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The Best Travel Plug Adapter

Geoffrey Morrison

By Geoffrey Morrison

If you want to use electronic devices in a different country, you’ll probably need a travel plug adapter. After spending more than 30 hours researching and testing 14 options, we found the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter to be the best one. It fits four types of outlets, and it has more USB ports than any of its competitors, so it can can charge more devices at higher speeds.

Everything we recommend

travel adapter to usa

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Best universal travel adapter.

With four plugs that will work in most countries, plus faster-charging USB ports (and more of them) than its competitors, this adapter is the best all-around choice.

Buying Options

travel adapter to usa

Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set

The best plug adapter.

Individually, these tiny plug adapters are smaller, lighter, and cheaper than any universal travel adapter. To juice up multiple devices, though, you’d need a separate multiport charger too.

travel adapter to usa

Ceptics Plug Adapter Set

Heavier, but sturdier.

The plugs in this set of five are bigger and heavier than our top pick for plug adapters, but more solidly built.

In a sea of almost-identical travel adapters, the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter stands out, combining the best of the features we were looking for. It contains the three most common international plugs and a US-style plug, which should cover you in the majority of countries around the world. It has the most USB ports—four of the standard USB-A and one USB-C—of any universal adapter we tested, and it could charge more of our devices faster. A replaceable fuse and an included spare should take the brunt of any accidental, unfortunate, or shockingly bad connections. The Epicka is fairly compact and well built, and it even comes with a nylon case.

However, no universal travel adapter is truly universal, and they’re all a lot bulkier and more expensive than simple plug adapters. If you want the smallest adapter possible, or if you’re going someplace where a universal adapter won’t work (more on that in a minute), then a plug adapter could be what you need.

The Ceptics tiny plug adapters are barely larger than the prongs they convert. Small, simple, and cheap, they’re perfect for someone who wants to carry only the adapter they’ll need and who already has a multiport USB wall charger they like. Like our universal adapter picks, this set contains the three most common international plugs and the US plug. However, it also includes a somewhat rarer plug used in some European countries that has two thick, cylindrical prongs. This means that the Ceptics will likely cover you in even more places—as long as you pack the appropriate plug adapter.

These plug adapters are bigger than our top pick for plug adapters, but this means they offer a larger surface for chargers to brace against, which makes them more stable and less likely to fall off the wall. (We’ll call these “ Ceptics White ” to minimize confusion and set them apart from our “Ceptics Black” top pick.) While you can purchase these as a five-pack, which contains basically the same assortment of plugs as the Ceptics Black set, the company also sells, in this same model line, three-packs for nearly a dozen specific regions. So if you’re headed to a country not covered by the so-called universal travel adapters (for example, Brazil , India , Israel , or South Africa ), or if you want to purchase multiple adapters for your gear, there’s probably an option available here.

A note up here, which we’ll discuss in detail below: All of these are adapters only . They do not convert voltage. The majority of your electronic devices only need adapters—the voltage converter is built into the charger itself. (If the device charges via USB, just about any USB port will suffice, though different ports may provide different charging speeds.) Check out Do you need a voltage converter? if you’re curious about these aspects.

The research

Why you should trust us, who should get this, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: epicka universal travel adapter, flaws but not dealbreakers, our pick: ceptics international worldwide travel plug adapter 5 piece set, runner-up: ceptics adapter plug set for worldwide international travel use, do you need a voltage converter, the competition.

In addition to my work here at Wirecutter, I also write about tech and travel for CNET, Forbes, and Wirecutter’s parent company, The New York Times . Perhaps more relevant to this guide, I usually spend a good chunk of each year (global pandemics aside) as a digital nomad, living months at a time in different countries all over the world. My current country count is 50, spread across six continents, and since I travel with a lot of electronics gear for work, being able to plug in is obviously crucial.

I’ve owned and used many different types of universal-style travel adapters, and several different companies’ worth of plug adapters, plus I’ve talked with countless travelers about what they like … or, more important, what they hate. We also got some advice from Wirecutter's Mark Smirniotis, who used to oversee our power devices section.

Do you travel? Are you going to travel sometime in the (near or far) future? Do you want to be able to charge or use electronic devices in a different country? If so, you’re probably going to need a travel plug adapter. There’s a variety of different outlet types around the world, not to mention different voltages and frequencies, so you can’t expect your phone charger to just plug in and work wherever you’re headed. Sure, Canada, Mexico, Japan, and many other countries use the same small pair of prongs as the US, but places like continental Europe, the UK, Australia, India, Russia, and pretty much everywhere else do not.

A front look at a wall outlet with two standard plugs in addition to a USB-A and USB-C port.

You have two main choices when it comes to travel plug adapters: the universal-style travel adapters (that’s one device with multiple sets of prongs that you extend and retract) and smaller, individual plug adapters that usually come in sets. Both have pros and cons.

Should you get a universal travel adapter or a simple plug adapter?

Universal travel adapters are for the person who wants one handy adapter that will work in just about every country. You can keep it next to your passport and toss it in your luggage when you’re packing. The ones we considered have USB ports, so you don’t need to worry about bringing a separate charger for anything that charges via USB (think  phones  and noise-cancelling headphones ). However, these are bulky, they have parts that can break, and even the best will take longer to charge your phone or tablet than will a good USB wall charger .

The alternative is small and simple plug adapters. These attach to the prongs of your current USB charger (whether it’s a multiport one or the charger that came with your device) to allow them to fit into a foreign outlet. These can work because nearly every modern charger can adjust to the available voltage in pretty much every country, as long as you can adapt the prongs to fit in the outlet. (More on this in Do you need a voltage converter? ) These are great for people who already have a multiport USB charger they like and don’t want to deal with the additional bulk of a universal travel adapter. Also, these are necessary if you’re traveling to a country that has outlets incompatible with any of the four types included in a universal adapter (which, as that sentence reveals, aren’t actually universal).

The choice between universal travel adapters and individual plug adapters ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both types work, and different people will like or dislike each. If you’re not sure which will be best for you, read each section here closely.

Here’s the big caveat: If you’re planning on bringing something with you that has a motor, a heating element, or a single power cord that leads directly from the plug to the device (i.e. there’s no power brick or wall wart ), it almost certainly won’t work with a travel plug adapter. Most people will only need one of the adapter choices we recommend, but very occasionally there’s a piece of gear that needs a voltage converter. For more on that topic, also check out the voltage converters section below.

Where in the world will your travel plug adapter work?

All universal travel adapters have four different sets of prongs, which cover most countries most Americans tend to travel to. First is the big, wide-blade UK-style plug (often designated "Type G”) . This will work in places like the UK, obviously, and also Ireland, Hong Kong, and some other parts of Asia and the Middle East.

A view of the slim outlets found in Italy.

Next is the round Europe-style plug, aka the Europlug (Type C) . However, this is where we run into complications. This plug should work in most of Europe—it was designed, in fact, to fit into a wide range of European outlet types. For instance, parts of Italy, Switzerland, and Denmark each use different plugs from one another. Should this double-round one work in those locations? Yes. Will it? Hard to say. I’ve stayed in places where my Europlug didn’t work, yet it did in the hostel before and the hotel after—all within the same small region of a country. With any luck, if this happens to you, the place you’re staying will have a power strip that will let you plug in, though there’s no guarantee of that.

Third is the angled small-blade style (Type I) found in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and other parts of Oceania, and a few other areas. Some universal adapters have one set of blades for this and the US style—you just manually rotate the blades into the correct position depending on where you are. In our testing, we had no trouble getting them to work.

The last, the small US-style blades (Type A or B) , mean you could use our picks to visit the US and other countries that have the same plugs—if, that is, you’re reading this from outside the US.

What are the places not covered by these four styles? Some parts of Brazil, South Africa, India, and more. I’ve stayed in parts of Italy, for example, that should have Europlugs but only had something called Type L . I’ve stayed in houses in Brazil that had Type N , but the Europlug fit enough to work. In others, it wouldn’t.

To find out which plugs you might need while traveling, refer to the excellent Wikipedia article called Mains electricity by country that shows pictures of (almost) all the possible plugs and outlets, along with a list of the world’s countries and (almost all of) the style or styles they use. This is invaluable information to check before you leave. If multiple plug types are listed for a specific country and you’re staying in an older building, you should probably assume its outlets will require whatever plug isn’t on a universal travel adapter, since these only have the most common, newer varieties of plugs.

Which brings us to perhaps the most important fact: Getting your gear to work in different countries isn’t quite as simple as it should be, and there’s no single solution that’s guaranteed to work for everyone. Our picks should work for you, but you may have some random piece of equipment, or be traveling to some country, for which our “good for most” picks just won’t work. (Case in point: One Wirecutter editor visited Iceland recently. The house she stayed in had outlets unlike anything on Wikipedia’s chart, and the plug adapters she’d used elsewhere in Reykjavik didn’t fit at all. It turns out the mystery sockets belonged to an obscure Italian system from the 1960s that was popular in Iceland for a time. Luckily, the hosts had power strips in the house that her adapters fit into.) We’ll try to mention such potential caveats when we can, but the world is a big place, and when it comes to electricity and wall outlets, there’s a lot of variation. That’s important to keep in mind.

The collection of our outlet adapter picks arrayed on a table.

There are approximately 70 billion universal travel plug adapters on the Web. However, after spending 20 hours staring at them, I found there’s only about a dozen basic designs—and countless “companies” selling them. Among those dozen or so actually different products, I saw a few distinctions that helped narrow the field. Since most options had four USB ports, that seemed like a reasonable minimum to require. Their maximum power output, rated in amps, became a determining factor in our rankings. The higher the maximum output, the faster the port will charge your gear.

Some plugs came with a replaceable fuse, which seemed like a good idea, and a few included a replacement for said fuse, which seemed even better. This way, if either you plug the adapter into a sketchy outlet or a roommate at the hostel uses your adapter to plug in their completely necessary portable arc welder, the fuse will go, not your adapter. Then it’s just a matter of swapping in the included spare fuse and you’re good to go.

These fuses have a maximum power rating, and therefore the adapters have a maximum wattage rating. However, you shouldn’t be connecting anything with a high enough power draw to trip these fuses. Check out Do you need a voltage converter? for more information. The short version is that recharging portable electronic devices is fine, but powering anything that has a motor or heats up is not. Nearly every appliance or device has its power draw written on it somewhere , so worst case, you can compare that to what’s listed on the adapter. And so you don’t have to look it up, volts × amps = watts.

The other option we considered and tested is individual plug adapters. These small adapters attach to the prongs of your current charger so they’ll plug into a foreign outlet. In deciding which of these to test, we judged by size and available plug-type options. As you’ll see with our two picks, one is exceptionally small, and the other offers sturdier plugs that are available in a range of plug types that’s wide enough to cover you no matter where in the world you’re headed.

The universal travel adapters are far more similar to one another than they are different. However, getting in a dozen and playing with them for a while revealed that some felt better put together than others. After spending several minutes with each one, forcefully extending the various plugs, slamming them back in, and just being fairly rough with them, I found it easy to tell which felt like they’d last a few trips, and which wouldn’t. None felt like you’d own them for a lifetime. Since none are expensive, though, this didn’t seem like a major issue.

All had a US-style plug, so I tested each one in several outlets around my house—some new, some old. I didn’t find much difference in how they fit and worked. I connected several chargers and plugs to the output side of each adapter as well. Again, not much difference. Last, I checked how bright the LED on each was, since a too-bright LED keeping me awake has been a pet peeve of mine for years. Many USB chargers have LEDs bright enough to practically read from; I eliminated any universal adapter that had this problem.

For the plug adapters, I tried plugging in several devices, as well as inserting them into outlets around my house. I checked how tight the connections were and how they felt overall. Would they fall apart with simple use or perhaps hold up to being tossed around in bags for a few weeks or months?

In reality, the testing for all the adapter types didn’t reveal much variation in terms of performance. These are all remarkably similar products. How they felt to use and their different features played a far bigger role in establishing our final picks.

Our pick the Epicka sitting on a table by itself.

While all the universal travel adapters we tested included the same three types of plugs (plus the familiar US-style one), they differed in how many USB ports each had and how quickly they could charge—and that’s where the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter excelled. It has five USB ports: four of the standard USB-A size and one of the newer USB-C. (You may not have a USB-C device at the moment, but you likely will in the future.) These will let you charge, say, three phones, two tablets, and—via the adapter’s main plug—a camera battery that has its own wall charger, all at once.

In addition, and just as important, is the maximum power output: 5.6 amps. This was the highest of all the adapters we considered, which means you can charge more of your devices at higher speeds before hitting the max output.

Keep in mind that the maximum output per USB-A port is 2.4 amps, the max on the USB-C port is 3 amps, and if you’re using all five ports you won’t be able to charge every connected device at full speed—it’ll only give you that 5.6 amp output in total . The output is still far lower than what you can get from a decent USB charger combined with our pick for a simple plug adapter (more on that in the plug adapter section , below), but it’s significantly better than most universal travel adapters, which often max out under 3 amps total.

The Epicka has three sliders on one side, with a button on the other to lock/unlock your chosen plug in place. This arrangement feels more secure than the semi-locking or slide-locking system that some other universals use. However, this is plastic-on-plastic, so don’t expect a tank. As these things go, the Epicka feels sturdy. The US and Australia share a pair of prongs—you twist the prongs manually to set them up for an angled Australia-style outlet.

A look at the four USB-A ports on the underside of our pick.

The four regular USB plugs are all on one side, which is tidier than the “flailing gibbon” look of some other universal adapters.

The above details were what put the Epicka at the top of our list, but the adapter has a few other features that are the cherry on top, so to speak. For instance, it comes with a small nylon case and a USB cable with a split end, so it works with either Micro-USB or Lightning devices. While the adapter has an LED to show you it’s working, the glow isn’t so bright as to be a distraction at night.

A look at the adjustable sliders.

One last note. There are multiple Epicka universal adapters, and even Epicka can’t keep the names straight. We’ve seen this one called, variously, Universal Travel Adapter, International Travel Adapter, Travel Adapter-2, Universal USB Travel Power Adapter (2018), and even Universal Travel Adapter One Worldwide International Wall Charger AC Plug Adaptor with 5.6A Smart Power 3.0A USB Type-C for USA EU UK AUS Cell Phone Tablet Laptop (Grey). Best to follow the link above. Also, you may find another company selling a twin of this. The Epicka has the most reviews and offers free shipping with Prime. The other options we saw have few or no reviews, or charge outrageous shipping costs.

As with all of these adapters, I wouldn’t expect the Epicka to last forever. Given its locking design and case, it’s probably going to last longer than many others, but all of these are almost entirely inexpensive plastic devices. Just something to keep in mind.

While the prongs themselves felt secure, and being able to lock them into place was nice, it’s entirely possible that the size and weight of the adapter, plus whatever you’ve plugged into it, could pull it out of an outlet. That is, unfortunately, a risk with every universal adapter.

Another risk with any universal adapter—as we mentioned above—is that it’s not going to work where you’re headed. Epicka claims it will work in 150 countries, but there are more than 200 countries (the exact number is harder to pin down than you might realize) . And even in each of those 150 countries, there’s no guarantee that the adapter will work in every outlet in every building. Plug adapters are a somewhat safer bet to work specifically where you’re going, but they have their own downsides, which we’ll discuss below.

Also, while the Epicka is a little smaller than some of the others we tested, all universal adapters are much bulkier than plug adapters. As someone who has spent most of the past several years traveling, I feel plug adapters are far easier and less annoying to deal with. This is largely why we have two recommendations for that category.

A group of our adapter picks.

The Ceptics Plug Adapter set combines everything we were looking for in plug adapters: small size, solid build quality, and—well, small size is really the thing here. Each adapter is no larger than it needs to be to fit over the American-style prongs of your charger. The plastic feels solid and not flimsy. Each adapter has the region or countries it should be used in written on the side. The five plugs in the set are the same four as you’ll find on the universal adapters recommended above, plus the thicker, round European-style prongs used in parts of France, parts of Asia, and elsewhere.

Though the set comes with a small case, you probably wouldn’t be traveling with the entire set very often. Instead, you’d pack just the specific adapter or adapters you’d be using on each trip. These are for the person who wants to travel as light and as simply as possible. I myself, and my friends who travel frequently, swear by these small, inexpensive adapters. Also, if you have a USB multiport charger you like or a charger that’s especially fast, you can use that charger with just a tiny, almost weightless plug at the end.

However, plug adapters aren’t for everyone, and that’s why they’re not our main pick. For one thing, if you don’t already own a multiport USB wall charger, you’ll still have to get one if you don’t want to carry a charger for each device. Also, depending on what you’re connecting with these plug adapters, your charger or device could wobble and maybe fall out. The connections inside are solid enough that this shouldn’t happen, but it’s possible. Our universal-adapter picks, as well as the other Ceptics set we discuss below, have a larger “face” for your charger to brace against—more like that of a traditional outlet—so there’s less chance of gravity having its way with your gear.

Being small and inexpensive, plug adapters are not built for high-power, high-wattage items, though hopefully we’ve persuaded you to leave those at home . If you’re charging a battery, you should be fine. If you’re running a motor, probably not. Laptops, yes; mini-fridges, no.

