While some gambling/betting sites are available widely, such as Stake and Roobet, for example, most gambling and sports betting sites work in select countries only. This is typically due to complex gambling regulations. Unfortunately, it means you won’t be able to sign up for an online casino, poker site, sports betting platform, and more from restricted regions.
Also, even if you already have an account, you can’t access gambling platforms while traveling in countries where they are banned. Luckily, a VPN for gambling will help you bypass these geo-restrictions. By connecting to a server in a country where your desired online gambling site is supported, you’ll trick the service into thinking you’re located there.
In this article, we’ll review the 5 best VPNs for sports betting and gambling. We’ll also share a guide on how to access any gambling site with a VPN, explain why you need a VPN, and discuss the legalities of online gambling platforms. Furthermore, we’ll teach you how to choose a VPN for online gambling, answer some FAQs, and much more.
Best VPNs for Online Gambling & Sports Betting - Our Shortlist
- ExpressVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN for Gambling and Sports Betting
- NordVPN – Ultra-Secure VPN for Sports Betting
- CyberGhost VPN – Versatile VPN for Online Casino Betting
- Private Internet Access – Sports Betting VPN with Largest Server Fleet
- Surfshark – Beginner-Friendly Online Gambling VPN
How to Securely Use a Gambling Site with a VPN
To securely use any gambling site with a VPN, find a provider that unblocks many different online sports betting and gambling platforms and get a subscription. Then, connect to your VPN. These are the steps you need to take:
- Subscribe to a VPN that works for online gambling (we recommend ExpressVPN).
- Download and install the VPN app on your device(s).
- Launch the VPN app and sign in to your account.
- Connect to a VPN server where your preferred gambling platform is available.
- Now you can enjoy unrestricted access to any online gambling sites.
Any best VPN for sports betting must have obfuscated servers, so you can remain anonymous while you use VPNs for sports betting or other casino games in countries where they’re not legal and restricted.
Best VPNs for Online Gambling and Sports Betting in 2023
To choose a VPN for gambling and sports betting, there are several criteria to look for. First, the VPN should unblock many types of gambling platforms from anywhere, including online casinos and sports betting sites. This means it must have extensive networks with servers in regions where online gambling is legal, like the UK, Spain, Switzerland, and Australia.
The bigger the server range, the faster and more consistent connections you’ll get, too. Moreover, the gambling VPN must offer obfuscated servers to mask your VPN traffic, as well as a kill switch feature that will maintain your privacy in case of a connection failure.
Other security features you should look for are robust VPN protocols, military-grade encryption, and a strict no-logs policy. The VPN must be compatible with various devices, support many simultaneous connections, and come with dedicated apps. Lastly, make sure it has a money-back policy and reliable customer support for a seamless experience.
Based on the criteria we explained above, here are the 5 best VPNs for gambling and sports betting:
1. ExpressVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN for Gambling and Sports Betting
ExpressVPN is the best VPN for gambling & betting because it unblocks most gambling sites and sports betting platforms from anywhere. This is thanks to its 3,000+ servers in 94+ countries, including plenty of servers in countries where online gambling is legal, such as Spain, the UK, Switzerland, and Australia.
By utilizing ExpressVPN, you will have access to its obfuscated servers, which are perfect for an anonymous gambling experience. You can also employ its kill switch feature to secure your data in case the VPN connection fails at any time. Furthermore, ExpressVPN has lightning-fast speeds with reliable connections that will be sufficient for your gambling journey.
Moreover, the VPN comes with some top-notch security features, such as AES-256 encryption, strong VPN protocols (Lightway, OpenVPN, and IKEv2), and a strict, independently audited no-logs policy. This guarantees that ExpressVPN will not store your sensitive information or activities.
Another reason why ExpressVPN is the best VPN for sports betting is that it's compatible with both mobile and desktop devices and offers a native app for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux devices. Also, it allows up to 8 simultaneous connections.
The cherry on top is that ExpressVPN has reliable and knowledgeable customer support, which is accessible via live chat 24/7. You will also get a 30-day money-back guarantee with all of its plans for a risk-free experience.
PROS
- Unblocks any gambling site
- AES-256 encryption
- Obfuscated server technology
- No-logs policy
- 30-day money-back policy
- 24/7 live chat support
CONS
- 5 simultaneous connections (on monthly plan)
2. NordVPN – Ultra-Secure VPN for Sports Betting
NordVPN is another excellent VPN for sports betting and casino games. It enables you to access sports betting and online casino sites from anywhere. This VPN comes with 5,700+ servers in 60+ countries, with many servers in Spain, the UK, Switzerland, and Australia, where you can enjoy legal gambling.
