How to Use VPNs to Save Money Online
Virtual private networks (VPNs) are powerful tools that allow you to access geo-restricted content, find region-specific deals, and ultimately save money while shopping online. Here's how it works and tips to maximize your savings.
Access Geo-Restricted Content
Many online stores and services restrict content based on your location. This is known as geo-blocking. For example, Netflix libraries vary widely by country - a TV show available in the US may not be accessible in Europe. Shopping sites also often have special deals and sales exclusive to certain regions.
By routing your internet traffic through servers in different locations, a VPN allows you to bypass these restrictions. Connect to a US-based server and you can access the US Netflix library from anywhere in the world. Or connect to a server in the UK to view UK-only sales on Amazon's UK site. A good VPN opens up a world of content regardless of your actual location.
Find Better Region-Specific Deals
In addition to accessing geo-restricted content, VPNs allow you to find better prices and deals specific to certain regions. Prices for the same items often vary widely on online shopping sites depending on where you appear to be accessing the site from.
For example, connect to a server in India and you may find certain goods priced much cheaper on Amazon's Indian site compared to the US or European sites. Some sites also offer periodic sales and deals exclusive to specific countries. A VPN gives you access to all of these savings no matter where you physically are.
Tips for Using a VPN to Save Money
Here are some tips to maximize your savings when shopping online with a VPN:
Clear Cookies and Cache
Websites use cookies and cache data to remember your browsing activities. To fully mask your identity, make sure to clear these before accessing sites through the VPN.
Try Multiple Locations
Connect to servers in different countries to uncover the best deals. Prices can vary widely across regions.
Use Travel Deal Sites
In addition to main shopping sites, check travel deal sites like Priceline and Expedia when looking for deals on flights, hotels, and more.
Access Foreign Versions of Sites
Rather than the US version of Amazon.com, access country-specific sites like Amazon.co.uk (UK) and Amazon.in (India) to view region-exclusive deals.
Avoid Logging In
Shop anonymously whenever possible without creating accounts or logging in to retain maximum privacy.
Choose the Best VPN for Savings
Not all VPNs are created equal when it comes to accessing restricted content and finding deals. Key features to look for include:
Large server network: More server locations means more options for geo-spoofing. Look for 1,000+ servers globally.
Fast speeds: Important for streaming geo-restricted video without buffering or lag.
Strict no-logging policy: Ensures browsing data isn't collected or sold.
Strong encryption: Keeps browsing activities private from prying eyes.
Find the best deals: You look for the best VPN deals during Black Friday and Christmas.
The best VPNs for online shopping combine excellent speeds, large server networks, and robust privacy protections. Do your research to pick the right one for maximizing online savings.
Using a quality VPN vastly expands the content you can access on the internet and opens up a world of geo-restricted deals and discounts. Follow the tips mentioned here to save money on flights, hotels, shopping, subscriptions, and more. A VPN is an essential tool for any savvy online shopper.
