Use a VPN While Traveling: Protect Your Privacy Use Cases

If you travel abroad or are planning to, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is crucial to protecting your privacy. This applies to almost all processes related to the Internet: from gaining access to a bank account to watching the latest episode of your favorite TV series. Using a VPN while traveling in Colorado's small towns or anywhere else offers numerous significant advantages, which you can experience firsthand right now.

What is a VPN, And How Does a VPN Work?

You're probably wondering what exactly a VPN is. Let's break it down.

First, a Virtual Private Network is a private network, meaning it's not publicly accessible like your home, office, or local coffee shop Wi-Fi.

Second, it's virtual. You connect using an app or software, not by physically plugging in any hardware.

Once connected, your computer gets a new online identity. Even if you're in Telluride, Colorado, a VPN can make your computer appear as if it's in Boston or Barcelona.

A VPN connection encrypts your data and masks your location and IP address. You can even hide your browsing history from your service provider. This makes your online activity very difficult to hack or track.

A VPN is a service that offers:

• Private and secure internet access.
• Encryption of all your online data, ensuring no one can intercept your communications. This protects your usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, browser cookies, and other identifying information from being stolen.
• The ability for travelers to access the Internet as if they were in their home country, or any other country you choose to appear in.

Benefits of VPN for Traveling

For ease of understanding, a VPN can be perceived as a tunnel that you yourself lay on the World Wide Web. If it is beneficial for you, you can quickly change this tunnel. At the same time, no one from the outside can intrude into it. More precisely, it is possible to intercept data, but it is encrypted, and the data is useless. It is a means of anonymization, protection, and bypassing location-based restrictions in one bottle.

1. Opportunity to Save

Using a VPN can help you find cheaper flights and travel deals. Airlines and travel companies often adjust their prices based on your location. For instance, someone searching from California might see higher prices compared to someone searching from Bali. Generally, prices tend to be lower when you're searching within the country rather than from abroad.

A VPN changes your IP address, and you can use this to your advantage. Simply connect to the correct server, and you'll be able to view different prices. If you're looking for information on how to use a VPN, start here: You can read about VPNs for beginners at VeePN and find the right tool there. To potentially score better travel deals, consider using a VPN to change your location and compare prices.

2. Access Blocked Websites

Certain countries block websites like Facebook, YouTube, and news outlets due to government censorship. This is common in some Asian countries, such as China, Burma, Vietnam, and Thailand. By using a VPN, you can choose a country where the website is accessible and easily view the content.

Similarly, Voice over Protocol services like Skype, FaceTime, and WhatsApp are blocked in the UAE and Qatar. Users in these areas need a VPN to access VoIP services.

3. Protecting Your Digital Footprint and Online Identity

Before you head off on your next adventure, you probably secure your suitcases and keep your passport safe. But what about your digital belongings? Identity theft can be devastating, and travelers are often targeted. Using a VPN while traveling adds an essential layer of protection against identity theft.

4. Safe Use of Public Wi-Fi

Whenever I stop at a cafe or hotel, the first thing I do is connect to the Wi-Fi to save my data. But using public networks can expose you to security risks. Although free Wi-Fi is convenient and widely available, it doesn't necessarily mean it's safe.

Public networks without passwords often lack encryption, making it easy for hackers to access and steal your data. This is where a VPN comes in handy. With a VPN, you can ensure your data is encrypted and you're never vulnerable on public Wi-Fi.

5. Prevent Frozen Bank Accounts

Getting your bank account frozen while overseas is a traveler's worst nightmare. Being thousands of miles away and unable to access your money is definitely not ideal. Here’s how to avoid it:

If you're doing any online banking on your phone or laptop, use a VPN. Logging in from a foreign location, like the Philippines when you're usually based in Denver, can trigger your bank's security and freeze your account. Using a VPN can help you avoid this by masking your location.

Before you leave, notify your bank of your travel plans. Provide them with the locations and dates of your travels. This way, they can note your account and prevent any unexpected freezes.

6. Safeguard Your Privacy

Even with a private network, your online actions can still be monitored. A VPN helps you hide your activity and protect your privacy. With your VPN on, you can browse the internet securely and anonymously.

7. Secure Your Remote Working

Whether you're a digital nomad or just trying to disconnect, there are times when you need to check in with work. Accessing corporate networks from abroad can lead to serious data breaches.

Hackers need only one weak link to infiltrate corporate systems. Even if you're checking your work emails, it's crucial to secure your connection with a VPN.

A VPN is Essential for Travelers

A reliable VPN is essential for any traveler. It's an affordable way to ensure online protection. A VPN offers numerous benefits while traveling, making it a worthwhile investment with a reputable provider.