Knowing how to watch overseas content with a VPN is a skill that might not cross your mind most days. However, there are plenty of scenarios when it’ll prove all but essential. I know from my experience that when you’re itching to rewatch your favorite series or cross a great film off your watch list, the last thing you want to hear is that it’s not available on your region’s streaming service. With a VPN, you can enjoy content from another country with virtually no hassle.
By utilizing the location-spoofing capabilities of a Virtual Private Network, you can make it appear as though you’re watching from an entirely different part of the world. While any service will perform the same basic task of location spoofing, the best VPNs deliver unrivaled choice when it comes to streaming services and locations, as well as a superior level of security, value, and ease of use.
Read on to see which VPN providers provide the best services for watching content from another country.
Best streaming VPNs in 2024 - quick answer
How to watch content from overseas using a VPN
Once you’ve chosen your VPN provider, getting set up to watch content from overseas is a straightforward process. Even if you’re not especially tech-savvy, you should be able to sort out your streaming VPN setup in just a few minutes. If you do get stuck on any part of the process, many providers offer troubleshooting FAQs and customer support that can guide you through your concerns.
To watch overseas content with a VPN, start by logging into your account on your chosen streaming service(s). You’ll have to make sure your VPN of choice offers content unblocking for the streaming site you’re accessing. However, the top VPN providers can unblock Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, and more.
Once you’re logged in, launch your VPN app on your device. You’ll then need to choose the server you want to connect to. While there are a few variables to consider while doing this, the primary one is location. You should pick a server that is in a region that would usually have access to the content you want to watch. For example, if you want to access BBC iPlayer, connect to a server in the UK.
As soon as you’re connected to your VPN server, jump right in and check out your new unblocked library of foreign streaming content. You’ll be able to enjoy movies, tv shows, and sports events from your region of choice as long as you’re covered by your VPN. Once you want to return to your usual streaming library, it’s as easy as swapping back.
The only concern that comes with watching overseas content with a VPN is the possibility that it violates your streaming service’s terms of service. As you’re accessing content that has been geo-blocked for licensing or copyright purposes, you’re liable to have your account terminated if you’re caught and your streaming service decides to take issue with it. Thankfully, the likelihood of this happening is very low.
Best VPNs in 2024
✔️ You'd like a top-notch streaming VPN
✔️ You want a suite of privacy tools
✔️ You want value for your money
❌ You find it difficult to navigate cramped phone apps
❌ You're on a very tight budget
Check out the full NordVPN review for a more in-depth look at its features and performance.
NordVPN is my choice for the #1 streaming VPN, and for good reason. Thanks to its 6,300+ servers in 111 countries, it offers an expansive collection of global streaming libraries to choose from. You can enjoy streaming content from across the world from services including Prime Video, Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, and a whole lot more.
When it comes to security, you're in the right hands with NordVPN. The service uses AES-256 encryption, which is considered the gold standard of data encryption measures. For reference, a 256-bit encryption key length is used to guard highly sensitive financial information and even top-secret government data.
While you likely don't have anything nearly as high-stakes floating around on your personal devices, you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing you're getting top-of-the-line security even when streaming on unsecured Wi-Fi networks.
Thanks to the reliability of NordVPN's kill switch, you don't have to worry about losing that security at any point. All of these impressive features come at a reasonable price too, making NordVPN the perfect bang-for-your-buck streaming VPN.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Map layout is visually appealing but can appear cluttered on smaller screens | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Good knowledgebase and 24/7 live chat | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | Top of the line speeds on NordLynx (NordVPN’s WireGuard-based tunneling protocol) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Showed near limitless content unblocking capabilities in streaming tests | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Doubly reliable kill switch and a well-defined demonstrable no-logs policy means you don’t have to worry about your security or privacy being compromised | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | Friendly customer support on hand 24/7 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Impressive value for money | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
✔️ You'd like an app that's easy to use
✔️ You want a top-of-the-line VPN
✔️ Your privacy is important to you
❌ You're on a budget
❌ You want GUI Linux support
Check out the full ExpressVPN review for a more in-depth look at its features and performance.
While it may be just behind our first pick, ExpressVPN still stands out as one of the top choices for streaming. Firstly, its lightning-fast speeds ensure smooth streaming of HD content without buffering or interruptions. So, whether you're watching movies, TV shows, or live sports, ExpressVPN's reliable performance will offer a great viewing experience.
Alongside connection quality, you also get quantity. ExpressVPN boasts a vast server network spanning 160 locations in 105 countries. This server coverage allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and access a wide range of streaming services from around the globe. Whether you want to watch Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, or Disney+, ExpressVPN has you covered with its many server options.
Moreover, ExpressVPN's servers are optimized for streaming, meaning they are specifically configured to deliver the best possible performance when accessing streaming services. This optimization translates to faster connection speeds and smoother streaming experiences for users.
