Hulu is a premium streaming service based in the US that offers thousands of movies and TV shows, including The Bear, The Handmaid’s Tale, and Only Murders in the Building.
However, if you are outside of the US for a holiday, business trip, or any other reason, you won’t be able to access your usual content on Hulu.
Luckily, if you connect to a US VPN server, you can bypass this geographical restriction and gain access to the entire Hulu library. In addition to circumventing geo-blocks, such as the one restricting Hulu access to US IP addresses, VPNs also protect users’ security and anonymity.
Below, I have reviewed the top VPN providers for Hulu in detail. If you’re in a rush, here’s a quick summary.
The best VPNs for Hulu:
- NordVPN: My number one choice for Hulu. Offers a fast, global network of over 8,200 servers in more than 126 countries. Excellent unblocking ability and strong security measures. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: The best budget option available for those wishing to stream Hulu outside the US. Plenty of US servers and unlimited simultaneous connections.
- Total VPN: A reliable VPN provider that excels at bypassing geographical restrictions on streaming services like Hulu and Netflix.
- Proton VPN: Great for streaming, thanks to fast speeds and the ability to bypass geo-blocks, and has strong security measures in place.
- ExpressVPN: An easy-to-use VPN for beginners. Boasts an excellent reputation for streaming, with fast speeds and strong unblocking ability.
- IPVanish: Fast and reliable, with a great selection of VPN server locations in the US. Allows you to connect all of your devices at once.
- PureVPN: Thousands of servers globally, and provides rapid streaming speeds. This makes it a top pick for Hulu and other streaming platforms.
- Private Internet Access: A lightweight VPN option with excellent unblocking capabilities. Massive server network and unlimited simultaneous connections.
While searching for the best VPNs for Hulu, I considered several key factors to ensure I selected the most suitable providers for Hulu.
Here are the factors I considered:
- Great unblocking ability – allows access to US streaming platforms and other geo-restricted services
- Fast streaming speeds for streaming movies, shows, and live sports
- Vast global server network with locations in the US
- Strong security and privacy features
- Multi-platform support
- Value for money
For more information about the criteria I used, check out the VPN testing methodology section later in this guide.
Best VPNs for watching Hulu from abroad
Having considered all of the above, here are the best VPNs available for watching Hulu from abroad.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN boasts a vast server network comprising over 8,200 servers in more than 126 countries. This includes almost 3,000 servers in the US. These servers offer fast connection speeds and are excellent for streaming services like Hulu. NordVPN can unblock many different popular US streaming platforms, including Netflix, Disney+, Paramount+, and HBO Max.
This service has robust security measures, including 256-bit AES encryption, an app-specific kill switch, an automatic ad-blocker, a malware scanner, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks. NordVPN doesn’t retain logs and allows users to pay with cryptocurrency, which doesn’t associate users’ names with payments.
This VPN’s apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It is also available for supported routers. This provider allows customers to have 10 simultaneous device connections, and the customer support team is available 24/7.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds
- Strong security measures
- No logs stored
- Multi-platform support
- Customer service team available 24/7
Cons:
- Desktop app can be slow at times
BEST VPN FOR WATCHING HULU:NordVPN is the top VPN for unblocking streaming services in the US, including Hulu. This is due to its extensive network of servers in the US, high streaming speeds, and robust security measures. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is an excellent option for those on a budget. In addition to its affordable service, it offers fast streaming speeds and a robust server network of over 3,200 servers in more than 100 countries. It also has great unblocking ability and can bypass geographical restrictions on Hulu with ease. This is in part thanks to its over 600 servers in the US.
Surfshark has strong security measures in place, such as 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against IPv6, WebRTC, and DNS leaks. Traffic scrambling is also provided, and it allows cryptocurrency payments. A strict no-logs policy is enforced.
Apps are available for Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS. Users can also manually install Surfshark on supported routers. Another excellent feature is its support for an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. Subscribers have access to the customer service team 24/7, allowing them to ask any questions if they encounter any problems.
Pros:
- Able to unblock many different services
- Fast connection speeds for streaming
- Strong security measures
- Unlimited number of connections
- Cryptocurrency payments
Cons:
- Doesn’t have as many servers as services like NordVPN
- Some servers can occasionally be slow
BEST BUDGET VPN FOR HULU:Surfshark is affordable, offers fast connection speeds, and strong security measures. It has hundreds of servers in the US and gives users an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. Total VPN
Total VPN is a suitable option for those seeking to access Hulu from anywhere. It offers thousands of servers in more than 90 countries, including in the US. Its US servers enable it to bypass geographical restrictions on services like Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video.