Furthermore, NordVPN comes with obfuscated servers, a kill switch feature, a strict no-logs policy, unique NordLynx protocol, military-grade encryption, and a private DNS feature. If you want even better protection, NordVPN also provides a Double VPN feature that encrypts your Internet connection twice by routing your traffic through 2 VPN servers.
NordVPN isn’t as fast as ExpressVPN, but it still provides fast speeds and consistent connections. You can also employ this VPN on your Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows devices like phones, tablets, and PCs, and you can have up to 6 simultaneous connections.
Lastly, this top-notch provider offers 24/7 customer support available through live chat and a 30-day money-back guarantee that allows a full refund if you’re not satisfied with its services.
PROS
- Tons of servers for gambling
- Obfuscated servers available
- Strong unblocking capabilities
- Impressive speeds
- 30-day money-back policy
- 24/7 live chat support
CONS
- Not the fastest option
3. CyberGhost VPN – Versatile VPN for Online Casino Betting
CyberGhost is one of the best gambling VPNs because it comes with over 9,500 servers in 91+ countries to unblock various gambling and sports betting sites anywhere in the world. With one of the biggest server fleets on the market, it offers servers in the UK, Spain, Switzerland, and Australia.
This VPN doesn’t offer obfuscated servers, but it somewhat makes up for this with its NoSpy servers that ensure you remain unnoticeable. Additionally, you’ll benefit from a kill switch, AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and a few secure VPN protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2.
CyberGhost is not one of the fastest gambling VPN providers, but it has other perks that warrant its place on our list. By using CyberGhost, you can connect 7 devices at the same time such as phones, computers, and tablets—and get native apps for Android, Windows, macOS, and iOS.
Last but not least, this VPN for sports betting provides 24/7 customer support and a 14-day money-back guarantee on its monthly plan. Even better, you can get a 45-day money-back guarantee for the 6-month plan.
PROS
- Over 9,500 servers globally
- Unblocks many gambling sites
- Advanced security features
- Strict no-logs policy
- 45-day money-back policy
- 24/7 customer support
CONS
- No obfuscation
4. Private Internet Access – Sports Betting VPN with Largest Server Fleet
Private Internet Access (PIA) stands out from the other VPNs on our list due to its extensive server fleet. PIA has the largest network and quickly unblocks any sports betting or casino site from anywhere. Thanks to its thousands of servers in 84+ countries, you can enjoy gambling from supported locations like the UK, Spain, Switzerland, and Australia.
PIA is one of the best VPNs for gambling as it has obfuscated servers to hide that you’re using a VPN. You will also get a kill switch, AES-256 encryption, audited no-logs policy, and strong VPN protocols (WireGuard and OpenVPN). PIA allows you to customize your level of protection and modify your encryption settings according to your preferences.
In terms of speed, PIA is sufficient for online gambling, and its connections are reliable and consistent. However, it’s a bit slower than ExpressVPN and NordVPN. PIA comes with native apps for Windows and macOS, as well as Android and iOS devices. In addition, you can connect an unlimited number of devices at once, including phones, laptops, desktops, and tablets.
Lastly, PIA has 24/7 customer support, giving you a chance to ask for assistance with any issue that may arise. You will also get a 30-day money-back guarantee for a full refund if you’re unsatisfied with its services.
PROS
- Servers in 80+ countries
- Advanced customization
- Obfuscation built-in
- Unlimited parallel connections
- 30-day money-back policy
- 24/7 live chat support
CONS
- Best for advanced users
5. Surfshark – Beginner-Friendly Online Gambling VPN
Surfshark has 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, including locations where online gambling is legal such as the UK, Spain, Switzerland, and Australia. Due to its wide server fleet, it also allows you to get access to the casino or sports betting platforms you prefer from anywhere in the world.
With a strong emphasis on your security, Surfshark comes with obfuscated servers, so gambling platforms will perceive your traffic as regular Internet traffic—not traffic routed through a VPN. You will also receive an additional layer of security due to its kill switch feature.
You can benefit from Surfshark’s AES-256 encryption and robust VPN protocols, including WireGuard. The VPN also has a strict no-logs policy that goes under regular audits, proving its validity.
What’s more, Surfshark is an impressively fast VPN that supports various devices like phones, tablets, PCs, and more, and offers apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. The best part is that you’ll get unlimited simultaneous connections.
Lastly, Surfshark has superb customer support with 24/7 assistance over live chat. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, meaning you can get a full refund if need be.
PROS
- Obfuscated servers on offer
- Easy website unblocking
- Lightning-fast speeds
- Unlimited connections
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- 24/7 live chat support
CONS
- Can take a while to connect
Best VPNs for Online Gambling Compared
Why Do You Need a VPN for Online Gambling?
