media, conduct video calls, and browse without buffering. Slow VPNs cause frustration and interruptions. The best VPNs maintain fast, stable connections worldwide—even on distant servers.
Extensive Global Server Network
Wide server coverage matters for better accessibility. VPNs with many servers in multiple countries—including popular destinations and censorship-heavy areas like China—offer more choices and lower congestion for faster speeds.
Effective Geo-Blocking and Censorship Bypass
Confirm the VPN reliably unlocks streaming services and websites across regions. For international travelers, VPN to bypass geo-blocking and censorship is a must-have feature.
User-Friendly Apps and Cross-Platform Compatibility
Simple apps with intuitive interfaces across Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux make VPNs easy to set up on all your devices. Features like auto-connect simplify secure usage on-the-go.
Multiple Simultaneous Connections
Many travelers carry phones, tablets, and laptops. VPNs allowing multiple device connections under one subscription provide comprehensive coverage for personal or group travel.
Affordable Pricing and Flexible Plans
Travelers appreciate options with monthly and yearly plans that balance cost and flexibility. Family or group plans add value for those traveling with loved ones long-term.
Free Trials and Money-Back Guarantees
Risk-free testing through free trials or 30-day money-back guarantees lets users evaluate VPN performance before committing—a vital reassurance when planning critical travel connectivity.
Responsive Customer Support
24/7 customer support is essential to quickly resolve any access or setup issues while abroad, especially in countries with restrictive internet environments.
Quick Comparison of the 10 Best VPNs for Travelers in 2025
| # | VPN Name | Why Suitable | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NordVPN | Secure, fast, reliable in China | Best Overall VPN for Travelers |
| 2 | Surfshark | Affordable, user-friendly, unlimited devices | Best Budget Option |
| 3 | ExpressVPN | Huge server network, consistent geo-block bypass | Best VPN to Bypass Geo-blocking |
| 4 | CyberGhost | Optimized profiles for hotel/airport public Wi-Fi | Best for Secure VPN on Public Wi-Fi |
| 5 | VyprVPN | Proven reliability in restrictive countries like China | Best VPN for Traveling in China |
| 6 | Private Internet Access (PIA) | Fast speeds, strong privacy for streaming | Best for Accessing Home Content Abroad |
| 7 | ProtonVPN | Advanced privacy features, strict no-logs policy | Best for Privacy-Conscious Travelers |
| 8 | IPVanish | Supports many simultaneous device connections | Best for Family or Group Travel |
| 9 | TunnelBear | Responsive 24/7 customer support | Best Customer Support |
| 10 | Mullvad VPN | Anonymous sign-up, no data collection | Best for Privacy-Focused and Anonymous Travel |
Detailed Product Reviews of the 10 Best VPNs for Travelers in 2025
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is a powerhouse in security and speed with AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN/WireGuard protocols. It boasts over 5,200 servers in 59 countries, including specially obfuscated servers designed to work in China. NordVPN apps support Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux with a simple interface and auto-connect features. It offers 6 simultaneous device connections.
All Features:
- AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN & WireGuard protocols
- 5,200+ servers worldwide
- High-speed reliable connections globally
- Apps for all major platforms
- No-logs policy certified
- Kill switch and split tunneling
Pricing:
- Starts at $3.39/month (2-year plans)
- 7-day free trial on mobile, 30-day money-back guarantee
NordVPN Pros:
- Fast, consistent speeds
- Works reliably in China and restrictive regions
- Strong security and privacy features
- Easy-to-use apps with auto-connect
- Great for streaming and bypassing geo-blocks
NordVPN Cons:
- Slightly higher price for short-term plans
NordVPN ranks as the best VPN for travelers thanks to its strong encryption, speed, reliable access in China, and ability to securely connect on airport or hotel Wi-Fi. It delivers top-tier travel security and unlimited access to geo-restricted content globally.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark offers great affordability combined with powerful features for travel. It employs AES-256 encryption and supports OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols. The VPN’s 3,200+ servers cover 100+ countries. It shines with unlimited simultaneous connections, ideal for travelers with many devices.
