How to Watch YouTube TV Outside the US from Anywhere in 2024

Planning to catch up on YouTube TV while abroad? I’ve got you covered! In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of watching YouTube TV outside the US using a VPN. Plus, I’ll share some top VPN recommendation for accessing YouTube TV, keeping in mind that some VPNs may be detected and blocked by YouTube. Let’s dive in and ensure you never miss your favorite shows, no matter where you are!

YouTube TV is a fantastic platform for accessing live TV channels, but its availability is limited to the US audience, with channel availability varying by state. However, with a YouTube TV VPN, you can unlock region-restricted content and enjoy your favorite shows, especially when traveling or residing outside the US.

VPNs offer more than just bypassing geo-restrictions; they also provide enhanced privacy and prevent ISP throttling. In this guide, we’ll explore the top VPNs for YouTube TV and show you how to change your YouTube TV location effortlessly. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or a TV show aficionado, a VPN will ensure seamless streaming of American content from anywhere in the world. Let’s get started!

Watch YouTube TV From Abroad – Step-by-Step Guide in 2024

Watching YouTube TV with a VPN is simpler than you might think, even if you’re new to VPNs. Here’s a straightforward guide to get you started:

1. Sign up with a reliable VPN service provider like ExpressVPN.
2. Install the VPN software on your device. Most VPNs offer apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android, ensuring compatibility with your device.
3. Log in to the VPN app using your credentials.
4. Connect to one of the VPN’s American servers to spoof your location.
5. If you haven’t already, create a YouTube TV account. Note that you’ll need a US address and payment method; the subscription fee is $57.99 per month – $15 off first 3 months Save $45 (as of mid-2023).
6. Start streaming videos or live TV on YouTube TV. If playback doesn’t start immediately, try refreshing the page or clearing your browser’s cache and cookies.

For live shows, it’s best to follow these steps before the scheduled airing time. This way, you’ll have time to troubleshoot any issues and won’t miss any part of your favorite programs.

With these simple steps, you can enjoy YouTube TV from anywhere in the world, thanks to your VPN. Happy streaming!

Does YouTube TV work internationally?

YouTube TV is exclusively available in the US, and the channel lineup can vary based on your location. Some programs, like sports events, may be inaccessible in certain areas due to viewing restrictions imposed by YouTube TV’s partners.

However, with a YouTube TV VPN, you can easily overcome these limitations by virtually switching states. No need to tinker with YouTube TV location settings – just switch VPN servers, and you’re good to go.

If you attempt to access YouTube TV from outside the US without a VPN, you’ll encounter the dreaded error message:

YouTube TV’s unavailable in this country.

YouTube TV Error Outside the US

Fortunately, a VPN can circumvent this obstacle by connecting you to a US server, fooling YouTube into thinking you’re within the country or a different state.

Unlike proxies, which lack encryption, a VPN encrypts your traffic and directs it through secure servers, safeguarding your privacy while bypassing YouTube TV restrictions.

For the best results, we recommend using ExpressVPN to mask your IP address effectively and ensure optimal privacy.

Furthermore, it’s important to consider that you may need to adjust your YouTube TV home area. YouTube TV determines your location based on your ZIP code and device location permissions. Keep in mind that you’re allowed to change your home area only twice per year.

Why Do You Need a VPN To Watch YouTube TV?

YouTube TV is just for people in the US because of rules about shows and copyrights. So, if you’re outside the US and want to watch it, you need a good VPN.

Even if you’re in the US, what you can watch may differ depending on where you are. For example, in New York, it might be different from what you see in Los Angeles. That’s why it’s crucial for a VPN to have many servers across the US.

When you try to watch YouTube TV from outside the US, you’ll get an error message saying it’s only for US viewers.

So, you’ll see the same error if you try to watch it from anywhere else other than the US. So, to watch YouTube TV from anywhere, you need a trustworthy VPN like ExpressVPN. With that, you’ll get a US IP address and be able to watch YouTube TV no matter where you are!

Can You Watch YouTube TV Outside USA With a Free VPN?

Beware of free VPNs promising access to YouTube TV from anywhere. While they may sound tempting, they often come with drawbacks like slow speeds, data caps, and unreliable connections. Many free VPNs lack servers in the US or struggle to bypass geo-blocking measures, making it challenging to access YouTube TV outside the US.

For a smoother and more reliable experience, it’s wise to opt for a paid VPN like ExpressVPN. Paid VPNs typically offer better performance, faster speeds, enhanced security features, and a broader network of servers across the US. They’re your best option for accessing YouTube TV from any location with ease.