Additionally, ExpressVPN prioritizes user privacy and security, employing AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy. This ensures that your data remains private and secure while streaming content. With ExpressVPN, you can enjoy your favorite movies and TV shows with peace of mind, knowing that you're protected.
The combination of blazing-fast speeds, an expansive server network, streaming-optimized servers, and robust security features make it a top-tier streaming VPN. Whether you're binge-watching your favorite series or catching up on the latest blockbuster movies, ExpressVPN ensures a seamless streaming experience from anywhere in the world.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Straightforward, well laid out app | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Very approachable for beginners | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | Not the fastest but still more than fast enough for most scenarios | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Plenty of servers that can provide unblocking across every streaming service we tested | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | RAM-only servers and a DNS leak test tool are reassuring for the security/privacy conscious | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | Excellent FAQ section can help with most concerns, but the speedy 24/7 live chat can help you with anything beyond that | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Slightly more expensive than its competitors | ⭐⭐⭐ |
✔️ You have lots of devices
✔️ You have a need for speed
✔️ You're on a budget
❌ You rely on your killswitch heavily
Check out the full Surfshark review for a more in-depth look at its features and performance.
Surfshark stands out as one of the top choices for streaming VPN services. Firstly, Surfshark offers an extensive network of servers spread across more than 65 countries. This global coverage allows users to easily bypass geo-restrictions and access a wide range of streaming content from around the world, including platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video.
Surfshark's optimized servers for streaming ensure reliable and fast connections, minimizing buffering and providing a seamless viewing experience. These servers are specifically designed to prioritize streaming traffic, ensuring smooth playback of high-definition content without interruptions.
Unlike many other VPN providers that limit the number of devices that can be connected simultaneously, Surfshark allows you to connect as many devices as you like under a single subscription. This makes it an ideal choice for households with multiple users or people who use multiple devices for streaming.
Its affordability compared to some other streaming VPN services makes it a really attractive option for budget-conscious users. Despite its lower price point, Surfshark doesn't compromise on performance or security, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a reliable streaming VPN solution without breaking the bank.
Overall, Surfshark's combination of a vast server network, optimized streaming servers, unlimited simultaneous connections, and affordability locks in its position as one of the top streaming VPN services available.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Clean app design, easy to use and navigate | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Simple to use, great for beginners | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | Some of the fastest speeds of any VPN tested | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | No problem unlocking popular streaming libraries in many regions | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Strong encryption but kill switch can be unreliable | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | 24/7 support is reliable and super helpful, knowledgebase can be a little unwieldy to navigate | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Perfect for those on a budget | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
✔️ You want a service with excellent content unblocking
✔️ You're big on internet freedom
✔️ You want a service with a free tier to try before you buy
❌ You need a low-cost plan
❌ Great customer support is your top priority
Check out the full Proton VPN review for a more in-depth look at its features and performance.
Proton VPN, while not as well-known as some of its competitors, earns its place as the 4th best streaming VPN due to its focus on privacy, security, and reliability. While its primary focus may not be streaming, it still offers several features that make it a solid choice for users looking to access geo-blocked content.
One of Proton VPN's standout features is its Secure Core architecture. This sounds fancy but it's a simple way to boost security by routing user traffic through multiple servers in privacy-friendly jurisdictions. This not only enhances security but also helps bypass geo-blocks by providing users with IP addresses from different locations.
Additionally, Proton VPN offers specialized streaming servers optimized for accessing popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. These servers are designed to provide fast and reliable connections, ensuring a smooth streaming experience without buffering or interruptions.
Proton VPN's commitment to privacy and its strict no-logs policy also means that users can stream content without worrying about their online activities being tracked or logged.
While Proton VPN's server network may not be as extensive as some of its competitors, it still covers a significant number of countries, allowing users to access a wide range of content from around the globe.
Overall, Proton VPN offers a reliable and secure streaming experience, making it a worthy choice for users prioritizing privacy and security while streaming content online.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Attractive, bold design | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | UI is slightly awkward to navigate | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | Super fast speeds | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Paid plans unblock streaming libraries with ease | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Strong security and proven no-logs policy | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | No live chat, but support is still helpful and timely | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Free plan is limited and the paid plan is slightly pricey | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
✔️ You have lots of devices to protect
✔️ You want a low-cost plan
✔️ A server in every US state sounds useful to you
❌ You need simplicity
❌ You want the fastest VPN out there
Check out the full Private Internet Access review for a more in-depth look at its features and performance.
Private Internet Access (PIA) stands out as one of the best streaming VPNs for several reasons. First and foremost, PIA boasts an extensive server network spanning 91 countries, offering users a wide range of options for bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing region-locked content. Whether you're looking to stream movies, TV shows, or sports events from around the world, PIA ensures you can do it with ease.
While PIA's speeds don't quite match up to that of other providers, you can still enjoy high-definition video content without buffering or lag. This is thanks to PIA's robust infrastructure and high-speed connections, which are designed to handle bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming.