The provider protects its subscribers with a variety of security and privacy features. These include leak protection, a kill switch, and 256-bit AES encryption. There is also a strict no-logs policy in place, along with a stealth protocol called Hydra that allows users to bypass certain websites when connected to a VPN server.
Total VPN provides apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. The customer support team is available 24/7. This provider supports up to five simultaneous connections.
Pros:
- Beginner friendly
- Fast connection speeds
- Bundled with an antivirus and a password manager
- 24/7 live chat support provided
Cons:
- Doesn’t work in China
- Only allows for five simultaneous connections
SAFE STREAMING GLOBALLY:Total VPN is a solid option with a decent global server network. This includes servers in the US, allowing users to easily bypass restrictions on accessing Hulu from abroad. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
4. Proton VPN
Proton VPN is a solid choice for accessing Hulu outside the US. It has more than 15,000 servers in over 126 countries, including 3,500+ servers in the US. This means you can easily access Hulu from anywhere in the world.
The provider has excellent security measures, including 256-bit AES encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch. This VPN also doesn’t store logs and allows for perfect forward secrecy. Other security measures include port forwarding, MultiHop, and Secure Core. You also have the option to select your preferred VPN protocol and configure split tunneling to choose which apps use the VPN.
Proton VPN has apps available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously. Unfortunately, Proton VPN doesn’t offer 24/7 live chat support.
Pros:
- Strong security measures
- Great unblocking ability
- Good torrenting option
- Works on several different platforms
Cons:
- No 24/7 live chat support available
- Could be more user-friendly
LARGE SERVER NETWORK:Proton VPN can unblock many different geo-restricted services and has a large server network compared to many of its competitors. Excellent security and privacy features. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
5. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is an excellent VPN for users who enjoy streaming. It has a server network comprising over 3,000 servers in 105+ countries. This includes several server options in the US, allowing users to access Hulu from anywhere easily. ExpressVPN is also easy to use, making it a great choice for beginners.
This provider has strong security measures in place. These measures include 256-bit AES encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks. There is also a .onion site, allowing users to search for and sign up for ExpressVPN using the anonymous TOR network. In addition, this provider accepts cryptocurrency payments.
ExpressVPN supports a variety of operating systems as well. These include iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, and macOS. Additionally, this service can be installed on supported routers. The customer support team is available 24/7, and you can connect eight devices simultaneously.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds are available
- Can unblock many different streaming services
- .onion site available
- Accepts cryptocurrency payments
Cons:
- This service is more expensive than some of the other providers on this list
- Lack of customizability may be frustrating for more advanced users
GREAT STREAMING VPN:ExpressVPN is a great option for Hulu, as it features fast servers optimized for seamless streaming. It has a large number of servers in the US and boasts excellent unblocking capabilities. 30-day money-back guarantee.
6. IPVanish
IPVanish has a network comprising over 3,100 servers in more than 140 locations. It has long been a trusted option for streaming. This is reflected by the trust that has been placed in the VPN by the Kodi community for several years. It’s also a great pick for gaming and torrenting.
Security features include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks. A traffic scrambling feature is also provided, and no logs are stored. A Threat Protection feature blocks malicious sites and trackers. It also offers split tunneling for selective app usage and support for the fast WireGuard protocol.
IPVanish provides apps for macOS, Windows, Android, and iOS. In addition, it can be manually installed on some routers and Linux. IPVanish supports an unlimited number of simultaneous connections, and live chat support is available 24/7.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds
- Great option for torrenters and Kodi users
- No logs stored
- Unlimited number of connections
Cons:
- Some servers don’t work with Netflix
- Doesn’t work in China
UNLIMITED NUMBER OF CONNECTIONS:IPVanish is secure, and it offers fast streaming speeds. It has servers in the US, making it a good option for bypassing Hulu’s geographic restrictions. Fast streaming speeds and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
7. PureVPN
PureVPN boasts a server network of over 6,000 servers in more than 65 countries, including hundreds of locations within the US. It offers fast streaming speeds and great unblocking credentials, which is ideal for those who want to watch Hulu regardless of where they are in the world.
