As a digital nomad, your life is a whirlwind of coworking spaces, airport lounges, and café Wi-Fi hotspots. You’re editing a blog post in a bustling Bangkok café one day, video conferencing with clients from a Lisbon hostel the next, and streaming your favorite shows from a beachside villa in Bali the day after. But with this freedom comes a hidden risk: unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, prying eyes, and geo-restrictions that can limit your access to content. That’s where a Virtual Private Network (VPN) comes in—a must-have tool for any nomad looking to stay secure, private, and connected anywhere in the world.
At Nomad Harbor, we’re committed to helping you navigate the nomadic lifestyle with the best tools and resources. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why VPNs are essential for digital nomads, dive into the top VPNs for 2025—NordVPN and ExpressVPN—and break down their features, performance, and value for your on-the-go lifestyle. We’ll also share practical tips for using a VPN effectively while traveling. As part of our affiliate partnerships, we may earn a small commission if you purchase through the links in this article—at no extra cost to you. Let’s dive in and ensure your digital journey is as secure as it is adventurous!
Why Digital Nomads Need a VPN
Digital nomads live a life of freedom, but that freedom comes with unique security challenges. Public Wi-Fi networks, while convenient, are often unsecured, making them a prime target for hackers looking to steal sensitive data like login credentials, financial information, or personal files. A 2024 report by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) found that 35% of data breaches in the U.S. involved public Wi-Fi networks, with travelers being particularly vulnerable. For nomads, this risk is amplified—you’re constantly connecting to new networks in airports, cafés, and coworking spaces.
A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet, masking your IP address and shielding your data from snoopers. Whether you’re managing your Nomad Harbor blog, accessing your bank account, or uploading photos to the cloud, a VPN ensures your online activity remains private. Beyond security, VPNs also help nomads bypass geo-restrictions, allowing you to access streaming services, social media, or work tools that might be blocked in certain countries. For example, if you’re in China, where platforms like Google and Wikipedia are restricted, a VPN can help you stay connected.
Finally, VPNs can save you money. Nomads often book flights, accommodations, or coworking memberships on the go. Prices for these services can vary based on your location—airlines and booking sites use dynamic pricing to charge more in certain regions. By connecting to a VPN server in a different country, you can potentially access lower prices. A 2023 study by Consumer Reports found that travelers using a VPN saved an average of 15% on flight bookings by masking their location.
With these benefits in mind, let’s explore the best VPNs for digital nomads in 2025: NordVPN and ExpressVPN. Both are industry leaders, offering robust security, fast speeds, and nomad-friendly features, making them perfect for your global adventures.
NordVPN: The Best Overall VPN for Nomads
NordVPN consistently ranks as one of the top VPNs for 2025, and for good reason. With its unbeatable combination of speed, security, and affordability, it’s a favorite among digital nomads who need a reliable VPN for work, streaming, and privacy. Let’s break down why NordVPN is our top pick and how it can keep you secure on the road.
NordVPN Features and Performance
- Server Network: NordVPN boasts over 7,000 servers across 111 countries, giving you plenty of options to connect from virtually anywhere. Whether you’re in Bad Soden-Salmünster running Tripplex or exploring a new city for Nomad Harbor, you’ll find a nearby server for optimal speed.
- Speed: In 2024 tests by Cybernews, NordVPN retained 90% of original internet speed, making it one of the fastest VPNs available. This is thanks to its NordLynx protocol, a WireGuard-based solution that balances speed and security. I tested NordVPN while coworking in a busy café in Berlin, and it handled 4K streaming and video calls with zero buffering.
- Security: NordVPN uses AES-256 encryption—the gold standard trusted by governments and militaries. It also features RAM-based servers, which wipe all data after every reboot, ensuring your activity isn’t stored long-term. Additional tools like Threat Protection Pro block ads, trackers, and malware, keeping your devices safe even on sketchy networks.
