BBC iPlayer is one of the biggest streaming platforms in the UK. It offers a lot of great shows and content but they are geo-restricted. It means that if you are outside of the country, you can’t watch BBC iPlayer unless you are willing to spend for a virtual private network (VPN).
With a VPN, your real IP address will be hidden and you will have a UK IP address and enjoy BBC iPlayer wherever you are. All you need to do is sign up with the best VPNs in the market like ExpressVPN.
But how to watch BBC iPlayer abroad with a VPN? Want to know the answer? If so, then read on as we are about to unveil the steps by step process and the VPNs that you can use.
Watch BBC iPlayer: How Does A VPN Help?
Commonly known as a virtual private network, a VPN is a security tool that is capable of encrypting your online traffic. Further, it will hide your real location from all the websites you are visiting including BBC iPlayer. A VPN creates a tunnel that is encrypted securely for the internet data running between the VPN server and your devices.
With a VPN, you can make an impression that you are in a different region. When connected to a UK server, you will obtain a temporary address there. With that, you can visit the website of BBC iPlayer and log in with your credentials and watch as if you’re in the country physically.
How to Watch BBC iPlayer Overseas
Watching BBC iPlayer may seem a difficult task especially if it is your first time performing it. However, you have nothing to worry about because the best VPNs are very easy to use.
Nevertheless, let’s take a look at the step-by-step process of how to watch BBC iPlayer with a VPN.
- Choose and Subscribe to A Reliable VPN
Today, there are plenty of VPNs to choose from but keep in mind that not all of them are made the same. Some are reliable while others aren’t. If you want to ensure that you will end up with a good one, we highly recommend ExpressVPN as it comes with several servers in the United Kingdom and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Set Up Your Chosen VPN
After selecting your desired VPN, it is time to set it up. Download and install the app from the provider’s website or App store.
Once installed, log in using the credentials that you provide when you subscribe to your chosen VPN.
- Connect to a UK Server
It’s time to connect to a server in the UK. Simply check the list provided. Be sure to choose a server that has a good connection speed to ensure a buffer- and lag-free watching experience.
- Go To BBC iPlayer and Then Create An Account
After visiting BBC iPlayer, you will need to create an account to start watching. You can use your real email or create a new one, it is all up to you as long as you are using a reliable VPN.
- Watch BBC iPlayer Overseas
It is time to watch the BBC outside the UK. Pick the series or show you want to watch. Enjoy watching BBC iPlayer wherever you are.
Best VPNs to Watch BBC iPlayer Abroad in 2024
It is very crucial that you choose the best VPN or else you will end up wasting your money and time considering the high-end anti-VPN measures of BBC iPlayer.
To narrow down your options, we suggest that you try these three VPNs. Trust us, you will not regret your decision.
- ExpressVPN
Because of its lightning-fast speeds and massive servers all over the world, it is considered one of the best VPNs for watching BBC iPlayer from anywhere.
This VPN has over 3000 servers in 94 countries. ExpressVPN has servers in Canada, Japan, and the US that are also ideal for watching Netflix. Having said that, ExpressVPN is not just a wonderful VPN for the United Kingdom but for other regions as well.
ExpressVPN, on the other hand, is very easy to use. And with its remarkable security features, you will never need to worry about snoopers and hackers.
Furthermore, this VPN supports almost all major platforms. This is very easy to use for streaming services whether you are using a phone or computer. Another great feature of ExpressVPN that you shouldn’t want to miss is that it allows five connections at the same time.
There are additional features such as Lightway VPN protocol and a no-log policy. It also works with Fire TV Stick and Smart TV.
And before we forget, another feature that we like about ExpressVPN is that it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee that allows its users to use all of the features it has to offer without risking anything, even the money as it can be refunded with ease.
- PrivateVPN
Like any other VPN, PrivateVPN will not log any data and has a decent record when it comes to watching BBC iPlayer as well as other known streaming services like Netflix.
PrivateVPN will make short work of the VPN Firewall of BBC iPlayer, as mentioned the platform has strict measures in terms of VPNs. The VPN has 24/7 support via live chat and most importantly, high speeds.
Despite having a small network of servers, the speed of PrivateVPN is very excellent. When it comes to security it will not disappoint you too. As a matter of fact, it sports 128-bit and 256-bit encryption that has perfect forward secrecy.
It does not keep logs of your activities and will not record the IP address you are using. Lastly, you can connect several devices simultaneously with one account.
- Surfshark
Third on our list is SurfShark with 3200 servers in over 65 countries, including the United Kingdom. This VPN is fast to the extent that it can stream HD content without noticeable buffering. It will also allow you to access other major services besides BBC iPlayer such as Netflix US and ITV Hub.
SurfShark, on the other hand, implements no connection limit. It means you can secure your devices at the same time even if you only have one account.
SurfShark utilizes a kill switch, and 256-bit encryption, and has protection against WebRTC, DNS, and IPv6 leakage. These features help in keeping your internet activities secure all the time. There is even a zero-log policy as well as an option to block malware, ads, and trackers automatically.
With round-the-clock live chat support, you can rest easy knowing that there is someone who can assist you any time of the day.
One more thing, this VPN has apps for Linux, macOS, iOS, Windows, and Android. And take note you can install it on the supported wireless routers automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to Watch BBC iPlayer Abroad Without VPN?
According to the BBC, the most ideal way to watch shows on BBC iPlayer when outside the UK is to download the program you want to watch on the iPlayer app when you are in the UK before traveling.
While it is possible to watch BBC iPlayer without a VPN, keep in mind that you will only have a very limited option. You will not keep up with the newest episodes of your favorite shows and even live sports.
Having said that, using a VPN like ExpressVPN is indeed a good idea if you don’t want to miss out on any BBC iPlayer content when out of the country.
Is Using A VPN Illegal?
Absolutely, NOT. If you are subscribed to a UK TV license you can access BBC iPlayer legally where you are. In fact, VPNs will only let you watch regardless of your location, by masking your actual location and giving a UL server and IP address.
Can I Use Free VPNs to Watch BBC iPlayer Outside the UK?
If you are planning to watch BBC iPlayer overseas using a free VPN, know that it is not going to work. Free options are not secure and firm enough to bypass BBC iPlayer’s anti-VPN firewall.
What’s more, some of them don’t have servers in the United Kingdom. Nevertheless, if you want to know how to watch BBC iPlayer abroad for free, consider ExpressVPN.
This VPN has a 30-day money-back guarantee that allows you to use the service for free. Be sure to unsubscribe before the 30 days end. But we are certain that you will continue your subscription after seeing and testing the features.
Final Thought
As you can see, it is very easy to watch BBC iPlayer outside the UK if you have the right VPN. But did you know that there are lots of VPNs that fail to escape the solid blocks of BBC iPlayer?
After testing several VPNs, we found out that the best option is ExpressVPN as it comes with fast speeds and reliable unblocking abilities. You can try this VPN risk-free since it is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. And if you’re not satisfied with ExpressVPN, you can claim a full refund with ease, but we are certain that you will like all of its features.
We hope that our guide on how to watch BBC iPlayer abroad helps you a lot.
Thomas Smith is the editor of forprivacy.org, overseeing a team focused on building the voice of the cybersecurity world through guides, reviews articles and community. His background is as a writer and seasoned software industry veteran with 10 years of experience.
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