EXPRESSVPN REVIEW: IS IT WORTH IT FOR TRAVEL ABROAD IN 2024?

Have you been wondering if you should use ExpressVPN for travel? I’ll let you know all the details, including tips for using VPN abroad!

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It’s great to have an “unplugged” vacation every now and then. But more than likely, your cell phone, tablet, or laptop is traveling with you.

Especially if you’re blessed with a remote job that allows you to work anywhere in the world – you’re bringing along your devices.

Whether you’re traveling for work or play, you should consider a VPN.

The one we always rely on is ExpressVPN – if you already know the basics of VPNs, scroll to the bottom for our full ExpressVPN review!

Ready to get your 3 months free? >> ExpressVPN

A VPN is a virtual private network. It essentially makes a public internet connection more private and safe.

When you typically think about travel safety, what comes to mind?

Are there any violent crimes?
How do I protect myself from pickpockets?
What travel insurance do I need?

These are all common safety questions, but don’t forget about your cybersecurity!

This is a biggie. And it’s commonly overlooked.

So let’s get right into a few things you should consider regarding using a VPN for travel while abroad!

Protect Your Online Identity and Data

One of the most prevalent cybersecurity threats for tourists is free Wi-Fi.

Free Wi-Fi networks in hotels, cafés, and airports can be targets for attackers due to the large number of people who connect to them.

Some places don’t secure their Wi-Fi networks, which can make it easier for hackers to access the router and spread malware to your devices.

When you connect to ExpressVPN servers, your internet traffic is encrypted. This is a great way to protect yourself from hackers.

You should always examine the Wi-Fi network’s name to be sure you aren’t connecting to a false network that has a name similar to the WiFi you intend to connect to.

For example, look out for a Wi-Fi network called “HiltonHoonors” instead of “HiltonHonors.”

Anyone who is on the same internet connection as you abroad can have more access to your information than they should if your device gets infected with malware.

Your bank information, your usernames, and even your passwords may not be safe if there’s malware compromising your device.

Using a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks is a simple method to prevent outsiders from hacking your device with malware.

No matter where you are, you can protect your internet connection with ExpressVPN.

Regardless of if you have a VPN, or not, when you visit websites, it’s important to make sure the website, itself, is secure too. Secure sites start with “https” – that “s” on the end lets you know you’re secure in any case.

Access Blocked Content Responsibly

If you’re in a country that blocks certain sites that you’d like to access, you can get around this by using a VPN.

ExpressVPN can give you access to geo-restricted websites, services, and content that are blocked in your current location.

Some countries have high government censorship and block websites and services such as Youtube, Netflix, or Facetime.

This was our experience when we traveled to China and Cuba. Both of these countries have high cyber censorship.

You can use ExpressVPN to change your location settings. This way, you’ll be able to access the restricted website.

Watch all the Netflix your heart desires! Just be sure to download the VPN BEFORE you arrive.

The RESTRICT act has been floating around in recent news. This is something to pay attention to as it develops in the United States.

The RESTRICT act proposes to reduce threats to national security in the US.

It allows the US government to stop specific foreign governments from abusing technology services that operate in the US if they pose risk to national security and sensitive data.

This bill applies to technology with connections to a “foreign adversary”.

Currently there are six countries with this designation: China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, and Venezuela.

There’s potential for VPNs to be banned if they are manufactured by or used to contact and deal with these “foreign adversaries.”

Of note, ExpressVPN is manufactured by the United Kingdom.

In order to be charged under the RESTRICT act, someone must be using technology and engaging in acts that are harmful to the American government.

For example, altering the result of a federal election would be harmful to the American government.

But, there’s also been concern circulating around an individual being punished for using a VPN to access TikTok in the United States, if the U.S. ends up banning the app.

The RESTRICT act is currently said to be directed at large companies that use technology to threaten American security and safety, rather than individual citizens.

But we’ll be keeping an eye out for how this all develops, and how it could impact the use of VPNs.

Use VPNs responsibly to protect yourself, but do not engage in illegal activities.

Save Money on Flights and Accommodations

It’s worth experimenting with other locations on your VPN. Booking sites can calculate different travel prices based on your location.

A VPN can help you save money on flights and accommodations by masking your location and allowing you to take advantage of lower prices in other countries.

CHEW TIP: See if you can find a better flight offer by setting your VPN to another country!

You can use ExpressVPN for booking inexpensive flights since it alters your IP address (this is what identifies and locates your device.)

The VPN routes your browser activity through a different server. Using a VPN to purchase airline tickets can help you save a ton of money.

How to Use a VPN

So now we know why using a VPN for travel can be useful. But how do we actually use it?

Simply download and install a VPN program, then launch it once you’re online.

After selecting the server you want to use, all of your data will begin to transit across the virtual network encrypted.

Here’s a few things to keep in mind when using a VPN:

Make sure it’s connected and stays connected throughout your internet session.
It may be beneficial to not select an alternate country than the one you are in since when you have a closer connection, you will experience better speeds.
If the internet you’re on is already slow to begin with, your VPN may not connect at all.
Your site speed will only be as fast as the VPN you connect to.

Why ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN is a solid choice for travelers who want to protect themselves from malware on their devices while abroad.

Here are some reasons why we enjoy using this VPN:

Privacy Protection: Registered in the British Virgin Islands, with stricter information disclosure laws.
Secure Browsing: Helps maintain online privacy and prevent data retention and malware.
Global Coverage: Servers in over 105 countries for faster speeds and reliable connections.
24/7 Support: Convenient online chat support available around the clock.
Risk-Free Trial: 30-day money-back guarantee and three extra months free.

See the World, Save a Dollar!

Where ever your travels take you, you can feel more confident that your devices won’t get hacked when using ExpressVPN.