When you travel abroad, it can be frustrating to find the content you regularly enjoy blocked. Geo-restrictions can cut you off from the comforts of home. This sense of isolation is the last thing you need when navigating unfamiliar surroundings.

However, a virtual private network (VPN) can provide a secure way to stay connected to the content that matters most to you.

What Are Geo-Restrictions?

Geo-restrictions are technological measures that limit access based on location. They typically work by checking your IP address. An IP address is a code specific to your network that includes information about your location.

Popular streaming platforms like Netflix sign licensing agreements for the content they provide. These often limit distribution to specific regions, so streaming services must use geo-restrictions to remain compliant.

Certain news websites, such as BBC News, are inaccessible to some countries for similar reasons.

How Can a VPN Help?

A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a server in another location. It’s possible to connect to an online VPN server in your home country. Your internet traffic then appears to originate there instead of your location abroad. It allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and view content as you normally would.

How to Choose the Right VPN

Your chosen VPN should have a large number of servers in your home country. With more options available, servers are less likely to be overloaded with users. It will also be easier for you to find alternatives if one goes down or is blacklisted.

If your connection speed is insufficient, you may experience buffering, lag, or low video quality. So, if you want smooth streaming, search for an online VPN service with a fast connection.

It’s also wise to ensure your chosen provider has good customer support. You may encounter unexpected technical issues with your VPN while abroad. A good customer service team can help you resolve them, ensuring you maintain secure access to your home content.

Enjoy Security and Freedom With a VPN

VPNs are best known as security and privacy tools. But they’re also a powerful way to gain the freedom to use the internet as you would at home. With this special combination of benefits, there’s no doubt that a VPN is an essential tool for travelling.