PIA also prioritizes user privacy and security, employing AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy to ensure that your online activities remain private and anonymous. This is crucial when streaming content, as it protects your personal information and browsing history from prying eyes.
Another key advantage of PIA as a streaming VPN is its affordability. Despite offering top-notch performance and security features, PIA's subscription plans are competitively priced, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious users who still want access to a premium streaming experience.
Overall, Private Internet Access combines fast and reliable connections, extensive server coverage, robust security features, and affordability, making it one of the best VPNs for streaming content from anywhere in the world. Whether you're a movie buff, a TV show enthusiast, or a sports fan, PIA ensures you can enjoy your favorite content without restrictions.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Interface is bogged down by so many options | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Aimed towards tech-savvy VPN users, not especially beginner friendly | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | Not as fast as other VPNs but this shouldn't pose an issue for most users | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Unblocks a wide variety of services in almost every region you'd need | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Proven no-logs policy and top-of-the-line security | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | Articles on the knowledgebase could offer more detail and guidance to new users, but customer support team are helpful and prompt | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Very competitively priced, one of the cheapest on the market | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
How to pick a VPN to watch overseas content
When selecting a VPN for streaming content overseas, there are a few key factors you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth and reliable experience.
Server Coverage: Look for a VPN provider with a wide range of servers in different countries, particularly in the region where the specific content you want to access is located. The more server locations available, the better your chances of finding one that works for your specific streaming needs.
Performance: Streaming requires a good internet connection and fast speeds to avoid buffering and lags. Choose a VPN that offers high-speed servers and has a reputation for reliable performance.
Unblocking Capabilities: Not all VPNs can bypass geo-restrictions imposed by streaming services. Choose a VPN based on its ability to reliably unblock content from your favorite streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, etc.
Security and Privacy: While streaming, your online privacy and security should remain a top priority. Ensure the VPN you choose offers strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and other security features like a kill switch and DNS leak protection.
Compatibility: Make sure the VPN works on all your devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. As well as that, make sure to check if the VPN allows multiple simultaneous connections so you can stream on different devices at the same time.
User-Friendly Interface: A user-friendly interface and easy-to-use apps make the streaming experience more enjoyable. Look for VPNs with intuitive interfaces and apps that are simple to set up and navigate.
Customer Support: In case you encounter any problems while streaming or setting up the VPN, reliable customer support can be invaluable. Choose a VPN provider that offers responsive customer support through live chat or other methods like email or phone.
Pricing: Compare the pricing plans of different VPN providers and choose one that fits your budget while offering the features you need. There are plenty of great discounts you can get to make the best deal you can.
With these things in mind, you can select a VPN that best suits your needs for streaming content overseas while ensuring a secure and seamless experience.
How we test streaming VPNs
At Tom’s Guide, we like to be as thorough and fair as we can when testing any VPN. To reproduce the average customer's experience as closely as possible, we make sure to register for our subscription anonymously. This way, providers can't deliver any special treatment just because they know they're being tested.
Once we access the VPN service, these are the main areas we pay attention to in our tests:
App: Everything starts with installing and opening the VPN app. We like to complete this process across multiple platforms to ensure that no matter where you're using your VPN, the experience
Unblocking capabilities: This is the most important element of a streaming VPN, and so, we put a real focus on browsing the libraries of pretty much every popular streaming service we can think of. Each time we do this, we connect to a server in a different region. This way, we can form a clear picture of each service's content-unblocking abilities.
Security: In testing the security of each VPN, we consider what tunneling protocols and encryption methods
Speed: We don't expect you to have to sacrifice speed for security. To confirm you’re getting the best balance of both, we measure the performance of each VPN across a 24-hour period.
Privacy: If you've chosen to subscribe to a VPN, the last thing you want is a privacy breach, We read the fine print on each provider’s private policy so we feel confident that your data is safe. As well as this, we check out the results of any third-party audits each company has received.
Streaming VPNs FAQs
What's the best streaming VPN?
The best streaming VPN for watching content overseas is NordVPN. As well as having robust security features, NordVPN offers a wide range of servers across the world, providing you with lots of options when it comes to streaming content from around the world.
NordVPN unblocks a whole host of streaming services and is especially useful as a Netflix VPN. Thanks to its speedy performance, you won't have to worry about buffering or quality issues too.
Can I use a free streaming VPN?
There are a number of VPN providers out there that offer free VPN services or a free tier. However, opting for one of these usual means accepting in-app ads and reduced functionality. Not choosing a reliable VPN provider also leaves you at greater risk of having your data breached.
For this reason, it's best to avoid using a VPN to stream content overseas. If you are especially budget-conscious, consider low-cost VPN plans like those from Surfshark or Private Internet Access. Alternatively, you can try out a free trial of a full service to get a sense of whether it's worth it.
Disclaimer
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:
1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).
2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.
We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