This provider offers several security measures, including 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. Note that this VPN stores no personally identifiable information. However, it does store a timestamp and the total amount of bandwidth used.
PureVPN has apps for Windows, Linux, and macOS. Additionally, there are apps available for both Android and iOS. PureVPN allows for 10 simultaneous connections. A 24/7 live chat offers dedicated VPN support.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Strong encryption protocol
- Allows for torrenting
- Vast server network with locations in the US
Cons:
- Speeds can be somewhat unpredictable
- Not a good option for unblocking Netflix
RELIABLE ACCESS TO HULU:PureVPN is easy to use and has no issues unblocking Hulu outside the US. It also keeps users’ data secure and offers a 24/7 live chat service should you experience any issues. Comes with a 31-day money-back guarantee.
8. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a lightweight provider that offers users customization options. It has a massive network of more than 35,000 servers in over 91 countries, including in the US, which is the largest on this list. Additionally, its connection speeds are excellent for lag-free streaming on services like Hulu.
There are also strong security features in place to keep you safe while watching TV services abroad. These include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and split tunneling. PIA stores no logs and allows you to select your preferred VPN protocol, offering options such as OpenVPN and WireGuard. It also provides port forwarding.
PIA apps are available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. PIA’s customer service can be reached 24/7 via their live chat. There is also an unlimited number of device connections allowed.
Pros:
- Can provide access to many different services
- Port forwarding and split tunneling
- Fast WireGuard protocol supported
- Several customization options available
Cons:
- Doesn’t work reliably in China
- App design could be improved
LIGHTWEIGHT AND EFFECTIVE:PIA is lightweight, secure, and has thousands of servers in the US. Advanced security features include port forwarding, split tunneling, and a choice of VPN protocols. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Testing methodology: How I chose the best VPNs for Hulu
When searching for the best VPNs for accessing Hulu from anywhere in the world, I considered several key factors.
Not all VPNs are created equally, so I ensured that I found VPNs that were up to the task of securely unblocking US-based VPN streaming services such as Hulu.
Here are the factors I considered:
- Great unblocking ability (allows access to US services): I ensured that I found top-tier services capable of bypassing geographical restrictions. This is thanks to the VPNs reviewed above having US VPN servers that are capable of bypassing any VPN blocks that streaming services may have in place.
- Fast streaming speeds: The VPNs reviewed above all have robust networks. This means that there is little to no buffering. In addition to the server network, the use of fast VPN protocols helps with this.
- Vast server network with locations in the US: All of the VPN options reviewed above have servers in locations across the US, along with their large global server offerings.
- Strong security/privacy features: In addition to bypassing geographical restrictions, VPNs must also protect users’ private information and safeguard them from cyber threats. All of these VPNs offer advanced security and privacy features.
- Multi-platform support: The VPNs reviewed above offer users multiple options for desktop and mobile platforms. This ensures that users can stream Hulu on any device, regardless of their location worldwide.
- Value for money: All of the VPNs for Hulu I have selected offer plenty of bang for your buck, so you don’t have to break the bank. They all offer discounted subscriptions and money-back guarantees as well.
For more information about how I selected these VPNs, take a look at my full VPN testing process guide.
How to watch Hulu from anywhere with a VPN
To watch Hulu outside the US using a VPN, follow these steps.
How to watch Hulu abroad with a VPN:
- Sign up for a VPN service that is capable of unblocking Hulu. I recommend using NordVPN, as it features thousands of US VPN servers, fast connection speeds, robust security measures, and excellent unblocking capabilities. Plus, it comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Install the VPN app on the device where you want to watch content. Some providers on this list offer unlimited simultaneous connections.
- Fire up the VPN app and then connect to a US VPN server. This will give you a US IP address.
- Open Hulu in a browser, and you should be able to start streaming your favorite movies and TV shows.
If this doesn’t work, try clearing your cache and cookies. If you still encounter issues, please contact your VPN’s customer service team.
How to disable IPv6
Even if you’re using a top-tier VPN, such as one of the providers reviewed above, there’s still a chance that you might run into an error message telling you to turn off your “anonymous proxy”.
This happens since the majority of VPN services still don’t protect against IPv6 leaks. VPNs can reroute your traffic requests through their own DNS servers, masking your IPv4 addresses. However, IPv6 addresses still get revealed.