Best VPN for YouTube TV

Navigating through the multitude of VPN options to find one that reliably bypasses YouTube TV location blocks can be quite challenging. With so many providers claiming to offer the best service, it’s hard to determine which ones actually deliver on their promises.

To simplify your search, I conducted extensive testing on 30+ VPN providers to identify the top performers that can effectively grant you access to YouTube TV from anywhere in the world. Our rankings are based on thorough assessments of each VPN’s ability to bypass geo-restrictions and provide a seamless streaming experience on YouTube TV.

ExpressVPN – Risk-Free VPN Thats Work with YouTube TV

ExpressVPN stands out as an excellent choice for accessing YouTube TV from anywhere, thanks to its focus on streaming optimization. Its Smart DNS feature, known as MediaStreamer, enables you to unlock YouTube TV even on devices that don’t natively support VPNs.

With servers in 105 countries, ExpressVPN ensures you’ll find non-overcrowded servers easily. In the US alone, it offers servers in 24 locations across states like New York, California, Texas, and more, granting you access to the entire YouTube TV library regardless of your location.

Speed and performance are paramount when streaming, and ExpressVPN delivers with its proprietary Lightway protocol. This protocol ensures excellent and stable speeds, retaining an average of 77% of the baseline speed, ensuring smooth streaming experiences.

ExpressVPN is compatible with the most popular operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Plus, you can use one account on up to 8 devices, making it convenient for sharing with family or friends.

While ExpressVPN may come with a higher price tag starting at $6.67 per month, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try it risk-free. With its robust features and reliable performance, ExpressVPN remains a top choice for accessing YouTube TV from anywhere in the world.

YouTube TV home area workaround

YouTube TV determines your home area based on your ZIP code, which you provide during the account creation process. This information is crucial as it dictates the shows available for streaming in your service region.

If you’re considering changing your home area on YouTube TV to bypass geo-restrictions, keep in mind that this can only be done twice per year. Here’s a simple guide on how to change your home area on different devices:

For PC, Android, or iOS:

1. Open YouTube TV on your browser or computer.
2. Click on your profile picture.
3. Navigate to the Settings menu.
4. Click on “Area.”
5. Select “Home Area.”
6. Click “Update.”

If you’re attempting to stream YouTube TV outside your home area, consider using a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN. Ensure the VPN has numerous US servers for optimal performance. If you encounter difficulties accessing YouTube TV, try clearing your cookies and cache before attempting again.

Please note that these steps may vary slightly depending on the device you’re using. For more detailed instructions, refer to our comprehensive guide.

With these steps, you can easily adjust your home area on YouTube TV and enjoy seamless streaming experiences from anywhere in the world.

How to update the current playback area

The distinction between the current playback area and the home area on YouTube TV is crucial. While the current playback area signifies your present viewing location, the home area indicates your designated residential location. Fortunately, adjusting the current playback area is a breeze, whether you’re on a smart TV, mobile device, or browser.

Here’s a quick guide on how to update the current playback area on YouTube TV:

1. Open YouTube TV on your preferred device.
2. Click on your profile picture and navigate to the “Location” option.
3. Locate the “Update” button near the Current playback area section.
4. Optionally, you can verify your YouTube TV location by utilizing your Smart TV’s location feature.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your YouTube TV viewing experience aligns with your current location, allowing you to enjoy your favorite content seamlessly.

Can I sign up for YouTube TV from abroad?

Despite YouTube TV’s US-only availability, signing up from anywhere is possible with a PayPal account. While credit or debit cards require a US address, YouTube TV doesn’t verify PayPal accounts’ origins, making it accessible globally.

If PayPal isn’t your preferred payment method, there’s a lesser-known option: Google Play gift cards. By redeeming these through your associated Google Play account, you can use the balance to cover your YouTube TV subscription, bypassing the need for a US-based payment method.

In summary, whether you opt for PayPal or Google Play gift cards, YouTube TV offers flexible payment options that accommodate users worldwide, ensuring access to its extensive range of content.

How do I share YouTube TV with family in different locations?

Sharing YouTube TV with family members in different locations requires setting up a family group, but it’s essential to adhere to YouTube’s guidelines. Here’s a straightforward guide:

Family Group Basics: The family manager, who must be over 18 with a Google Account, initiates the group. All members should reside in the same household as the manager.