All Features:
- AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN, WireGuard
- 3,200+ servers worldwide
- Fast speeds suitable for streaming and browsing
- Apps for major platforms with clean UI
- Strict no-logs policy
- Built-in kill switch, split tunneling
Pricing:
- Starts at $2.19/month (2-year plans)
- 7-day free trial, 30-day money-back guarantee
Surfshark Pros:
- Best budget VPN for travelers
- Unlimited devices on one account
- Strong security and bypasses geo-blocks
- Works with hotel and airport Wi-Fi
Surfshark Cons:
- Occasional speed variations on distant servers
Surfshark offers the best value for cost-conscious travelers who want comprehensive security and global access. It’s a best VPN for travel 2025—affordable, fast, and functional for international trips.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN boasts a massive global network with 3,000+ servers in 94 countries. Encryption is AES-256 with OpenVPN and Lightway protocols, ensuring blazing-fast, secure connections. Its apps are intuitive across devices and support up to 5 connections simultaneously. Known for reliable geo-block bypassing, ExpressVPN excels in unblocking content worldwide.
All Features:
- AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN, Lightway
- 3,000+ servers in 94 countries
- Fast, reliable global speeds
- Apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux
- Zero logs
- Kill switch, split tunneling
Pricing:
- Starts at $4.99/month (2-year plans)
- 30-day money-back guarantee, no free trial
ExpressVPN Pros:
- Best VPN to bypass geo-blocking worldwide
- Outstanding speed and reliability
- User-friendly interface
- Excellent for streaming services abroad
ExpressVPN Cons:
- Pricier than budget options
- No free trial (only money-back guarantee)
ExpressVPN is a go-to for travelers prioritizing fast, secure access to restricted streaming and websites. Its robust global server footprint is unbeatable for those wanting to bypass geo-blocking efficiently on all devices.
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost stands out for user-friendly apps and specialized profiles optimized for hotel and airport Wi-Fi networks. It uses AES-256 encryption with OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2 protocols. Servers are spread across 91 countries, with dedicated servers to defeat censorship. CyberGhost allows 7 simultaneous connections.
All Features:
- AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2
- 9,000+ servers worldwide
- Good speeds for secure browsing and streaming
- Easy-to-use apps on all platforms
- No-logs policy
- Kill switch, ad-block, malware blocker
Pricing:
- Starts at $2.19/month (2-year plans)
- 24-hour free trial plus 45-day money-back guarantee
CyberGhost Pros:
- Optimized for secure VPN on public Wi-Fi like hotels and airports
- Large server network
- Easy setup and use for travelers
- Strong privacy and security
CyberGhost Cons:
- Occasional slowdowns on heavy-loaded servers
CyberGhost is ideal as a VPN for hotel WiFi and airport WiFi users focused on seamless security and convenience with specialized connection profiles.
5. VyprVPN
VyprVPN is one of the few VPNs with proven performance behind China's Great Firewall due to its proprietary Chameleon protocol that scrambles VPN traffic to evade censorship. It uses AES-256 encryption and supports OpenVPN and WireGuard. It features around 700 servers in 70+ locations and supports 5 devices.
All Features:
- AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN, WireGuard, Chameleon
- 700+ servers worldwide
- Reliable speed, especially in China
- Apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
- No-logs audited policy
- Kill switch, NAT firewall
Pricing:
- Starts at $3/month (2-year plans)
- 3-day free trial, 30-day money-back guarantee
VyprVPN Pros:
- Best VPN for traveling in China
- Reliable at bypassing government censorship
- Strong, private encryption
- Easy to use on multiple platforms
VyprVPN Cons:
- Smaller server network than competitors
- Slightly pricier for monthly users
VyprVPN stands out as a trusted VPN for traveling in China, providing secure, censorship-busting VPN access when you need it most.
6. Private Internet Access (PIA)
PIA boasts an enormous server network (over 35,000 servers) in 84 countries, providing fast, steady connections optimized for streaming home content abroad. AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN/WireGuard protocols ensure security. It supports up to 10 simultaneous devices.
