5 Benefits Of Using A VPN While Traveling

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The internet can be both a blessing and a curse.

Some people might even argue that the disadvantages outweigh the advantages.

Whether that is true or not, one thing is certain —the internet has come to stay.

It is your responsibility as a user to learn about online safety.

Phishing, spyware, ransomware, and all forms of cyber threats are on the rise.

Using a VPN is one of the ways you can protect yourself online, especially when traveling.

Using a VPN service offers numerous benefits, including security.

Online safety is only one side of the coin.

Physical safety is equally important.

So, you need to learn how to properly plan your trip and stay safe in a foreign country.

What Is A VPN?

VPN is an acronym for Virtual Private Network.

VPNs are primarily used for online privacy.

They encrypt your data as you browse the internet, ensuring no one can see what you do online.

Some VPN services also include basic protection against malware.

How Does A VPN Work?

When you browse without a VPN, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) connects directly to the internet.

This means that all the data you send or receive can be viewed and intercepted by third parties.

What a VPN does is that it redirects your traffic through a VPN server.

The VPN server changes your IP address to match whatever country it’s located in and also encrypts your data.

Why You Should Use A VPN While Traveling

Here is why a VPN is necessary while traveling:

1. Privacy Protection

Hackers are constantly looking for ways to steal people’s information.

It’s easier to compromise devices connected to public Wi-Fi.

Many countries have published safety precautions on how to use public Wi-Fi.

They warn against performing banking transactions over unsecured networks.

Travelers usually rely on public Wi-Fi in airports, hotels, and other places to stay connected, making them more vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

A VPN greatly reduces the risk of getting hacked while on a public network because of the secure encryption protocol in transmitting data.

2. Bypass Geo-Restrictions

Certain services are geo-restricted —people from certain countries can’t use them.

For example, websites like Hulu and HBO Go are only available in the U.S. The only way to continue using these services when you travel out is with a VPN.

The VPN will connect to a server in the U.S and “trick” these sites into believing you’re still in the country.

Government censorship is also another reason a VPN is necessary when traveling.

In countries like Russia and China, the government has blocked access to some websites they don’t want citizens to visit.

You can bypass these imposed restrictions by connecting to a VPN server in another country.

3. Avoid Getting Locked Out Of Your Accounts

For safety reasons, financial service providers often freeze accounts when they notice suspicious activity.

When you log into your online account with a different IP other than the one you usually use, it raises a red flag that can lead to you getting shut out of your account entirely and being asked to undergo a verification process.

To prevent this huge inconvenience, it is advisable to make use of VPNs.

Ensure that the VPN service you intend to use has a server located in your country that you can connect to.

That way, you can access your accounts from anywhere without getting booted out.

4. Access To Better Travel Deals

Prices of air tickets, car rentals, and hotels can vary depending on your location.

Some usually charge higher for people booking from outside the country.

However, with a VPN, you can change the location of your IP address and shop around to get the best deals.

The price difference might not be much, but if you travel frequently, this can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

One thing you should keep in mind is that this method won’t work all the time because some airlines and hospitality providers block access to their sites when you use a VPN.

5. Maintain Anonymity Online

We live in an age where companies constantly monitor individuals’ online activities and collect data.

Most of the time, this information is collected for marketing purposes.

Some unscrupulous ISPs even go as far as selling customers’ information to the highest bidder.

People in Europe don’t have to worry too much about their data being misused because the EU’s GDPR law protects them.

Unfortunately, non-EU residents do not enjoy the same benefit.

When traveling to countries that have little or no data protection laws, using a VPN will help you stay anonymous online.

Conclusion

A VPN reduces internet-related problems.

There are hundreds of VPN services available, each with its own merits and demerits.

Before making a choice, it is crucial to consider your primary purpose for getting a VPN and if the one you have in mind can serve that purpose.

If you live in Austria, you can check out a list of the best VPN services in the country by visiting https://vpnetic.com/vpn-austria/.