A charger plugged into our adapter pick

Last, these things being so small, you could easily lose them in your bag or leave them behind in an outlet somewhere, if you’re the type of person who loses things. (That’s why I usually keep mine connected to my charger.)

For a hardcore traveler like me, these are my pick. They’re cheap, light, and small, and they work.

A group of our runnerup plugs

Though made by the same company as the Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set—and bearing a confusingly similar name—the plug adapters in the Ceptics Adapter Plug Set for Worldwide International Travel Use are, as you can see, a completely different design. They’re much larger than the other Ceptics (let’s call the previous set Ceptics Black and this one Ceptics White for simplicity). Nonetheless, they’re each smaller than a universal adapter, and they have one key benefit over our top plug-adapter pick: You can purchase them in multipacks for individual regions, including regions beyond those covered by the Ceptics Black set.

The Ceptics White are small, but not as small as the Ceptics Black. That extra size does offer one benefit, however: These adapters have more of a face on the output side, so there’s more surface for your charger to lean against. This means your charger is less likely to fall out. Again, neither set of plugs we tested had loose connections, but this is always a risk, as chargers vary. One other difference: In place of the two-pronged US plug we saw (type A) in our other picks, this set includes the three-pronged grounded version .

travel adapter to usa

The real benefit to the Ceptics Whites, however, is not their physical characteristics. This range is one of your only options if you want to buy a plug adapter for a specific region or country. Headed to India or South Africa ? A universal adapter probably won’t work, but you can get a three-pack of Ceptics that will. You can also buy the offset three-prong and in-line three-prong for Switzerland and Italy, respectively, as well as plugs for Israel and Brazil , both the thin and the thick European plugs, and of course, Australia and UK versions too. They cost less than $10 per set. Any of those links will bring you to a page that lets you choose among plugs for different regions—definitely verify at checkout that you’ve picked the correct ones!

These adapters are ideal for someone headed to a country not covered by a universal adapter, or who has multiple chargers they want to plug in while traveling. They’re not quite as compact as the Ceptics Black adapters, but for most people, this difference in size won’t be an issue. I’ve traveled with these Ceptics plugs for many years, and they show no signs of wear.

Every adapter you see in this guide merely sends the current from the wall directly to whatever you plug into it. These are not voltage converters. Which is to say, if you’re in the UK, whatever you plug into the front of the adapter is going to get the UK’s 220 volts/50 hertz electricity, not the 120 volt/60 hertz that you’d get in the US. Travel plug adapters don’t convert the voltage; they only convert the plug . (Our universal picks do convert the local current to USB voltage, but only for the USB ports.)

However, for the vast majority of people, this is all you need. It’s exceptionally rare that anyone would need a voltage converter anymore. This is because most so-called wall warts, like on your phone charger or your camera’s battery charger, will convert the wall voltage into what it needs automatically.

Take a look at your charger. Somewhere, it should say “100–220V 50/60Hz.” This means it can accept anything between 100 V and 220 V, which covers domestic electricity pretty much everywhere, and either 50 Hz or 60 Hz, which again covers everything. If your charger doesn’t say this, it might not work with a travel adapter. If it only says "120V–60Hz," it will almost certainly not work—or not work correctly—with a travel adapter.

But here’s the other reason we don’t recommend buying a voltage converter: Your device might not work even with one. Anything with a motor (like hair dryers), anything with a heating element (like a clothing iron or a curling iron), or anything with a plug that goes directly to the device (as in no wall wart), probably won’t work in another country regardless of what kind of converter or adapter you bring . The good news is, pretty much every hotel, hostel, and Airbnb will have a hair dryer you can borrow. This is one of those times where we can’t cover everything you might want to bring, but for the vast majority of you, you don’t need a voltage converter. Either it’s not necessary, or the device that needs one won’t work anyway. Worst case, if it’s something cheap and you really need it—a hot pot or an electric kettle, say—consider buying one at your destination.

travel adapter to usa

One occasional exception is electric razors. These often fall into the “single cable, no wall wart, has a motor” category. Which is to say, they probably won’t work without a voltage converter. (Again, check the fine print near the plug or on the device itself.) Many hotels have a shaver plug in the bathroom , with a US-style outlet and US-style 110 volt-or-so voltage. However, not every hotel will have these, and they’re very rare in hostels and Airbnbs. If you need one, best to call ahead and see if your hotel has them. Or use disposables on your trip.

It’s worth noting again for clarity, USB is USB, so if you’re just plugging in a USB cable , unless something is horribly wrong, one USB port’s voltage is the same as any other USB port’s voltage. How fast that port will charge your gear will vary (that’s related to amperage), but unless the charger is faulty, a USB port shouldn’t damage your gear.

We considered many more adapters than those listed here. However, the majority of travel adapters available boil down to just a dozen or so designs sold by myriad companies. We’ve listed two representatives of each of the most common designs, but in most cases, many more exist. Chances are, if it looks similar and has similar specs, it’s probably the same inside.

Universal travel adapters

Askali, Unidapt , others: Only 3.4 amps maximum output, which means it’ll take longer to charge all of your devices.

Bluegogo  (currently unavailable): Only two USB and slower-charging than our picks.

Bonaker: Formerly our runner-up pick, this travel adapter had the usual mix of four plug types to cover you in most countries, but its four USB-A ports were slower than our top pick’s, and it had no USB-C port at all. It’s also since disappeared from Amazon.

Bonazza , Urbo , others: Feels flimsy, even compared with others here. Two-piece design is more cumbersome than helpful. Only 3.4 amps maximum output.

Ceptics Travel Power Strip : The Travel Power Strip combines the interchangeable-plug aspect of the Ceptics Plug Adapter Set with a two-outlet power strip and short extension cord. It also has USB-A and USB-C outputs. If you have multiple non-USB items you want to charge at once—a laptop and a camera charger, for instance—this is a good option. But we think most travelers will prefer the more portable brick design of our picks over this power strip.

Conair Travel Smart : It has only one USB port, with a maximum of 1 amp, but with three outlets, it’s one of the few travel adapters that lets you plug in multiple non-USB devices.

Monoprice Compact Cube Universal Travel Adapter : I own one of these, and it’s fine, but if you’re going the universal route, our picks have USB charging for just a few dollars more. If you don’t need USB charging, our plug-adapter picks are probably better choices. Insten is a similar product but with, apparently, surge suppression built in. But as there’s no way to change the fuse, this is likely one-and-done if you plug in something too powerful.

Mu One (currently unavailable): The Mu offered a much higher power output than other travel adapters: 45 watts, enough to quickly charge even a big-battery device such as a MacBook Air. However, after trying and failing to launch a Mu Two in 2020, the company went out of business. The name and remaining assets were bought by a company called Discovery Club, which seems to be selling off the inventory.

Ougrand (green) : Same shape as the Unidapt, but with a USB-C in place of one of the regular USB connections; 3.4 amp max total.

Huanuo  (currently unavailable): A bit bulky, with three regular USB ports and one USB-C; 3.4 amps maximum.

WGGE , Jollyfit : Only 2.4 amps max, less than either of our picks.

Plug adapters

Bestek Grounded Universal Worldwide Plug : Likely made in the same factory as the Ceptics White plugs, the Bestek set looks the same and is roughly the same price. It offers a wide variety of plug types, but lacks the Type C Europlug that’s common in most adapter sets and usable across most of Europe. (The Europlug was invented to fit into a wide range of European outlet types.) If our Ceptics White pick is sold out, these will also work.

Lewis N. Clark Adapter Plug Kit  (currently unavailable): This kit looks fine, but it is more expensive and has one less plug compared with our Ceptics pick.

Insignia Global Travel Adapter Kit  (currently unavailable): The Insignia has a clever interlocking and compact design, akin to that of the old Flight 001 universal adapter (Flight 001, the specialty travel-gear retailer, is now no longer operating in the US), and the individual plugs feel solid. However, it is expensive compared with our picks, and it doesn’t offer anything that you couldn’t do with our picks just by connecting them end to end (if you wanted to).

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

travel adapter to usa

Geoffrey Morrison

Geoffrey Morrison is Wirecutter’s former AV editor, current editor-at-large, and a travel writer and photographer. He covers action cameras, gimbals, travel backpacks, and other gear. He has been to all 50 states and 60 countries, and he is the author of Budget Travel for Dummies and the sci-fi novel Undersea .

Further reading

Our pick for best portable power strip and surge protector with USB charging.

The Best Travel Power Strips and Surge Protectors With USB Charging

by Sarah Witman

The best power strip for travel in North America is the easily packable Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector —our top pick for eight years running.

Various travel gear items laid out on a yellow background.

The Best Gear for Travel

by Wirecutter Staff

We put in another year and tens of thousands more miles of travel to test the best travel gear—and we stand by last year’s choices alongside a few new picks.

A selection of our favorite gifts for travelers, including Aesop travel cosmetics, a book on national parks, an eye mask, and more.

The 36 Best Gifts for Frequent Travelers

by Samantha Schoech

We’ve put together a selection of fun, useful and clever gifts for that person who always has a trip planned.

A variety of USB-C cables and adapters.

The Best USB-C Cables and Adapters

by Jared Newman

Although USB-C cables look similar, they’re not one-size-fits-all. We have recommendations for every situation.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

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Plug adapters

Best Travel Adapter Set Ceptics Adapter Plug Set for Worldwide International Travel Read more

Whether you’re planning a country-hopping odyssey or a quick business trip, your journey will go more smoothly with the right kit. That includes good travel adapters so you can safely charge all of your gadgets wherever you land. We’ve tested several, and our favorites below will work in most parts of the world.

Adapters make great gifts for travelers , and be sure to check out our roundup of other travel essentials if you’re a frequent flier. Don't forget to pack USB-C charging cables .

Updated May 2024: We added the Satechi 4-Port GaN Travel Charger, Anker MagGo 3-in-1 Charging Station, and Ceptics 2000W Travel Voltage Converter, added a new tips section, photos, and updated prices.

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Best Overall

Jet off to more than 200 countries with this compact adapter in your luggage, and you can charge up all your gadgets. The classic slider design pushes out EU, UK, and US plugs, and you can rotate the pins for sockets in Australia and China. I appreciate how securely the plugs lock into place, and you must press a side button to retract them. You have a universal input socket, and Ceptics has included three USB-A ports on the bottom and two USB-C ports on the side. The USB-A ports can deliver a maximum charging rate of 15.5 watts, while the USB-C ports offer up to 18 watts (one PD and one QC 3.0).

The main problem is the lack of any grounding, which is meant to reduce the risk of an electrical shock if there's a fault, such as a loose wire inside a device with a metal case. ( This video explains grounding really well. ) Thankfully, there's overload protection with an 8-amp fuse, and it comes with a spare, but you should not use this adapter with any device that has a third metal ground pin on its plug.

Upgrade Pick

Zendure's all-in-one travel adapter is what I toss in my bag first for every trip. It has a boxy design with sliding toggles to switch between US, European, and British plugs. (It covers more than 200 countries.) There’s an auto-resetting fuse to protect your gadgets from power surges, and the Passport III has a 10-amp limit. The latest version also sports a funky, translucent design with a metallic finish (purple is best). Sadly, there's no grounding, so you shouldn't use this adapter with any device that has a third metal grounding pin on its plug.

There are four USB-C ports alongside a single USB-A port and an AC socket, so you can charge six devices simultaneously. Using gallium nitride technology, Zendure was able to increase the power output of the USB-C port to 65 watts, capable of fully charging a 13-inch MacBook Pro in under two hours. That means you can leave your laptop's charging brick behind (if it charges via USB-C). There’s support for the Power Delivery (PD) and Programmable Power Supply (PPS) standards (Samsung uses PPS in its flagship range), so it can fast-charge almost any phone or tablet. This travel adapter will satisfy even the most gadget-laden of travelers.

★ A Good Alternative : The OneWorld 65 ($69) sports a very similar design, the same 65-watt charging rate, and support for more than 200 countries. But it has three USB-C and two USB-A ports. It comes in white and has a 10-amp fuse with a replacement included. WIRED readers can also get a discount with the code OneWorld65_15%Off .

Budget Pick

With the capability to work in more than 150 countries, this affordable adapter from Epicka will do the job for most people. It has sliders you push to reveal the three most common international plugs—EU, UK, and US—and you can rotate the pins for sockets in Australia or China. This plug can recharge your power-hungry devices, like laptops and camera batteries, but there are four USB-A ports on the bottom and a 15-watt USB-C port on the side for phones, tablets, smartwatches, and Kindles. It’s not as well constructed as our other universal adapter picks, but it's much cheaper.

Once again, there’s no grounding here, so don’t plug devices with a third metal ground pin into this adapter, but there is an 8-amp fuse for safety, and it comes with a spare. It is also certified by RoHS, CE, and FCC.

Best Travel Adapter Set

Universal adapters don't always work properly everywhere, and most do not have any grounding. The cheaper and more reliable alternative is to buy individual adapters. This international set from Ceptics is our favorite. It includes five types to cover most of the globe, and they are properly grounded. If you’re visiting only a single destination, just pack the relevant type. None of these adapters have any kind of USB ports, so you will need to bring the respective charging adapter for your gadgets.

This set is especially good for Europe, because it includes Type C, E/F, and G adapters (more on this below), so you’re covered for any socket. Ceptics offers an even cheaper and smaller five-piece set, but we don’t recommend it. The adapters are flimsy, there’s no grounding, and the European plug's design doesn’t work well with the recessed sockets you will sometimes encounter.The drawback of plug adapters is that they’re easy to lose, but at least Ceptics includes a small bag for storage.

OneBeat Travel Adapter

Extra Outlets

What I love about this sturdy, compact plug adapter is the lack of sliding pins or moving parts to worry about and that it stays put in the outlet. Offered in several versions (Type C, Type E/F, Type G), it enables you to charge up to six gadgets. I’ve been testing the Type G model in Scotland, and it plugs into a single outlet to give you three US outlets, a USB-C port, and two USB-A ports. The USB-C can put out up to 15 watts, and the USB-A ports are limited to 12 watts, not especially speedy but fine for overnight charging. The adapter is grounded and has various safety features.

On the downside, it can be tough to make use of all the outlets simultaneously as larger plugs, like the MacBook power adapter, tend to block one of the other US outlets. It does not offer surge protection, and the Type G adapter maxes out at 3,250 watts (250 volts, 13 amps), while the EU versions top out at 2,500 watts.

Small white electronic device with various outlets

For Charging Everything

This kit includes multiple plug attachments that slide and lock into place to keep you powered across most of the world. It is much larger than the average adapter, but provides two grounded US AC outlets. There is also a built-in USB-C cable, two USB-A ports, and two USB-C ports. The USB-A ports and built-in USB-C cable offer a combined maximum charging rate of 15 watts. The PD USB-C ports go up to 20 watts each. The top charging rate for all of them simultaneously is 55 watts.

There is built-in surge protection, but this is not a voltage converter, so don’t go plugging in hair dryers or other electronics that are not dual voltage. While the two AC outlets are handy, they are close together, so the shape and size of some plugs can make it tricky to use both. But with the ability to charge up to seven devices, this kit is handy. We also like the original Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit ($35) , though it lacks the two USB-C ports.

Small black rectangular device with an outlet for different types of plugs and additional ports on the side

Fast Charging

With a familiar sliding pin design, this adapter also covers more than 200 countries. Taller and heavier than our top pick, this is OneAdaptr’s most powerful release to date, and it employs gallium nitride technology to deliver up to 100 watts. Aside from the universal AC outlet, you will find two USB-C ports and two USB-A ports on the bottom. Both USB-C ports offer 100-watt charging, and both USB-A ports are 18 watts, but 100 watts is the maximum in total, so when you plug in multiple devices, it divides between them.

Almost every charging standard you can think of is supported, including PD 3.0, QC 4+, FCP, SCP, AFC, PPS, and more, so there’s a good chance you can charge your phone at the fastest rate possible. There is no grounding, so don’t plug in any gadget with a third metal pin. But there is a 10-amp fuse with a spare included, and this adapter conforms to IEC 60884, CE, and FCC standards. If you want more power or feel you can make do with less, we also tested and liked the OneWorld135 ($109) and the OneWorld30 ($39) .

Note : We have tested OneAdaptr’s range extensively and found they work well, but the company has had issues fulfilling orders, and we are concerned about the volume of negative reviews online. The company assured us that it has recently taken steps to improve fulfilment and customer service, and we will continue to monitor the situation.

Small white cube shaped device with an outlet for different types of plugs

Safest Option

The OneWorld PD has sliding toggles on the side that cover the US/Canada, the UK, and Australia/China, and you can pop out a much smaller stand-alone European adapter. It promises to work in more than 150 countries. There are three USB-A ports on the bottom as well as a USB-C port that supports Power Delivery and Quick Charge 3.0 to deliver up to 18 watts. That's enough to fast-charge most phones and tablets, not so much a laptop. You can plug in your laptop's AC charger to speedily juice it back up, but that means carrying the heavy charging brick around.

