For business travellers, public Wi-Fi in hotels, airports and cafes is a convenience and a risk. Unsecured networks can expose emails, passwords and confidential files to anyone nearby. A virtual private network, or VPN, encrypts your connection and keeps your data private wherever you work.
The threat is real. Cyber criminals increasingly target individuals as a way into their companies, a pattern explored in our report on organised criminal networks, and boards are taking resilience more seriously, as our guide to business resilience explains. These are the leading VPNs for professionals on the move.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is one of the world’s best-known VPNs, with thousands of servers across dozens of countries, fast speeds and strong encryption. Its parent company also offers NordLayer, a business version with central management for teams.
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Subscribe2. Proton VPN
Built by the Swiss company behind Proton Mail, Proton VPN is known for its strong privacy credentials and open-source apps. Switzerland’s privacy laws and Proton’s independent audits make it a favourite with privacy-conscious professionals.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN has long been a premium choice, known for its reliability, speed and simple apps. Its consistent performance across many countries makes it popular with frequent international travellers.
4. Surfshark
Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections, so one subscription can protect a laptop, phone and tablet at once. Competitive pricing and solid performance make it good value for travellers with several devices.
5. NordLayer
NordLayer is a business-focused network security service that gives companies central control over staff connections. It suits firms that want to secure remote and travelling employees with consistent policies.
6. Mullvad
Swedish-based Mullvad takes privacy seriously, letting users sign up without an email address and charging a simple flat fee. It is popular with security-minded users who want minimal data collection.
7. CyberGhost
CyberGhost offers a large server network and easy-to-use apps, with servers optimised for specific tasks such as streaming. Its simplicity makes it a good option for less technical travellers.
8. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access, known as PIA, offers a huge server network, open-source apps and extensive customisation. It appeals to users who want control over their settings at a reasonable price.
9. Cloudflare WARP and Zero Trust
Cloudflare’s WARP app secures connections on public networks, while its Zero Trust platform lets companies replace traditional business VPNs with more modern, secure remote access for staff.
10. Windscribe
Windscribe offers a generous free plan alongside paid tiers, plus built-in ad and tracker blocking. It is a flexible choice for travellers who want basic protection without committing to a large subscription.
How to Choose
Look for strong encryption, a verified no-logs policy, fast servers in the countries you visit and apps for all your devices. Companies should consider business-grade services such as NordLayer or Cloudflare Zero Trust, which give IT teams central control. Remember that VPN rules vary by country, so check local laws before travelling outside Europe, for example to markets such as Japan or the Gulf.
The Call
A VPN is one of the simplest and cheapest ways for business travellers to protect themselves and their companies. Consumer VPNs work well for individuals, while businesses should use managed options that enforce security for every employee. As cyber threats grow, encrypting every connection on the road should be standard practice, not an afterthought. For more on the threat, see our coverage of AI reshaping cyber risk and Europe’s AI governance debate.
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