Wifi safety/protection.

Rather than use a portable router, isn't it easier (and cheaper) to either use data roaming or get a local SIM? Either will keep you off WiFi.

A VPN is a good idea on shared WiFi, but not needed if you're on mobile/cellular. It's also wise to activate security precautions for sensitive logins- particularly multi factor authentication for email and banking.

It's also wise to activate security precautions for sensitive logins-
particularly multi factor authentication for email and banking.

Do remember, that if you do have multi factor authentication, you might need your US phone working in Europe in order to use your credit card or change a password or enter your on line banking.

We are NZ, and wish to use laptops as well as phones. I can just hotspot from my phone, so am exploring options.

Unless you are using your laptop for something particularly sensitive a VPN should provide you with sufficient cover.

"you might need your US phone working in Europe in order to use your credit card or change a password or enter your on line banking."

Good point, although all three of my banks are now app-based for multifactor authentication, which is more secure than texts. They just push a notification via the app that you can accept or reject.

I do always have roaming switched on just in case.

Simon, I don’t worry to much about security. My information did get compromised once and sold on the black web. The Nambian gentleman that purchased the information used it to get into my account. He then felt a need to deposit $10 to my account and send me a letter of condolence.