What sets the AC plugs apart is that each one is earthed. Most universal travel adapters offer two-pin US plugs and make the third pin on the UK plug plastic, but the OneWorld PD provides fully grounded connections for every plug type to protect you from the risk of shock due to faulty wiring. It can handle up to 10 amps. Over-current protection automatically shuts down the power if there’s abnormal usage, and it resets via a button on the top. The rare British Standard 8546 compliance guarantees that the OneWorld PD has been fully tested and is one of the safest travel adapters you can buy. The downside? It's frequently out of stock.

Note : We have tested OneAdaptr's range extensively and found they work well, but the company has had issues fulfilling orders and we are concerned about the volume of negative reviews online. The company assured us that it has recently taken steps to improve fulfilment and customer service and we will continue to monitor the situation.

Thick grey rectangular device with various ports on the side beside additional adapters and a cloth bag

For Wired Charging

Most of us only take small gadgets when we travel, so a compact, multi-port wall charger, like this one from Satechi, could be the best way to pack light. It plugs directly into the wall and comes with four interchangeable travel adapters, covering the EU, UK, and Australia, with a mesh bag to store them in. There are four USB-C ports that you can plug your gadgets into, including laptops like the MacBook Pro, tablets, phones, and wearables. With support for Power Delivery 3.1, the first two ports can supply up to 140 watts, and the bottom two ports can supply up to 45 watts, but the total maximum output if you use all four ports simultaneously is 145 watts.

We took this on a recent trip for a wedding, and it kept all of our gadgets topped off. The adapters are very easy to slide on with a quick-release switch, and it was a real space saver. The only downside is that the bulk and weight may prove awkward at some outlets.

Two black flat squareshaped devices for wireless charging

For Wireless Charging

A few of the best wireless chargers can be good choices for travel. This modular system from RapidX is compact and capable of wirelessly charging two phones at up to 10 watts each, which makes it a good option for couples or families. The beauty is that you can add or remove pods, and a single charging cable can power up to five. They snap together magnetically and pull apart for easy packing. You can also get additional phone pods ($13) , and there’s a version with a phone pod and an Apple Watch pod ($30) .

You get a 30-watt US power adapter and a 5-foot USB-C cable in the box, so you will still want a travel adapter to pair with this system. If you plan to add pods, you will want a more powerful adapter. (RapidX recommends 65 watts or above for three or more devices.)

Anker MagGo Qi2 Travel 3in1 charger

For Apple and Qi2 Devices

Incredibly compact when folded flat, Anker’s MagGo 3-in-1 can charge up your iPhone or Qi2-certified phone at up to 15 watts, has a second pad for AirPods or other wireless earbuds, and sports a fold-out Apple Watch charger. You get a USB-C cable (around 5 feet) and a wall adapter with it, but pair it with something like the Zendure or Satechi above that can provide at least 40 watts, and you can leave the wall adapter at home. Only MagSafe iPhones and Qi2-certified Android phones have the magnets needed to use this as a stand, but I had no trouble charging an older Android phone by folding it flat (Qi2 is backward compatible). We recommend this Anker charger for travelers in our guide to the  best Apple 3-in-1 wireless chargers .

Type C outlets

International Plug Types and Universal Adapters

There are 15 plug types in use across the world. Type A and Type B are used in the US, Canada, Mexico, and Japan; Type C is common across Europe, South America, and Asia; Type E and Type F are found across Europe in places like Germany, Russia, and France; Type G is used in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and a handful of other places; and Type I is used in Australia, New Zealand, China, and Argentina. Universal adapters tend to cover all of these types.

Some countries are not usually covered by universal adapters, such as India ( Type D ), Israel ( Type H ), and South Africa ( Type M or N ). You'll need to buy specific plug adapters for those places. To avoid any surprises when you land, double-check what type you need before you travel.

If you're visiting just one destination, a basic plug adapter that caters to one plug type is all you need. For trips to multiple destinations or for frequent flyers, a universal travel adapter can prove more versatile. The universal adapters we recommend here have the bonus of including multiple USB ports for charging several mobile devices from a single outlet.

Black hair dryer large white power strip with a thick cord and multiple outlets and various adapters for different outlets

A Word on Voltage Converters

Voltage converters are big, heavy, and expensive, and they don’t always work, so it’s probably best not to buy one. The reason you might think you need one is that the AC sockets on all of our recommended travel adapters do not convert the voltage coming from the socket. This means plugging into a UK socket will deliver 220 volts at 50 hertz, which is very different from the 120 volts at 60 hertz you can expect in the US. Don't worry! Your gear won't get fried. You just need to make sure anything you plug into one of these universal travel adapters has something like this printed on it:

Input: 100–220V 50/60Hz .

That should include most modern gadgets. If your device or charger can’t handle a variable voltage, it’s probably best to leave it at home. Most places provide hair dryers , irons, and kettles, so there’s no need to take them with you. It's often cheaper to buy a set with the correct plug at your destination and save the luggage space and hassle.

If you are absolutely determined to try a voltage converter (again, we recommend you don’t), the Ceptics 2000W Travel Voltage Converter ($70) seems to work well. It has a special 2,000-watt outlet for hair dryers, but only ones that work via a mechanical switch (anything with an electronic circuit board for automatic switch-off or temperature control won’t work and is at risk of being fried if plugged in). It also has two outlets that go up to 200 watts, one USB-C port, and three USB-A ports, though the ports do not support fast charging.

Different adapters for a variety of plug types

Everything Else You Need to Know

Here are a few additional tips and answers to help ensure your trip goes as planned.

Test everything before you go : Seriously, nothing is worse than thinking you’re being very clever by packing light and getting to your hotel to discover that your gadgets refuse to charge. Between the adapter, cable, and your device, plenty can go wrong, so do a quick test with everything you are taking before you set off.

Can travel adaptors go in a suitcase? Yes, you can pack travel adapters in your suitcase. But it may be wise to take a travel adapter in your hand luggage for easy access should you need to charge up a device when you arrive at your destination. Devices like power banks with lithium batteries inside must go in hand luggage, not checked bags.

Can I buy travel adapters at the airport? Yes, you almost certainly can, but like everything else at the airport, they will be far more expensive than they should be, and your choice will be limited.

Do hotels have travel adapters? Sometimes hotels have travel adapters, and some hotels even have outlets for other countries, but most do not, so don’t bank on it. You could always check with your hotel or accommodation before you depart, but it’s safer to snag a travel adapter to take with you.

travel adapter to usa

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The 6 Best Travel Adapters and Converters, Tested and Reviewed

Whether you prefer a set of specific adapters or something universal, these are the best options on the market.

travel adapter to usa

In This Article

  • Our Top Picks
  • Other Options We Liked

Our Testing Process

  • Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Travelers these days have all types of gear and gadgets that require power: cellphones, headphones, cameras, laptops, and even their toothbrushes. And, when venturing abroad, you’ll often find that not every hotel, airport lounge, or even public mode of transportation accommodates the U.S. plug, which means you likely need an adapter and/or converter for international trips. 

Our favorite adapters and converters are compact, work in multiple countries, have several ports including both USB and AC sockets, and, of course, power your essentials without frying them. As avid travelers, we tested an array of products on actual trips across the world and ranked them based on ease of use, effectiveness, and value to bring you the best picks for every scenario. Below, find our favorite easy-to-use adapters and converters for your next international journey.

Best Overall

Epicka universal travel adapter.

  • Ease of Use 5 /5
  • Effectiveness 4 /5

It’s able to charge six devices at once. 

This is not a converter, so you shouldn’t use it with high-power appliances like curling irons and hair dryers. 

Ready to use in more than 150 countries, this adapter from Epicka can charge six devices at the same time, as it comes with four USB-A ports, 1 USB-C port, and 1 AC socket. It works with all USB-enabled devices including iPhones and Androids, and can charge laptops, cameras, tablets, and power banks, too. It eliminates the need to purchase individual adapters for each trip, which makes it a great money-saving travel product . The adapter also has a built-in, double 8A fuse and safety shutters that keep children from trying to plug other items into the socket. The adapter comes in four different colors, and has a 1-year limited warranty. 

We love that it’s small and easy to pack, plus it’s simple to switch over to different prongs from country to country. The multiple USB ports are great for charging everything at once, and the adapter is super lightweight, so it isn’t adding much weight to your suitcase or carry-on either. We did find that the adapter was hard to fit in tight spots or use with older outlet styles in the UK and Hong Kong, but this didn’t happen often. 

The Details: 2.8 x 1.97 x 2.05 inches | 5.1 ounces | No converter | 6 ports | 1 AC, 4 USB-A, 1 USB-C | 240 volts

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best for Apple Users

Apple travel adapter kit.

  • Effectiveness 5 /5

It’s exclusively for Apple products so you can trust it with those devices.

It only works with Apple's block-type power adapters.

This kit made by Apple, for Apple products, includes seven AC plugs that work for iPhones, iPods, iPads, and Mac laptops in North America, Japan, China, the UK, Europe, Korea, Australia, Hong Kong, and Brazil. Each one lists the regions the plug is compatible with, making it easy to grab what you need quickly. However, you will need Apple's power adapter brick to serve as a base; these tips work with Apple’s USB-C power adapters, MagSafe and MagSafe 2 power adapters, and 10-watt and 12-watt USB power adapters that come with devices (or can be purchased separately in a range of wattages including 12 watts , 35 watts, and 67 watts ).

We love this set because it’s an Apple-certified product, so we know our devices are safe. The adapters are also built to last, as one of our testers used the adapters for 10 years before having to replace some of them. The only thing we wish they added onto this set is a carrying case to hold all the pieces for traveling. 

The Details: 5.3 x 5.3 x 1.9 inches | 11.2 ounces | No converter | 1 port | 100-240 volts (10W, 12W, 30W, and 35W)

Most Compact

Ceptics travel adapter plug for south africa & botswana.

It comes with USB and AC outlet charging abilities in a compact plug. 

USB ports are on the bottom, instead of the top of the adapter. 

If you’re traveling through South Africa, Botswana, or Namibia, this compact adapter will allow you to charge up to three devices at once. The AC outlet allows you to plug your U.S. device into a Type M socket for South Africa, allowing you to charge up for safari adventures and more.  It works with cell phones, laptops, smart watches, tablets, and more, and we especially like that it has the ability for two- and three-prong AC input, as well as USB ports for added versatility. The style of adapter is a block shape, so you can tuck it into your backpack, purse, or carry-on without compromising on much space, and you can also buy similar adapters for Europe , India, Germany, Hong Kong, Switzerland, Brazil, and more. 

The Details: 1 x 1 x 1 inches | 2.5 ounces | No Converter | 3 ports | 2 USB-A , 1 AC | 250 volts

Best for Families

Bestek travel adapter and voltage converter.

  • Value 4.5 /5

You can power seven devices at one time. 

It’s bulkier than a lot of other adapters. 

With three AC outlets and four USB ports, you can charge up to seven devices at once on this charger, making it easy for the whole family to charge their phones, laptops, tables, and camera batteries. Three plug adapters are also included and work in more than 150 countries, meaning you can travel far and wide and, most likely, have the right adapter for what you need. We also love that this one is a converter, too, converting 220 volts to 110 volts for U.S. electronics but it’s still not recommended to use this device to power your hair dryer, curling iron, or straightener.

The adapter comes with overcurrent, overload, overheat, and short-circuit protections. We tested the adapter by charging a phone, battery pack, Apple watch, and Kindle all at once and found that all devices were nicely charged overnight with no issues. 

The Details: 7.4 x 6.8 x 1.8 inches | 1.15 pounds | Converter | 3 AC, 4 USB-A | 110-220 volts

Best Multipack

Ceptics european travel plug adapter.

  • Ease of Use 3 /5

It’s easy to use.

You'll need to use a separate plug for each item you're charging.

For a super affordable multipack for one destination, this one from Ceptics is a great choice, as it comes with three identical Type C adapters that will work across Europe, the Middle East, and South America. It accepts North American two- and three-prong plugs, and has a simple straightforward design. It’s worth noting though that this set won’t work in England, Ireland, or Scotland, but there are other three packs available that will work in those countries, plus India, China, Hong Kong, Australia, and more. 

The Details: 3 x 2 x 1 inches | 3.2 ounces | No Converter | 3 AC outlets | 100-240 volts

Best for Europe

Jarvania european travel plug adapter.

It works in both the EU and the UK. 

It’s a bit bulky as the UK adapter is separate. 

American travelers to Europe will most likely need an adapter that can handle numerous countries, and this one from Jarvania is great because it can be used with EU and UK outlets. It’s compatible with Type C (which also fits into Type E, F, H, J, K, L, and N outlets) to work in Italy, Denmark, Switzerland, Spain, and France and more. It also comes with a separate Type G plug adapter that will also work in the UK, so you’re getting an extra adapter, too. The main adapter has three ports (one AC, two USB), so you can charge up to three devices at once — a perk for the modern traveler carrying a phone, laptop, camera, and more. 

The Details: 2.7 x 2.1 x 2.2 inches | 3.8 ounces | No Converter | 3 ports | 1 AC, 2 USB-A | 110-250 volts

Other Travel Adapters We Liked

Two adapters we tested couldn’t quite earn a spot on our list but had standout features that may meet the needs of some travelers. 

Tessan Type G Adapter : This adapter with two AC outlets plus two USB ports works in countries such as Scotland, Ireland, the UK, Hong Kong, UAE, Singapore, and various African countries. However, we found the AC outlets are too close together on the adapter to always be useful. 

Tessan Type E F Adapter : With five total ports (USB and AC) that work in numerous countries, this is a great adapter, but we think the two pack is a bit much, as one adapter already has five ports, meaning lots of travelers wouldn’t need a second adapter. This adapter is also wider than other adapters so it can take up more unnecessary space. 

The T+L team tested 12 different adapters and converters in various countries across the world. We noted what countries we were in while using the adapters or converters, and how easy it was to use each one. We also ranked them based on effectiveness, meaning how well they charged our devices, and value in terms of price versus performance. 

Tips for Buying Adapters and Converters

Research your destination.

Before leaving on your trip, be sure to check out what types of outlets are used in the countries you’re visiting, and buy adapters and converters accordingly. The last thing you’ll want is to accidentally fry your device while abroad. Some hotels provide USB ports inside hotel rooms, but it’s best to make sure they’re available before arriving empty-handed.

Consider a kit

If you’re visiting numerous countries and are in a rush, it’s sometimes easier to simply buy a kit with several adapters for multiple different destinations, which can save you money instead of buying numerous adapters. Lots of kits are small enough to tuck away in your bag or carry-on, so just be sure that you take along the ones you need.

Read the fine print

Always be sure to read the instructions that come with your adapter or converter, and be sure to pay attention to the power details. You may think a converter is safe for your styling tools or appliances when it's actually not, and you could fry your device, or blow a fuse, if the adapter doesn’t convert voltage.

An adapter is used when you need to plug a specific type of prong into a different socket. It allows you to plug your U.S.-style prong into an outlet in another country that uses a different type of plug. A converter is different in that it changes the voltage of an outlet to match the voltage of the item being plugged in. Some countries use 110/120 volts, while others use 220/240 volts. If you don’t use a converter, you could ruin your device, or even risk a fire.

If your destination has a different prong type than your outlets at home, then you’ll need an adapter. But if the voltage is different in the place you’re traveling than it is at home, you’ll need a converter to convert that voltage. Some products have dual voltage, which means the device can handle voltages from all over the world.

Most of Europe uses Type C plugs, which also fit into Type E, F, H, J, K, L, and N sockets that may replace Type C in places such as Denmark, Switzerland, and Italy. (England and the rest of the U.K. uses Type G.) Always double check exactly which one you’ll need before your departure.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, the T+L team tested and reviewed numerous adapters and converters to find the best of the best for countries across the world. Freelance writer and world traveler Amanda Ogle further researched travel adapters to add additional insights to this list. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

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The best travel adapters 2024

Emma Rowley

If you’ve ever had to rush around at an airport to panic buy a travel adapter, or worse, ended up at your hotel with a dead Kindle and a dying phone, you’ll know that forgetting an adapter can take the shine off a trip. Plus, if you have to buy at the airport or at your destination, you’ll pay twice as much.

Save money by planning ahead and purchasing a couple of power adapters online before your holiday. Once you’ve got them, you can keep them in your suitcase or travel bag and never get caught out again. Or, if you buy one with USB ports, you can use it day-to-day, for charging multiple devices at once and maybe even providing fast charging options.

You can even find some world-to-world adapters, which will take any plug type, and connect to any socket – ideal not only for travelling, but also for any international tech that you end up bringing back from your trip to use at home.

If you’re not sure which kind of adapter you need, have a look at the buying advice that follows the chart. We’ve got information on sockets and connecting your adapter, as well as regions, voltage, and 2- versus 3-pin plugs.

If you’re busy planning a trip, you might also want to take a look at our guide to the best portable power banks .

Best travel adapters

Tec uk to eu travel adapter twin pack – best budget option (eu).

TEC UK to EU Travel Adapter Twin Pack - Best budget option (EU)

  • Europe only

Let’s start with something dead simple: this is a twin pack of UK to EU travel adapters, which will let you use your UK tech just about anywhere in Europe. 