You need a VPN for online gambling to bypass all restrictions that your country may impose. Without a VPN, if you try to access any gambling sites from restricted countries, you’ll encounter an error message similar to the following example: “Unfortunately, Lucky Block is unavailable in your country.”
With a VPN, you can change your location to a country where gambling is legal. Here are some other reasons to use a VPN:
- Bypass Geo-Blocks in Unsupported Regions – If you live in a country where online gambling is banned, you can use the best VPN for sports betting to spoof your location with an IP address from a region where gambling is allowed. Therefore, you’ll trick the online casino into thinking you should have access.
- Avoid Licensing Issues – Many gambling providers restrict certain types of games in some countries or states. You may have a smaller choice of games even if the platform itself is accessible. Luckily, a VPN will unblock any preferred casino games on any service.
- Gamble While Traveling – If you travel to a country where online gambling isn’t legal, you won’t be able to gamble as you would at home. A VPN will allow you to connect to a VPN server in a location that complies with all gambling laws and regulations.
- Access Gambling Sites on Public Wi-Fi - Thanks to your VPN's encryption, you can rest assured that your sensitive data will be protected on any type of network. That means you'll get to unblock and use gambling or betting platforms even on public Wi-Fi networks, which are notorious for their lack of security.
- Access a Wider Variety of Gambling Sites – Some countries restrict their citizens from gambling or betting on sports. Conversely, various gambling sites restrict players from certain countries. However, with a VPN, you can easily bypass geo-restrictions and access any gambling sites.
- Protect Your Privacy and Finances – A VPN for gambling will encrypt your traffic and protect it from unauthorized access. Therefore, you’ll have a secure online gambling experience and collect your wins safely, even when connected to public Wi-Fi networks.
- Hide Your Browsing Activity - Don't want your Internet provider to know what you do online? Don't want online trackers to know that you often visit gambling or betting sites? Well, a VPN will prevent your data from surfacing on the Web.
- Hide Your IP Address - By connecting to a VPN server, you get an IP address associated with the server's location (which can be a different region or a different country). Your original IP will remain hidden, which means your physical location will also remain hidden.
How to Choose the Best VPN for Gambling and Sports Betting
As using a VPN for gambling becomes more and more common, it’s important to know how to choose the best gambling VPN. So, let’s have a look at the most crucial features when considering online gambling with a VPN:
- Ability to Unblock Gambling Sites - The best VPN for gambling and sports betting must be capable of unblocking your favorite platforms. You'll want to be able to connect to a server and access any gambling/sports betting platform without any workarounds.
- Server Network Size and Distribution – You should use a VPN for sports betting that has an extensive server fleet. As a result, you’ll get access to a wide range of gambling platforms to choose from and the ability to unblock all restricted sites.
- Obfuscated Servers - By using obfuscated servers, you ensure that no one knows you are hiding behind a VPN. Also, obfuscated servers are great if you want to unblock betting or gambling platforms on more restrictive networks.
- Kill Switch - When using a VPN, it's essential to ensure that you use a leak-free VPN tunnel, as you don't want your data to surface on the Web. So, the best VPN for gambling and betting must offer a kill switch, which protects you even if something unexpected happens.
- No-Logs Policy – A no-logs policy ensures the VPN provider won’t collect confidential data, such as your identification or online activities. Go for a VPN with a strict no-logs policy, preferably audited, so you can rest assured that not even your VPN will know what you’re doing online.
- Protocols & Encryption - Go for a VPN powered by the OpenVPN protocol, which is the safest VPN protocol available right now. Also, it should be coupled with AES-256 encryption. Alternatively, pick WireGuard paired with ChaCha20.
- Simultaneous Connections & Supported Devices - Most VPNs allow you to connect at least 5 devices at once, while many allow 7, 8, or even an unlimited number of connections. Also, ensure that your chosen gambling/betting VPN offers native apps for all your devices.
- Performance and Speed – Sports betting with a VPN requires fast and reliable speeds, so you can have the best experience. Therefore, you should choose a VPN with consistent and stable connections, even over long distances.
- Money-Back Guarantees - Buying a VPN can be a risk-free investment if you pick a VPN with generous money-back guarantees. We recommend picking a VPN with at least a 30-day money-back policy, which should come with no questions asked.
- Customer Support – Finding a VPN with reliable customer support is a must, as you may need someone to solve any issues that arise. The best customer support includes 24/7 availability and a live chat option.
Why is Gambling Illegal in Some States?
Gambling is illegal in some states because government authorities see it as unethical. This is because there are many concerns that arise from betting, such as redistribution of wins, social dominance by leaders, and potential oppression.
Furthermore, some states believe the impact of loss over a long period can affect individuals’ well-being. This is why even lotteries and activities like sports betting are sometimes prohibited.