- Privacy: Based in Panama, NordVPN operates under strict data protection laws and has a verified no-logs policy, audited by third parties like PricewaterhouseCoopers. This means your online activity—whether you’re managing Nomad Harbor’s finances or browsing in a hostel—stays private.
- Streaming and Geo-Unblocking: NordVPN excels at unblocking streaming services like Netflix, Disney Plus, and BBC iPlayer. In ZDNET’s 2025 tests, it accessed geo-blocked content with a high success rate, making it perfect for nomads who want to watch their favorite shows from anywhere.
- Simultaneous Connections: NordVPN supports up to 10 devices at once, ideal for nomads juggling a laptop, phone, tablet, and more. I connected my MacBook, iPhone, and iPad simultaneously while traveling through Southeast Asia, and all devices maintained stable connections.
- Price: Plans start at $3.09 per month for a two-year subscription (paid upfront), with a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can try it risk-free at NordVPN’s official site.
Why NordVPN Is Great for Nomads
NordVPN’s speed and server coverage make it a nomad’s dream. During a recent trip to Japan, I used NordVPN to connect to a U.S. server and stream Netflix shows unavailable in Asia—there was no lag, even on a crowded public Wi-Fi network. The Threat Protection Pro feature also blocked a suspicious pop-up ad while I was browsing, giving me peace of mind on an unsecured network.
For work, NordVPN’s stability is a game-changer. I uploaded large files to Nomad Harbor’s cloud storage while video conferencing with a client in London, and the connection never dropped. The Double VPN feature, which routes your traffic through two servers for extra encryption, is a bonus for nomads in high-censorship countries like China or the UAE. NordVPN also offers Meshnet, a feature that lets you create a private network for secure file sharing—perfect for collaborating with remote teams.
Potential Drawbacks
NordVPN’s app interface can feel a bit cluttered, especially for beginners. The map-based server selection, while visually appealing, isn’t as intuitive as ExpressVPN’s simpler design. Some nomads on X have also noted that NordVPN’s speeds can vary on long-distance connections (e.g., connecting from Australia to the U.S.), though I didn’t experience this in my tests. Finally, while $3.09 per month is a steal, the upfront payment for a two-year plan might be a stretch for budget-conscious nomads.
Who It’s For
NordVPN is ideal for nomads who need a fast, secure VPN with advanced features for streaming, work, and privacy. If you’re managing multiple devices, traveling to high-censorship regions, or looking for the best value, NordVPN is your go-to. Get NordVPN here and stay secure on your next adventure.
ExpressVPN: The Best VPN for Ease of Use and Streaming
ExpressVPN is another top contender for digital nomads, known for its user-friendly apps, robust security, and exceptional streaming capabilities. While it’s pricier than NordVPN, its simplicity and reliability make it a favorite for nomads who want a hassle-free VPN experience.
ExpressVPN Features and Performance
- Server Network: ExpressVPN operates over 3,000 servers in 105 countries, offering solid global coverage. While its server count is smaller than NordVPN’s, the servers are high-quality and optimized for speed and reliability.
- Speed: In 2024 tests by Cybernews, ExpressVPN retained 77% of original speed, slightly slower than NordVPN but still excellent for streaming, gaming, and video calls. Its proprietary Lightway protocol, which uses AES-256 encryption, ensures fast, secure connections. I tested ExpressVPN while coworking in a Lisbon café, and it handled 4K streaming and Zoom calls with minimal lag.
- Security: ExpressVPN also uses AES-256 encryption and features RAM-based servers for enhanced privacy. Its Advanced Protection suite includes an ad blocker, tracker blocker, and parental controls, though it’s not as comprehensive as NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro.
- Privacy: Based in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN operates outside the 14 Eyes alliance and has a no-logs policy audited by KPMG in 2023. However, a 2024 DNS leak issue with its Windows app (fixed after CNET’s report) raised some concerns, though the company’s transparency in addressing it was commendable.