They’re cheap and cheerful, but they work – and for most people, that’s enough. They also cost a lot less online than buying the exact same ones in an airport newsagent. 

If you know you mostly travel in Europe, or just have a specific trip coming up that you need an adapter or two for, this is the cheapest way to charge your gadgets once you’re there.

TEC UK to US Travel Adapter Twin Pack – Best budget option (US)

TEC UK to US Travel Adapter Twin Pack - Best budget option (US)

Along very similar lines, here’s the same adapter, but for the US and other countries that use this plug type, which includes Canada, Mexico, Japan and most of South America, among other locations.

Remember that it won’t convert the voltage, so you may find that some of your UK devices charge more slowly in the US, and a few might not even charge at all if they can’t draw sufficient power, but in our experience this is rare. 

MyTravelPal Pro – Best safety features

MyTravelPal Pro - Best safety features

  • Safety features
  • 3 USB ports for fast charging
  • Use in over 150 countries
  • No USB-C port

If you’re concerned about safety, the MyTravelPal Pro adaptor is an excellent option, as it has two safety features: a surge protector that’ll shut it down to protect your devices in the event of abnormal power; and ground/earth connections on all four plugs, so you can use high-powered devices without worrying.

Cleverly, you can unscrew the grounding pin on the US plug, so usage isn’t limited to sockets with a third slot.

The Pro can power four devices at once, with a plug socket and three USB-A charging ports, which allow for quick charging (up to 70% faster than an average charger). This also means it’s very handy around the home, so you’ll get plenty of use from it.

It doesn’t convert voltage but it does support a wide input range: 100-250V. It will work in over 150 countries, including Australia and New Zealand, Canada, China, Europe, Japan, UK and the USA.

Zendure Passport III – Best for home & travel

Zendure Passport III - Best for home & travel

  • Works in over 200 countries
  • Surge protector
  • 4 USB-C ports, 1 USB-A

The Zendure Passport III is not only a great travel adapter, but also an excellent charger at home.

With sliding connectors, it can plug into type A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O outlets, and accepts type A, B, C, E, F, G, I, J, L, and N plugs, so it works in over 200 countries and regions – including the US, Europe, Australia, and UK.

Thanks to an auto-resetting fuse it’ll cut off the power if it detects that it’s getting too hot, which should save your devices (and the Passport III itself) from problems with incompatible international voltages.

In addition it boasts four USB-C ports and one USB-A, so it can charge multiple devices at once, with USB-C charging at up to 65W – enough to fast charge a laptop or tablet.

Zendure Passport II Pro – Most powerful

Zendure Passport II Pro - Most powerful

  • Useful in 200 countries
  • Can charge 6 devices at once
  • Not earthed

The Zendure Passport II Pro is a travel adapter that’s so powerful you’ll probably end up using it at home too.

It can plug into UK, US, EU, or Australian sockets, and you can also plug all of those into it, covering more than 200 countries. The 10A self-resetting fuse can handle high-power appliances, and will reset if it overloads rather than breaking – although it’s not earthed. 

It can charge up to six devices simultaneously: one through the main AC socket, and then two USB-C and four USB-A. One USB-C port supports most fast charging standards for laptops and phones up to 61W, although if you connect other devices simultaneously this port caps at a slightly lower 45W, with 12W shared between the other USBs.

Go Travel Duo Earthed UK to EU Power Adapter – Four device charging

Go Travel Duo Earthed UK to EU Power Adapter - Four device charging

  • Charge 4 devices at once
  • Earthed model won't fit US sockets

This handy power adaptor from Go Travel will let you charge up to four devices simultaneously through just one plug: two through the UK mains sockets, and another two through the included USB-A sockets.

This model is perfect for using across Europe, but you can also get an essentially identical one for using in the US and Canada and other compatible countries.

Bear in mind that both are earthed, meaning they’re ideal for safely charging high usage devices like laptops, but as the UK model also comes with a non-removable earth pin, it won’t fit into two-pin sockets in the US.

Skross World Travel Adapter MUV USB – Best for two-pin compatibility

Skross World Travel Adapter MUV USB - Best for two-pin compatibility

  • Useful across UK, US, Aus, Europe and Asia
  • For less power-intensive tech

Skross is one of the best recognised and most trusted names around when it comes to travel adapters, which is why we’ve picked its MUV USB adapter for our round-up.

Designed for two-pin, un-earthed devices, this is perfect for less power-intensive tech like shavers, phones, tablets, or e-readers, but might not be able to keep up with a laptop or hairdryer’s power needs. On the plus side, that means its 2-pin outputs will work in all US and European sockets.

However, it has the advantage of accepting input devices from the UK, US, Australia, Europe and most of Asia, and outputting to all of the same countries.

You also get two USB-A sockets, which share a 5V power supply. You can use those to charge two USB devices while simultaneously charging something else through the main socket, making this ideal for anyone with a few devices they need to charge at once.

Skross World Travel Adapter Pro Light USB – Best for quick charging

Skross World Travel Adapter Pro Light USB - Best for quick charging

  • Good for high-power devices
  • Not suitable for 2-pin sockets

This Skross adapter looks pretty similar to the one listed above, but it has one significant difference: it includes an earth pin, and is rated for up to 1575W, meaning you can safely use it to (quickly) charge high power devices like laptops.

As with other three-pin plugs, note that it means it won’t fit every plug socket – the earth pin isn’t removable, so won’t fit two-pin sockets in the US or Australia, meaning you might find some sockets you just can’t use.

Also, note that this does support European plugs, but only through using the detachable plug section. This means you can’t use the included USB sockets for charging, although those will work in every other region.

Anker PowerPort 4 Lite – Best for family use

Anker PowerPort 4 Lite - Best for family use

  • USB-A points
  • Not for US/Aus/NZ

The Anker PowerPort 4 Lite lacks Quick Charge 2.0 or 3.0 compatibility but not every device is compatible with that anyway, so these four standard USB-A ports will be fine for most, with enough to satisfy a small family on the move.

It does feature  PowerIQ and VoltageBoost, however.

It features interchangeable UK and EU plug heads, but strangely none for US or Australia/New Zealand.

TEC UK To India Adaptor – For Southern Asia

TEC UK To India Adaptor - For Southern Asia

  • Asia-specific
  • Not a voltage transformer

If you travel to India, Pakistan or Sri Lanka, you may find international power points in your hotel but these countries also have a dedicated plug type.

Travel adapters of this kind can be expensive at the airport, so to save money, buy before your head off. This is a twin pack, so it’s even better value.

Bear in mind that these are straightforward adapters and not voltage transformers.

Connecting your adapter

Most adapters come with USB-A sockets – especially for fast charging – so you may need to ensure you have the right cables to hand to charge your phone and laptop using your adapter. Don’t leave home without ensuring you can connect your devices to your adapter.

Even more useful are travel adapters that incorporate multiple USB sockets, which mean you can use one plug to charge several devices. Some now even include a USB-C Power Delivery port – useful for owners of USB-C laptops such as some of Apple’s MacBooks.

Regions and voltages

The most important thing to check before you buy a travel adapter is what sort of plug the area you’re travelling to uses. For the sake of this article, we’re going to assume that you’re based in the UK, which means you’ll need an adapter to travel almost anywhere in the world, with rare exceptions like Hong Kong and Singapore, which use the UK plug.

For the most part, there are three broad regions of plug beyond the UK type: the round pinned plugs used across Europe, the flat straight pins used across America and some parts of Asia, and the flat slanted pins used in Australia and the rest of Asia. It’s always worth double-checking with a quick Google search ahead of a trip, and there are a few other unique plug types out there to watch out for.

Voltage can also be an issue. UK plugs use 220-240V, which is conveniently what you’ll find across Europe and Australia. US sockets only run at 120V, while Japan offers an even skimpier 110V. For the most part, this isn’t an issue, but it may mean that some devices will charge more slowly than you’re used to, and some of the most power-intensive might not work at all if they can’t draw sufficient power from the mains to run. Unfortunately, there’s nothing a travel adapter can do about that, as they don’t convert voltage.

2-pin vs 3-pin

One thing to look out for in travel adapters is whether or not they support earth pins. While 3-pin plugs are the standard in the UK, elsewhere in the world they’re used less often or not at all. 

Earthing helps to protect you and your gadgets from electric shock, so you may prefer to opt for 3-pin adapters, which offer an extra level of protection. Bear in mind that this may limit where you can use them – the US and EU have both 2-pin and 3-pin sockets, so your 3-pin plug simply won’t fit into some sockets, and you might wish you’d risked it with a 2-pin model.

Author: Emma Rowley , Group Home Tech Editor

travel adapter to usa

Emma has been a journalist and copywriter for over 20 years and has been testing and writing about home tech and appliances for seven years. She tries out every appliance she writes about at home, and aims to recommend time- and energy-saving products that will last.

Recent stories by Emma Rowley:

  • The best smart plug 2023
  • Get three TP-Link Tapo smart plugs for £12

The best travel adapters in 2024

Power your camera, phone, laptop, and more around the world, using the best travel adapters

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter connected to two phones and a laptop

If you're travelling abroad, you'll want to charge your devices along the way. But with limited space in your luggage, you won't want  to buy a different travel adapter for each country you visit. Hence the rise of 'universal' travel charger, which promises support you in over 100 countries worldwide. 

We place 'universal' in quotation marks for a reason: there's no such thing as a travel adapter that will work absolutely everywhere. That said, the devices on our list are well-equipped to handle the three major standards of US, UK, and EU plugs, covering the vast majority of global destinations. 

When journeying through Asia, Central or South America, or Africa, though, it's wise to exercise caution and research the specific standards applicable in each region. Bear in mind these standards even vary between cities and regions in the same country, and older buildings may have different sockets to newer ones.

Also note that some devices hailing from countries with high voltage systems, such as the UK with its 240 volts, might necessitate a voltage converter to function seamlessly in regions employing a much lower voltage, such as the standard 120 volts in the US. This concern typically applies more to high-powered devices like hairdryers, though, than to everyday gadgets like phones, tablets, and laptops. For the former, our top pick is the Bestek adapters, which offer voltage conversion capabilities.

With these considerations in mind, read on to discover the finest travel adapters currently gracing the market. We'll explore the nuances that set them apart and the unique features each brings to the table.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

1. Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Epicka Universal is the best travel adapter for most people today. It features four different international plugs that covers more than 150 countries, including the US, UK, EU and Australia. With four USB-A ports, one USB-C port and one AC socket, you can potentially power or charge six devices at once. And it's affordably priced, and relatively light and compact. 

The only downside is that it's not a voltage converter, so if you're a UK traveler wanting to connect high-voltage products such as hair dryers, we recommend the Bestek 200W Worldwide Travel Adapter (number 5 on our list, below).

Zendure Passport III 65W - one of the best travel adapters

2. Zendure Passport III 65W

One USB-C port not enough for you? The Zendure Passport III manages to fit in a whopping four, along with a USB-A port and an AC socket. USB-C is becoming more and more widespread nowadays, with even Apple being forced to fit it into future iPhones , so this travel adapter is nothing if not future-proof.

More broadly, it's compatible with outlets in over 200 countries and regions, including USA, UK, Europe, Canada, Japan, Mexico, Asia, the Middle East, and more. It also has a unique self-resetting fuse, so you don't have to fiddle about replacing it if it blows. When it gets two hot, the two pieces of metal inside it simply separate, killing the power. Then, when the temperature drops, this will reverse and you can carry on using it. Clever stuff.

Apple World Travel Adapter Kit - one of the best travel adapters

3. Apple World Travel Adapter Kit

If you're an Apple user, then it makes sense to use Apple's own travel adapter kit for your iPhone , iPad and/or MacBook. As you'd expect, it's compatible with (and optimised for) Apple USB-C Power Adapters, MagSafe and MagSafe 2 Power Adapters, 10W and 12W USB Power Adapters, and Portable Power Adapters. Seven AC plugs are included, which fit various power points in places including North America, Japan, China, United Kingdom, continental Europe, Korea, Australia, Hong Kong and Brazil.

Bestek International Power Adapter Step Down Travel Voltage Converter

4. Bestek Power Adapter Step Down Travel Voltage Converter

Bestek 200W Worldwide Travel Adapter

5. Bestek 200W Worldwide Travel Adapter

This travel adapter converts the higher voltage used in places like the UK, so that it can be used safely with 110V US appliances.

Most modern electronic devices, such as laptops and phone chargers, are designed to work with different voltages, so you may not need a voltage converter for these types of devices. However, for items with heating elements, such as hair dryers, curling irons, straighteners, kettles and toasters, you probably will. If you are unsure, always consult the manufacturer's instructions or contact the manufacturer directly for advice.

This travel adapter comes with USB ports and three AC outlets, allowing you to charge seven devices simultaneously. You get three international AC adapters for use in over 150 countries. Plus there's a smart power converter feature that automatically detects the fastest charge for your device. 

Targus World Power Travel Adapters

6. Targus World Power Travel Adapters

A quick glance at the pictures on this page demonstrates that makers of travel adapters aren't particularly imaginative when it comes to product design. But here's a notable exception. This small tube shape holds three interchangeable adapters, for UK, Europe and North America, made from high impact, durable, VO rated polycarbonate plastic. Measuring a compact 5.6 x 3 x 7.6 inches, it's perfect for slipping into a small bag, and it weighs just 140g. Note, though, there are no USB ports.

Apark Universal Plug Travel Adapter

7. Apark Universal Plug Travel Adapter

The Apark Universal Plug Travel Adapter takes a more conventional approach to design than the Targus above. But it's also very compact, at just 7.6 x 3.8 x 4.8cm, and even lighter, at just 100g. There are two USB-A ports, too, and this adapter is very reasonably priced. On the downside, there are no USB-C ports, and this isn't a voltage converter. It is very cheap, though.

Hyleton Worldwide Travel Adapter

8. Hyleton Worldwide Travel Adapter

The Hyleton Worldwide Adapter offers four USB-A ports, one USB-C port and an AC plug so you can charge multiple devices at once. You also get four international plugs for use in over 150 countries, including the US, UK, EU and Australia. Otherwise, there's nothing very special about this adapter, but at this low price, it does offer very good value.

Skross World To South Africa Travel Adapter

9. Skross World To South Africa Travel Adapter

Heading to South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland or Zimbabwe? Then you'll need to have an adapter that fits the Type M socket in use in these southern African counties. And unfortunately most so-called 'Universal' or 'Worldwide' travel adapters don't. 

As the name suggests, the Skross World To South Africa Travel Adapter does, and it's very lightweight and affordable. It works in over 220 countries in total, and it splits into two parts, so you can keep the Europe plug separate from the adapters for the rest of the world. Be aware, though, that there are no USB ports and it's not a voltage converter.

Note that Type M sockets are also found in many other countries, from Israel to Singapore: you can find a full list here .

Newvanga International Universal All in One Worldwide Travel Adapter

10. Newvanga International Universal All in One Worldwide Travel Adapter

Looking for something cheap and simple, that just does the job? Then you'll love the low price of this Newvanga travel adapter. It's made of heat resistant ABS and safety shutters to protect your devices, features both a USB-C and USB-A port, and boasts a Smart IC Chip for intelligent, safe and fast charging. This adapter is compatible with 12 different types of plug, from Type A to Type K, and fits iPhones, cellphones, iPad, tablets, laptops , hair straighteners, electric toothbrushes and more. 

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Tom May is a freelance writer and editor specializing in art, photography, design and travel. He has been editor of Professional Photography magazine, associate editor at Creative Bloq , and deputy editor at net magazine. He has also worked for a wide range of mainstream titles including The Sun, Radio Times, NME, T3, Heat, Company and Bella.

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9 best travel adapters to keep your devices charged on holiday

The last thing you want on that first post-lockdown holiday is to be caught without your phone or camera, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

It’s time to upgrade your adapter – ideally to one with at least one USB port and the ability to help you stay connected in a minimum of 150 countries

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With travel on the horizon once more, it’s time to start thinking about investing in the accessories no jet-setter should be without, and adapters deserve to be at the very top of that list.

If you’re still relying on the one you picked up at Dubai airport 20 years ago, then it’s time to upgrade – ideally to one with at least one USB port and the ability to help you stay connected in a minimum of 150 countries.

Features to look out for include mechanisms that allow the prongs to slide smoothly into place and slot quickly back in when not in use, and a small LED light that will show you when the power’s on.

One thing you don’t have to worry too much about though is surge protection – these days, the majority of adapters have this built in.

We’ve included a number of travel adapters designed especially for smaller items of tech such as iPhones and iPads , simply because these days many leisure travellers are more likely to carry numerous smaller gadgets, rather than larger items such as laptops .

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We tested our adapters by using them with a wide range of gadgets, paying careful attention to the way in which interchangeable adapters could be swapped and how securely the prongs stayed in place

We quickly realised the benefit to a number of extras we hadn’t considered before, whether it was dedicated pouches with clearly marked compartments or extra-clear markings indicating which country a certain adapter was most likely to be required in.

