(BPT) - The summer travel season is here! Whether you're planning an epic trip across the country or stamping your passport for an international adventure, there are plenty of items to pack and tasks to do before you take off. Keeping your family safe online while you travel should be at the top of your to-do list.

More than half of Americans confess to using public hotel networks and 1 in 3 travelers rely on airport Wi-Fi, according to a recent Norton survey. Nowadays, there are plenty of public networks for you to use, but doing so can make you an easy target for hackers. If left unsecured, your sent emails, banking information, credit card details and more could be out in the open for hackers to access. However, you have the power to shield your information from prying eyes.

A simple way to secure your information and provide peace of mind is to use a virtual private network (VPN). You've probably heard of a VPN before, but do you know what it does? This digital privacy tool creates a private encrypted connection between you and the internet, giving you online privacy and anonymity even when on public networks. Read on to see why you should add a VPN to your packing list.

1. Hide your private information

You won't always know if the Wi-Fi networks you access during your travels are secure and safe. Even hotel Wi-Fi networks can be troublesome, as you never know if they were set up with security in mind.

Whether you're at an airport, train station, coffee shop or hotel lobby, a VPN can hide your online activity from would-be snoops. You can browse, shop, post, bank and view content without worrying that cybercriminals, governments and others can see your location or activity.

2. Access your streaming subscriptions worldwide

Some streaming platforms have region-blocked services. This means you may be unable to catch up on your favorite streaming show or root for your home team during the big game when traveling abroad. Luckily, a VPN can help you keep up with your favorite shows even when you're at a resort halfway around the world.

3. Avoid geographical restrictions while abroad

Similarly, some VPNs allow you to bypass geographical restrictions imposed in some countries. Depending on where you travel, you may not be able to access certain websites, social media platforms or content.

Using a VPN, you can "appear" to be in a different location, which may grant you access to sites otherwise inaccessible at your destination. Keep in mind that you will need to identify whether the use of a VPN is legal. Before you take off, check the country's laws before using a VPN.

4. Save on transportation and lodging

Did you know that the prices for flights and hotels can change based on your location? With a VPN, you can find the best deal. Before you book a trip, search for flights and hotels using a VPN and try changing which server you are using to compare if the price is cheaper when shopping from a different location. Then you can use the money you save to treat yourself while on your vacation. A VPN can also keep your credit card information secure while booking.

Finding a VPN that's right for you

Not all VPNs are created equal. Some are free, while others are paid subscriptions. If you're willing to put in the time and research, you may be able to find a free VPN that suits your needs. However, most travelers generally use a paid VPN service to preserve internet speed and to have an overall better user experience.

When choosing a VPN, consider using Norton Secure VPN, which protects personal information like passwords, bank details and credit card numbers when you're using public Wi-Fi. Whether on a PC, Mac or mobile device, you'll be protected.

Are you ready to escape your everyday and stay safe online while on vacation? To learn more about how you can secure your Android or IOS devices, visit US.Norton.com/Norton-Secure-VPN.