Working from a new country every few weeks changes what you need from a VPN. It's less about a single trip and more about a lifestyle running on unfamiliar networks, multiple devices, and the occasional unreliable connection.
Unlike a two-week vacation, remote work on the road means your VPN is basically always on. That shifts the priorities: device coverage and day-to-day reliability start to matter more than any single feature.
What digital nomads actually need from a VPN
- Coverage for every device. Laptop, phone, tablet — often more than the typical VPN plan's device limit allows.
- Stability over long sessions. Video calls and file transfers need a connection that doesn't drop mid-task.
- Obfuscation for restrictive countries. Some regions restrict VPN traffic outright, so a mode that disguises VPN use can matter more than it would on a typical vacation.
Surfshark
Surfshark's unlimited device count is the standout feature for this use case — one account genuinely covers your entire setup, work and personal devices alike, without paying per device. Camouflage Mode is also a useful extra on more restrictive networks.
Get Surfshark's Latest Deal →Setting up your VPN as a long-term nomad
- Install the app on every device before you leave home, while download restrictions in your destination country aren't a factor.
- Keep a couple of alternate server locations saved in case one gets congested or blocked.
- Renew on a longer plan cycle — a year or two — so you're not managing renewals mid-trip.
If speed for calls matters more than device count
If your work leans heavily on video calls and you'd rather prioritize raw speed and server stability over unlimited devices, it's worth comparing against our guide for business travelers, which leans toward NordVPN instead.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a VPN to access work systems from another country?
Generally yes, though a personal VPN secures your network connection rather than replacing any VPN or security tool your employer requires separately.
How many devices does a typical digital nomad need to cover?
Laptop, phone, and often a tablet or a partner's devices — which is why an unlimited-device plan tends to suit this lifestyle particularly well.