Do I need a VPN for international travel? Why the answer isn’t always yes

Why you don’t always need a VPN when traveling

Saily and NordVPN are both part of Nord Security, so we know a thing or two about the benefits of VPN technology. We also recognize that a traditional VPN isn’t always the most practical option for travelers. While it can help protect your privacy, especially when using public Wi-Fi, you may not need a separate VPN app to stay safer online.

For example, Saily is a travel eSIM service that offers more than mobile data. Its built-in security features include an ad blocker, web protection, and a virtual location. These tools can help reduce certain online threats and let you change your virtual location without installing a separate VPN app.

Of course, the ability to change your virtual location alone isn’t the same as a full VPN, and a VPN can still be useful, especially if you’re concerned about public Wi-Fi risks. If you want both, Saily Ultra includes NordVPN alongside your travel data plan.

Travel VPN alternative — an eSIM with security features and a virtual location

If you primarily use mobile data while traveling, a Saily eSIM may give you the privacy features you need without a separate VPN subscription. Unlike most travel eSIM providers, Saily includes built-in security tools with every data plan. Read our guide to learn how Saily differs from other eSIM apps.

Saily offers three main security features:

• An ad blocker blocks many intrusive ads and trackers before they load. This can make browsing smoother and help reduce data usage.

• Web protection uses DNS filtering to help block known malicious websites and phishing domains, reducing your exposure to certain online threats.

• A virtual location routes your data through a remote server, making it seem as if you’re browsing from another country. You can choose from more than 115 virtual locations.

The virtual location is particularly useful for international travel. It can help you to enjoy your paid home content while you travel and compare prices for flights, hotels, and other purchases across different regions. However, access to paid home content while you travel isn’t guaranteed because individual services may detect location changes or enforce regional restrictions.

Saily’s virtual location feature is available in many destinations. Keep in mind that some countries, including China, restrict unauthorized VPN services, and connectivity can be unpredictable — check local rules before you travel. If you’re planning to use a Saily eSIM for China, set it up and choose your settings before you arrive because access to the Saily app may be limited locally.

Please note that using NordVPN to bypass any regulatory or judicial measures, or for any other illegal activities is strictly prohibited and violates our Terms of Service. Make sure you use NordVPN in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, as well as the terms of any websites or services you access using NordVPN.

A Saily eSIM vs. a VPN: What’s the difference?

Although Saily offers some VPN-like benefits, it doesn’t replace every function of a traditional VPN. The main differences are how they handle your connection and where they provide protection.

The information in this comparison was last verified on October 10. 2026. It is based on publicly available information from the official websites of the compared providers. This comparison is not exhaustive, and the information used may change at any time. Before making a purchase decision, review each product's official website, terms, and any other relevant information.

Saily and NordVPN are not endorsed by, sponsored by, affiliated with, or associated in any way with the other providers mentioned.

When might Saily not be enough?

You may still be asking yourself if you always need a VPN when using a travel eSIM. The answer is no, not necessarily. For everyday browsing over cellular data, Saily offers a convenient way to get mobile connectivity, additional security features, and virtual location options in one app. 

That said, Saily’s built-in security features work over its cellular data connection. The difference comes down to where the protection sits. Saily’s features work at the level of your mobile data connection, so they apply to traffic going through your Saily plan. A standalone VPN runs as an app on your device and covers whatever network you’re on — cellular, hotel Wi-Fi, a friend’s router — with controls like choosing a specific server, switching protocols, or a kill switch that cuts your connection if the VPN drops. If you frequently connect to hotel or airport Wi-Fi, need encrypted access to work resources, or want VPN protection over different networks, a standalone VPN may be a better choice.

Why use a VPN when traveling?

You might not need a VPN for international travel, but there are situations where the extra privacy and security are worth having. Consider using a VPN for travel if you:

• Frequently use public Wi-Fi. A VPN can add a layer of protection when you connect to hotel, airport, or café Wi-Fi by encrypting your internet traffic. Saily’s eSIM security features only work over its cellular data connection, so they won’t protect your Wi-Fi traffic.

