5 reasons to use a VPN when searching for a Motorhome online
You have a Motorhome in mind and want to check if the price is right. Meanwhile, you receive a payment link from a seller and leave your contact details on various websites. For such a large purchase, you want to know who you are dealing with, without revealing too much about yourself unnecessarily. A VPN can help with that. What can you expect during your search?
How a VPN works
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates an encrypted connection between your device and a provider's server. Your internet traffic goes through that server to the websites you visit. They see the IP address of the server instead of that of your connection. Check if there are apps for your operating systems, for example Android and Windows, and compare VPN providers on their privacy policy and independent audits.
1. You shield your connection on public Wi-Fi
On the Wi-Fi of a café or campsite, you don't always know how the network is secured. The VPN keeps your traffic encrypted there, even if you open an ad or send a message to the seller. Install the app beforehand and check if the VPN is active. The tips from Digitale Overheid for safe internet use on the go also advise you to use a VPN or your data bundle when you are out and about.
2. You reduce the chance of phishing
A seller sends a link to confirm a viewing, or a landlord asks for a deposit via a separate website. Such a page may be fake to steal your bank or login details. Some paid VPN packages also include phishing protection. This can block suspicious websites before you enter any data. Check if this extra feature is included in your subscription and works on your device: the VPN connection alone does not prevent phishing.
Always check the full web address yourself and do not share more information than necessary. A padlock or HTTPS does not automatically mean a website is trustworthy, as also shown by the explanation from Veilig Bankieren about bank websites.
3. You keep your connection shielded when you log in
With an account, you can save favorites on many ad sites and read messages back. If you sell a Motorhome yourself, you also manage your ad there. As soon as you log in, that traffic goes through the encrypted connection with an active VPN. Furthermore, use a password for the account that you do not use anywhere else and enable two-factor authentication if the site offers it.
If your VPN has a kill switch, make sure it is enabled. This interrupts internet traffic when the VPN connection drops, so you don't unknowingly continue without the VPN.
4. You can compare foreign rental prices
If you want to rent a Motorhome abroad, you can repeat the same search query via a VPN server in that country. To do this, open a new private window. The site will then see the IP address of that server. If a landlord adjusts prices based on your location, it may result in a different offer. The price may also remain the same or be higher. For private sale ads, the asking price usually does not change.
Check if you are comparing the same rental period and conditions. A favorable daily rate can turn out to be more expensive when you get fewer free kilometers or have a higher deductible. The demand for Motorhomes also influences the price. The ECC explains how dynamic and personalized prices differ. Therefore, note the prices shortly after each other and include the mandatory costs.
5. Your own IP address remains hidden
During a longer search, you click from one ad site to another. With a VPN, these sites see the IP address of the VPN server. From this, they can infer a location, while your own IP address remains hidden. This limits the possibilities to link your visits together via that address. Cookies continue to work in the meantime. Even if you are logged into an account, websites can recognize you, even with a VPN. Refuse unnecessary tracking cookies and, if necessary, use a separate private window for comparison. A VPN does not delete existing cookies.
From rental ad to viewing
A VPN is mainly useful when you are searching on changing networks and logging in or sharing data. With foreign rental websites, you can also use it for an extra price comparison. If you have then found a Motorhome, take the time to check the provider. For a purchase, plan a viewing so you can see for yourself if the Motorhome suits you.