How to Use Netflix While Traveling
Netflix makes it easy to stream your favorite shows and movies abroad, but there are a few things you should know about how it works while traveling. From using the "I'm Travelling" option to download content to managing limits and data usage on your iPhone or Android device, here's a full guide to watching Netflix on the go.
Can You Use Netflix While Traveling Internationally?
Yes, Netflix works in over 190 countries. As long as you have an internet connection, you can stream anywhere. That said, the available library may vary by country. You’ll see content licensed for your current location and not your home country. This means some of your favorite titles might not appear while you're abroad, but you could also discover new regional content that’s not available back home.
If you're moving between countries often (for example, while backpacking through Europe or Southeast Asia), your Netflix library will refresh each time based on your current IP address. This isn't ideal if you're trying to catch up on a region-locked show. However, downloads are also region-specific, which is why the “I’m Travelling” feature becomes essential for international access.
What Is Netflix's "I’m Travelling" Feature?
Netflix's "I'm Travelling" allows you to watch the usual content when you're outside of your Netflix Household environment.
This helps:
- Keep your download feature active while abroad
- Avoid issues with account verification
- Ensure uninterrupted access to offline viewing
- Prevent content restrictions related to long-term device movement
Netflix uses this prompt to distinguish between genuine travelers and potential account sharing violations. It gives you a smoother experience while still protecting your account.
How to Tell Netflix You're Traveling
Netflix might ask: "Are you traveling?" when you're overseas. Tapping "I’m Travelling" confirms a temporary location change, and Netflix may send a verification code to your email or phone to complete the process.
But if you aren’t prompted or start facing download errors, here are a few ways to signal that you're abroad:
- Sign out and sign back in to refresh your device's region info.
- Clear your app cache (especially on Android) to reset region-related restrictions.
- Restart your device after connecting to a local Wi-Fi or mobile network.
- Use a consistent device to access Netflix. Switching devices too often can trigger location flags.
These steps can help re-establish your device’s temporary location status.
How to Sign In to Netflix While Abroad
Netflix login is location-independent. You can sign in from any country using your email and password. However, if you're on a new device or in a region far from your usual location, Netflix may prompt extra verification:
- A one-time passcode may be sent to your email or registered phone number
- In rare cases, Netflix might ask for household verification via your home network
To prevent issues:
- Make sure your Netflix email is up to date
- Save your Netflix login details securely before you leave
How Long Does "I’m Travelling" Last on Netflix?
Netflix typically allows you to stay in traveling mode for up to 30 days. After this period, you may receive messages asking you to verify your home location or connect to your original Wi-Fi network again.
If you remain away from home longer than 30 days:
- Downloads might stop working
- You could be asked to re-confirm your household
- Access to some features or content may be restricted
To watch uninterrupted:
- Use the same device throughout your trip
- Avoid frequent logins from too many different countries
- Reconnect to your home network when possible (or use a compliant VPN as a last resort). Note: Netflix might prevent you from watching shows or limit its catalogue with an active VPN.
Netflix’s policies are designed around the idea of a home-based household, so frequent travelers and digital nomads may need to plan accordingly.
Netflix Download Limits While Traveling
When traveling, downloads are a lifesaver for watching content on the plane, in transit, or in places without reliable internet. But there are some rules:
- Not all titles are available to download: Licensing varies by region, so something downloadable at home may not be available abroad.
- Device limits apply:
- Standard plan allows 2 devices to download
- Premium allows 6
- Number of downloads per title: Certain titles can only be downloaded a limited number of times per year.
- Storage restrictions: Some devices or operating systems restrict how much can be downloaded.
- Expiration timelines: Downloaded content typically expires in 7 days, or 48 hours after starting playback.
To avoid surprises:
- Download content before you leave your home country, especially if you have specific shows in mind
- Regularly check the expiration status under the "Downloads" tab
How Much Is Netflix While Traveling?
Netflix doesn’t charge extra for travel. Your plan stays the same no matter where you are. As of 2025, here’s the latest US pricing:
- Standard with ads: $7.99/month – 2 streams, downloads on 2 devices, includes ads
- Standard (no ads): $17.99/month – 2 streams, downloads on 2 devices, no ads, option to add 1 extra member for $8.99/month
- Premium: $24.99/month – 4 streams, downloads on 6 devices, 4K + HDR, no ads, option to add up to 2 extra members for $8.99/month each
Your billing country determines your monthly price. If you relocate permanently and update your payment method, Netflix may adjust pricing based on local rates.
Watching Netflix Together While Apart
If you’re traveling away from friends, family, or your partner, there’s still a way to watch shows together. You can now share your screen and watch Netflix over FaceTime using SharePlay.
This works on iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV. Just start a FaceTime call, open Netflix, and tap the SharePlay icon. Everyone on the call can watch in sync, pause, and react in real-time. Perfect for virtual movie nights while you're on the road.
Can You Use Netflix with an eSIM While Traveling?
Yes. As long as you have an internet connection, via Wi-Fi or mobile data, Netflix works normally. If you're on the move and away from hotel Wi-Fi, using a travel eSIM is often the most reliable option.
Eskimo eSIM offers international mobile data in over 130 countries. There’s no need to swap physical SIM cards, and new users get 500MB of free global data just for signing up: Claim your free data here.
Eskimo is especially useful for:
- Downloading Netflix content on the go
- Streaming in HD without throttled speeds
- Sharing data with a personal hotspot (great for laptops or tablets)
If you're stuck without Wi-Fi at an airport or your hotel Wi-Fi is unstable, Eskimo gives you reliable internet that travels with you.
How Eskimo eSIM Makes Netflix Travel-Friendly
Whether you're streaming at a train station, downloading shows at a beachside café, or rewatching your favorites on a flight, Eskimo gives you the flexibility to use Netflix wherever you are.
Key benefits:
- Start anytime: Your data plan activates when you connect, no pressure to use it immediately.
- Universal eSIM: Works across continents. No need to install a new SIM for each country.
- Affordable rates: Plans from $1.80/GB mean you can stream without overpaying.
- Long validity: Keep your data for up to 2 years, great for long trips or frequent travel.
- Data rollover: Unused data can roll over every time you top up.
Try Netflix on the go without worrying about Wi-Fi dead zones or roaming fees. Eskimo makes sure your content stays available and your trip stays smooth.
FAQs
Can I use Netflix with an eSIM?
Yes. As long as your eSIM gives you mobile data or hotspot access, you can stream and download from Netflix just like with a regular SIM.
Will Netflix work in airplane mode?
Only if you’ve already downloaded content. You can’t stream or verify your account without internet.
What happens if I travel for more than 30 days?
You might lose access to downloads or be asked to verify your home location. Netflix expects at least one device to connect from your home network periodically.
Does Netflix charge extra for traveling?
No. There are no extra fees. However, your content library and download availability may change depending on where you are.
Can I use Netflix in multiple countries?
Yes, but the library and downloads vary. You’ll always see content licensed for your current location.
Why did my Netflix downloads disappear abroad?
You may have exceeded the travel window or the content is no longer available in your current region. Re-download it once you're back or switch regions if allowed.
Can I change my Netflix region manually?
Not officially. Netflix sets your library based on your IP address. Using a VPN might change it, but this goes against their terms of service and could result in a block.
Does Netflix support dual-language content abroad?
Yes. You can often choose audio and subtitles in multiple languages. However, available languages depend on your current region and the show.
How do I check which Netflix plan I’m on?
Go to Account > Plan Details in your Netflix profile. This shows your active subscription, pricing, and features.