You can trust our independent reviews. We may earn commission from some of the retailers, but we never allow this to influence selections, which are formed from real-world testing and expert advice. This revenue helps us to fund journalism across The Independent .

OneAdaptr all-in-one world adapter with USB-C & 3 USB charger

OneWorld PD - All-In-One world adapter with USB-C _ 3 USB charger

You can plug five devices into this all-singing, all-dancing adapter which has three USB ports, a USB C port and the ability to do its thing in 150 countries.  It has brilliant packaging – in this case a book-like box with a magnetic closure that looks and feels far too good to simply be tossed in the bin. For extra points in the packaging department, this adapter also comes with its own colour-coordinated drawstring pouch.

Our favourite feature was the way in which the prongs slid out – unlike other adapters, which required a separate button to be pressed, we simply needed to press and hold the same button that we used to slide out the prongs.

Mophie charge stream global travel kit

Mophie Charge Stream Global Travel Kit

This adapter, designed with smart phones in mind, is another product with brilliant packaging – in this case, a sturdy pouch with clearly identifiable sections for the various components, which include a wireless charging station, five interchangeable adapters, a micro-USB cable and a car adapter.

Sadly we didn’t have a phone with wireless charging capability on which to test the wireless charger, but we were still able to charge our phone the traditional way, using the USB port. We loved the ultra-bright LED light that appeared when this adapter was in use, as well as the way in which the different components slotted firmly but quickly into place.

Anker 65W 3-port charger

Anker 65W 3-Port Charger

This is another wonderfully compact adapter designed with phones and USB C-charging laptops in mind, although the tiny size of the different attachments might be a downside for those prone to clumsiness. However, we loved the ease with which they slotted into the body of the main unit, which provides plenty of power.

Two USB-A ports and one USB-C port (the type most Samsung users will be familiar with) offer a total of 65W of output, which can be used to power three devices simultaneously. We loved the sky-blue trim, and the bright blue light offered a welcome alternative to the standard red.

Samsonite worldwide adapter

Samsonite Worldwide Adapter

This is a sturdy, reliable adapter that will keep you connected in 150 countries. The various prongs slide out with satisfying ease, and a two-year warranty will appeal to those prone to slinging their adapters in cramped corners of backpacks and suitcases.

Perhaps we’re nit-picking, but we would have loved to see a flash of colour, and we can’t help but feel £35 is a little steep when it’s easy to find adapters with USB ports (which this one doesn’t have) for much less.

Twelve South plugbug duo

Twelve South PlugBug Duo

A lot of thought has gone into the design of the Ferrari-red plugbug duo, as well as its packaging. The PlugBug comes tucked into a sturdy cardboard box with cut-out holes for the various components. Designed for use with Apple gadgets such as iPhones, MacBooks and iPads, it has five interchangeable adapters that allow it to be used in 150 countries. MacBooks or iPads can be plugged into the base and there are two USB ports on the side.

Heys universal adapter

Heys Universal Adapter

This is a compact, top-quality adapter with the ability to charge a wide range of gadgets, and a great price tag – just £24. It’s far from basic, with two USBs, a sleek red trim and a locking action that means the prongs stay put when extended but will easily slide back in when they’re no longer needed.

One aspect that proved unexpectedly useful was the red outline around the holes for the prongs of three-pinned UK plugs – when fumbling around in semi-darkness, this acted as a handy visual guide.

Go Travel worldwide adapter and USB

Go Worldwide adapter

Go Travel’s adapter errs on the chunky side (it’s surprisingly heavy) but it’s got a thoughtful, top-quality design, with two USB ports and a sturdy locking mechanism that will keep the various prongs in place. A gold star was awarded for the clearly marked wording next to the controls for each set of prongs – it’s all too easy to forget which countries have which sockets.

There are two USB ports and we appreciated the positioning of the LED light that appears when it’s plugged in – the light is on the bottom, so you’ll be able to quickly tell whether it’s turned on if you know where to look but its position means it’s unlikely to keep you awake if you’re easily disturbed.

Herschel travel adapter

Herschel travel adapter

A stylish adapter contained in a zip lock-style (but inevitably landfill-destined) plastic bag, Herschel’s contribution to connectivity will appeal to style-conscious jetsetters. It’s got a sleek pared-back look and the casing has a rubberised feel which offers a welcome alternative to cold, hard plastic.

There are two USB ports on the side and the design is slightly different to most adapters, with the prongs positioned in a way which means you’ll need to rotate the adapter depending on which set you’re using. Our one gripe was that the sliding controls erred on the stiff side and more than once we had to prise out the prongs manually.

Flight 001 5-in-1 universal travel adapter

Flight 001 5 in 1 Universal Travel Adapter

Why can’t all adapters look like this? A colourful, Lego-like stack of interchangeable adapters that slot easily in and out, the flight 001 5-in-1 universal travel adapter has two USBs and comes in a neat, sturdy box that doubles as the perfect carrying case.

Although this is an adapter made up of multiple parts, rather than internal, fixed prongs that simply slide in and out, the ease with which the pieces slot together – and the clever use of colour – means the likelihood of any part being left behind is slim to none.

The verdict: Travel adapters

The brilliant and stylish OneAdaptr all-in-on world adapter is proof that an adapter really can serve multiple purposes without making any sacrifices in the quality department.

However, the Mophie charge stream global travel kit is one of the best travel adapters designed with smart phones in mind and the Anker 65W 3-port charger is a stylish, compact adapter that is ideal for families.

Make travelling light work with one of these travel wallets to keep all your holiday documents organised and safe

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The 11 Best Travel Adapters, According to Frequent International Travelers

travel adapter to usa

Let’s face it: Though you may dream of going off the grid for your next international trip, traveling without your phone , camera , or tablet isn’t particularly practical. And if you bring them, it’s inevitable that you’ll need to plug in and charge them at some point.

That’s why a trusty travel adapter is such an essential part of your packing list. While there are many options that can fit American plugs into international outlets, the right adapter should also fit your itinerary and the tech you’re bringing along. In addition to my own testing, I’ve tapped the expertise of world-touring travelers, creators, and influencers for whom staying powered up is as essential to their journeys as a passport. Whether you want to top up your phone battery in a Parisian café or need to charge seven devices from a single outlet, let their wisdom guide you to the adapter that most adeptly satisfies your travel needs.

A note: Unless explicitly mentioned here, it’s worth observing that typical travel adapters don’t convert power voltage, which can vary between countries. Though most smartphones and tablets are dual-voltage these days, you’ll want to double-check the specifications of your devices before leaving on your trip — especially if you’re bringing something like an electric shaver or a hair dryer.

Best “just the plug” travel adapters

Unidapt 4 Pack European Travel Plug Adapter

“These are dirt cheap and fit in the palm of your hand,” says Going.com founder Scott Keyes of this low-cost, no-frills option fit for European (but not U.K.) travel. Small enough for even the tiniest, trickiest outlets, Keyes also lauds the flexibility that comes with this four-pack of adapters.

You both “don’t have to take turns charging your electronics” and don’t have to charge all of them in the same outlet, as you would with a bulkier (and pricier) all-in-one alternative. Plus, there’s something to be said for not letting a single missing adapter ruin your trip: “If I lose one, which, let’s be honest, happens not infrequently on the road, they’re cheap and easy to replace,” Keyes says.

Road Warrior Universal Travel Plug Adapter

For short trips that only involve a laptop and a phone, Arthur Wei, the well-traveled co-founder of Brooklyn Camper Vans , turns to this clever adapter. Truly living up to its “universal” billing, its ingenious design consists of interlocking pieces which snap into place to fit into European, British, Indian, Brazilian, and American outlets. Wei loves that Road Warrior’s adapter “packs light” and notes that its $12 price point means that your trip isn’t ruined if it goes missing.

Best travel adapters with built-in USB ports

Epicka TA-105C Universal Travel Adapter

I recently tested Epicka’s travel adapter on a two-week excursion around Portugal, and loved its ability to connect as many as six devices to power from a single outlet. It boasts three USB-C ports (plus two USB-A ports), all of which make it easy to charge smartphones, tablets, and other tech without even plugging a power block into the adapter itself.

If I have one complaint, it’s that it took a little extra finesse to fit it into the occasional oddly-angled European outlet. But double-checking that it’s plugged in properly is a small price to pay for this adapter’s charging capabilities. Overall, Epicka’s carry-on-friendly adapter offered solid value and performance, whether I needed to top up my camera battery or quickly charge my iPhone, iPad, and Nintendo Switch Lite while waiting for a transatlantic flight home.

Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit

When it comes to charging everything from her AirPods to her drone, Wendy Hu , photographer, creative director, and video host for Travel+Leisure, relies on this versatile option from Ceptics. Featuring two U.S. outlets, 2 USB-A slots ( another version features an additional two USB-C slots), and six interchangeable international adapters, Hu describes it as “sturdy and well-made” despite weighing in at just five ounces.

In addition to built-in surge protection to guard against voltage spikes and an attached micro USB cable (handy for charging smaller devices like Bluetooth headphones), it also offers quick-charging support for compatible devices — making it ideal for use in that brief window between daytime excursions and dinner plans, or during a brief pit stop in a café.

MOMAX Universal Travel Adapter

“For an adapter to work for me, it needs to be an all-in-one universal adapter with an AC outlet, USB-C, and USB-A outlets” says former Googler and current travel-content creator Catarina Mello , who recommends this one by Momax. “It also needs to have an overload dual fuse for safety and support for up to 2500 watts,” She says that’s a must in order to use devices like hair dryers, curlers, and steamers. “If your adapter can’t handle a larger surge current, it’ll get damaged or burn out.”

In addition to handling high-powered items, this universal adapter has space to power up to six devices from a single outlet across more than 150 countries. Three of those slots are quick charging USB-C ports, one of which pumps out 65 watts, delivering enough power to charge a laptop without bringing a separate adapter.

JOOMFEEN Worldwide All in One Universal Power Wall Charger

Matthew Kepnes, founder of Nomadic Matt and author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day , is loyal to Joomfeen’s efficient universal adapter, which nestles input plugs for European, U.K., U.S., and Australian outlets into a single, streamlined adapter weighing just over three ounces. With two USB-A ports, it maxes out on charging three devices at a time, making it a little less versatile than other, more powerful options. But if you’re looking for an adapter that can get the job done without eating into your travel fund, this option is hard to beat.

Best travel adapters with multiple AC outlets

BESTEK Universal Travel Adapter

For travelers who prioritize power over portability (or those who need an adapter that can safely convert voltage), multiple experts recommend Bestek’s Universal Travel Adapter, including former NFL player and current travel creator Jeremy Cash , who loves its “all-in-one design.” With a three-AC-outlet power strip and four USB-A ports, it includes support for charging up to seven devices at once “no matter what country I’m in,” he says.

In addition to that plethora of charging ports, travel blogger and mom Kiersten Rich lauds its ability to convert voltage, which she says is “better for protecting expensive electronics” and “critical” for any hair tools you’re bringing along for the trip.

With a profile of 7.8-by-6.5 inches and a weight of one pound, it’s far from the most minimalist option, but the inclusion of a five-foot detachable power cable means that this adapter can transform a single hard-to-reach outlet into a convenient charging station. That’s why director, producer, and photographer Kathryn Sheldon has relied on it through years of overseas trips with cameras in tow. She says, “I don’t bring it if I’m trying to be super lightweight and carry-on only, but otherwise it’s an amazing tool.”

MOGICS Bagel Universal Power Strip

On a recent trip to Thailand, Pack Hacker editor Lauren Maternowski says her team loved the utility of this mighty adapter from Mogics, which can charge seven devices simultaneously thanks to a unique circular power strip ringing the outlet adapter. It also makes use of a retractable extension cable that she says makes it “handy if your accommodations are short on accessible plugs.”

Maternowski says that you can also remove the titular bagel and leave it behind if packing space is at a premium: “The adapter itself is one of the smallest we’ve seen, so it won’t take up much room in your bag.”

FOVAL European Travel Plug Adapter

If you aren’t worried about converting voltage but still find that you’re “always charging a million things,” travel blogger Rich recommends this 110-volt option from Foval for use with European outlets. Similar to Bestek’s adapter, it offers three AC outlets, four USB-A ports, and an extension cord. But it has the added advantage of a USB-C port — not to mention a slimmer, lighter design that can plug directly into a wall socket while taking up about half as much space in your luggage.

Best travel adapter accessories

ProCase Hard Travel Electronic Organizer Case

Boasting a full complement of mesh and zippered pockets plus velcro cord holders, former NFL player Cash argues that this ProCase product “is essential for anyone who carries a ton of cords when they travel.” But it’s not just about cables: With a padded bottom compartment featuring removable dividers, its water-resistant design can safely store everything from external hard drives and MacBook chargers to AirPods and SD cards. As the pro athlete turned seasoned traveler puts it: “Trust me when I say you need this case.”

Puxnoin Multi Charging Cable

Former Googler Mello doesn’t travel without this five-foot, triple-pronged braid that functions as a USB-A to USB-C, lightning, and micro-USB cable. Though she usually treats these cables as her backup option, they’re viable as a primary cable if you’re looking to minimize clutter, and Mello admits they’ve “come in handy more times than I can count.” In welcome news for those who regularly misplace cables, these are sold in packs of three.

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The 10 Best Travel Adapters and Converters You Can Buy [2023]

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The 10 Best Travel Adapters and Converters You Can Buy [2023]

Table of Contents

Do i need a travel adapter or converter, the 10 best travel adapters you can buy, final thoughts.

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If you are planning on traveling overseas, chances are you won’t want to lose touch with the rest of the world during your stay. Because we’re all so fond of using our smartphones, laptops, and electrical appliances everywhere we go, clever travelers will be able to charge up on the go .

Taking the right travel adapter or converter with you will ensure you’re never without — but with so many variations, it can be tricky to know what you need.

Travel Adapter

The global village is huge, and while we’re all one world, we don’t all use the same electrical outlets. Different countries use different types of electrical outlets and power points, meaning that what works for you at home won’t necessarily work while you are away .

Different countries also have a wide range of electrical voltage running through their wires. In the U.S., for example, electricity runs on 110-120 volts, whereas many other countries have ramped that up to between 220-240 volts.

This matters, because you could fry your appliances if you expose them to a higher voltage than they were designed to use.

But do you need a travel adapter or a converter? Perhaps you need to buy both?

First, you should find the voltage of your device by checking the detailed information, written on either the device itself or the power cord AC box.

As a basic guide, electrical devices have 3 different types of voltage: single, dual, or multi.

  • Single voltage reads 1 number. A device like this handles one type of voltage, like 120V.
  • Dual voltage reads 2 numbers, such as 110V/220V. This means the device contains a switch to toggle between the 2 voltages.
  • Multi-voltage reads 100-240V. This is most common on battery chargers and AC transformers for laptops, tablets, and other portable devices.

Once you know your voltage, here are the key points to decide what adapter and/or converter to buy:

  • If you are traveling to a country where the voltage output is compatible with your device, you won’t need to worry about buying a converter .
  • You will probably still need an adapter to plug into the wall socket — so read on to find out more about travel adapters.

Travel Adapters for Different Countries

Travel Adapter Countries

There are at least 15 different recognized types of outlet plugs in the world, all offering different prong shapes and voltage. While this does not mean that you need to throw 15 different adapters in your bag before you leave home, it does mean you need to do your research before you leave home .

Most of the countries you’ll be traveling to fall into 1 of 4 outlet types for the U.S., U.K., Australia, and Europe. You can easily pick up adapters and converters that are made to suit the requirements of your destination, and you can even purchase packs that feature a combination of options to suit a variety of different destinations.

Hot Tip: Here is a full list of the different types of adapters and voltages for each country.

Travel Adapters and Watts

Wattage is the amount of power required to operate an electrical appliance or device. Because you need your adapter to handle the wattage required by your appliance or device, you need to know what you’re dealing with before you plug it in.

Most devices have a label showing the wattage. If for any reason it doesn’t, you can calculate the wattage using this simple formula: multiply the voltage by the amperage (amps or A) to calculate the wattage. Example: An appliance labeled with a voltage of 110 and amperage of 1.5 is 165 watts (110 x 1.5 = 165 watts).

When you’re looking for a travel adapter, you’ll need to know how many watts it can handle. If it isn’t strong enough to handle the flow of energy passing through it, you could blow a fuse or fry your appliance in a matter of minutes.

Hot Tip: Appliances that heat usually use the most watts, so things like travel hair dryers and travel straighteners will be the items to watch out for.

Now that you know a bit more about the technicalities of travel adapters, the next step is choosing the right one for your destination that can handle all the power requirements of your devices.

Here are some of the best-performing, most convenient, and top travel-ready adapters your money can buy.

1. Best for the Tech-reliant Traveler

  • EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter

This multi-function travel adapter will cover your power needs in more than 150 countries. Safety-certified and packed with tons of features like an 8A overload dual fuse, safety shutters, and a plug lock system, this little beauty comes with 4 USB ports, 1 USB-C, and a single AC socket that can charge up to 6 high-speed devices super quickly.

It can also handle 880W at 110V and 1840W at 240V, but it does not convert voltage . Compatible with all USB devices, including iPhones, tablets, and digital cameras, the Epicka could be your 1-stop solution for digital connectivity anywhere in the world.

