Have you ever tried to stream your favorite show while traveling only to get that annoying message saying the content isn’t available in your current location? We’ve all been there. Geo-blocking is the worst. But don’t worry, there are a few tricks you can use to get around these frustrating digital borders and access region restricted content from anywhere.
Understanding Region Restrictions on Content
Many streaming services and websites restrict access to content based on your location. This is known as geo-blocking and it can be frustrating when you’re traveling abroad or living as an expat. Luckily, there are ways around these digital borders.
First, you’ll need to understand why geo-blocking exists. Content rights are often licensed on a per-country basis, so what’s available in one region may not be offered in another. Geo-blocking helps streaming services and websites comply with licensing agreements and avoid legal issues.
Some of the common ways people access restricted content from abroad include:
- VPNs route your internet traffic through a server in a location of your choosing, disguising your actual whereabouts. You can unblock content from anywhere with VPN.
- Smart DNS proxy services also disguise your location by rerouting just your DNS requests.
- Tor Browser bounces your internet traffic through a network of volunteer relays, obscuring your location and accessing restricted content. However, speeds may be slower.
- Mirror and pirate sites illegally host and stream region-restricted content. However, using them is unethical and can get you into legal trouble.
With the proper tools and techniques, bypassing geo-blocking is certainly doable. But whenever possible, consider using official streaming services and websites to access the content you love, even from abroad.
Using a VPN to Access Restricted Content
Using a virtual private network or VPN is one of the easiest ways to access region-restricted content when abroad. Here’s how it works:
A VPN creates an encrypted connection between your device and a VPN server in a location of your choosing. Once connected, your internet traffic is routed through the VPN server, masking your actual location and IP address.
Accessing Restricted Content
Once connected to your VPN, you can access websites and services as if you were in that country. Stream shows on Hulu, watch MLB TV or NBC Sports, or enjoy Pandora which are normally only available in the U.S. Shop from U.S. stores with geo-restrictions like Target and have items shipped to a freight forwarder.
Using a VPN is a simple solution for bypassing regional restrictions when overseas. As long as you choose a reputable VPN provider, enable encryption, and connect to a server in your target location, you’ll have access to content from anywhere in the world. Now you can enjoy your favorite shows, music, and shopping – no matter where you are!
Choosing the Best VPN for Accessing Region Restricted Content
Choosing a VPN for accessing region-restricted content comes down to a few key factors:
Coverage
Look for a VPN with servers in the country or region where the content you want to access is located. The more locations offered, the better.
Speed
A fast connection is important for streaming video without buffering. Choose a VPN that offers unlimited bandwidth and fast download speeds. Speed tests can help determine which service will perform the best for your needs.
Security
For privacy, select a VPN with strong encryption like OpenVPN or IPSec, a strict no-logs policy, and additional features like a kill switch, DNS leak prevention, and malware blocking. Trustworthy VPNs will clearly state their security practices and may have been independently audited.
Streaming compatibility
Many streaming services block VPNs and proxies. If accessing platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or BBC iPlayer from abroad is important, look for a VPN that can bypass these blocks. The best VPNs for streaming frequently test their service with popular streaming sites and update their software to ensure consistent access.
By considering these factors and reading reviews of the top VPNs, you can find an ideal service for your needs to gain access to the content you want, no matter where you are.
Configuring Your Device to Use a VPN
Configuring your device to use a VPN is one of the best ways to access region-restricted content when traveling abroad or in another country. Using a VPN allows you to spoof your location and access streaming services, websites, or other online content that may be geo-blocked where you currently are.
Choose a VPN provider
The first step is to choose a VPN provider and sign up for their service. Look for a provider that has servers in your home country and good reviews regarding accessing streaming content.
Download the VPN app
Next, download the VPN app onto the device(s) you want to use to access the restricted content like your phone, tablet, laptop, or streaming device. The app will allow you to quickly turn the VPN on and off and select different server locations.
Select a server in your target location
Open the VPN app on your device and choose a server located in the country where the content you want to access is available. So if you want to watch BBC iPlayer, select a UK server. For US Netflix, choose a US-based server. The VPN will then route all of your internet traffic through that server, masking your actual location.
Turn on the VPN whenever accessing restricted content
Once the VPN is connected to a server in the appropriate country, you can open up the website, streaming service, or other content you want to access. The site will think you are located in that country and allow you full access. Be sure to turn on the VPN whenever you want to access geo-blocked content to spoof your location.
Tips for Accessing Region Restricted Content Smoothly
Once you’ve decided to access region-restricted content from abroad, here are some tips to do so smoothly:
Use a VPN
A virtual private network or VPN masks your real IP address and location, allowing you to appear as if you’re accessing the internet from another country. Choose a VPN with servers in your target country or region. Connect to one of those servers and you’ll be able to view content as if you’re there. Many VPNs offer free trials so you can test different services.
Try Smart DNS Proxies
Smart DNS proxies work similarly to VPNs but typically only mask your location for specific websites and streaming services. They are often faster than VPNs since they only redirect certain traffic. Smart DNS proxies may be free or charge a small monthly fee.
Check the Content Provider
Some streaming services and websites don’t block content based on your location, they just restrict access if they can determine your true location. See if the service you want to access offers an international option or subscription. For example, Netflix has different libraries for different regions but also offers Netflix International with some content from various regions.
Use Gift Cards
For some streaming services, you can purchase gift cards or prepaid subscriptions in your target country and then redeem them to access that country’s content library. Make sure the service allows gift cards or prepaid accounts to be redeemed internationally before purchasing. This method may require a VPN or smart DNS proxy to initially sign up for an account.
Stay Patient and Persistent
Accessing region-restricted content from abroad isn’t always straightforward. Don’t get frustrated if the first method you try doesn’t work. Streaming services and websites are constantly working to block VPNs, proxies, and other workaround tools. You may need to try a few different options before finding one that works for accessing the content you want. Staying patient and persistent will pay off!
Conclusion
So there you have it, a few easy ways to access region-restricted content no matter where in the world you are. Whether you want to stream your favorite TV shows, enjoy sports matches happening back home, or listen to music that isn’t available in your current location, VPNs and DNS services have got you covered. No more FOMO or having to miss out on the latest episodes. Just pick a service, set it up on your devices, and you’ll be enjoying your content in no time.