All Features:
- AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN, WireGuard
- 35,000+ servers worldwide
- Fast streaming speeds
- Compatible apps for all major platforms
- No-logs strict policy
- Kill switch, split tunneling
Pricing:
- Starts at $2.03/month (3-year plans)
- 7-day free trial, 30-day money-back guarantee
Private Internet Access Pros:
- Best VPN for accessing home content abroad
- Large device support
- Strong security with excellent streaming speeds
Private Internet Access Cons:
- Complex interface for new users
PIA is perfect for travelers prioritizing accessing home content abroad and needing multiple device connections under one subscription.
7. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN focuses on privacy with a strict no-logs policy and advanced security features. It uses AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN, and WireGuard protocols. Servers in 63 countries include Secure Core servers routing traffic through privacy-friendly countries. Supports 10 simultaneous devices.
All Features:
- AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN, WireGuard
- Servers in 63 countries, Secure Core feature
- Stable speeds with privacy-first design
- Apps on major platforms
- No-logs policy audited
- Kill switch and DNS leak protection
Pricing:
- Starts at $2.99/month (2-year plans)
- Free limited plan, 30-day money-back guarantee
ProtonVPN Pros:
- Best VPN for privacy-conscious travelers
- Strong security and transparency
- Works well with hotel and airport Wi-Fi
ProtonVPN Cons:
- Moderate speeds compared to competitors
ProtonVPN is the choice for travelers wanting maximum privacy without compromising secure VPN for public WiFi and travel security.
8. IPVanish
IPVanish offers excellent multi-device support with unlimited simultaneous connections on one subscription. It uses AES-256 encryption and supports OpenVPN and WireGuard. The VPN has 2,000+ servers in 75+ locations and focuses on fast, stable connections.
All Features:
- AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN, WireGuard
- 2,000+ global servers
- High speeds and reliable connections
- Apps for all major platforms
- Strict no-logs policy
- Kill switch, split tunneling
Pricing:
- Starts at $2.19/month (2-year plans)
- 30-day money-back guarantee
IPVanish Pros:
- Best VPN for family and group travel
- Unlimited devices support
- Solid security and speed
IPVanish Cons:
- Some occasional connection drops reported
IPVanish is ideal for travelers needing to cover multiple devices across the family or group with top-tier best VPN for travel security features.
9. TunnelBear
TunnelBear is renowned for its approachable UI and excellent customer support available 24/7. It offers AES-256 encryption with OpenVPN. Servers span 23 countries, focusing on simplicity and user experience.
All Features:
- AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN
- Servers in 23 countries
- Reliable speeds
- Simple apps for all platforms
- No-logs policy
- Kill switch
Pricing:
- From $4.17/month (annual plan)
- 7-day free trial, 30-day money-back guarantee
TunnelBear Pros:
- Best customer support for travelers
- User-friendly on all devices
- Good privacy and public Wi-Fi security
TunnelBear Cons:
- Smaller server network
- Not as advanced for heavy streaming
TunnelBear suits travelers who prioritize customer support and an easy VPN experience when connecting in unfamiliar locations.
10. Mullvad VPN
Mullvad VPN is a top choice for travelers who value true anonymity and digital privacy. Unlike other providers, Mullvad doesn’t even require an email address to sign up and accepts anonymous payments (including cash by mail). It uses AES-256 encryption and supports OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols. Mullvad operates servers in over 40 countries, including obfuscated servers that help users in restricted areas like China. It allows up to 5 simultaneous connections.