What We Like

  • Good for multi-country trips

What We Don’t Like

  • Quite a heavy adapter

2. For Those Who Need Plenty of Ports

  • BESTEK Universal Travel Adapter and 220V to 110V Voltage Converter

This BESTEK Universal Travel Adapter is so versatile, you can fill it full of your favorite appliances and charge yourself silly. Cleverly designed to simultaneously charge 7 devices with its 4 USB charging ports, a combined 6A output, and 3 AC sockets that support a max 250W power, you’ll be blown away by the power output.

The patented design makes this a supersafe option for tech-laden travelers, with overcurrent, overload, overheat, and short-circuit protection. This is an all-around super-charger that will work virtually anywhere in the world and even has a 24-month warranty .

  • Charges up to 7 devices at a time
  • Makes a noise from the fan

3. For Hair Dryers, Straighteners, Steam Irons, and Cell Phones

  • Bonazza All in ONE World Travel Plug Power

A sleek black box that offers minimalist chic and the ability to convert voltage, this uber-cool device is the perfect adapter/converter combo for over 150 of the world’s most visited countries.

With the ability to charge phones, laptops, and almost anything else, the One World Travel Adapter converts foreign electricity from 220-240V to 110-120V for all your American appliances.

The LED power indicator shows that the adapter is doing its job, while the over-current (overload), high-temperature, short-circuit, and surge protection systems will keep your appliances safe while they charge.

Hot Tip: This travel adapter can handle 2000W, making it a good choice for higher-wattage electrical appliances.

4. Travel Adapters With Color-coded Simplicity

  • FLIGHT 001 5-In-1 Adapter

This color-coded world adapter system makes finding the right plug for your trip as simple as matching the colors. Idiot-proof and effortlessly practical, there is literally no excuse for not being able to stay connected wherever you go!

The 4 adapters fit in 1 easy 2.5-inch block when snapped together , so you can throw the whole thing in your carry-on and be on your way. It also has a cube with 2 USB charging ports, so you’ll really be covered.

5. Best Throw-and-Go Option Complete With Carry Case

  • JOOMFEEN Worldwide All in One Universal Adapter

This one does exactly what it says on the box: it’s a universal travel adapter that comes with its own travel case. Pop-out those prongs to charge up on any international 2- or 3-prong plug .

Offering almost complete global coverage, this high-tech block will simultaneously charge up to 5 devices quickly with dual USB ports, and it offers AC voltage from 100-240V, 1380 watts max with a built-in 6-amp safety fuse.

Bottom Line: Whether you need to charge your laptop or curl your hair, this surge and spike-protected electrical plug will keep you and your appliances safe and powered up while you roam.

6. Budget Compact Adapter and Wall Charger

Lencent 22w/4.4a 4-port usb wall charger.

Want to travel more and think less? Then this is the travel adapter for you. Featuring auto-identify technology, this wall charger automatically detects and delivers the optimal charging current for any connected device .

Brains and beauty come standard in this sleek and compact travel plug that can max up to a 22W/4.4A output. Thermal material protects against overheating, and the tech inside the plug protects against overload on the unit and over-charge on your devices.

This compact universal adapter comes in cheaper than many adapters on this list, but it may be slightly more hassle with having to switch the adapter heads.

7. One of the Best Fuss-free Adapters

Orei mate m8 travel companion plug adapter.

This pocket-sized power adapter provides plug adapters for use in more than 150 countries . It is an easy-to-use self-contained unit that can be tucked away into its very own travel bag for safekeeping when not in use.

This plug adapter may not convert or reduce electrical wattage, and therefore isn’t recommended for your 110-watt devices (like hairdryers or straightening irons). But you can slide out the 2- or 3-prong attachments to plug in your laptop, iPhone, or other device and get charging.

8. Adapter for Heavy Duty Appliances

Hyted 2000w world travel adapter and converter.

Light and compact, this converter is well-suited to travelers who rely on heavy-duty appliances, since it can handle up to 2000W .

Clearly marked and easy to use, this simple but effective travel plug steps down the voltage to ensure you can use your electrical appliances — such as hair dryers, steam irons, electric kettles, and even small fans — in up to 150 of the world’s most visited countries.

9. Power Step Down Voltage Converter for Tech Travelers

Foval power step down 220v to 110v voltage converter.

Simple to use, the Foval Power Step Down has the international compatibility to make light work of all your basic travel adapter needs. Offering numerous plug options and a selection of integrated USB sockets , you can easily charge your phone, laptop, Bluetooth speaker , and e-reader using the 4 5V/2.4A ports simultaneously.

The built-in fuse system integrates perfectly with the thermal and shell protection layers to offer adequate device protection, keeping your precious devices safe as they charge. The product comes with a 24-month warranty.

10. Budget All-around Travel Adapter Set

Ceptics gp-12pk worldwide grounded universal plug adapter set, 12 pieces.

Let us introduce to you the ultimate selection of grounded universal travel plug adapters for the big explorer. With a choice of 12 different plug-prong combinations, you’ll have access to power wherever you are headed.

Bulkier than many of the all-in-1 options, the only downside to this set is losing some space in your travel bag. Easy to use and well-labeled, these offer simple but effective solutions for anyone visiting virtually anywhere in the world .

Wherever you are going, there’s a travel adapter or converter to help. Remember to check your appliances before you leave home and find a travel adapter that suits your needs, or you run the risk of being powerless and out of touch for the duration of your stay!

You could also just hope you can buy the appropriate adapter when you get there, but we wouldn’t recommend it. You run the risk of damaging your appliances if you use adapters or converters that aren’t safe.

So if the thought of being without reliable, safe, and thoroughly tested electrical adapters or converters is too much for you to bear while you travel — be sure to buy a decent adapter!

If you liked this article, check out some of our other “best of the best” travel product reviews:

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  • The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones To Buy for Travel
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a travel adapter and converter.

A travel adapter simply lets you convert 1 style of electrical plug into another. There are 15 different plug types used in the world with an array of prong types. Different parts of the world will use different voltages, and that is where a converter differs from an adapter. If you are using a low-voltage device in a high-voltage socket, chances are you’ll blow the device. A converter will convert the voltage so it’s safe. Most devices and chargers will either be multi-voltage or have a toggle to switch between voltages, but it’s best to check before you travel abroad.

What are the best travel adapters?

These are some of the best performing, most convenient, and top travel-ready adapters your money can buy:

Do I need an adapter and a converter?

As different countries don’t all use the same power points, you will need to check whether you require an adapter to plug in your appliances. Different countries also have a wide range of electrical voltage running through their wires and that’s where a converter comes in. If your device uses a different voltage, you will need to get a converter.

What should I look for in a travel adapter?

How does a universal travel adapter work.

With a universal travel adapter, you have multiple options for plugs or are able to change the shape of a plug to suit the requirements of your destination. This allows you to purchase 1 adapter to use in multiple destinations.

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Best travel adapter 2024: power up abroad

Forget spending a small fortune on a single adapter at the airport; these universal travel adapters are the way to go

The top three

  • 1. Best overall travel adaptor
  • 2. Best safe travel adaptor
  • 3. Best affordable travel adaptor
  • 4. Best versatile travel adaptor
  • 5. Best travel adaptor for South Africa
  • 6. Best travel adaptor for multiple devices

Best travel adaptor 2024: Jump Menu

traval adaptor

00. T3's top 3 ↴ 01. Best overall : Hyleton Worldwide Travel Adapter 02. Best safe : MyTravelPal Worldwide Universal 10A 03. Best affordable : Bestek Worldwide Travel Adaptor 04. Best versatile : Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit 05. Best for South Africa : Skross World To South Africa 06. Best for multiple devices : Bestek 200W 

Planning a trip abroad? Wherever you plan on going, you need to bring the best travel adapter with you to stay fully charged and powered while you're away.

Technology defines travel. It used to be all about postcards, travel journals and finding yourself, but can you ever feel relaxed abroad without knowing you can charge up your stash of tech? A universal travel adaptor is essential for any and all trips abroad. Whether you're sharing your trip with a smartphone, tablet, laptop, headphones, camera or Bluetooth speaker (not forgetting toothbrush, curling irons and travel kettle), you might as well get a good one.

Don't be an idiot at the airport, where universal travel adaptors are expensive and basic. Get it sorted before you set off on your travels with our collection of the very best around. Basic adaptors are available that convert from one country to another, but it's better to invest in a universal travel adaptor that caters for everything. So what should you look for?

Check out our guide below on how to choose the best travel adapter below and our top picks.

Lizzie is T3's Home Staff Writer, also covering style, living and wellness. She works closely with Bethan Girdler-Maslen, T3's Home Editor, ensuring all the latest Home news, trends and recommendations are covered. Lizzie is lucky enough to travel internationally for work, so has an extensive amount of knowledge around the best travel adaptors. 

Hyleton Worldwide Travel Adapter

The best overall travel adaptor

If you've entered the world of USB-C, this is the travel adaptor for you. Its multi-function plug fits more than 150 countries with UK/AU/US plugs. The adapter also has built-in safety shutters to protect you from the direct touch of the live parts on the socket outlet. A pretty great all-rounder to begin with! 

Read more below

MyTravelPal Worldwide Universal 10A Travel Adapter

The best safe travel adaptor

There are a couple of reasons why this universal adaptor from MyTravelPal stands out. The first is that it claims to be the safest travel adapter in the world – it's one of the very few all-in-one travel adapters that has passed the very strict regulatory standard BS:8546. It's a great option that won't let you down.

Bestek Worldwide Travel Adaptor

The best affordable travel adaptor

Again, this is a decent quality charger for a great price, though it only comes with 2 USB ports instead of 4. There’s a universal socket and it’s fitted with USA, Australian, UK and European plugs for use in over 150 countries. 

Best travel adapters ranking 2023

Why you can trust T3 Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

The best travel adapter: Hyleton Worldwide Travel Adapter

1. Hyleton Worldwide Travel Adapter

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

If you have permanently positioned yourself into the world of USB-C, this is the travel adaptor for you. Although it has four standard USB slots that can each refuel a tablet, smartphone and other low-power gadgets, the Hyleton also has a USB-C slot fitted to the side for fast-charging a smartphone.

Elsewhere this compact adaptor's multi-function plug fits more than 150 countries with UK/AU/US plugs. The adapter also has built-in safety shutters to protect you from the direct touch of the live parts on the socket outlet. I was huge fan of this adaptor, and have often found myself reaching for it when packing for a trip.

  • Back to the top ⤴

T3 Approved Award

2. MyTravelPal Worldwide Universal 10A Travel Adapter

There are a couple of reasons why this universal adaptor from MyTravelPal stands out. The first is that it claims to be the safest travel adapter in the world – it's one of the very few all-in-one travel adapters that has passed the very strict regulatory standard BS:8546. MyTravelPal's 4 plugs have a ground/earth connection, an essential safety feature for many electrical appliances, meaning you can use this adapter with high powered electricals such as computers, curling tongs, hairdryers, laptops, phones, etc without worry. 

There's also a push-button resetting fuse, which means you don't need to carry spare fuses with you or rush out to buy replacements when you're on holiday. MyTravelPal's protection system ensures that it will automatically shut down if it detects any abnormal usage. It's a great product that won't let you down whilst keeping you safe. 

Bestek Worldwide Travel Adaptor

3. Bestek Worldwide Travel Adaptor

Again, this is a decent quality charger that comes in at a great price, though it only comes with 2 USB ports instead of 4. There’s a universal socket and it’s fitted with USA, Australian, UK and European plugs for use in over 150 countries. 

Thanks to the embedded micro USB cable, my phone and tablet benefitted from fast charging, which was great for work trips. With safety features, including fire proof materials, protection against power surges and a safety plug lock, this is another great all-rounder that should do the job nicely. 

The best versatile travel adaptor

Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit

4. Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit

This is an excellent choice if you're a frequent traveller, especially if you jet set between one place and another. As it has six attachments, 2 USA outlets, 2 USB-A slots and a built-in USB-C cable, it's suitable for most electronic devices, giving you versatility to what you bring with you on your trip. 

I found it to be extremely lightweight and fast charging, which made it my first choice on two of my recent trips. I also liked the way it came with a travel pouch, meaning I was able to keep track of the attachments when visiting one or more countries. 

Unfortunately, the Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit is only compatible with dual voltage products. This means it's perfect for phones and laptops, but won't work with 110V items such as hair clippers, hair dryers and hair straighteners. I found this slightly frustrating, but it's a common feature so it didn't affect my opinion too much. It should also be noted that the set doesn't include adapter plug for South Africa, so read below's listing if you're looking for one of those. 

The best travel adaptor for South Africa

Skross World To South Africa Travel Adapter

5. Skross World To South Africa Travel Adapter

If you're going to Africa, you're going to need to get to know the Type-M socket. Never heard of it? Unfortunately almost all so-called 'universal travel adapter' are nothing of the sort because they don't include large parts of Africa and Asia, where an archaic UK plug now called Type-M is still used. 

As well as being standard in South Africa, Namibia, Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Lesotho and Swaziland, Type-M is common in Nepal and Bhutan, too. Cue this simple, but essential travel adapter that converts from every other plug in the world –such as the US, UK, Europe, Australia, China and Brazil – to the Type-M. This Switzerland-made example from Skross doesn't convert voltage, but it does work with power-hungry devices including laptops and travel hairdryers.

The best travel adaptor for multiple devices

Bestek 200W Travel Adaptor

6. Bestek 200W Travel Adaptor

A voltage converter is required for devices that do not offer dual voltage, which makes this device incredibly handy if you’re heading to the states, where voltage is a lot lower than the UK. 

With 2 AC plugs and 4 USB ports you’ll have no problem charging multiple devices at once – just bear in mind that you cannot plug in high-powered devices, such as hair dryers or straighteners. The device comes in a handy case, which contains three international AC adaptors for use in over 150 countries. The downside is you can only plug in UK devices.

How to choose the best travel adapter

The best travel adapters have USB sockets, so charging up phones, tablets and other portable devices should be fairly convenient. However, they're not all equal. Most will have at least a couple of USB slots, but check if they're rated 2.4V first. This will refuel your phone faster, and means it can cope with a tablet as well.

Better still, look for Quick Charge 3.0 (QC 3.0), which does it ever faster. If you have a laptop that charges via USB-C, look for a travel adaptor with built-in USB-PD (USB Power Delivery), which can send 100W into a laptop.

Not all travel adaptors will transform voltage, so it’s always worth checking to see if you need to purchase a voltage transformer alongside the adapter. Many devices are dual voltage rated, so you may not even require a transformer; even so, it’s always best to check the book of words to double-check. 

Good news is, all EU countries have the same voltage as the UK, so it’s only the USA, South America, Asia, Australasia and Africa that you need to think about. As a rule, high-powered devices such as hairdryers and straighteners cannot be used with a travel adaptor, with the advice being to purchase cheap ones when you’ve arrived at your destination. 

Amazon is usually the best place to head for travel adaptors, as you can get hold of highly-rated products for sometimes a fraction of the high street price (and with Prime Delivery).

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Lizzie is T3's Home Staff Writer, also covering style, living and wellness. She works closely with Bethan Girdler-Maslen, T3's Home Editor, ensuring all the latest news, trends and recommendations are covered. Outside of T3, Lizzie can be found mooching around Bath, attempting (or at least trying to) a new DIY project or spending time with family and friends.

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Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Arial",sans-serif; mso-ansi-language:EN;} Plug For the United States: What You Need To Know

travel adapter to usa

Normal 0 false false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE

What is the plug for the United States? Before you travel, check the information below to make sure your electronic devices are compatible with the outlet type and voltage.

Electrical Summary

The United States uses outlet types A, B at a voltage of 120V and a frequency of 60 Hz.

Plug Compatibility: Type A, Type B

Voltage: 120V

Frequency: 60 Hz

Type A Outlet: A white electrical outlet with two sockets

Can North Americans use Electronics in the United States without an Adapter?

Yes! Mexicans and Canadians do not need a travel adapter or transformer when traveling to the United States. Most device plugs will work with the outlet types in the United States. Also, the voltage in the United States is the same as in the Mexico and Canada.  

Please note: an adapter will be needed if your device plug has a grounding pin and you are trying to use a Type A outlet. For this reason, we always recommend traveling with a universal travel adapter.

Can Europeans use Electronics in the United States without an adapter?

No! Europeans will need an adapter for the outlets and a transformer for the voltage when traveling to the United States . European device plugs will not work with the outlet types in the United States . Also, the voltage in the United States is different from European voltages.

What Outlet does the United States Use?

Type A electrical plug sockets are used in North and Central America, including the United States, Canada, and Mexico. They have two flat pins and no grounding pin. These outlets are typically used with devices that have a voltage of 110-120V. This outlet is rated for 15 amps. Plug Type A is compatible with this socket. All other plug types (including Type B) will need an adapter.

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE

Type B electrical plug sockets are used in North and Central America, including the United States, Canada, and Mexico. They have two round pins and a grounding pin. These outlets are typically used with devices that have a voltage of 110-120V. This outlet is rated for 15 amps. Plug Type A and Type B   are compatible with this socket. All other plug types will need an adapter.

