Best travel VPNs of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed
Expert testing reveals the top VPNs for security, streaming, and bypassing censorship abroad.
ZDNET has released its expert-tested guide to the best travel VPNs for 2026, a critical tool for professionals and travelers navigating public Wi-Fi risks and international internet restrictions. The comprehensive review, led by contributing writer Charlie Osborne, ranks NordVPN as the best travel VPN overall, praising its robust security and reliable performance. ExpressVPN takes the top spot for mobile users, Surfshark is highlighted as the best budget-friendly option, and Proton VPN is noted as the best free travel VPN available. The guide emphasizes that VPNs are no longer just privacy tools but are essential for accessing streaming services abroad and circumventing government-level website blocks.
Beyond the top picks, the guide details specialized alternatives for specific use cases. IPVanish is recommended for users needing unlimited simultaneous connections, while AstrillVPN is singled out as the best option for use in China, a country with notoriously strict internet controls. The testing methodology involves rigorous evaluation of security features, speed, server networks, and user experience to curate reliable recommendations. For professionals, this means having a vetted, performance-driven solution to protect sensitive work data on unsecured networks and maintain access to critical business and communication tools while traveling internationally.
- NordVPN ranked best travel VPN overall for 2026 in ZDNET's expert testing.
- ExpressVPN is the top pick for mobile users, and Surfshark is the best budget-friendly option.
- AstrillVPN is specifically recommended as the best alternative for use in restrictive regions like China.
Why It Matters
For professionals traveling abroad, a reliable VPN is essential for securing work data on public Wi-Fi and accessing blocked business tools.