Snowbirds: 5 Essential Reasons Why You Need a VPN for Travel

When you travel abroad, you probably take your smartphone, tablet, or laptop with you, but have you ever considered the importance of your online security?

Just like you protect your skin from the sun with sunscreen, you want to make sure to protect your personal data while travelling. That's where a VPN (Virtual Private Network) comes in—your new best buddy for browsing the web with peace of mind, no matter where you are in the world.

What is a VPN?

A VPN is a service that provides secure, private internet access. Think about your internet connection as a highway where your information, like your car, is visible to everyone. With a VPN, you can use a private tunnel on this highway, making your car invisible to others.

Simply put, every electronic device has an IP address, similar to your home address. Without a VPN, it's like putting your full address on a billboard for everyone to see. But with a VPN, it's like having a secure P.O. box to receive your mail and protect your real address.

How does a VPN work?

A VPN creates a safe and secure environment when browsing online, regardless of where you are. It encrypts your data, making it unreadable to anyone trying to intercept it, which is a key reason why you need a VPN when you travel. In other words, if someone manages to get their hands on your information, all they’ll see is a jumble of incomprehensible code.

Why use a VPN when you're travelling?

1. Protect your personal data

By using a VPN, you put a security wall around your information. While you’re abroad, you might have to check your bank account or send an important email. Having a VPN will ensure your data stays in good hands, yours. 

2. Watch your favourite Canadian shows and sports

Can’t imagine missing an episode of The Amazing Race Canada or Sullivan’s Crossing? A VPN lets you connect to a Canadian server, tricking streaming services like Crave, CTV or Netflix into thinking you're still back home.

If you’re a big hockey fan and you want to watch every single game of the Playoffs, you’ll be able to stream your favourite sports live as if you were still home.

3. Access websites and social media platforms that are blocked in certain parts of the world

Imagine a world without Facebook, Instagram, or your daily news feed. In some countries, like China, popular platforms like Facebook and Instagram are completely inaccessible without a VPN. Using a VPN opens the doors to social media and other blocked sites, so you can keep sharing your sunny adventures and make your friends and family jealous of your warm winter.

You should also know that some governments impose restrictions or censorship on websites, making it difficult to access certain information or services. For example, popular messaging services like WhatsApp and Skype are blocked in many Middle Eastern countries. In Russia, independent news sites are often censored. And if you're travelling to Turkey, you might find Wikipedia inaccessible. 

These restrictions can be bypassed with a VPN, so you can access these sites and services wherever you are.

4. Use public Wi-Fi safely

Free Wi-Fi is like finding gold when you're travelling. Unfortunately, these public networks that you find in airports, cafes, or your hotel are a playground for hackers. A VPN encrypts your connection and lets you surf safely, even on these public networks.

Here are a few more tips for using public Wi-Fi safely:

• Disable file sharing: Ensure your device doesn't automatically share files when connecting to a public network.
• Use secure websites: Check that the websites you visit use HTTPS, which indicates that the connection is secure.
• Keep your devices updated: Make sure that your software and operating systems are up-to-date, as updates often include security patches.

5. Find travel deals

You might be surprised to learn that flight, rental car, and hotel prices can vary depending on your location. You can find much better deals by using a VPN to change your IP address.

To maximize your savings, compare prices by simulating connections from different countries. This will allow you to see where the rates are lowest. With a bit of strategic online shopping, you'll have substantial savings that you can reinvest to make your trip even more enjoyable.

How to use a VPN?

Using a VPN is very easy. Here's what you need to do:

1. Download the VPN app of your choice on your smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
2. Sign up for the service, which usually costs a few dollars per month (around $6 per month if you opt for an annual plan).
3. Select the network of your home country (for example, Canada).
4. Browse safely with your VPN.

Best VPNs (and most recommended)

Wondering which VPN to choose? Here are two of the most popular and reliable:

NordVPN: Fast connection, easy to use, and excellent customer service.

ExpressVPN: Maximum security, a wide choice of servers, and super intuitive.

Protect your data and your health while travelling

Even if the VPN protects your data, taking a few extra precautions is always good. When you're abroad, disable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on your electronic devices when you're not using them. Fewer open doors, fewer chances of intrusion.

Since you're taking precautions with your devices, do the same with your health. Don't forget to get travel insurance before you leave! Get a quick quote with soNomad!

You'll be covered in case of a medical emergency while staying connected securely with your VPN on your electronic devices.