• Travel to countries with heavy internet restrictions. Where governments limit access to news sites and communication tools, a VPN may help you stay in touch and informed. Some countries block or regulate VPN use, so check local laws before you travel.

• Need access to home-country services. A VPN may help you enjoy your paid home content while you travel and access other services such as banking websites. Access isn’t always guaranteed, however, and some banks may block VPN connections.

• Work remotely while traveling. Check your company’s security policies before traveling abroad — your employer may require a VPN to access company networks, internal systems, or sensitive business information.

If none of these situations apply, Saily’s built-in security and virtual location features may be enough for your everyday browsing needs.

Travel VPNs we’d recommend

If you’ve decided to use a VPN for international travel, choosing the right one comes down to a few key factors. Look for a VPN that offers:

• Fast connection speeds. A good VPN should let you browse, stream, and make video calls without noticeably slowing your connection.

• Affordable pricing. Compare subscription costs, especially if you only need a VPN for a short trip. Some providers offer monthly plans, while others require longer commitments for the best rates.

• Wide server coverage. A large selection of server locations gives you more options for changing your virtual location and accessing content abroad.

• Reliable customer support. Look for providers offering 24/7 assistance, particularly if you tend to run into connection problems while traveling.

The best VPN for travel will depend on your destination, budget, and how you plan to use it. For example, someone working remotely might prioritize security and reliability, while those traveling for recreation might care more about reaching their home streaming subscriptions, speed, or price.

A note on how we picked: Saily and NordVPN are both part of Nord Security, so NordVPN is our own product. The recommendations below are our editorial view, not an independent ranking or test result. Saily and NordVPN are not endorsed by, sponsored by, affiliated with, or associated in any way with the other providers mentioned.

NordVPN

NordVPN is our top choice for international travel, particularly if you want reliable performance across different countries. Its NordLynx protocol (NordVPN’s proprietary implementation of the WireGuard® protocol) helps maintain fast connection speeds, and independent audits have examined how it handles user activity data.

Security is also worth considering when comparing paid and free VPNs. While a reputable free VPN can provide basic protection, some free services have limited server options, slower speeds, or questionable privacy practices. NordVPN doesn’t offer a permanently free plan. First-time subscriptions come with a 30-day money-back guarantee — if it isn’t the right fit, you can contact support to request a refund within 30 days.

NordVPN pros:

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  Fast connection speeds with the NordLynx protocol

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  Extensive global server network

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  Strong encryption and an independently audited no-logs policy

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  Additional security tools, including a kill switch that blocks internet access if your VPN connection unexpectedly drops

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  24/7 customer support

NordVPN cons:

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  No permanently free VPN plan

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  Monthly subscriptions can be relatively expensive

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  Some streaming services and countries restrict VPN connections

For a closer look at its features and performance, read our full NordVPN review.

Get NordVPN with Saily Ultra

If you’re looking for an eSIM with VPN protection, the Saily Ultra plan includes a NordVPN subscription as part of the plan.

Saily Ultra currently offers three tiers:

• Standard (US$39.99/month) includes 10 GB of high-speed data.

• Plus (US$59.99/month) includes 30 GB of high-speed data, followed by unlimited data at up to 1 Mbps.

• Premium (US$69.99/month) includes 30 GB of high-speed data, unlimited slower data, and a US phone number with calling and texting allowances.

All three tiers cover 121 destinations and include NordVPN, NordPass, NordLocker, and Incogni. You also get airport lounge access, fast-track benefits, priority support, and 8% cashback in Saily credits. Quarterly and annual subscriptions offer lower monthly rates.

Looking for an eSIM with VPN protection?

Enjoy an all-in-one Global eSIM plan with airport lounge access, fast-track service, and online protection!