Is it safe to drink water in the United States?

To be on the safe side, you can use common precautions such as boiling tap water for at least one minute, using water purification tablets, or drinking bottled water. It’s also important to note that ice may be made from tap water and that foods may be washed or prepared with tap water.

We recommend always packing a filtered water bottle when traveling:

Travel Essentials

Be sure to check our list of travel essentials before your trip!

Recommended Travel Essentials

Should I get travel insurance when traveling to the United States?

It is generally recommended to get travel insurance when traveling to a different country. Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind in case of unexpected events, such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost or stolen baggage, or other travel-related mishaps.

Travel insurance can cover various expenses related to your trip, such as medical expenses, emergency medical transportation, trip cancellation or interruption, lost or stolen baggage or personal belongings, and other travel-related expenses.

Before purchasing travel insurance, it’s important to carefully review the policy details, including the coverage limits, exclusions, and any applicable deductibles or copays. You should also make sure that the policy covers any activities or destinations that you plan to participate in or visit during your trip.

Travel Summary

The United States is a vast and diverse country that offers something for every traveler. From the natural wonders of the Grand Canyon to the hustle and bustle of New York City, the United States is a land of contrasts and a must-see destination.

One of the top destinations in the United States is the Grand Canyon. This natural wonder is located in Arizona, and it is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the world. The Grand Canyon offers visitors the opportunity to see the breathtaking scenery and take a hike, a helicopter tour or even a rafting trip on the Colorado River.

Another must-see destination in the United States is New York City. Known as “The City That Never Sleeps”, New York City is a melting pot of cultures and offers endless possibilities for entertainment, dining, and shopping. Visitors can see the iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and Central Park.

For a taste of American history, head to Washington D.C. The nation’s capital is home to many of the country’s most famous landmarks such as the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and the Smithsonian Museums. Visitors can also take a tour of the U.S Capitol, and explore the city’s free Smithsonian Museums.

The United States is also home to some of the most beautiful National Parks in the world. Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Teton, and Glacier National Parks are just a few examples of the many natural wonders that the country has to offer. These parks offer endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

No trip to the United States would be complete without trying the delicious traditional American food. From hot dogs, hamburgers, to mac and cheese, the United States is a food lover’s paradise. Be sure to try the famous BBQ ribs and fried chicken and wash it down with a cold beer or a classic milkshake.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, culture, history, or just a relaxing vacation, the United States has something for everyone. With its friendly people, natural beauty, and endless attractions, it’s no wonder why the United States is such a popular travel destination.

Traveling to another country? Check out our Countries page for more info.

Travel Fashion Girl

Voltage Converter vs. Travel Adapter: How do They Work?

Electronics , LUGGAGE , Packing , Packing Tips

voltage-converter-vs-travel-adapter

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Traveling abroad? You’ll need a travel adapter to use your electronics. However, attempting to understand the difference between travel adaptors, converters, and voltage conversion is extremely confusing. We’re here to help! Read this easy guide on voltage converters vs travel adapters for a simplified explanation!

Voltage Converter vs. Travel Adapter

Table of contents.

There are two very important things you need to know about traveling with electronics. First, the plug you use at home may not work in a wall socket when traveling because different countries have different plug shapes.

Second, you can’t use some of your electronics while traveling unless they’re dual voltage because countries such as the USA and Canada have 120V electricity while destinations in Europe have 220V electricity.

One reader sums up the difference perfectly: “In simple terms, the adapter makes your device fit in the holes. The converter changes the electric power going into it.” Just remember that they’re two different devices (there’s no such thing as a travel adapter converter!) This is when you need to know the difference between adapter and converter. Here, we explain the popular adapter vs converter question.

Here’s a quick guide on Travel Adaptors, Converters and Voltage:

What is voltage?

What is dual voltage, how do travel adapters work, how do converters work.

  • Traveling with a hair dryer or straightener
  • Traveling with a laptop or tablet

best-travel-adapter

Best Travel Adapter with USB Ports: International Adapter for Multiple Countries

Voltage refers to electricity; different countries have different types of electricity, meaning you need to consider voltage conversion. This means that your electronics are the same voltage as the country in which you bought them so if you take them to another country, they may not work.

If you plug a 120V device into a wall socket that’s meant for 220V (or vice versa) you will blow out a fuse in your device and possibly also the building.

Your hair tools such as blow dryers, wands, curling irons and straighteners use up a large amount of electricity so it’s particularly important that they are used with the correct voltage.

In order to travel with your electronics (and hair tools) you need two things: for the item to be dual voltage and you’ll also need to use a travel adapter so your plug can fit into the sockets in another country. Or, you need a voltage converter , which we’ll talk about later.

Visit this website for a full list of voltage by country.

voltage-converter-vs-travel-adapter

Best Dual Voltage Hair Straightener: BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Mini Straightening Iron

Some electronics are designed so they can be used in different countries. This means they’ll be labeled as ‘dual-voltage’. Dual voltage electronics have two options: 110-120V and 220-240V. They are ideal for travel because they are safe to use at home and abroad, too.

Some electronics, such as newer Macbooks and iPhones have dual voltage that automatically adjust in their destination. However, you may need to adjust the voltage manually by moving an external switch in certain items such as hair tools.

If your device isn’t dual voltage, you’re better off leaving it at home. However, most modern devices such as phones and laptops already have a dual voltage capability built in.

voltage-converter-vs-travel-adapter

Best Travel Adapter with Multiple Power Ports:  Travel Power Adapter Kits by Ceptics

A travel adapter (sometimes called a travel plug converter) enables you to plug your electronics into walls with different sockets than the one used by your country. Not all countries use the same type of plug so I recommend you buy an international adapter.

The US uses a plug with two flat vertical prongs whereas the UK uses a plug with one top vertical prong and two bottom horizontal prongs. You need a travel adapter so your plug fits into the socket of a different country.

You can buy individual travel adapters for each country you plan to visit, or you can just buy one international travel adapter that will work for most parts of the world.

It’s important to note that people tend to confuse the terms “travel adapter” and “travel converter” but these are not the same thing.

Visit this power outlet guide for travelers to see a full list of plugs and outlets by country.

voltage-converter-vs-travel-adapter

Travel Adapter for USB Only:  USB Wall Plug Travel Adapter 

A travel power adapter or European converter adapter fits the plug into the wall socket, while travel converters change the electrical current from 120V to 220V or vice versa. The only time you’ll need an international converter is if you’re traveling with a device that is not dual voltage.

voltage-converter-vs-travel-adapter

Best Travel Converter with Adapter Functionality:  World Travel Adapter and Converter Combo

So what is a voltage converter exactly? If it’s not the same thing as a travel adapter then what is it?

If your electronics are not dual voltage, an international power converter (also called a transformer, voltage adapter, or international voltage converter) could be used. However, voltage converters tend to be large, heavy devices so they are less practical for travel. If your device isn’t dual voltage it requires a converter so it’s best to leave it at home, particularly if it’s a hair tool.

Because blow dryers and flat irons require a large amount of power, look for products with dual voltage options. Keep in mind that this does not guarantee your hair styling tool will work as well abroad as it does at home, even with the dual voltage setting.

As one reader says, “I wouldn’t recommend using a hair dryer with a travel power converter. It’s very likely you will still blow a fuse, or worse, knock out power for half the hotel! You could also fry your device by doing this.”

Another adds, “Personally, I don’t recommend a travel electric converter. I’ve seen too many devices ruined when the power voltage converter fails. Either bring items that are dual voltage or leave them at home.”

While there are some travel-friendly converters like this one, they’re usually only good for products up to 50 watts (hair tools are higher than this).

voltage-converter-vs-travel-adapter

Best Dual Voltage Travel Dryer:  BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer

Can I use my hair dryer or straightener abroad?

If it’s dual voltage, yes! Because blow dryers and flat irons (straighteners) require a large amount of power, look for products with dual voltage options. Keep in mind that this not guarantee your hair styling tool will work as well abroad as it does at home, even with the dual voltage setting. Flat irons may be okay but hair dryers tend to experience more issues.

One reader says, “You definitely need a dual voltage for a hair dryer. You can use 240 volt hair tongs on 110 setting. It just takes longer but you can’t do it the other way round. A hair dryer will simply blow up and fuse the place too. My ex did that and it fused the entire chalet!”

If you don’t have a dual voltage hair dryer or straightener, consider leaving it at home. Many women prefer to just purchase hair styling tools in their destination to avoid problems. Always check with your accommodation first to see if they have one so you can avoid needing a universal adapter and converter.

Read these articles for travel hair tool recommendations:

  • Travel Blow Dryers
  • Dual Voltage Flat Irons
  • Travel Size Curling Irons
  • Travel Friendly Hot Dryer Brush

voltage-converter-vs-travel-adapter

Best Travel Adapter for Mac Laptops:  Apple World Travel Adapter Kit

Can I use my laptop or tablet abroad?

Check the voltage on your product. If it says 110-120V then you’ll need an outlet converter to use it (and vice versa) but a travel converter can be a large heavy object to pack. Ideally, if your item reads 100-240V, you’re good to go!

Most laptops have this type of voltage so you are usually able to use them worldwide. To be sure, check the power supply or search online to read your specific devices spec details. If not, keep in mind your converter vs adapter needs.

travel adapter to usa

International Travel Adapter with Two USB Ports (Type A & Type C)

Choose a travel adapter like this one , which allows you to charge your laptop, tablet, and phone all at once!

Remember, an adaptor like the one shown above doesn’t convert voltage, it just allows you to plug in your electronics to the local outlet. Always check the voltage of your camera and phone chargers as well.

Do you have any questions about traveling with a travel adaptor vs travel converter? Comment below!

For more travel trips, please read:

  • Best Travel Accessories 
  • Travel Cord Organizer Options
  • Portable Power Charger 
  • Best Noise Cancelling Headphones 

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38 comments.

Whitney

Great info! And I love that you gave some recommendations-I didn’t know there was a dual voltage straightener! Thanks for all you do!

Andrea Carter

So glad I read this last year before I went to Ireland and Scotland I definitely didn’t realized I needed both I thought the adapter was all I needed! It made for a last minute shopping trip because I was out of time to order. That’s how down to the wire it was!

Patti McConnell

I used to live in Germany, so was aware of the necessity of converters/adaptors, but that was a long time ago, so the refresher and suggested items are really helpful. Thank you so much!

Andrea da Silva

Super helpful. I bought my hairdryer brush that came with the adapter reading this blog. It’s the best guide for travelers! Thank you 😊

Laura Gore

We purchased power adapters for Egypt, and we have a power converter. To use the converter, do we plug it into a power adapter?

Cheryl Weber

My husband has a sleep apnea machine and he cannot be without it. I am afraid of it being destroyed because we dont know what we are doing. I bought a converter for Israel, but have no idea if that is going to work

Mary

Hi, I’m travelling to Aruba out of Canada and staying at a friend’s condo. He says the plugs in his condo are the same as in Canada. However I’m concerned about plugging my hearing aid charger. Do you recommend I take anything extra, just in case?

Alex

Hi Mary, I’m afraid I can’t really help you with this as I’m not sure and I don’t want to give you the wrong answer. To get the best advice, I would highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their feedback and knowledge.

Have an amazing time!

Doug

If I have a 220v device from the UK and I want to use it in North America, how do I go about charging it?

LTZ

So if you needed to use both, can you plug the adapter into the wall and then the converter into the adapter and then plug your devices into the converter?

Hi Linda, thank you for reaching out. That is correct, but you can also get a Travel Adapter and Converter Combo to save you having to pack two items such as the TryAce Travel Adapter and Converter set featured on the post. You may also find this video helpful for explaining adapters and voltage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXQBSo_7AaA Hope this helps you with your question. Happy travels! ?

Karen

Hello, I have Samsung Galaxy Note 4.. Is this need converter and adapter? I’m confuse! Please Help.

Hi Karen, thank you for reaching out. You would only need a converter if your phone is not dual voltage. Dual voltage electronics have two options: 110-120V and 220-240V. They are ideal for travel because they are safe to use at home and abroad, too. However, most modern devices such as phones and laptops already have a dual voltage capability built in. Just to be sure, search online to read about your specific devices spec details or check your charger and see if it says 100-240 volts, and if it does then you do not need a converter to charger your phone, just your adapter. You may also find this video helpful for explaining adapters and voltage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXQBSo_7AaA If your phone has a usb charger then it will be fine to charge abroad if your adapter also has a USB port. I would also highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question there about charging your phone abroad: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and recommendations to share. Hope this helps. Happy travels! ?

Stephanie

So I will be traveling to Switzerland and Italy. I don’t use hair tools and most likely will just need my phone charged.

I assume I will just need an adapter. Do you have a recommendation for an adapter that has both Italy and Switzerland prongs?

Hi Stephanie, for a travel adapter this one is really popular for TFG readers and can be used across Europe: https://amzn.to/3GvtLkJ

You might find this guide helpful to learn which plug shape to use for the different countries: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/power-outlet-guide-for-travelers/

Have an awesome time on your travels!

Kimberly

I bought the BaByliss dual voltage travel hair dryer and the Compass Rose adapter and I just want to make sure that they can be used together. It seems all the adapters say you can’t use them with a hair dryer. We are going to Switzerland, Scotland and Ireland. Thanks in advance for your help!

Hi Kimberly, thank you for your question. If you have a dual voltage hairdryer which has two option: 110-120V and 220-240V, then you do `NOT need a converter to change the voltage, you just need to use your adapter. Dual voltage hair dryers are ideal for travel because they are safe to use at home and abroad and the BaByliss dual voltage hair dryer is one of the most popular travel hair dryers amongst our readers. Just to make you aware, however that with some electronics such as hair tools you need to adjust the voltage manually by moving a switch. You may also find this video helpful for explaining adapters and voltage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXQBSo_7AaA Hope this helps answer your question. Thank you for your support with the CR travel adapter! ? Have an amazing trip! ?

Barbara

I purchased a teakettle from amazon made in China it has a eu plug and 220-240 v and 1500 watts. What can I use for converter and adapter in one plug help

This teakettle is to be used in US not EU

Hi Barbara, thank you for reaching out. I am afraid that we do not have any recommendations to share for a converter to work in the US. I would highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and recommendations to share and I am sure one of our amazing members would be able to help you. Sorry I could not have been of more help ?

Frederique

Can you use a combination adapter/converter to charge your dual voltage electronic items without damaging them? Have several electronic devices to charge on my trip, some dual voltage, some not.

Hi Frederique, thank you for reaching out. I am not entirely sure and I wouldn’t want to give you the wrong advice. You would need to be careful with your converter as they can be potentially damaging to your electronics. I would highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post any questions you have there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and recommendations to share. Sorry I could not have been of more help.

MIchele Baier

Does the older Iphone 6 or 6s have dual voltage. Traveling to France and need to know

Hi Michele, your iPhone should be dual voltage so would only need a travel adapter to work in France. But just check that it is marked with a 100-240 volt notation, it should tell you on the tiny fine print on the plug end, it should read “110-240V 50-60Hz” which means it will work on most common electrical systems around the world without a converter. Newer iPhones have dual voltage that automatically adjust in their destination. Hope this helps. Have an awesome trip to France! ?

Rachel

On a wall adapter (not voltage converter) that has USB ports, can *any* USB charged device plug into those without a converter? Or just Apple/Cell phones?

Hi Rachel, it would depend if the device you are charging is dual voltage or not. If it is not dual voltage then you would need a converter to change the electrical current from 120V to 220V. Apple phones are dual voltage which is why you do not need to use a converter along with the travel adapter. Electronics which are dual voltage should be labeled as ‘dual-voltage’ and have two options: 110-120V and 220-240V and some dual voltage products will have a switch. If they don’t, then it might be already be something that happens automatically such as with a Macbook. Hope this helps. Happy travels!

Stephanie

Hi! I bought a small hot plate from China for use at our temple here in the USA. The plug is a type I plug and it’s 220v. So do I need both an adapter for the plug and a converter for the voltage?

The TryAce one does not seem like it has a spot to insert a type I plug— or am I mistaken?

Hi Stephanie, if you have a dual voltage hot plate which has two option: 110-120V and 220-240V, then you do `NOT need a converter to change the voltage, you just need to use an adapter. The USA has 120V electricity while other destinations, such as Europe, have 220V electricity. So if you plug a 120V device into a wall socket that’s meant for 220V (or vice versa) you will blow out a fuse in your device and possibly also the building.

If your electronics are not dual voltage, has two options: 110-120V and 220-240V, an international power converter (also called a transformer, voltage adapter, or international voltage converter) could be used. BUT BE AWARE when using a converter, as some products use a lot of electric it can cause the product to not work as efficiently or also blow a fuse.

For https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/power-outlet-guide-for-travelers/ I have had a look and it does appear that the TryAce does fit electrical outlet type I: https://amzn.to/2WNRold

copied directly from it’s Amazon page: “2000W Voltage Converter contains 3 international plug (UK/AU/US/EU Plug)which fits electrical outlet of type A,B,C,D,E,F,G,H,I,J,K,L,M,N over 190 countries(up to 2000W), like most of Europe,Argentina,Ireland,Israel,Italy,UK,France,European,Australia, China, HongKong, etc”

Hope this helps!

