A VPN encrypts your connection before it leaves your device. On hotel, hostel, and airport Wi-Fi that means nobody on the network can watch you log into your bank — and your usual services stay reachable while you're abroad.
Our comparison
Proton VPN
Swiss privacy for public Wi-Fi
Our top pick
Proton VPN is built by the Swiss team behind Proton Mail, with an independently audited no-logs policy and open-source apps. For travelers it does the two jobs that matter: it makes shared Wi-Fi safe, and it keeps your usual services reachable wherever you are.
Pros
Independently audited no-logs policy and open-source apps
Fast servers in over 100 countries for streaming and calls abroad
Free plan available, so you can try it before paying
One paid plan covers up to 10 devices
Cons
Streaming and top speeds need the paid Plus plan
VPN use is restricted in a handful of countries — check local rules first
More than a VPN
One Proton account also covers the rest of your digital trip kit — end-to-end encrypted, under Swiss privacy law:
Proton Mail — encrypted email
Proton Drive — encrypted storage for passport scans and photos
NordVPN is the biggest name in consumer VPNs, and for travel its strengths are practical: very fast connections on its NordLynx protocol and thousands of servers across 100+ countries, so streaming and video calls keep working smoothly wherever you've landed.
Pros
Consistently among the fastest VPNs, so streaming abroad just works
Thousands of servers in 100+ countries to route around slow connections
Threat Protection blocks malware and trackers beyond the VPN itself
One plan covers up to 10 devices
Cons
No free tier — only a 30-day money-back guarantee
The headline price needs a long-term plan; renewals cost more
Apps regularly promote add-ons and upgrades
The same team also makes Saily, a travel eSIM with security built in — see our eSIM comparison.
