The short answer
Look for a VPN that runs reliably on every device you work from, reconnects gracefully on unstable networks, offers a kill switch, has understandable privacy terms and does not conflict with your employer's or clients' tools. Cost over a year or more matters more than the first month's price.
Why nomads have different needs
A typical holiday uses a handful of networks. A nomad may use dozens a month, many of them shared and managed by people they will never meet. Work also raises the stakes: client files, admin dashboards, email and payment accounts all pass through those networks. A VPN reduces what each local network can see, while strong account security protects against the threats it cannot address.
Checklist: what to look for
| Criterion | Why it matters | How to check |
|---|---|---|
| Device coverage | Laptop, phone and tablet all need protection | Supported platforms and simultaneous-connection limits |
| Kill switch | Prevents traffic leaking if the connection drops | App settings and help documentation |
| Reconnection behaviour | Networks change constantly | Auto-connect options for untrusted Wi-Fi |
| Work compatibility | Company VPNs and tools may conflict | Split tunnelling options and your employer's policy |
| Privacy terms | You are routing work traffic through the provider | Privacy policy, jurisdiction and any published audits |
| Support | Problems happen in inconvenient time zones | Support channels and hours |
| Cost over time | Nomads usually subscribe for years | Renewal price, plan length and refund terms |
Work compatibility comes first
If you work for an employer or client with its own VPN or security software, follow their policy. Running two VPNs at once can cause connection problems, and some organisations do not allow personal VPNs on work devices. Split tunnelling — sending only some apps through the VPN — can help in some setups, but check with the relevant IT team before relying on it.
Legal and local considerations
VPN rules differ between countries, and a small number restrict or regulate their use. Before you move somewhere new, check the local rules and your visa or work conditions. A VPN is a privacy and security tool; it does not change what is legal where you are, and it should not be used to breach laws or the terms of services you rely on.
Beyond the VPN: a nomad security baseline
- Use a password manager and unique passwords
- Enable two-factor authentication, ideally with an authenticator app or security key
- Encrypt your laptop's disk and set a strong device passcode
- Keep offline backups of important files
- Use a local eSIM or mobile hotspot as a fallback for sensitive tasks
- Lock your screen in shared spaces
Bottom line
The best VPN for a digital nomad is the one that stays out of your way on every device and every network, without clashing with work tools. Surfshark is our current Privacy pick for multi-device users; compare it with alternatives on the criteria above and check the current offer and renewal terms on the official site.