Best VPN for International Travel in 2025

Introduction: Why a Best VPN Is Essential for Travelers

We first discovered what a VPN really was when we moved to China. Before that, we honestly had no idea how important it could be. Once we arrived, it became one of the first things we bought — and we quickly realized we couldn’t live without it.

If you travel internationally, a VPN isn’t just a tech tool; it’s an essential part of your travel setup. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a backpacker, or someone on a short holiday, having a reliable VPN for travel means keeping your data private, your browsing unrestricted, and your connections secure.

In this guide, we’ll explain what a VPN is, which is the best VPN (for us) why it matters so much when you’re abroad, and why after years of trying different options, we now use Surfshark — hands down the best VPN for international travel in 2025.

Tip: Get Surfshark for 1,99€ per month with 3 months free

What is a VPN?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a tool that encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address. In simple terms, it gives you a private, secure tunnel between your device and the internet. Instead of connecting directly to a website or app, your data passes through a VPN server located somewhere else in the world — which means your real location stays hidden and your online activity remains private.

You can connect to a VPN server in any country — for example, appearing as if you’re browsing from France while sitting in Thailand — and your data will stay encrypted no matter which Wi-Fi you’re using.

Why You Need a VPN for Traveling

Using a VPN isn’t just for tech enthusiasts. It’s one of the smartest things you can do as a traveler — here’s why:

• Access Blocked Websites: Some countries heavily restrict the internet. In China, Turkey, and even parts of the Middle East, you can’t access basic apps like Google Maps, Gmail, Instagram, or WhatsApp. With a VPN like Surfshark, you can connect to a server outside that country and regain full access instantly.
• Protect Your Data on Public Wi-Fi: Travelers are constantly using airport, café, and hotel Wi-Fi networks — which are often unprotected. A VPN encrypts your data, making it impossible for hackers or third parties to see what you’re doing or steal personal information like passwords or banking details.
• Find Better Prices: Prices often change depending on your browsing location. By switching VPN servers to another country, you can sometimes get lower rates for flights, car rentals, or accommodations.
• Avoid Surveillance or Tracking: Some countries monitor or record user activity online. With a VPN, your IP address is masked, meaning your browsing history and location can’t be traced.
• Stream from Anywhere: If you’ve ever been abroad and couldn’t access Netflix or YouTube shows from your home country, a VPN solves that. Simply connect to a server back home, and you’ll unlock your usual content library.

Tip: Get Surfshark for 1,99€ per month with 3 months free

Why We Recommend Surfshark as the Best VPN for Travel

We’ve tried several VPNs over the years. Back in China, we started with Astrill, which was reliable at the time. Later, we switched to NordVPN, which worked well but came with limits on devices and occasional connection drops.

Then we discovered Surfshark, and honestly, it’s been a game-changer. Here’s why we believe Surfshark is the best VPN for international travel in 2025:

• Unlimited Devices – You can use one subscription on as many devices as you want: phones, laptops, tablets, even your TV. Perfect for couples or families traveling together.
• Fast and Reliable Speeds – Surfshark has over 3,200 servers across 100+ countries, and we’ve found it incredibly fast, even when streaming HD videos.
• Works in Restricted Countries – Unlike some VPNs, Surfshark still works in China and other regions where VPNs are usually blocked.
• Strong Encryption – It uses AES-256-GCM encryption, which is the same security standard used by banks and military systems.
• Strict No-Logs Policy – Surfshark doesn’t track or store your browsing activity, meaning full privacy even from the company itself.
• Affordable Plans – It’s one of the best-priced VPNs on the market, especially with their multi-year plans.
• Extra Features for Travelers – Their “Camouflage Mode” hides the fact that you’re using a VPN, and the “CleanWeb” feature blocks ads, malware, and phishing attempts while browsing abroad.

Whether you’re traveling in Europe, Asia, or South America, Surfshark keeps you safe and connected wherever you go and that’s why it’s the best vpn for us.

How to Use Surfshark VPN While Traveling

One of the best things about Surfshark is how simple it is to use — no complicated setup required. One other thing that make it the best VPN.

• Download the App — available on Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS.
• 2Log In and Connect — tap the “Quick Connect” button to automatically find the best server.
• Browse Freely and Securely — once connected, you can close the app and surf the web safely.

That’s it. No complicated setup, no extra configuration — just click and go.

Tip: Get Surfshark for 1,99€ per month with 3 months free

Our Experience Using Surfshark Abroad

We’ve used Surfshark in more than 10 countries so far — from Europe to Asia — and it’s never let us down. It worked perfectly in places with strong censorship (like China) and also helped us stream content on Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video while traveling. We even noticed slightly faster Wi-Fi speeds compared to other VPNs we tried.

And perhaps the best part? We use a single account for both of us, across all our devices — phones, laptops, and even the tablet we use for work. That’s incredible value and the reason it is the best VPN for us.

Final Thoughts — The Best VPN for Travelers in 2025

A VPN isn’t just for tech experts — it’s for anyone who wants freedom, privacy, and safety while traveling. From securing your data on public Wi-Fi to unlocking your favorite apps abroad, Surfshark makes it easy to browse confidently, no matter where you are.

We’ve tried several VPNs over the years, but for its reliability, speed, unlimited connections, and affordability, Surfshark clearly stands out as the best VPN for international travel in 2025.

If you travel often or plan to work remotely abroad, don’t think twice — download Surfshark before your next trip. Your digital safety (and sanity) will thank you later.

Tip: Get Surfshark for 1,99€ per month with 3 months free