Using a VPN is more important than you realize when you are traveling. Hackers (not travel hackers), scammers, and thieves can easily access your computer when you are connected to a public network. This includes when you are using WiFi at Starbucks, your hotel, or anywhere else you might find yourself connecting to free or public WiFi.
This is why you should use a VPN while traveling.
What is VPN?
A VPN is a virtual private network. It is your very own secure part of the internet to browse, email, and go about your normal activity. You can look at it is a simple connection to protect the information on your computer safe while traveling.
A VPN not only protects you but it will allow you to virtually be somewhere else. For example, if you are in London you can use a VPN to make your computer look like it is in New York. This is useful for security, accessing restricted content and more.
How to Protect Yourself on Public WiFI
Connecting to public and free WiFi is convenient but very risky. It is very easy for prying eyes to see what you are doing and steal your login info. Using a VPN will protect when you are using the WiFi at your new favorite cafe abroad. It will keep your passwords save and keep you protected. It is often overlooked by travelers but should be a top priority.
How to Access Netflix and Restricted Content Abroad
An added benefit of using a VPN is the ability to pretend to be somewhere else. Sites and apps such as YouTube, Pandora, and Netflix will often block you when you not in your home country. This is frustrating if you are a paying customer but happen to be on vacation for a week.
By using a VPN you can convince Netflix and other region-restricted content that you are home on your computer. All you need to do is login to your VPN and set your location to your home country or city.
How to Access Social Media When It’s Blocked
In some countries Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, or Instagram is blocked. When I was in Iran Facebook and Snapchat were blocked but by using a VPN I was able to use those apps everyday just like I would at home. Everyone in Iran with a smartphone uses a VPN which makes blocking those social networks a little ridiculous. The point is you can do it to when a country you are visiting restricts social media. This has happened in many countries around the world such as China, Myanmar, and Turkey to name a few.
You don’t want to be blocked out from your social channels so download a VPN.
Accessing Banking or PayPal Abroad
Your bank knows your login habits just like it knows your spending habits. When you login from a new country and have a new IP address (your location) your banking site will recognize this. It may lock you out of your account if it sees you logging in abroad.
By using a VPN you will be able to spoof your location and convince your bank you are logging in from home. Using PayPal aboard is always a challenge but by using a VPN I am able to avoid those issues and access my funds.
Where to Download a VPN
I have used dozens of VPNs over the years and they are not all created equal. Use PureVPN to safe when you are traveling and accessing secure information.
PureVPN operates a self-managed VPN network that currently stands at over 500 Servers in 141 Countries. PureVPN is fast, reliable, very reasonably priced and the best VPN for travelers.
I am currently using it to protect my computer while traveling through Australia and highly recommend you download a VPN before your next trip.