All Features:
- AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN, WireGuard
- 600+ servers in 40+ countries
- No personal data required to create an account
- Apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
- Proven no-logs policy
- Kill switch, DNS leak protection
Pricing:
- Starts at €5/month (1-year plans)
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Mullvad VPN Pros:
- Best VPN for anonymous travelers
- No personal data collection whatsoever
- Flat, transparent pricing with no upselling
- Accepts cash, crypto, and card payments
- Lightweight apps with strong privacy defaults
Mullvad VPN Cons:
- No live chat or 24/7 customer support
- Server network is smaller than big-name VPNs
- Doesn’t unblock some major streaming platforms consistently
Mullvad VPN is ideal for privacy-first travelers who want robust protection without sacrificing anonymity. Its straightforward pricing and anonymous sign-up make it especially attractive for security-conscious globetrotters.
Tips for Using a VPN While Traveling
Always Activate Your VPN on Public Wi-Fi
Whenever you connect to airport Wi-Fi, hotel Wi-Fi, or any public hotspot, switch your VPN on. This ensures your data stays encrypted and inaccessible to eavesdroppers.
Choose VPN Servers Strategically
For optimal speed and ease of access, select servers near your current location or in your home country if you want to access home content abroad. This reduces latency and improves streaming quality.
Avoid Free VPNs
Free VPNs often limit data, throttle speeds, or collect and sell your data. Always use a reputable paid VPN to ensure privacy and security.
Keep VPN Apps Updated
Regular updates patch security flaws and improve app compatibility. Before traveling, ensure your VPN app is the latest version.
Use the Kill Switch Feature
This crucial function blocks all internet access if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly, preventing accidental exposure of your real IP or data leaks.
Test VPN Functionality Before Traveling
Especially if visiting restrictive countries like China, test your VPN to verify it bypasses geo-blocking and censorship effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best VPN for travelers in 2025?
The best VPN for travelers in 2025 balances strong encryption, fast speeds, wide global coverage, and usability. Top options include NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN, offering excellent VPN for travel 2025 security and seamless access abroad.
How does a VPN protect me on public Wi-Fi while traveling?
VPNs create a secure encrypted tunnel for your data on VPN for hotel WiFi, VPN for airport WiFi, or other public networks. This prevents hackers from intercepting your sensitive info, ensuring a secure VPN for public WiFi experience.
Can I use a VPN to watch my home country’s streaming services abroad?
Yes. VPNs mask your IP location, enabling you to bypass geo-blocks and watch content as if you were at home—making it easy to access your favorite shows and apps with a VPN for accessing home content abroad.
Is it legal to use a VPN when traveling internationally?
VPN use is legal in most countries, but some restrict or regulate VPNs, notably China, UAE, and Russia. Before traveling, check the local laws on VPN for international travel to avoid issues.
Will a VPN work in countries with heavy censorship like China?
Many VPNs struggle in China, but some providers with stealth servers and obfuscation—like VyprVPN or NordVPN—are reliable choices for VPN for traveling in China.
How do I choose the best VPN for hotel Wi-Fi?
Look for strong encryption (AES-256), fast, stable connections, and intuitive apps to easily connect whenever you join a VPN for hotel WiFi network. Ensure kill switch and privacy protections are included.
Are free VPNs safe to use while traveling?
Generally, no. Free VPNs often compromise privacy, show ads, or log your data. For reliable best VPN for travel security, paid VPNs are safest.
What should I look for to ensure good speed and security with a VPN abroad?
Prioritize VPNs with large global server networks, AES-256 encryption, modern protocols like WireGuard, zero-logs policies, and features such as kill switch and split tunneling for optimal performance.
Conclusion
Using one of the 10 best VPNs for travelers in 2025 is a must for safeguarding your personal data on public Wi-Fi networks, like airport and hotel hotspots, while traveling internationally. These VPNs provide not only best VPN for travel security but also enable you to bypass geo-blocking and enjoy your home country’s online content abroad seamlessly.
Whether traveling to high-restriction countries such as China, or simply roaming through cafes and airports worldwide, a reliable VPN for traveling in China, VPN for hotel WiFi, and VPN for airport WiFi ensures privacy and internet freedom.
Choose your VPN carefully, considering strong encryption, speed, a wide server network, easy-to-use apps, competitive pricing, and accessible customer support. Investing time in selecting the right VPN will protect your digital life and maximize your travel experience.
