How to Watch American Television While Deployed Overseas
Learn how to watch your favorite TV shows, live sports events, and on-demand movies while stationed overseas. See the best tips and streaming services.
If you’ve been stationed abroad, chances are you’ve experienced the challenges of staying connected to your favorite shows and live sporting events while overseas. This is mostly due to geo-blocking caused by content restrictions and licensing agreements.
These restrictions can prevent deployed personnel from accessing their favorite shows and movies. Below, we’ll walk you through a few of the best ways for overseas military personnel to stay connected while outside of the country.
Streaming Services with Global Access
Luckily, there are tools and services available that can help bypass these restrictions, letting you enjoy everything from TV shows to live sports.
VPN Services
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a common way to access geo-restricted content from an Internet-supported device. Generally, they work by hiding your location, to make it seem like you’re actually viewing the content in the USA. In many cases, this is an effective workaround for military members who want to use popular TV streaming services like:
Another benefit of using a VPN is they can be used on most types of Internet-enabled devices like smart TVs, your favorite streaming device (i.e., Fire TV Stick, Roku, etc.), mobile devices, Android TV, and even iOS devices.
Downsides to Using a VPN to Watch American TV
VPNs can do a lot, but they have limits. That’s because many of the most popular streaming platforms in America, like Netflix and Hulu, use VPN detection and blocking software.
This advanced tech can prevent you from logging in or using your favorite streaming service while deployed. As such, it’s important to conduct thorough research on your VPN and service before subscribing to either.
Global Streaming Platforms
Some streaming platforms allow you to access content no matter where you are on the planet, as you have an Internet connection. This includes platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, YouTube TV, and many more.
It’s important to note that the available content may be different from what’s offered in the U.S. Though, many American shows, live TV, and on-demand movies are still accessible. That includes the ability to view content from networks like NBC, ABC, CBS, FOX, and others from wherever you’re stationed.
Cable TV Providers Offering Mobile Apps and DVR Features
Some cable TV providers, like Xfinity and Spectrum, have mobile apps that allow you to access live TV, movies, and unlimited DVR recordings via your PC, Mac, tablet, or phone while you’re deployed in a foreign country.
These add-on apps and services allow military service members to access everything from ABC to ESPN to Showtime and even their favorite news channels from anywhere in the world.
Sports-Specific Streaming Options
Whether you want to watch the NFL, NBA, or another league, military members can enjoy their favorite American sports with the help of the following streaming services:
These services allow you to watch live sports, replays, and post-game talk no matter where you’re stationed. However, there may be blackout restrictions for certain games.
Using Military Discounts
Many streaming platforms and Internet providers offer military discounts, making their services more accessible and affordable for those stationed overseas. While some Internet, streaming, and mobile service providers don’t have specific discounts, they may offer plans with flexible contracts for service members.
Find the Right TV Provider With SmartMove
We take pride in helping military members and their families find the best Internet providers and TV streaming services available. Whether you’re stationed in the U.S. or deployed overseas, we’re here to help you stay connected to your favorite streaming content no matter where you’re at.
Check out a few additional resources for military service members below:
From the best TV providers to fast Internet service, let SmartMove help you find the best services for you and your family today.
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