ExpressVPN covers 105 countries, protects up to 10 devices on a single subscription, and handles network switching automatically when you move between hotel Wi-Fi and mobile data. Your protection doesn't drop for a second in between. It also encrypts your traffic across every major platform (iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, and most smart TVs), so whatever device you're traveling with, you're covered.
I tested it specifically as a first-timer with ten minutes before boarding a flight. From downloading to being fully connected took under a minute, with no tutorial, no settings to configure, and no decision fatigue about which server to pick.
ExpressVPN is an excellent option for travelers in order to keep your digital information protected while switching (sometimes sketchy) networks.
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What is ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN is a premium VPN service available on iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, and most smart TVs, with servers in 105 countries. It's one of the simplest VPN apps to use, and you're fully protected within thirty seconds of downloading it—all without watching a single tutorial.
ExpressVPN handles network switching seamlessly when you leave the coffee shop and connect to a different network, or vice versa. When you leave hotel Wi-Fi and switch to mobile data, ExpressVPN transitions automatically without you needing to manually reconnect. There are no notification prompts, dropped tunnels, or gaps in protection with ExpessVPN.
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The signal strength feature that no other VPN has
Every VPN lets you browse its server list, but ExpressVPN explicitly shows you the server's signal strength right next to each option. Green bars mean excellent, yellow means good, and red means avoid. You can see at a glance which servers will give you the fastest connection before you commit to one.
Image: Jessica Santero | WhistleOut
Signal strength indicators are a small detail, but they make a real difference when you're at an airport with five minutes before your gate closes and you just want to connect quickly without a slowdown. ExpressVPN takes the guesswork out of protection—just pick the green bar and tap connect.
The Aircove Go travel router
ExpressVPN also sells a travel router called Aircove Go, but it's sold separately. The Aircove Go is a compact device you plug into a hotel Ethernet port to create a VPN-protected Wi-Fi network in your room without installing the app on every device. ExpressVPN's travel router is super useful for families traveling with tablets, laptops, and multiple phones—everyone connects to the same secure network, and nobody has to manage their own app.
A travel router is not something most solo travelers need, but if you're heading overseas with kids in tow, it's worth at least having the option available.
Is ExpressVPN worth paying for?
ExpressVPN costs $12.99/month, which is the same price as the behemoth NordVPN. While ExpressVPN offers fewer servers and no Threat Protection on its most basic plan (unlike NordVPN), it's still a solid service.
Some Reddit users think ExpressVPN is overpriced compared to what you get from competitors nowadays. But if you're a first-time VPN user looking for something simple above all else, ExpressVPN is worth it. If you're already comfortable with VPNs and want the best overall value, NordVPN edges it out.
That said, ExpressVPN's signal strength indicator and seamless network switching give you an intuitive interface in a way that other apps don't—making it perfect for travel.
Curious to see what other apps you need to download before going on vacation? Check out the entire list in WhistleOut's full guide to the best holiday travel apps.
How WhistleOut reviews VPNs
Our mobile experts evaluate each VPN based on real-world testing, not just spec sheets. Before recommending any app, we put it through its paces to make sure it does what it promises.
- Ease of use
We prioritize apps that don't require a manual to figure out. - Value for money
We weigh features against price across every tier. - Hands-on testing
We tested ExpressVPN's setup, speed, and network-switching across real-world scenarios.
ExpressVPN: FAQ
How many devices does ExpressVPN support?
ExpressVPN's base plan supports up to 10 devices simultaneously, which is enough to cover your phone, laptop, and tablet on a single subscription.
Does ExpressVPN work in China?
Yes, ExpressVPN works in China, but it depends on the server you connect to. Just remember that no VPN can guarantee uninterrupted performance in heavily restricted regions.
Does ExpressVPN have a free trial?
No, ExpressVPN doesn't offer a traditional free trial, but it does include a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans, so you can test it for a full month risk-free.
Is ExpressVPN good for streaming?
Yes, ExpressVPN is great for streaming and unblocks Netflix, Disney+, and other streaming platforms from multiple regions. It's a capable streaming VPN, though CyberGhost offers more dedicated streaming server options at a similar price.
Jessica Santero
Staff Writer
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