Gambling can also be illegal due to how authorities perceive the chances of winning. If they find a lack of fair chances to win, they may put restrictions on the game, the casino, or the software provider.
Another reason why gambling might be illegal in a particular state is that owners can cheat in some way that results in losses for participants of casino games.
Last but not least, many gambling platforms need to comply with country and state laws and regulations. If they fail to do so, they’re not allowed to operate in those regions.
Where is Online Gambling & Sports Betting Legal & Illegal?
The legality of online gambling and sports betting varies greatly across the world. For example, online gambling is legal and regulated across the European Union (Germany, France, Spain, etc.), while most countries in Asia impose a blanket ban on gambling. Then, there are countries like the United States, where each state has different gambling regulations.
For example, Texas and Georgia are in the process of regulating online gambling, so sports betting is illegal, and mainly offshore online casinos are available. California is more restrictive, as most forms of online gambling are not legal. Then, there's Florida, where sports betting is legal, and there's Nevada as well, where online poker and sports betting are regulated.
As you can see, the situation surrounding the legality of online gambling is highly complex. So, let's take a closer look at where gambling and sports betting are legal and illegal.
Countries Where Gambling is Legal
Online gambling and sports betting are slowly becoming legal worldwide. In the table below, you can find the countries where gambling is legal, along with their specific regulations.
Countries Where Gambling is Illegal
Gambling can be illegal mainly because authorities perceive it as unethical because gambling platforms don’t comply with the country's regulations, if winning chances are low, or if casino owners cheat in a way so you can’t make significant wins or any wins at all.
Here is a list of countries where gambling is illegal:
Is It Illegal to Use a VPN to Gamble Online?
No, using a VPN to gamble online is not illegal - as long as VPNs are legal in your country. That said, there are countries that have banned VPNs, so it's highly important to keep in mind your local laws.
The main drawback is that some gambling websites might restrict your access due to using a VPN. For example, online casinos can entirely deny your access to their sites or freeze your winnings. That's because using a VPN might be against their Terms and Conditions.
That’s why we recommend using a VPN for gambling with obfuscated servers to hide the fact that you’re using a VPN. As a result, the casino will perceive the VPN traffic as regular browsing traffic and allow you to enjoy its game selection.
Can You Use a VPN to Sports Bet?
Yes, you can use a VPN to make sports bets. In fact, we encourage it. You can safely enjoy sports betting thanks to robust security features. By getting another IP address with a VPN, you’ll also have access to more sports betting platforms that are unavailable in your region.
By using VPNs to bet on sports, you will also get a more extensive betting range. For example, maybe your country only offers a couple of kinds of sports betting—the VPN will help you bypass those restrictions.
The VPN for sports betting will help you overcome any ISP throttling that could affect your connection speeds. Lastly, due to the VPN and its encryption, you will remain safe even when you use a public Wi-Fi network.
Popular Online Gambling and Sports Betting Sites in 2023
If you want to explore various top sports betting sites, you have an overwhelming number of choices. That’s why we made a table of the best online gambling sites, including the best sports betting sites, featuring the most extensive availability. Take a look below.
As you can see, even the best online gambling apps and sports betting apps aren't available globally. So, if any of the recommendations from above isn't available in your country, you can always use a VPN. We recommend ExpressVPN for bypassing digital geo-blocks.
Can You Use a Free VPN for Online Gambling?
Yes, you can use a free VPN for gambling. However, we really don’t recommend using a free VPN provider as there are quite a few risks that you should be aware of.
Using a free VPN for sports betting or gambling is unreliable as it can leak your actual location. They also lack advanced security features, so they can cause data leaks and compromise your online privacy. Speed and performance are also issues due to limited server networks. Many free VPNs have caps on speed and data usage.
Furthermore, some free VPNs even sell your data to third parties. They also have limited unblocking capabilities and may freeze your gambling wins. That said, you'll be actually risking your funds, as data leaks often prompt additional inquiries from gambling and sports betting platforms.
Therefore, we recommend using the best premium VPN that offers top-notch speeds and security features, as well as extensive server fleets.
Final Thoughts
Online gambling and sports betting services are super popular nowadays, but some countries still restrict them entirely. Others only allow access to certain types of games and gambling activities. Luckily, with a VPN, you can change your location and trick any gambling site into giving you access.
We recommend ExpressVPN as the best VPN for gambling and the #1 VPN for sports betting. Its large, blazing-fast network of 3,000+ servers in 94+ countries allows you to easily unblock any gambling or sports betting platform. With ExpressVPN, you can trust that you’ll be able to safely gamble from anywhere in the world.
That’s all for our comprehensive guide on choosing a VPN for gambling and sports betting. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Thank you for reading!