We often ignore the importance of VPNs while traveling – we are ready and packed with everything except a reliable VPN that is going to come in super handy to access the censored content in a different state and keep your devices secure from digital intruders.
Speaking of VPNs, there are multiple options available. Some of them are really costly but don’t offer sufficient value to justify the price. I have tested them and wasted my hard-earned money on them. To save you from such hassle, I will be talking about only the best options that are worth it.
Sounds great? Great, let’s get into the details.
- Proton VPN
Start with the best of the best in the list, so you don’t have to hang around for too long.
If someone asks me to suggest the best VPN, Proton is the first name that comes to my mind. Why? Let me explain.
Starting with just 10 bucks a month, Proton VPN offers everything that you might need from a VPN. From a plethora of security features to servers in different countries, it serves the purpose.
There are plenty of servers (144 locations to be precise) available that are secured in a high-security environment. The number of countries with servers is 117, and that’s pretty enough unless you live in a seriously remote Island country.
Another great thing about the Proton VPN is that whether you prefer the Windows operating system, Linux, Mac, Android, or even iOS, you will be all set with any of them because it’s been developed for almost all the popular operating systems.
Apart from that, upon my real-life testing, it unlocked all the websites that I needed to access. For example, I was on the go while connected to AT&T public WiFi, which, by the way, is my choice of internet provider because of its fiber connectivity and, above all, reliable AT&T customer service. I wanted to access Netflix Germany while waiting in the queue. I connected to a server in Germany via Proton VPN, and I was able to watch my favorite sitcom that isn’t available in the US.
Not only does it unlock the content from different countries, it can also help you stay secure. It might be confusing, but let me explain. Whenever you are connected to a WiFi, especially public ones, you are risking your personal information that can be acquired by hackers. What VPN does is it gives an extra layer of security by altering your IP address. When the hackers don’t know the correct IP address, they won’t be able to access your sensitive information, and that is exactly why it is recommended to connect to a public WiFi via a VPN.
All in all, Proton VPN is a great option for all your devices.
- NordVPN
If you want a no-nonsense but great value-for-money VPN, then go with NordVPN. It is one of the better options from the sea of options because of its ample number of servers in probably the highest number of countries of any VPNs I share in this article.
Whether it is security you are after, or just want to watch the region-locked content, NordVPN will support you the best. There are 7700 servers as reported by NordVPN, which offers super-fast speeds provided you have a fast internet connection as well. Speaking of which, I was able to achieve around 400Mbps of speed on a 500Mbps connection, which is great for a VPN. This means there is no stopping your 4k content.
The best thing about NordVPN? It’s super fast not only for providing internet speeds, but it’s because of its user interface. It can be connected quickly to a server so that you quickly cut off any vulnerability for hackers to exploit. The user interface is really simple, and it’s super easy to use.
There are tons of features available that might be another post to cover them all. Overall, it’s a great choice for a regular VPN.
- Surf Shark VPN
This is the most affordable yet functionally reliable VPN that you can get before you head on to your exciting journey.
Starting just under 2 bucks a month, this can be well set for your needs, whether you need to secure your network or need to access some censored content. There are plenty of features to unblock the content in a highly censored country. There is a feature called Cross Border, which will automatically give you access to the content you need.
Apart from that, the user interface is super clean. I think Surf Shark has the best interface out of all the VPNs I have talked about today. Yet it is still the most underrated one in my opinion.
This will be your safest bet that won’t burn a hole in your pocket.
In 2025, one of the smartest digital habits you can develop is having a VPN. Using these tools not only allows you to access censored content but also gives you peace of mind when using public networks. Whether it’s speed, security, or cost, any one of the above-mentioned VPNs will definitely serve you well when you’re travelling or on the go.