Introduction
Split tunneling is one of the most useful but overlooked VPN features for travelers. It lets you choose which apps or websites use the VPN tunnel and which connect directly. This can dramatically improve your travel experience.
What Is Split Tunneling
Normally, a VPN routes all your internet traffic through the encrypted tunnel. Split tunneling gives you control to exclude certain apps or websites from the VPN. For example, you might route your email and banking through the VPN for security, while letting Google Maps use your actual location for accurate directions.
Why Travelers Need It
When traveling, you often need both VPN protection and local access simultaneously. You want your banking app secured through a home country server, but you also need local restaurant delivery apps, ride-sharing services, and maps to use your actual location. Without split tunneling, you must constantly toggle the VPN on and off.
How to Set It Up
Most VPN apps offer split tunneling in settings. ExpressVPN offers it on Windows, Mac, and Android. NordVPN provides it on Windows and Android. Surfshark calls it Bypasser and offers it on most platforms.
Recommended Split Tunneling Configuration for Travel
Route through VPN: email clients, banking apps, web browsers, messaging apps, cloud storage. Bypass VPN: maps and navigation, local delivery apps, ride-sharing services, local weather apps, device updates.
Security Considerations
Apps that bypass the VPN are not encrypted and expose your real IP address. Only bypass the VPN for apps that genuinely need your local location and do not handle sensitive data. When in doubt, route through the VPN.
VPNs With Best Split Tunneling
ExpressVPN has the most intuitive split tunneling interface. NordVPN offers both app-based and URL-based split tunneling. Surfshark Bypasser works on the most platforms. Note that iOS generally does not support split tunneling on any VPN due to Apple restrictions.
The Bottom Line
Split tunneling transforms your VPN from an all-or-nothing tool into a flexible security layer. For travelers juggling VPN-protected work and location-dependent local apps, it is invaluable.
