Do Digital Nomads need a free VPN? Certainly! If you are a digital nomad often working remotely, your online privacy and data security must be a top priority. While we always recommend using a VPN for all online activities, there are a few free VPN services that you can try to begin with.
This guide will discuss the top three options for the best free VPN for digital nomads. For individuals leading a nomadic digital lifestyle, a reliable and effective VPN is crucial while working on the go.
A VPN guarantees the safety of your sensitive information through AES 256-bit encryption. Moreover, it also enables access to geo-restricted content and blocked websites, including streaming platforms and work-related portals. For instance, you can connect to a US IP address remotely and access local websites and work networks.
ExpressVPN stands out as a trustworthy VPN for digital nomads, offering a perfect mix of top-notch security, fast speed, and dependable network connectivity. However, it’s a premium VPN, but you can use it for free with its free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Quick Overview: Free VPNs for Digital Nomads – 2023
Let’s go through brief descriptions of the top 3 VPNs for digital nomads in 2023. This quick overview will assist you in picking the best free VPN for digital nomads.
- ExpressVPN: The best free trial VPN for digital nomads with a free trial. Offers 3000 + servers in 105 countries, including the US, UK, and Canada. Costs $6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free, including a 7-day free trial.
- Proton VPN: Free VPN for digital nomads with unlimited bandwidth. Its free plan provides access to 3 server locations, including the US.
- Windscribe: Secure free VPN for digital nomads. Offers 10 GB per month data with top-notch security features. Its free plan comes with 10 server locations.
Why do Digital Nomads need a Free VPN?
A reliable VPN is essential for digital nomads while working remotely and traveling abroad. It ensures data security by encrypting information and provides access to restricted websites, including work portals and streaming services.
Enjoying the freedom to work from anywhere globally, digital nomads also bear the responsibility of safeguarding their online presence. This is where a VPN proves invaluable, offering enhanced security, privacy, and productivity benefits.
Choosing the best VPN for Digital Nomads, like ExpressVPN, is very crucial. It has all the advanced security and privacy features that will protect you while you stay off the grid. It allows you to access your desired platforms, networks, and data while maintaining your privacy.
Free VPN for Digital Nomads -2023 [In-Depth Analysis]
Finding reliable free VPN providers is a challenging task, especially if you are new to the VPN market. For your convenience, we have tested more than 50 VPN services and boiled down the list to three options for free VPN for digital nomads.
1. ExpressVPN – best free trial VPN for digital nomads
Key features:
- 3000+ servers in 105 countries, including 25+ server locations in the U S
- Speed: 89.64 Mbps
- MediaStreamer feature for video streaming
- Simultaneous connections: 8 devices per account
- Unlimited Bandwidth
- AES 256-bit encryption
- Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, and more
ExpressVPN is the best free trial VPN for digital nomads, boasting exceptional speed and robust privacy features. Although it’s a premium VPN service, ExpressVPN offers a 7-day trial period and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
While exploring the ExpressVPN server list For American Users, we found 3000+ servers across 105 countries, including 25+ server locations in the US. The widespread network of ExpressVPN makes it an ideal solution for remote workers to access their office networks without any security concerns.
If you are looking for a break, use ExpressVPN with Netflix and other geo-restricted platforms to enjoy some feel-good movies and TV shows. You can also use it to stream live TV channels from any country, which makes it the best VPN for streaming.
The ExpressVPN speed test resulted in impressive numbers, consistently delivering high speeds. On a 100 Mbps connection, it can get rapid download speeds of 89.64 Mbps and upload speeds of 84.64 Mbps.
ExpressVPN delivered fast speeds while connected to the USA server.
It offers user-friendly applications compatible with major operating systems. You can use ExpressVPN on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Additionally, ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer extends its compatibility to popular streaming devices that don’t support VPNs. On a single account, you can enjoy simultaneous connection of up to 8 devices.
Security-wise, ExpressVPN is safe and integrates robust measures such as AES 256-bit encryption, a No-Logs Policy, DNS & IP Leak Prevention, and an ExpressVPN Kill Switch. With these sorts of features, your privacy remains intact while working remotely.
While you have to pay the ExpressVPN cost, which can go as low as $6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free, it also features a 30-day money-back guarantee. Moreover, a 7-day ExpressVPN free trial is also available for mobile users. For setup issues, the provider offers 24/7 customer support or guidance through live chat.
For a more in-depth technical analysis, our comprehensive ExpressVPN review.
- Comes with 3000+ servers in 105 countries
- Offers best-in-class encryption and security protocols
- Ensures fast speed and unlimited bandwidth
- Can unblock all major streaming services, including Netflix
- User-friendly apps for all operating systems
- 24/7 live customer support
- Requires subscription after the free trial
2. ProtonVPN – best free VPN for digital nomads
Key Features:
- 3000+ servers in 69 countries (Free plan offers only 3 server locations)
- Unlimited data usage with the free account
- A clear No-logging Policy
- Speed: 52.37 Mbps
- AES 256-bit encryption protocol
- Works as an open-source VPN
ProtonVPN can be considered the best free VPN for digital nomads due to its unlimited bandwidth and data, unlike other free services. It provides you with adequate online security and allows you to stream geo-restricted content. You can also use Proton VPN for torrenting and gaming.
