As NFL fans gear up for the NFL International Games in Europe in the latter half of the year, thousands of die-hard fans are preparing for an exciting travel experience. From booking flights to packing to packing jerseys, there is one essential travel item that should not be overlooked: a mobile VPN.

Just like you wouldn’t dream of leaving your toothbrush behind, a mobile VPN should be as essential to your travel kit as that minty-fresh cleaning tool. Public WiFi networks are often unsecured, a mobile VPM is your digital bodyguard, shielding your sensitive information from the unsavory characters lurking on these WiFi networks, ready to steal your personal data.

What Is a VPN?
A VPN is short for a Virtual Private Network, which is basically like having a secret agent protecting your internet connection and keeping your online activities under wraps. VPNs secure your internet connection while keeping your online activities private. It creates a secure pathway for your data, masks your IP address to protect your identity, and allows you to safely use Public WiFi networks.

Mobile VPNs stay connected to the network at all times, so your apps will work even when you change networks or devices. Mobile VPNs are made specifically for mobile devices and networks, providing a seamless and secure connection in various environments, such as large stadiums where the NFL games will take place or public spaces, where the games will be broadcasted.

How It Works
A mobile VPN works by routing your mobile device’s internet connection through a VPN server. This encrypts and secures your data as it travels over the internet. The process begins with your mobile device connecting to the internet using a cellular network or WiFi and then running the provider’s VPN software that establishes a secure connection to a VPN server. Tech and SaaS expert from Techopedia, Nick Saraev says that most VPN providers tested and reviewed by Techopedia ensure their apps are compatible with Android and iOS devices, which is why he recommends using a provider that is highly flexible and works well with many different devices.

These VPN providers will encrypt your device’s internet traffic, ensuring that all the data transmitted remains secure and private. The encrypted data is then routed through the provider’s VPN server, which decrypts the data and forwards it to its intended destination on the internet.

Why Is A Mobile VPN a Travel Essential?
A mobile VPN can best be described as the MVP of your travel kit. It is the insurance policy that will keep your digital data secure and your content accessible no matter which end zone you find yourself in.

● Security on Public WiFi: Imagine you’ve just settled in your seat at a stadium and you realize you forgot to check the injury report and your device alerts you to free public WiFi. These public networks are often unsecured as a quarterback without his offensive line. Hackers and threat actors lurk on these public networks, ready to intercept your data and steal your information, like passwords and credit card information. A mobile VPN ensures your online traffic is invisible to them.

● Access to geo-restricted content: Having a mobile VPN can ensure you have access to content that is restricted in your travel destination. It allows you to stream geo-restricted shows and movies, allowing you to catch the highlights from sports matches from home you have missed abroad.

● Protecting sensitive information: A mobile VPN will ensure your personal information and financial data remains secure, while you are on the go. Let’s say you use Apple Pay or Google Pay to pay for a meal abroad. If you are unprotected and without a VPN, your device will be compromised by malware, man-in-the-middle attacks, data breaches, and phishing attacks. In those few seconds you use your mobile device to pay for your meal, a hacker can have access to your information.

What Are the Benefits of Traveling With a Mobile VPN?

Traveling with a mobile VPN offers several benefits including:

Increased Security
Nothing is worse than being stranded in a foreign country, knowing your passport and credit cards are stolen from a pickpocket. Mobile VPNs encrypt your data, keeping your device safe from hackers like a pickpocket lurking on public WiFi networks. This will ensure that your financial information remains safe and secure even when using unsecured networks.

Improved Privacy
Mobile VPNs hide your IP addresses, preventing third parties from monitoring your online activities. This ensures that your browsing history and personal data are anonymous and private.

Access Restricted Content
By changing your IP address, a mobile VPN allows you to access content that could be blocked in your current location. This includes streaming services, social media platforms, and any websites that are restricted by geographical limitations.

Access Unblocked Websites
Certain countries may have stricter internet censorship. With a VPN, you can bypass these restrictions and access the blocked website or service.

Better Connection Speeds
Mobile VPNs can provide better connection speeds since they are often optimized for servers that are designed to handle mobile traffic. Since VPN providers have servers located in various regions, they can reduce latency and improve connection speeds by providing a closer connection to you.

Cheaper Travel Deals
Changing your IP address using a mobile VPN, could potentially give you access to travel deals at a discount available in other regions. This will ensure you get the best prices for your traveling needs.

Mobile VPN Features to Consider When Traveling

● Compatibility with travel devices: Make sure that your VPN is compatible with each device you plan to use while traveling, like your smartphone, tablets, laptops, and even travel routers. This will ensure seamless connectivity no matter which device you are using.

● Split tunneling: Look for a VPN provider that offers split tunneling. This handy feature allows you to route specific apps or websites through a VPN while leaving the rest of your internet traffic encrypted. This can be exceptionally useful for accessing local content or services that may not work well with a VPN.

● Obfuscation capabilities: Some VPNs offer obfuscation features that can help bypass VPN blocks or restrictions in certain countries. It’s like lining up an unorthodox formation to confuse the defense when they think they have you figured out but your VPN is a disguise for your internet traffic, allowing you to pass down the sideline for a big gain. If you are traveling to a country with strict censorship rules, the obfuscation feature allows you to bypass restrictions.

● Dedicated IP addresses: Consider a VPN that has the option of a dedicated IP address. This can be very helpful for accessing services that may block shared VPN IP addresses.

● Multi-hop connections: Mobile VPNs with multi-hop or double VPN functionality can add that additional layer of security by routing your traffic through several VPN servers before reaching the internet.

● Offline functionality: Some mobile VPNs offer the ability to connect to the VPN server even if you do not have an active internet connection connection. This could be useful when traveling on trains or buses between cities where connectivity is limited.

The Bottom Line
Mobile VPNs are like bodyguards that ensure your online activities are hidden from prying eyes, and your sensitive data is safe and secure. It’s also a master key that unlocks restricted areas allowing you to stream content and browse social media that might be blocked in your travel destination. Your mobile VPN is a lifeline, ensuring you remain connected to the internet, even in areas with data limitations or spotty connections. Don’t travel without your mobile VPN, it’ll keep you safe, connected, and secure.