Get Saily Ultra

Surfshark

If you want to cover several devices on one subscription, Surfshark is worth a look. 

One of Surfshark’s biggest advantages is its unlimited simultaneous connections. You can use the same subscription on your phone, laptop, tablet, and other devices. It also includes AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and CleanWeb, which blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites.

Surfshark offers several subscription tiers, with its lowest prices available on longer plans. There’s no permanently free version, but eligible new users can try it with a seven-day free trial. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Surfshark pros:

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  Affordable long-term subscription plans

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  Unlimited simultaneous device connections

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  Fast speeds suitable for streaming and browsing

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  Built-in ad and tracker blocking

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  24/7 customer support

Surfshark cons:

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  Monthly plans cost considerably more than long-term subscriptions

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  The lowest advertised prices require a longer commitment

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  Streaming access can vary by platform and location

Proton VPN

Proton VPN is worth considering if budget is your main constraint. Its free tier doesn’t impose data limits or display ads. Its free plan also includes strong encryption and a kill switch to help protect your connection on public Wi-Fi.

The free version lets you connect one device at a time, with servers in 10 countries selected automatically. That makes it useful for basic browsing and privacy protection, although it’s less flexible if you need a specific virtual location.

Proton VPN also offers paid plans with faster connections, more server locations, streaming support, and additional security features. Its premium VPN Plus plan supports up to 10 simultaneous device connections.

Proton VPN pros:

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  Permanently free plan with unlimited data

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  No ads or activity logging, even on the free tier

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  Strong encryption and an independently audited no-logs policy

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  Useful privacy features, including a kill switch

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  Extensive server coverage and streaming support on the paid plans

Proton VPN cons:

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  Support for only one device at a time on the free plan

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  Limited server selection on the free tier

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  No free choice of server country with the free plan

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  Streaming support and advanced features only on a paid subscription

The information in this comparison was last verified on October 29. 2026. It is based on publicly available information from the official websites of the compared providers. This comparison is not exhaustive, and the information used may change at any time. Before making a purchase decision, review each product's official website, terms, and any other relevant information.

Saily and NordVPN are not endorsed by, sponsored by, affiliated with, or associated in any way with the other providers mentioned.

Cybersecurity tips for safe traveling

A VPN can help protect your privacy abroad, but it’s only one part of staying safe online. As part of Nord Security, the cybersecurity company behind NordVPN, we recommend taking a few additional precautions to protect your devices and personal information while traveling:

• Use a password manager. A password manager like NordPass helps you create and store strong, unique passwords without having to remember them all.

• Avoid unsecured public Wi-Fi. Use your mobile data connection when possible, especially for banking or accessing sensitive accounts. If you need public Wi-Fi, verify the network name and consider using a VPN.

• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA). Add an extra layer of protection to important accounts, such as your email, banking apps, and social media.

• Keep your devices updated. Install operating system and app updates before traveling to protect against known security vulnerabilities.

• Watch out for phishing scams. Scams targeting travelers often impersonate airlines, hotels, and booking services. Watch out for emails, texts, or QR codes that ask you to click links or provide personal information. 

• Turn off automatic Wi-Fi connections. Disable auto-join for unfamiliar networks to prevent your device from connecting to potentially malicious hotspots.

• Set up your VPN before leaving. If you’re traveling somewhere with internet restrictions, download your VPN app, sign in, and test your connection before departure. VPN websites and app downloads may be blocked at your destination.

Staying safe online doesn’t have to mean installing several different security apps. A travel eSIM with built-in protection, strong passwords, and a few smart browsing habits can go a long way.

For more ways to protect yourself and your belongings abroad, check out our travel safety tips and our guide Is public Wi-Fi safe?.

We do our best to keep everything accurate and up to date, but eSIM service provider prices, plans, and features can change quickly. If you spot something that seems outdated or incorrect, feel free to get in touch with us at [email protected] — we’d really appreciate the heads-up!