This free VPN service boasts a network of over 3000 servers across 69 countries, including 1000+ servers in the US. However, its free plan limits access to only three countries, with restricted servers in the United States.
Tests affirmed ProtonVPN’s capability to maintain high speeds and unrestricted bandwidth. In our ProtonVPN speed test using a 100 Mbps connection, it achieved commendable download speeds of 52.37 Mbps and upload speeds of 45.19 Mbps. With such amazing speed, you can also try ProtonVPN with Netflix to watch your favorite content.
ProtonVPN speed is pretty good for streaming.
In terms of privacy, ProtonVPN incorporates top-notch features including Secure Core, AES 256-bit encryption, NetShield Ad-blocker, and VPN Accelerator for secure file sharing. It also has a VPN Kill Switch and DNS leak protection features.
ProtonVPN is compatible with Windows, iOS, Android, Linux, and Mac. While the free plan permits only one simultaneous connection, upgrading to its premium tier allows up to 10 multi-logins. The premium ProtonVPN costs US$ 4.99 per month, offering a 30-day money-back guarantee and the option for a Proton free trial.
For a more detailed understanding, delve into our comprehensive ProtonVPN review for thorough insights.
- Provides unlimited free data and bandwidth
- Compatible with all major OSes
- Fully an open-source solution
- AES 256-bit encryption
- User-friendly apps
- Offers OpenVPN protocol
- One simultaneous connection with the free plan
- The free plan only allows access to 3 server locations
3. Windscribe – most secure free VPN for digital nomads
Key features:
- 480+ servers in 62 countries, including 10 servers with free account
- Speed: 59.11 Mbps
- Ensures lower ping rates
- 10 GB data limit per month with free account
- Simultaneous connections: Unlimited devices
- Compatible with Windows, Linux, and different browsers
Windscribe is arguably the most secure free VPN for digital nomads. It comes with a bag full of top-notch security and privacy features even with its free plan. Moreover, it offers a monthly 10 GB data allowance, which you can enhance to unlimited data by opting for the premium tier.
This VPN presents 480+ servers across 60 countries, featuring 35 servers in the US. However, the free plan permits access to only 10 server locations. To enhance your connectivity options, you can subscribe to its premium plan.
When it comes to speed, Windscribe demonstrates impressive performance. While conducting the Windscribe speed test using a 100 Mbps connection, it gave us fast download speeds of 59.11 Mbps and upload speeds of 37.07 Mbps.
Windscribe delivered consistently fast speed on a 100 Mbps connection.
Windscribe proves ideal for home networks due to its provision of unlimited simultaneous connections. With compatibility across major operating systems such as Mac, Windows, iOS, Linux, and Android, establishing connections remains hassle-free. You can also use Windscribe on Roku, Apple TV, Game Consoles, and Smart TVs.
The free plan incorporates essential security features like an ad blocker, a VPN Kill Switch, a secure hotspot for public use, Multi-Hop servers, and the SOCKS5 proxy with a Proxy Gateway.
For users seeking advanced functionalities, Windscribe offers a premium plan at US$5.75 per month, accompanied by a 3-day money-back guarantee. Additionally, users can explore Windscribe’s premium features with a free trial. Customer support is available 24/7 via email and live chat.
For a comprehensive understanding, our detailed Windscribe review.
- AES 256-bit encryption and stealth protocol
- 10 servers with a free account
- Top-notch user apps for all major OSes
- Built-in malware alert and ad-blocking tool
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- 10 GB free data per month
- Not impressive in terms of speed
- WireGuard VPN protocol is not included with the free plan
Best free VPNs for Digital Nomads – Comparison
You can see the best free VPN for digital nomad quick comparison in the table below:
| VPNs |  |
 |
 |
| Free Trial | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Server | 3000 servers across 105 countries | 3000 servers across 69+ countries | 480+ servers in 62 countries |
| Streaming | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Hulu, and more | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Hulu, and more | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Hulu, and more |
| Logging | No | No | No |
| Simultaneous connections | 8 | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Price (lowest price per month) | $6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free | US$ 4.99 per month | US$5.75 per month |
How to set up a Free VPN for Digital Nomads?
Here are the steps to set up a VPN for Digital Nomads, rephrased:
- Choose a free VPN service. (We suggest ExpressVPN with a free trial for Digital Nomads.)
- Register with the VPN and download the appropriate app for your device.
- Install the app and log in.
- Pick a server to connect to, for example, a server located in the US.
- Activate the kill switch feature to ensure no data leaks if the connection drops unexpectedly.
- Your device is now showing a new IP address online. This allows access to restricted sites and services from anywhere.
