10 Signs You Need a VPN
Before Your Next Trip
Most travellers only realise they need a VPN after they land and can't connect. Don't be that person — check these signs before you fly.
You're travelling to China, Iran, Russia, or the UAE
These countries block major apps and websites at a national level. Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, and YouTube are all restricted. A VPN is essential — not optional. You must install it before you board, because VPN download sites are blocked inside these countries too.
VPN for China →You'll be using airport, hotel, or café Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks are unencrypted and easy to intercept. A hacker on the same network can capture your passwords, banking details, and private messages in minutes. A VPN encrypts all your traffic so nothing can be read — even on an open network.
Public Wi-Fi safety guide →You use WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Skype for calls
The UAE, Qatar, Oman, and several other countries block VoIP (internet calls). WhatsApp voice and video calls, FaceTime, and Skype simply don't work without a VPN routing your traffic through a country where they're allowed.
You want to keep watching Netflix on your trip
Netflix shows different content libraries in different countries. Your home library — with all your shows and movies — may not be available at your destination. A VPN lets you connect to a server in your home country and stream as normal. See our VPN for streaming guide for tips.
You're staying in an Airbnb or shared accommodation
You share a Wi-Fi network with strangers. Even without malicious intent, shared networks can expose your traffic to other devices. A VPN keeps your connection private, regardless of who else is on the same router.
You'll be doing online banking or shopping abroad
Banks sometimes flag logins from foreign IP addresses and lock your account. More importantly, doing financial transactions over unencrypted hotel Wi-Fi is genuinely risky. A VPN adds a layer of encryption and can make your connection appear to come from home.
You follow news sources that might be blocked at your destination
Many governments block international news outlets — the BBC, New York Times, and Reuters are restricted in some countries. A VPN bypasses these filters so you stay informed wherever you are.
You use Spotify or Apple Music and want your playlists
Streaming catalogues vary by country due to licensing. Some services are completely unavailable in certain regions. A VPN keeps your music and podcast libraries intact, exactly as you have them at home.
You're travelling for work and need to access company tools
Slack, Zoom, Google Workspace, and corporate VPNs can all be affected by country-level restrictions. Even if your company provides a VPN, having a personal backup VPN is smart — especially in high-restriction countries.
eSIM + VPN for business →You just value your privacy
Even in countries with open internet, your ISP can see every website you visit. Without a VPN, your browsing history is logged, and in many countries can be accessed by third parties. A VPN encrypts your connection end-to-end so only you know where you've been. See the VPN myths debunked for more on what a VPN can and can't do.
Learn how VPNs work →
If any of these apply to you — get a VPN now
Setup takes 10 minutes at home. You can't do it once you're inside a restricted country.
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