10 Best VPNs for Traveling Safely On Public Wi-Fi

Using public Wi-Fi while traveling can put your data at serious risk. A reliable travel VPN is the easiest way to protect your privacy, ensure public Wi-Fi safety, and enjoy secure browsing abroad. But which one should you trust? Here are VPNs that stand out for travelers.

ExpressVPN – Fast, Reliable, And Works Everywhere

ExpressVPN stands out for its speed and consistent performance. It has over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, so you’re covered pretty much anywhere. Whether you’re streaming content, checking bank accounts, or just browsing maps, it stays fast.

It uses AES 256-bit encryption, has a strict no-logs policy, and even offers a kill switch in case the VPN connection drops. Its apps are user-friendly and available on nearly every platform—Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux.

If you're serious about public Wi-Fi safety while traveling, this one’s a top pick.

NordVPN – Known For Strong Security Features

NordVPN is another strong contender for travel VPN needs. It's CyberSec feature blocks malware and annoying ads, while the Double VPN routes your traffic through two servers for extra privacy.

It has over 5,000 servers in 60+ countries and provides solid connection speeds. Plus, it offers obfuscated servers that can help you stay connected even in countries with VPN restrictions.

This is a great choice for travelers heading to destinations with strict internet rules.

Surfshark – Best For Unlimited Devices

If you’re traveling with a lot of tech—maybe a laptop, tablet, and phone—Surfshark is worth a look. One subscription covers unlimited devices, which is rare.

It comes with CleanWeb for ad and malware blocking, a kill switch, and a MultiHop feature that sends your data through multiple countries for extra protection. It's lightweight and fast, which makes it ideal for mobile use on spotty hotel Wi-Fi.

It’s one of the most budget-friendly travel VPN options, especially for families or digital nomads.

Cyberghost – User-Friendly With Specialized Servers

CyberGhost is known for being very beginner-friendly. It offers dedicated servers for streaming, torrenting, and gaming. For travelers, that means less guesswork when connecting.

It has more than 9,000 servers in over 90 countries, giving you a wide net to stay safe no matter where you go. It also clearly shows server load, so you know what’s running smoothly before you connect.

If ease of use and visual dashboards appeal to you, this VPN is worth checking out.

Protonvpn – From The Makers Of Protonmail

ProtonVPN is designed with privacy in mind. Based in Switzerland, it benefits from strong privacy laws. Unlike many free VPNs, ProtonVPN offers a truly free version with no data limits, although the speeds are lower than those of the paid plans.

Its Secure Core feature routes your traffic through high-security servers before it reaches the public internet, offering an extra layer of protection.

This is a good choice for travelers who prioritize privacy above all else.

Private Internet Access – Massive Server Network

With more than 35,000 servers in 80+ countries, Private Internet Access (PIA) offers one of the largest server networks. That means less congestion and better speeds for you.

Its apps are open-source and customizable. You can choose between different encryption levels and protocols. For travelers who want to fine-tune their setup, PIA offers flexibility.

It also works well with streaming platforms, making it useful for watching shows during downtime on your trip.

Atlas VPN – Simple, Fast, And Great For Beginners

If you’re just starting to explore VPNs and want something simple but effective, Atlas VPN is a good entry point. It’s fast, with no-frills features like a kill switch, SafeSwap servers, and a basic ad blocker.

Atlas VPN supports unlimited devices and has decent coverage across major travel destinations. While it’s not as feature-heavy as some others, it’s good enough to secure your browsing on public Wi-Fi without overwhelming you.

VyprVPN – Designed For Tougher Internet Environments

VyprVPN is built to perform in countries where internet access is restricted or monitored. It's Chameleon protocol scrambles your traffic to avoid detection, making it a solid pick for places where VPNs are often blocked.

It owns its entire server infrastructure, rather than renting, which adds an extra layer of reliability and control. If your travels take you through regions with strict digital laws, VyprVPN keeps you covered.

Windscribe – Generous Free Tier For Casual Users

If you just need a VPN occasionally during your trip—for example, to log into your bank account securely—Windscribe offers a generous free version with 10GB of data per month.

The interface is simple, the speeds are decent, and it includes a built-in ad blocker. The Pro version unlocks full server access across 60+ countries.

For budget-conscious travelers who don’t need a VPN all the time, Windscribe is worth trying.

Tunnelbear – Travel-Friendly With A Fun Interface

TunnelBear keeps things light with a friendly, cartoon-style interface—but make no mistake, it’s serious about security. It uses strong encryption, has a strict no-logs policy, and its servers are located in 45+ countries.

It’s especially good for those who want something quick and painless to set up while traveling. The free version gives 500MB of data per month—enough for checking email or quick tasks on a secure connection.

Perfect for short trips or occasional browsing needs.

How To Choose The Right Travel VPN For You

Still not sure which one fits you best? Start by asking yourself:

• How many devices will I be using?
• Do I need a VPN that works in countries with internet restrictions?
• Will I be streaming or working online frequently?
• Do I want a free option or a full-featured paid plan?

If you’re always online, go for ExpressVPN or NordVPN for speed and global access. For casual users or short trips, free versions from Windscribe or ProtonVPN might be enough. Families or digital nomads can benefit from Surfshark’s unlimited device policy.

Final Word On Staying Safe With Public Wi-Fi

Whether you’re checking your email in a hotel lobby or using maps in a foreign city, a VPN adds a strong layer of protection against hackers and snoops. The best travel VPNs are fast, secure, and easy to use—making them a smart travel companion. With the right one, you’ll enjoy public Wi-Fi safety and secure browsing abroad, no matter where your passport takes you next.