Methodology: How we selected and tested these VPNs
When assessing the top VPNs for digital nomads, we evaluated several crucial aspects to ensure a service met essential standards. Here are the primary criteria used to select these VPNs:
- Security: As digital nomads often rely on public Wi-Fi, VPNs were chosen based on their robust security features such as a kill switch, IP leak protection, strong encryption, and servers operating on RAM-only setups to safeguard against cyber threats.
- Speed: For tasks like video calls or streaming while traveling, fast internet is vital. Therefore, selected VPNs prioritize speed with advanced tunneling protocols like WireGuard to avoid slowing down already sluggish public Wi-Fi networks.
- Servers: With nomads navigating various internet landscapes, VPNs with extensive server networks were chosen. This allows access to diverse content while complying with local regulations and infrastructure differences.
- Pricing: Ensuring value for money, we considered VPNs that offer competitive pricing without compromising quality, ensuring affordability for digital nomads.
Free VPNs to avoid for Digital Nomads
Hola VPN
Hola VPN is a freemium VPN service that claims to offer a free VPN service. It operates using a peer-to-peer network where users can use other users’ IP addresses to mask their own. However, Hola VPN has faced criticism regarding its security practices and the use of its network.
It may expose users to various risks, including becoming an exit node for others, which potentially allows their traffic to be routed through a user’s device. Check out our detailed exclusive Hola VPN review for further details.
Hoxx VPN
Hoxx VPN is another free VPN service that provides browser extensions for various web browsers. However, similar to other free VPNs, Hoxx VPN has limitations such as restricted server locations, slower speeds, and data caps. Additionally, there have been concerns raised about its privacy policy and logging practices.
See our comprehensive Hoxx VPN review for a better understanding.
HideMyAss
HideMyAss is a commercial VPN service offering both free and paid plans. It boasts a large server network and claims to provide secure and anonymous browsing. However, the free version may have limitations such as reduced server options, slower speeds, and data caps.
HideMyAss has faced controversies in the past concerning its logging policy and cooperation with law enforcement authorities. For any additional information check our in-depth HideMyAss review.
How do Digital Nomads get internet?
Digital nomads are individuals leveraging technology for remote work. This usually encompasses freelancers, entrepreneurs, and those in digital fields. They operate from various locations with internet access. Typically relying on free Wi-Fi options available both at home and while traveling.
Here is how Digital Nomads most probably access the internet that you can use too:
- Utilizing the mobile hotspot feature on their smartphones to create a Wi-Fi connection: Activate the hotspot feature on your smartphone to create a Wi-Fi network that other devices can connect to, using your cellular data.
- Connecting to nearby open Wi-Fi networks that don’t require a password: Access open Wi-Fi networks that don’t require a password for connection, commonly found in public places like cafes, libraries, or parks.
- Utilizing social media platforms to locate public Wi-Fi hotspots in the vicinity: Utilize social media platforms to seek recommendations or posts from users about nearby places offering free Wi-Fi, helping to locate accessible hotspots.
- Using Wi-Fi finder applications to locate and access free internet spots: Use applications specifically designed to locate and map available Wi-Fi networks nearby, offering details on their accessibility and usage.
- Checking with their internet service provider for available options or deals: Inquire with your internet service provider about any available Wi-Fi access points or deals included in your subscription package.
- Exploring income-based Wi-Fi options that might be available in certain regions: Seek out government or community programs that offer subsidized or income-based Wi-Fi options to individuals meeting specific criteria.
- Taking advantage of free trial offers from various internet service providers: Take advantage of free trial offers provided by internet service providers to test their services for a limited period without charges.
- Exploring discounted or free internet deals specifically available for students: Explore discounted or free internet deals tailored for students, often offered by internet providers or specific student-focused plans.
FAQs – Free VPN for Digital Nomads
Which free VPN is the best for Digital Nomads?
ProtonVPN is a notable option for digital nomads in USA due to its features like a no-logs policy, dedicated P2P servers, extensive country coverage, and parallel services. It’s important to remember that the choice of a free VPN can vary depending on one’s preferences. Other free VPNs like Windscribe are also reliable services.
Are there any risks or legal concerns in using a Free VPN for Digital Nomads?
The risks of using free VPNs vary based on your location. Countries such as Iran and Oman have banned VPNs due to strict government regulations. Nevertheless, in most countries like the US, Germany, and the UK, VPN usage remains legal and safe.
Do Free VPNs work with streaming services and gaming for digital nomads?
Using a free VPN and whether it works with the streaming service and gaming for digital nomads in USA depends on the VPN’s service quality. However, using a free VPN is not recommended by us. Using a VPN has become essential to make sure to stay safe and secure online. That is why it is suggested that you opt for a VPN like ExpressVPN.
Conclusion
We hope you will find the best free VPN for digital nomads that fits your bill after reading this comprehensive guide. Although free VPNs serve well for brief periods, opting for a premium VPN is advisable for the long term, especially for digital nomads.
ExpressVPN stands out as the top choice for digital nomads who don’t want to compromise their digital privacy and online security. It also helps you access geo-restricted content from any part of the world. ExpressVPN also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and a free trial.
So, what are you waiting for? Sign up for ExpressVPN and boost your online security while working remotely.
