14 Sep
14Sep

Travel is one of life’s greatest joys. Whether you’re exploring a new country for work, study, or just adventure, staying connected online is a must. We use the internet to watch our favourite shows, keep in touch with family, check our bank accounts, and even book hotels on the go. But here’s the problem: traveling also means facing online restrictions and risks. Some websites won’t open outside your home country. Public Wi-Fi in airports and hotels can be unsafe. And online banking sometimes blocks you if it notices you’re logging in from abroad. The good news? There’s an easy solution: a VPN (Virtual Private Network).

With the right VPN, you can:

  • Access Netflix and other streaming services worldwide.
  • Use online banking securely from any country.
  • Stay safe on public Wi-Fi while traveling.

In this article, we’ll explain why a VPN is essential for travellers in 2025 and recommend the best VPNs for streaming, banking, and online safety.


What is a VPN?

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. Imagine the internet as a busy airport. Normally, when you use it, everyone can see your flight details. But with a VPN, you’re given a private, encrypted tunnel.

  • Your internet traffic is scrambled (encrypted) so hackers can’t read it.
  • Your location (IP address) is hidden, so websites think you’re still at home.
  • You can connect through servers in other countries to unlock local content.

In simple words: a VPN lets you browse the internet safely and without borders.


Why Travellers Need a VPN

Here’s why a VPN is a must-have tool when you’re abroad:

1. Access Netflix and Other Streaming Services

Streaming libraries change depending on the country. For example:

  • In the US, Netflix has shows you won’t see in the UK.
  • In Europe, some content is missing due to licensing.

A VPN lets you switch your “location” by choosing a server in your home country (or anywhere else). Suddenly, you can unlock your favourite shows no matter where you are.

2. Safe Online Banking

Banks often block accounts if they detect unusual login locations (like logging in from Thailand when you live in London). This can be stressful when you need to pay bills. With a VPN, you connect through a UK server (or your home country), so your bank thinks you’re at home. It’s safer and reduces the chance of account blocks.

3. Protection on Public Wi-Fi

Hotels, airports, and cafés often have free Wi-Fi. But these networks are easy for hackers to attack. Without protection, someone could steal your passwords, credit card info, or emails.

A VPN keeps your data encrypted, even on risky networks.

4. Bypass Censorship and Restrictions

In some countries, popular apps and websites like WhatsApp, Facebook, or Google are blocked. With a VPN, you can still use them.

5. Peace of Mind

Traveling is stressful enough — worrying about digital security should not be on your list. A VPN gives you confidence that your online life is protected.


Best VPNs for Travellers in 2025

Here are the top VPNs that balance affordability, speed, and reliability — perfect for travellers.


1. ExpressVPN – Best for Streaming Anywhere

Why it’s great:

  • Known for lightning-fast servers in 94+ countries.
  • Works with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and more.
  • Strong security for banking and public Wi-Fi.
  • User-friendly apps for iOS and Android.

Price (2025): Around £6–£7 per month. 

Best for: Travellers who stream a lot and want the fastest, most reliable option.


2. NordVPN – Best All-Rounder

Why it’s great:

  • Huge server network (5,500+ servers in 60 countries).
  • Double VPN option for extra security.
  • Reliable for both Netflix and online banking.
  • CyberSec feature blocks ads and malicious websites.

Price (2025): Around £3–£4 per month on long-term plans.

Best for: Travellers who want a balance of speed, privacy, and cost.


3. Surfshark – Best for Families or Groups

Why it’s great:

  • One account covers unlimited devices (great for families).
  • Strong streaming capabilities with Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, etc.
  • Affordable price without sacrificing quality.

Price (2025): Around £2–£2.50 per month.

Best for: Families or digital nomads traveling with multiple devices.


4. CyberGhost – Best for Beginners

Why it’s great:

  • One-click connect makes it super easy to use.
  • Dedicated servers for streaming and banking.
  • Large server network with good global coverage.

Price (2025): Around £2–£2.20 per month on long-term plan.

Best for: First-time VPN users who want something simple and reliable.


5. Proton VPN – Best for Privacy Lovers

Why it’s great:

  • Based in Switzerland, famous for privacy laws.
  • Strong focus on data protection and no logs.
  • Good for secure online banking.
  • Free version available (but limited).

Price (2025): Around £4–£5 per month.

Best for: Travellers who care most about online privacy.


6. Atlas VPN – Best Budget Option

Why it’s great:

  • Very affordable and fast.
  • Good for Netflix and casual browsing.
  • Clean and simple mobile app.

Price (2025): Around £1.50–£2 per month.

Best for: Budget travellers who want basic VPN protection without overspending.


How to Set Up a VPN Before Traveling

Good news — it only takes a few minutes. Here’s what to do:

  1. Choose your VPN provider (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, etc.).
  2. Sign up on their website.
  3. Download the app on your phone, tablet, or laptop.
  4. Log in with your account details.
  5. Tap Connect — your traffic is now encrypted.
  6. (Optional) Select a country server for streaming or banking access.

💡 Tip: Set up your VPN before you leave home. Some countries block VPN websites, making it harder to download once you’re there.


Traveller’s VPN Tips

  • Turn on Auto-Connect: So your VPN protects you as soon as you go online.
  • Check Split Tunneling: Lets you choose which apps use VPN (good for streaming vs local browsing).
  • Use a Kill Switch: This blocks internet access if the VPN disconnects suddenly.
  • Test Banking Before You Travel: Make sure your VPN server works with your bank.

Final Thoughts

Traveling in 2025 should be about enjoying the world, not worrying about digital risks. Whether you’re relaxing with Netflix, transferring money through your banking app, or simply connecting to hotel Wi-Fi, a VPN makes everything safer and smoother.👉 Top Picks Recap:

  • Best for streaming: ExpressVPN
  • Best all-rounder: NordVPN
  • Best budget: Surfshark / Atlas VPN
  • Best for privacy: Proton VPN
  • Best for beginners: CyberGhost

So before you pack your bags, make sure you pack something digital too — a VPN. It’s the easiest way to access your favourite content, keep your money safe, and protect your privacy wherever your travels take you. Safe travels and safe browsing

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