IPv6 servers serve the same purpose as IPv4 IP addresses, and they also allow for a greater number of possible IP addresses for internet-connected devices. With that being said, IPv6 leaks can be harmful if you’re trying to bypass geographical restrictions.
Considering this, a workaround is available. While it isn’t perfect, it is effective. You can simply disable IPv6 on your system to prevent your VPN from even trying to assign you an IPv6 address.
Long-term, this isn’t the best strategy, as there is a real problem surrounding the availability of IPv4 addresses. There aren’t enough of them around, hence the push to change to IPv6 addresses.
Below, I have detailed how to disable IPv6 on both Windows and macOS.
Disable IPv6 on Windows
- First, disconnect and close your VPN app.
- Press the Windows key+R to open the Windows prompt.
- Type ncpa.cpl to enter Network Connections.
- Find the current connection you’re using, right-click on it, and select Properties.
- On the Networking or General tab, deselect the Internet Protocol Version 6 (TVP/IPv6) box.
- Click Ok to save the changes made.
- Tap the Windows key+R and select Command Prompt (Admin). Hit yes when asked if it’s ok for the program to make changes.
- In the command prompt window, type ipconfig /flushdns and hit Enter.
- Now, relaunch your VPN app and connect to a VPN server in the US. You should now be able to connect to Hulu without experiencing any issues related to IPv6 leaks.
How to disable IPv6 on macOSX
- First, disconnect and close your VPN app.
- Open the Apple menu.
- Choose System Preferences > Network > Airport > Advanced
- Click TCP/IP.
- Click on the Configure IPv6 pop-up menu and select Off.
- Click Ok and Apply.
- Now you can reconnect to the VPN and connect to a US VPN server. You should now be able to watch Hulu without any issues related to IPv6 leaks.
Best VPNs for Hulu FAQs
Why do I need a VPN for Hulu?
There are a few reasons you might want to use a VPN with Hulu. Here are the three main reasons:
- Bypassing geographical restrictions: Hulu is a popular service with an extensive collection of content. However, it isn’t available in every part of the world. Luckily, a VPN can solve this problem by providing you with a US IP address, allowing you to access Hulu.
- Avoid ISP bandwidth throttling: Some ISPs have been known to slow down users’ streaming speeds. This is especially the case during peak hours. A VPN can help users avoid this by giving them a different IP address.
- Privacy features: VPNs help to protect your online privacy. Thanks to the new IP address you get when you connect to a VPN server, your identity is protected from hackers, governments, and even your internet service provider (ISP).
Is using a VPN with Hulu legal?
Yes, using a VPN with Hulu is legal as long as the country you’re in allows VPNs. You should note, however, that using a VPN with Hulu is against Hulu’s terms of use.
The worst that could happen is that Hulu could suspend or even terminate your account.
How can I pay for Hulu from outside the US?
To sign up for a Hulu subscription, you need both a US IP address and a US-based payment method.
There are a couple of workarounds, however:
- A Hulu gift card
- Prepaid credit cards from Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover linked to a US address
- A PayPal account based in the US
How can I watch Hulu Japan?
You will need to have signed up for Hulu Japan to watch Japanese-only content, as Hulu Japan is a separate service from Hulu USA.
The Hulu brand was sold to Nippon TV in 2016 and isn’t related to Hulu USA. All of the VPNs reviewed above have Japanese VPN servers and would be a good option for accessing Hulu Japan from anywhere in the world.
What can I watch on Hulu?
Hulu has a number of both live and on-demand options. Below, I have outlined some of the more popular content.
Live TV channel options
- USA Network
- TNT Sports
- TBS
- Paramount Network
- NFL Network
- MTV
- FX
- Fox
- ESPN
- ABC
On-demand options
- Fargo
- Sweetpea
- Modern Family
- Brooklyn Nine-Nine
- Say Nothing
- The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives
- Reasonable Doubt
- English Teacher
- Rivals
- The Simpsons
- Top Chef
- America’s Got Talent
Contents [hide]
- Best VPNs for watching Hulu from abroad
- Testing methodology: How I chose the best VPNs for Hulu
- How to watch Hulu from anywhere with a VPN
- How to disable IPv6
- Best VPNs for Hulu FAQs
- Why do I need a VPN for Hulu?
- Is using a VPN with Hulu legal?
- How can I pay for Hulu from outside the US?
- How can I watch Hulu Japan?
- What can I watch on Hulu?