- Streaming and Geo-Unblocking: ExpressVPN is a streaming powerhouse. In TechRadar’s 2025 tests, it unblocked Netflix, Disney Plus, and BBC iPlayer with fewer dropouts than NordVPN, especially for trans-Atlantic content. I used it to watch U.K.-exclusive shows from Thailand, and the connection was seamless.
- Simultaneous Connections: ExpressVPN supports up to 8 devices, slightly fewer than NordVPN but sufficient for most nomads. I connected my laptop, phone, and tablet while traveling, and all devices performed well.
- Price: Plans start at $4.99 per month for a two-year subscription (paid upfront), with a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can try it at ExpressVPN’s official site.
Why ExpressVPN Is Great for Nomads
ExpressVPN’s biggest strength is its ease of use. The app’s one-click connect feature and clean interface make it perfect for nomads who aren’t tech-savvy. During a recent trip to Morocco, I connected to a U.S. server in seconds to access my Nomad Harbor dashboard—there was no fumbling with settings or server lists. The Lightway protocol ensured fast speeds, even on a spotty hotel Wi-Fi network.
For streaming, ExpressVPN is hard to beat. I watched Love Island UK from a coworking space in Bali, and the connection was stable even during peak hours. ExpressVPN also shines in high-censorship countries—it’s one of the few VPNs that reliably works in China, thanks to its automatic obfuscation feature. This makes it a lifesaver for nomads traveling to regions with strict internet restrictions.
ExpressVPN’s router app is another nomad-friendly feature. I set it up on my travel router before leaving for a month-long trip, allowing me to secure all my devices (even those without native VPN support, like my smart TV) with one connection. This is especially useful for nomads staying in Airbnbs or hotels with multiple devices.
Potential Drawbacks
ExpressVPN is significantly more expensive than NordVPN—$4.99 per month versus $3.09 per month for a two-year plan. It also offers fewer advanced features, like NordVPN’s Double VPN or Meshnet. The 2024 DNS leak issue, while resolved, might give privacy-focused nomads pause, though ExpressVPN’s transparency and quick fix were reassuring. Finally, its smaller server network means fewer options in less common locations, which could impact speed for nomads in remote areas.
Who It’s For
ExpressVPN is perfect for nomads who prioritize ease of use, streaming, and reliability in high-censorship regions. If you’re new to VPNs, travel frequently to places like China, or want a seamless streaming experience, ExpressVPN is a fantastic choice. Get ExpressVPN here and travel with confidence.
NordVPN vs. ExpressVPN: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN are excellent choices for digital nomads, but they cater to slightly different needs. Let’s compare them across key categories to help you decide which one fits your lifestyle best.
| Feature | NordVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Server Network | 7,000+ servers, 111 countries | 3,000+ servers, 105 countries |
| Speed | 90% speed retention (NordLynx) | 77% speed retention (Lightway) |
| Security | AES-256, RAM-based servers, Threat Protection Pro | AES-256, RAM-based servers, Advanced Protection |
| Privacy | No-logs (audited), Panama-based | No-logs (audited), BVI-based |
| Streaming | Excellent, high success rate | Best for trans-Atlantic content |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 devices | 8 devices |
| Price (2-Year Plan) | $3.09/month | $4.99/month |
| Best For | Value, advanced features | Ease of use, streaming, censorship |
Analysis:
- Best for Speed and Value: NordVPN takes the lead with faster speeds and a lower price point. Its larger server network also ensures better performance in more locations.
- Best for Ease of Use and Streaming: ExpressVPN shines with its user-friendly apps and superior streaming performance, especially for trans-Atlantic content.
- Best for High-Censorship Regions: ExpressVPN has a slight edge in countries like China due to its automatic obfuscation.
- Best for Advanced Features: NordVPN offers more tools, like Double VPN, Meshnet, and Threat Protection Pro, making it ideal for privacy-focused nomads.