1. Creating the Group: Navigate to YouTube TV, access your profile, then go to Settings > Family sharing.
2. Click on Manage, then create a Google family group.
3. Agree to the terms of service and privacy policy.
4. Invite family members (aged 13 or older) via email.

Important Rules: Family members must occasionally watch YouTube TV from the home location. Failure to do so may require logging in from the home network every three months to retain access.

Exercise Caution: Sharing with individuals in different locations is technically prohibited, and YouTube TV is enforcing this rule. Non-compliance risks account issues.

In summary, while sharing YouTube TV with family is possible, all members should reside at the same address and use the service there periodically. Sharing across different locations violates the terms of service and may lead to account complications.

Can you watch YouTube TV on international flights?

Watching YouTube TV on international flights presents challenges due to geo-restrictions and in-flight WiFi limitations. Since YouTube TV is only available in the US, a VPN is necessary to change your virtual location and access it abroad. While VPNs like ExpressVPN can help, in-flight WiFi quality often isn’t suitable for streaming.

In-flight WiFi varies in speed and reliability, with some services supporting streaming but often delivering inconsistent experiences with buffering and poor video quality. Being aware of these issues is crucial as they can affect your entertainment options during the flight.

For a hassle-free experience, consider downloading content from services like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video before your flight. This ensures you can enjoy your shows without worrying about internet speed or connectivity problems, allowing you to relax and enjoy your journey.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While VPNs offer a workaround for geo-restrictions, they’re not without their challenges. You might encounter issues like slow speeds, IP leaks, or YouTube TV blocking your VPN. Fortunately, most VPN providers offer reliable customer support to help you address any issues you face.

Here are some tips to enhance your streaming experience:

• Adjust your streaming quality to match your internet speed and device capabilities.
• Keep your browser running smoothly by regularly clearing its cache and cookies.
• Opt for a wired internet connection over Wi-Fi for a more stable streaming connection.
• Privacy and security are additional benefits of using VPNs. By encrypting your internet traffic and concealing your IP address, they safeguard your sensitive data from potential cyber threats and prying eyes.

However, it’s essential to use VPNs responsibly and within the bounds of the law and streaming platform rules. As long as you’re using your VPN for legitimate purposes, you can enjoy uninterrupted access to YouTube TV and other geo-restricted content.

Watching YouTube TV for Free

While YouTube TV typically requires a subscription, there are a few ways to enjoy it for free:

1. Free Trial: New users can take advantage of YouTube TV’s 7-day free trial. Simply sign up and enjoy the service without any charge. Just remember to cancel before the trial ends if you don’t want to be billed automatically.
2. Sharing an Account: If you have friends or family members who are YouTube TV subscribers, you can ask them to share their account with you. Each subscription allows for up to 6 accounts, each with its own personalized features.
3. Promotions and Offers: Keep an eye out for special promotions or discounts offered by YouTube TV. These may include reduced subscription prices or additional benefits for new subscribers.

These options provide opportunities to experience YouTube TV without committing to a paid subscription upfront.

What to Watch on YouTube TV

YouTube TV offers a diverse range of channels and content to cater to various entertainment preferences. Here are some popular channels and shows you can enjoy on YouTube TV:

• ESPN: Sports enthusiasts can access ESPN and its array of channels to watch live sports events, including NFL, NBA, MLB, and more.
• NBC: As a major network on YouTube TV, NBC provides access to beloved shows like The Office, Saturday Night Live, and This Is Us.
• ABC: With ABC on YouTube TV, viewers can indulge in hit shows such as Grey’s Anatomy, The Bachelor, and Modern Family, available for both catch-up viewing and live streaming.
• Fox: Another prominent network on YouTube TV is Fox, offering popular shows like The Masked Singer, The Simpsons, and Empire for your entertainment pleasure.

These channels and shows contribute to the rich and diverse content library available on YouTube TV, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Conclusion

With the right VPN, watching YouTube TV abroad becomes a breeze, opening up a world of entertainment wherever you are. Follow our simple guide, paired with a trustworthy VPN provider like ExpressVPN, to unlock your favorite channels and content worldwide. Just remember to connect to a US server and update your YouTube TV playback area if necessary. Whether you’re on the move or residing outside the US, a VPN is your ticket to enjoying YouTube TV and other geo-restricted streaming services hassle-free.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about watching YouTube TV abroad using a VPN:

Is it legal to use a VPN for YouTube TV?

