When you’re jumping between countries, cities, or random coworking cafés, you want to stay connected without sacrificing your privacy or freedom online. That’s where a good VPN becomes one of your most important tools as a digital nomad.
Whether you’re freelancing from Thailand, managing a startup from Portugal, or just trying to watch Netflix without restrictions, this guide covers the best VPNs for travel in 2025.
🌐 Why Digital Nomads Should Always Use a VPN
Here’s why I never connect to Wi-Fi abroad without one:
-
Public Wi-Fi is full of risks
Coffee shops, airports, and hostels are prime hunting grounds for hackers. -
You can access content from anywhere
A VPN lets you stream Netflix, Hulu, or YouTube libraries from your home country. Also handy for banking and booking sites that limit access. -
Avoid censorship and surveillance
In countries like China, Turkey, or Vietnam, the internet is restricted. A VPN helps you access the open web safely. -
Get better prices
Some travel sites show different prices based on your location. A VPN lets you switch regions to score better deals.
🔍 What to Look for in a Travel-Friendly VPN
Not all VPNs are created equal. Here’s what really matters when you’re traveling:
-
Servers in lots of countries
Gives you more access points and faster connections. -
Strong no-logs policy
Ensures your data isn’t being stored or sold. -
Fast speeds for video calls and uploads
Remote workers rely on stable performance for Zoom, Google Meet, and file sharing. -
Kill switch and auto-connect
Prevents your data from leaking if the VPN drops out. -
Mobile + desktop apps
You’ll want apps that work well on your laptop and phone. -
Affordable long-term pricing
Annual plans often save you money if you’re a full-time nomad.
🥇 Top 5 VPNs for Digital Nomads in 2025
1. NordVPN
- Servers: 6,300+ across 110+ countries
- Speed: Excellent, thanks to NordLynx protocol
- Best for: Overall value, speed, and user experience
- Extras: Built-in threat protection, dark web monitor, secure file sharing
- Why I like it: Works fast even on weak hotel Wi-Fi, and the mobile app is super intuitive
2. Surfshark
- Servers: 3,200+ in 100+ countries
- Speed: Very strong, especially for streaming
- Best for: Couples, friends, or anyone with lots of devices
- Extras: CleanWeb ad blocker, GPS spoofing on Android, Dynamic MultiHop
- Why I like it: Unlimited devices and a clean interface make this one of the best deals out there
3. ExpressVPN
- Servers: 3,000+ in 94 countries
- Speed: Some of the fastest in the industry
- Best for: Streaming, bypassing content blocks, and privacy
- Extras: RAM-only servers, split tunneling, secure DNS
- Why I like it: A bit pricier, but super consistent when working in countries with tough restrictions
👉 Get 3 months free with ExpressVPN
4. ProtonVPN
- Servers: 2,900+ in 90+ countries
- Speed: Solid, especially on the Plus plan
- Best for: Privacy nerds and open-source fans
- Extras: Secure Core routing, NetShield blocker, open-source apps
- Why I like it: Comes from the team behind ProtonMail, and the free plan is actually usable
5. AtlasVPN (Best budget pick)
- Servers: 1,000+ in 50 countries
- Speed: Decent for the price
- Best for: Beginners and budget-conscious nomads
- Extras: Built-in data breach monitor, tracker blocker
- Why I like it: Ridiculously cheap for what it offers and still fast enough for calls
📊 VPN Comparison Table
| VPN | Countries | Speed | Devices | Free Trial | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | 110+ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 6 devices | 30-day refund | Best overall |
| Surfshark | 100+ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | Unlimited | 30-day refund | Couples or multi-device use |
| ExpressVPN | 94 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5 devices | 30-day refund | Streaming + fast networks |
| ProtonVPN | 90+ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | 10 devices | Free tier | Privacy-first users |
| AtlasVPN | 50 | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | Unlimited | 30-day refund | Budget pick for new users |
🧳 How I Use VPNs as a Digital Nomad
- I set my VPN to auto-connect when I join any new Wi-Fi network
- Use split tunneling to route only specific apps through the VPN
- Try different server locations when one country’s site is blocked or slow
- Keep a backup VPN installed in case my main one doesn’t work in certain regions
- Always use VPN on public Wi-Fi, even for quick browsing
✅ Final Thoughts
A VPN isn’t just a privacy tool for tech geeks. It’s a must-have for anyone working or living internationally in 2025. You’ll keep your data safe, access more content, and avoid headaches while traveling.
My top pick is NordVPN for its balance of speed, features, and price. If you’re traveling with someone or want unlimited devices, Surfshark is a killer deal. For budget options, AtlasVPN gets the job done without draining your wallet.
Wherever you’re working from — don’t leave your digital life exposed.
Work remote. Browse safe. Stay private.