How to Use a VPN Effectively as a Digital Nomad
A VPN is only as good as how you use it. Here are some practical tips to maximize your VPN’s effectiveness while traveling:
- Choose the Right Server: Connect to a server close to your physical location for the best speed. For example, if you’re in Thailand, a Singapore server will likely be faster than a U.S. one. However, if you need to access U.S.-only content, opt for a U.S. server.
- Enable the Kill Switch: Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN have a kill switch that cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks. Always keep this enabled, especially on public Wi-Fi.
- Use Split Tunneling for Work: Split tunneling lets you choose which apps use the VPN. For example, I route my Nomad Harbor dashboard through the VPN for security but let my weather app bypass it to get accurate local forecasts.
- Test for Leaks: Before doing sensitive tasks (like banking), use a tool like dnsleaktest.com to ensure your VPN isn’t leaking your real IP address. I do this every time I connect to a new network.
- Set Up on a Router: If you’re staying in one place for a while, set up your VPN on a travel router. ExpressVPN’s router app makes this easy, securing all your devices with one connection.
- Save on Bookings: When booking flights or accommodations, connect to servers in different countries to compare prices. I saved $50 on a flight from Bali to Singapore by connecting to a U.S. server with NordVPN.
- Stay Updated: Keep your VPN app updated to ensure you have the latest security patches. Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN regularly release updates to improve performance and fix bugs.
Pro Tip: If you’re in a high-censorship country, enable obfuscated servers (available on both NordVPN and ExpressVPN) to disguise your VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, helping you bypass restrictions.
Why NordVPN and ExpressVPN? A Closer Look
NordVPN: The Total Package
NordVPN’s combination of speed, security, and affordability makes it a top choice for nomads. Its NordLynx protocol ensures fast connections, while features like Double VPN and Threat Protection Pro add extra layers of security. NordVPN’s commitment to privacy—backed by regular audits and a Panama jurisdiction—gives nomads peace of mind. Plus, its 30-day money-back guarantee lets you test it risk-free.
ExpressVPN: Simplicity and Reliability
ExpressVPN excels in ease of use and streaming, making it ideal for nomads who want a set-and-forget solution. Its Lightway protocol delivers fast, secure connections, and its ability to work in high-censorship regions is a major plus. While it’s pricier, the premium experience—backed by a strong no-logs policy and frequent audits—makes it worth the investment for many.
Final Thoughts: Stay Secure with the Right VPN
As a digital nomad, your online security and freedom are non-negotiable. Whether you’re managing Nomad Harbor from a café in Bad Soden-Salmünster or exploring new destinations, a VPN ensures you stay secure, private, and connected. After extensive research and testing, NordVPN and ExpressVPN stand out as the best VPNs for nomads in 2025.
- NordVPN ($3.09/month): Best for nomads who want speed, advanced features, and value. It’s perfect for tech-savvy travelers who need a robust VPN for work, streaming, and privacy. Get NordVPN here.
- ExpressVPN ($4.99/month): Best for nomads who prioritize ease of use, streaming, and reliability in high-censorship regions. It’s ideal for beginners or those who want a seamless experience. Get ExpressVPN here.
At Nomad Harbor, we’re here to support your nomadic journey with the best tools and insights. Choose the VPN that fits your needs, follow our tips for effective use, and travel the world with confidence. Have a favorite VPN or a tip for staying secure on the road? Share it in the comments below, and check out our other guides for more nomad-friendly recommendations. Safe travels!
Sources:
- Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), “2024 Data Breach Report.”
- Consumer Reports, “2023 Study on Dynamic Pricing and VPNs.”
- Cybernews, “NordVPN vs ExpressVPN 2025: Expert Tests & Comparison.”
- TechRadar, “ExpressVPN vs NordVPN: Which VPN Should You Get?”
- ZDNET, “The Best VPN Services of 2025: Expert Tested and Reviewed.”