Using a VPN to access YouTube TV isn’t considered illegal, but it’s essential to be aware that it might go against YouTube TV’s terms of service. Although YouTube TV doesn’t specifically ban VPN usage, it retains the authority to suspend or terminate accounts found in violation of its terms.

Can I use a free VPN to watch YouTube TV?

Sure, you can find free VPNs out there, but they often fall short when it comes to streaming YouTube TV. They tend to have slower speeds, fewer server options, and might not always get you past those pesky geolocation blocks. So, while they’re an option, they might not give you the smooth streaming experience you’re after.

Can I watch YouTube TV on multiple devices simultaneously?

You’ve got it! With YouTube TV, you can have up to 3 streams running at once on a single account. So, whether you’re sharing with family or juggling devices yourself, you’ve got some flexibility to catch your favorite shows whenever and wherever you want.

Can I watch local channels on YouTube TV while abroad?

Absolutely! Using a VPN, you can unlock local channels on YouTube TV from anywhere in the world. Just connect to a VPN server in the US, and voila! You’ll have access to all the local channels available in your desired location. It’s a handy trick for staying connected to your favorite shows and news, no matter where life takes you.

How does YouTube TV determine home area?

YouTube TV establishes your home area by prompting you to input your home ZIP code when you sign up. Additionally, you might be prompted to share your device’s location, ensuring that YouTube TV delivers content tailored to your specific location.

Can family members have different home areas on YouTube TV?

Absolutely! YouTube TV allows you to form a family group where each member can have their own home area, regardless of whether they live together or not. This means each member can enjoy their own personalized profile and content selection.

What to do if YouTube TV’s unavailable in my country?

Look for a trusted VPN service that offers servers located in the US. Reputable VPN providers have the capability to bypass geographical restrictions, allowing you to access YouTube TV from anywhere in the world. Make sure the VPN you choose prioritizes privacy features and maintains a robust server network in the US to ensure seamless streaming access.

Can I download content for later?

Absolutely! YouTube TV lets you download content for offline viewing. Simply navigate to the YouTube TV home screen, access your library, select the video you want to download, and wait for the download to finish. Once completed, you can find your downloaded videos in the “Downloads” section of the YouTube TV app, ready to watch offline whenever you please.

Will a VPN cause buffering?

Your VPN might slightly slow down your internet speed, but modern VPNs are much faster than before, thanks to improved protocols and optimization.

YouTube TV recommends a minimum download speed of 3 Mbps for smooth streaming, but higher speeds are necessary for live streams and 4K content. If your base connection provides around 30 Mbps, you should experience minimal lag or buffering with the VPN on.

If you’re still experiencing issues, try adjusting the video quality, reaching out to your VPN’s support team for advice on server selection, or connecting your device directly to the router instead of using Wi-Fi.

Do YouTube TV videos stream at 4k?

Absolutely! YouTube TV does offer 4K content, but it’s an optional add-on that comes with an extra cost. For an additional $9.99 per month on top of the standard $67.98 subscription fee, you can enjoy videos in stunning 4K resolution.

Do you need a Smart TV for YouTube TV?

You don’t necessarily need a Smart TV to enjoy YouTube TV. It’s accessible through various platforms and devices, including Android and iOS smartphones, Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Chromecast, and popular gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox. Plus, you can always stream directly from your web browser.

How much does a YouTube TV subscription cost?

Currently, the standard monthly subscription fee for YouTube TV is $57.99. Additionally, there’s a Spanish-language plan available for $34.99 per month.

For those interested in sports, YouTube TV offers an add-on package called Sports Plus. This package includes access to NFL RedZone, FOX College Sports, GOLTV, Fox Soccer Plus, MAVTV Motorsports Network, TVG, and Stadium.

Facts and Figures

YouTube TV has become a household name since its debut. Here are some captivating facts and figures about this streaming sensation:

• Launched in April 2017, YouTube TV has swiftly climbed the ranks of streaming services.
• With a staggering 3 million subscribers as of 2021, it’s clear that YouTube TV has struck a chord with viewers.
• Boasting over 85 channels, including heavyweights like ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox, YouTube TV offers a diverse range of content.
• You can tune in to YouTube TV from a variety of devices, whether it’s your smart TV, streaming media player, smartphone, or tablet.
• One of its standout features is the unlimited cloud DVR storage, ensuring you never miss your favorite shows and movies.

Disclaimer: Please note that while I have conducted thorough research on this topic, I’m not legal professionals. Therefore, the information provided above should not be interpreted as legal advice.