Cassie

What is the donut shaped adapter that I see in your pictures?

Hi Cassie, I think you are referring to the Mogics Bagel Universal Travel Power Strip which you can find here: https://amzn.to/2OuDoXc If this is not the one you meant then please let me know. Hope this helps!

Holly

So in this technological age, there is not a combined device that serves as both an adapter and converter?

Hi Holly, thank you for your question. Have a look at the TryAce 1875W World Travel Adapter and Converter Combo: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079K4MY3M/ref=as_li_ss_tl?tag=travelfcom0a-20&psc=1&pd_rd_i=B079K4MY3Mp13NParams&smid=A3HFBWPQ05BXCC&linkId=eafb3484c2badf2b5ae67bfb7055f3a5&language=en_US Hope this helps! 🙂

Evelyn Bailey

Where will this be stated?

Hi Evelyn, thank you for your comment. I was just checking so I can give you the correct response to your question, where will what be stated? 🙂

Mark Melnick

How do I find out if my electronics are dual voltage?

Hi Mark, it depends on the electronics. Electronics which are dual voltage should be labeled as ‘dual-voltage’. Dual voltage electronics have two options: 110-120V and 220-240V. They are ideal for travel because they are safe to use at home and abroad, too. Some electronics, such as newer Macbooks and iPhones have dual voltage that automatically adjust in their destination. Hope this answers your question! 🙂

Jo Ellen

Mark, it’s usually imprinted on the device & sometimes it’s very hard to read unless you have great lighting. Look where the UL label is imprinted/located.

patricia jett

Question: I have an Adapter & Router. The info is AC Input: 100-240V 6AMax USB Output:5V Max 2400mA(smart) not voltage converter of AC to AC. Is this just an adapter and I need a converter for my phone?

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travel adapter to usa

The 9 Best Power Adapters for European Travel of 2024

Keep your devices charged and moving your trip along

travel adapter to usa

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

TripSavvy / Lecia Landis

One thing you don't want to forget on your next trip to Europe ? The right power adapter. Without it, you won't be able to keep the electronics and devices you need juiced up and ready to go. But finding the right one can be tricky: Each region of the world has its own outlet shape, so you'll need to find the one that works for your travel destination—or invest in a universal one. Also, consider the number of devices you'll likely bring and how much you're willing to spend.

Final Verdict

  • What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, foval voltage converter.

User-friendly

Not suitable for heat tools

While many modern devices can transition automatically between different voltages, some can't. This is where the Foval Power Step-Down Converter comes in. Although priced higher than most adapters, it converts 220/240 volts to 110/120 volts, allowing you to use your single-voltage American appliances in Europe seamlessly. Plus, it has a European power cable and three removable adapters for the U.S., the U.K., and Australia, so you can also use it for other trips. This made it convenient for our product tester, Rebekah Joan , to travel with the device, only needing to attach the correct adapter, plug it into a socket, and press the power button to get it to work.

With two standard U.S. plugs and four 5-volt USB ports, you can charge an array of devices simultaneously—just make sure that the total wattage doesn't exceed 200. "It started making a quiet whirring noise, and in a second or two, our devices were charging at a normal pace," Joan said. "We charged plenty with it, including our phones, a portable charger, and our camera. Other than the expected slight delay, everything ran smoothly."

The converter automatically shuts down to prevent overloading, overheating, or short-circuiting, limiting hazards to you and your devices. Be wary of using curling irons, hair dryers, or hair straighteners, as Foval notes that it isn't designed to be used with these tools. It is only compatible with devices within the 110-to-120-volt range, which includes most American devices. What makes up for this is the converter's small size, measuring 4.8 x 3.1 x 1.5 inches for a device that "will save you space and money," according to our tester. There is also a detachable 5-foot cord for easy packing.

Out Power: 230 watts max | Dimensions: 4.8 x 3.13 x 1.47 inches | USB Ports: 4

TripSavvy / Rebekah Joan

Best Universal

Haozi universal travel adapter.

Covers Europe and beyond

Generous warranty

Not compatible with heat tools

In addition to a single AC power socket, the HAOZI Universal Travel Adapter features two USB ports—all of which can be used simultaneously. It's FCC, CE, and RoHS certified, while a lifetime guarantee gives you confidence in your purchase. The downsides? It's not suitable for use with high-powered appliances, including hair dryers, and at 2.2 x 3.2 x 2.6 inches, it's slightly bulkier than your standard single adapter.

If you travel frequently, consider investing in the HAOZI All-in-One Universal Travel Adapter rather than limiting yourself to one exclusively for Europe. Product tester Rebekah Joan tested the adapter's reliability abroad and noticed a slight delay in the electricity getting from one point to another. "After those few initial seconds, it charged our devices smoothly and without making a sound," she said. "We did notice a slight issue with some of the prongs getting stuck on the way out, but it was easily fixed by wiggling the slider back and forth."

Travelers from North America may need a voltage converter for non-dual-voltage devices, but Joan found that the adapter worked as well with a converter as it did alone. This is also an excellent purchase for those planning a European trip with stops in countries that don't accept the standard Type E/F plug. Interchangeable input and outlet sockets allow you to use the power adapter in more than 150 countries.

Out Power: 660 watts max at 110 volts, 1,380 watts max at 230 volts | Dimensions: 3.2 x 2.2 x 2.6 inches | USB Ports: 2

Best Lightweight

Ceptics world travel adapter kit.

Packs easily

Covers several regions

Comes with a travel pouch

Only supports dual-voltage electronics

If you often travel abroad for business, a compact and reliable adapter system is in order. That's what you get with the all-in-one World Adapter Kit from Ceptics. It has two U.S.-grounded inputs, two USB ports, and a USB-C cable.

No matter where you're headed, this lightweight (12.8 ounces altogether) kit has you covered. Six international adapters easily switch out and provide Quick Charge 3.0 power in North America, the United Kingdom, most of Europe, Australia, Japan, parts of Africa, the Middle East, China, and more. Features such as built-in surge protection and voltage indicator LEDs add peace of mind. Unfortunately, this system does not convert voltage, i.e., it is not curling iron friendly.

Out Power: 1,250 watts | Dimensions: 2.75 x 1.5 x 3.75 inches | USB Ports: 2

Best Budget

Orei power adapter plug.

Hair dryer compatible

Updated model

Excludes some big tourist countries

The OREI European Power Adapter Plug is a no-frills, cost-effective solution for American travelers to Europe and Russia. It is compatible with Type E/F plugs and should work in most countries except Italy, Switzerland, and the U.K. Plus, it fits into the recessed, circular plug sockets found in many parts of Western Europe and standard square-faced sockets.

Its newly improved design features internal metal interfaces for better conductivity. The power adapter plug has a maximum capacity of 250 volts ​and can accommodate devices that require up to 3,000 watts of power (including most hair dryers). Be aware, though, that it is only suitable for dual-voltage appliances. You can use the dual ports to charge two devices simultaneously—which is especially handy in hotel rooms with limited plug sockets. The universal input accepts plugs from most countries except South Africa.

Out Power: 3,000 watts max at 250 volts | Dimensions: 1 x 1 x 1 inches | USB Ports: 0

Best for the U.K.

Ceptics travel adapter plug.

Great value

Sleek design

Limited geographic utility

Designed in the U.S., the Ceptics Type G Travel Adapter Plug keeps things simple for those planning a vacation to the U.K. (where standard European adapters won’t work). The plug also works for British Overseas Territories and ex-colonies within Europe, including Gibraltar and Cyprus, as well as other destinations like Hong Kong and Dubai. Your purchase includes three adapters, allowing you to simultaneously utilize all the sockets in your hotel room.

Each power adapter features two inputs, both of which accept two-prong polarized U.S. plugs or three-prong grounded U.S. plugs. They have a maximum load rating of ​250 volts and are suitable for dual-voltage appliances only. The product’s limited lifetime warranty means you can return faulty adapters for a free replacement.

Out Power: 2,500 watts at 220-240 volts | Dimensions: 1.5 x 1.5 x 1.75 inches | USB Ports: 2

Best for Switzerland

Tessan swiss outlet adapter for us to switzerland.

Charges up to three devices

Power light

All ports face the same way

Must be paired with a converter

The TESSAN Swiss Outlet adapter has three different charging ports: two for USB charging and one for standard U.S. prongs. The USB charging ports can charge up to 2.4 amperes and are compatible with all USB charging devices, such as your phone, camera, tablet, and more. It is also the ideal size for travel, measuring just 2.8 x 2.1 x 2.67 inches, and can be used in Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and some areas of Rwanda. Plus, the adapter features a blue indicator light to tell you when it is on or off.

A converter is needed with this adapter, as it is only compatible with devices between the range of 100 to 250 volts.

Out Power: 2,500 watts at 250 volts max | Dimensions: 2.8 x 2.1 x 2.67 inches | USB Ports: 2

Best for Italy

Orei adapter plug.

CE certified and RoHS compliant

Each piece can charge two devices

Supports almost any traveler in Italy

Very specific utility

If you’re planning a trip to Italy , the OREI USA to Italy Travel Adapter Plug is your best choice. The two-pack includes two Type L plugs for charging devices in Italy and the microstate of San Marino. Both adapters feature dual inputs, which allow them to accommodate two U.S. plugs at the same time. One of the inputs is universal and can accept plugs from any country except those that use Type M plugs (e.g., South Africa, Eswatini, and Lesotho). The adapters are also free of substances such as lead, cadmium, and mercury, giving you added peace of mind.

Out Power: 3,000 watts at 250 volts | Dimensions: 1.5 x 1.5 x 1.5 inches | USB Ports: 0

Best for France

Tessan type e/f plug adapter.

Supports up to five devices

Limited compatibility range

Although this type of E/F plug can be used in other parts of Europe, such as Germany and Spain, it is especially great if you plan on taking a trip to France. The adapter is considered to be five in one, with two AC outlets for standard U.S. prongs and three USB ports to charge multiple devices at once. It may only be compatible with devices between 100 and 250 volts, but the plug has an impressive max capacity of 2,300 watts and is lightweight.

Out Power: 2,300 watts at max 230 volts | Dimensions: 3.62 x 2.85 x 1.77 inches | USB Ports: 3

Best Design

Mogics super bagel.

Innovative, self-contained design

Auto-reset fuse

Comes with a case

May not work in South Korea

It is tempting to reach for universal adapters to cover all your current and future travel plans. However, these tech powerhouses tend to be bulky and frustrating to pack. MOGICS has crafted a clever device to combat this—and it doesn't hurt that it's super cute as well.

The Super Bagel is a universal power adapter that features two types of USB ports, and the type C is capable of fast, 18-watt charging when used independently. The MA1 adapter pops out of the center and features four different plug configurations for use in the U.S., U.K., European Union, and Australia. The bagel section houses five AC sockets and a handy 3-foot-long extension cord to reach any wall outlet.

Out Power: 18-20 watts via USB ports | Dimensions: 1.57 x 3.57 x 3.57 inches | USB Ports: 2

Traveling comes with its share of stressors, so why not eliminate the headache of trying to find a compatible charging system on the ground in your destination and pick up the FOVAL Voltage Converter before you leave? It covers large tourist hubs, comes with a 5-foot cable, and has an automatic shutoff feature if something goes wrong. If you plan to venture to other countries besides Europe, the HAOZI Universal Travel Adapter is an excellent choice.

What to Look For in a Power Adapter

Universal use.

The general rule is that the more universal the plug, the bulkier it is. If you’re taking a backpacking trip across Europe—or traveling with just a carry-on—get an adapter only designed for Europe. You won’t need the weight or size of one designed for Australia or South America, for example—so why bother?

Number of Devices

Consider a charging station if you’re a gadget head bringing plenty of electronics. They can handle multiple electronics on the same strip, with USB charging ports and regular outlets to spare. Sure, they’re a little more expensive, but it’s one (or three) fewer things to leave behind in a hotel room.

Simpler adapters tend to be cheaper. Think about how much you want to spend, particularly if this is your first trip out of the U.S. If you have future trips in mind, consider spending a bit more on an adapter that can do more.

Check the adapter’s packaging or online description to see what countries or regions it’s marked as compatible with. 

A universal adapter connects you to many regions’ types of plugs in one single unit. Plug adapters, on the other hand, have different plugs you swap out depending on the region you’re in. Universal adapters tend to be on the bulkier side (a common style is a cube with outlets for multiple regions and even USB chargers built into it). A plug adapter keeps a little lower profile, so if you’re making a point to travel light and are only going to a region or two, this might be your best bet. 

Check the voltage of your electronics against the voltage your adapter says it’s converting. (If you’re unsure what it is, Google or look at the instructions or manual for your device.) The voltage shouldn't be an issue for most generic devices and things like hair straighteners.

Jessica Macdonald is a freelance writer based in South Africa specializing in travel, scuba diving, and wildlife conservation. Besides TripSavvy, Macdonald has written about her scuba diving experiences for Scuba Diver Life and is a two-time winner of The Telegraph's Just Back travel writing competition. She also has been TripSavvy's Africa expert since 2016.

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About Apple USB power adapters

This overview will help you identify a USB power adapter from Apple. Apple USB power adapters and cables are included with many products and are available separately from Apple and authorized Apple resellers.

Customer safety is a top priority at Apple. That’s why all our products—including USB power adapters—undergo rigorous testing for safety and reliability and are designed to meet government safety standards around the world.

As part of our efforts to reach our environmental goals, iPhone models no longer include a power adapter in the box. iPhone continues to work with existing power adapters and USB-A to Lightning cables, such as those included in prior models. iPhone models now include in the box a newer  USB‑C to Lightning cable  that supports fast charging and is compatible with USB‑C power adapters and computer ports that you might already have. You can use either a USB-A to Lightning cable or the newer USB-C to Lightning cable with your iPhone.

You can use any of the adapters listed below to charge your iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, or iPod. You can also use a Mac USB-C Power Adapter or third-party adapters that comply with  applicable safety standards . For more information about charging your iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, or iPod, refer to the Safety, Handling, and Support section of the  iPhone User Guide ,  iPad User Guide , Apple Watch User Guide , or  iPod User Guide .

5W USB power adapter

5w-adapter-tech-spec

Most iPhone models earlier than iPhone 11 came with a 5W power adapter in the box.

10W USB power adapter

10w-adapter-tech-spec

These devices come with a 10W power adapter in the box:

iPad mini 4

iPad mini 3

iPad mini 2

12W USB power adapter

12w-adapter-tech-spec

These devices come with a 12W power adapter in the box:

iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation)

iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st generation)

iPad Pro (10.5-inch)

iPad Pro (9.7-inch)*

iPad Air (3rd generation)*

iPad mini (5th generation)*

iPad (7th generation)*

iPad (6th generation)*

iPad (5th generation)*

* In some countries and regions, this model ships with the 10W power adapter.

18W USB-C power adapter

18w-adapter-tech-spec

These devices come with an 18W power adapter in the box:

iPad Pro 12.9 inch (4th generation)

iPad Pro 12.9 inch (3rd generation)

iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation)

iPad Pro 11-inch

The Apple 18W USB-C power adapter can fast charge your iPhone 8 or later .

20W USB-C power adapter

20w-adapter-tech-spec

These devices come with a 20W power adapter in the box:

iPad mini (6th generation)

iPad (9th generation)

iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation)

iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation)

iPad (8th generation)

iPad Air (4th generation)

Learn about USB power adapter certifications

When an iOS or iPadOS device comes with an Apple USB power adapter, that adapter is certified to meet government safety standards in countries and regions where the device is available. Many of these countries and regions, including the United States, have adopted the Safety of Information Technology Equipment standard, IEC/UL 60950-1.

Apple USB power adapters are designed for use with power sources rated to provide 100V AC to 240V AC at 50Hz to 60Hz. The Type A (flat parallel-blade design) Apple 5W USB, 18W, and 20W USB-C power adapters, as well as the 10W and 12W USB power adapters (with Type A AC plug attached) also comply with the IEC/UL 60950-1 and IEC/UL 62368-1 standards for use with power sources rated to provide 115V AC at 400Hz.

Learn more about USB power adapters

These power adapters are also available separately from Apple and authorized Apple resellers.

You can charge some iPhone models with an iPad or Mac power adapter .

Charge your iPhone when you travel to different countries or regions .

Find the right power adapter and cable for your Mac laptop .

travel adapter to usa

Explore Apple Support Community

Find what’s been asked and answered by Apple customers.

travel adapter to usa

Contact Apple Support

Need more help? Save time by starting your support request online and we'll connect you to an expert.

WEATHER ALERT: Severe storms roll through the DC area

WTOP News

Hatch recalls nearly 1 million power adapters sold with baby sound machines due to shock hazard

The Associated Press

July 8, 2024, 4:20 PM

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NEW YORK (AP) — Due to a shock hazard, a California company is recalling nearly 1 million power adapters sold with sound machines marketed to help infants and young children sleep.

The plastic surrounding the AC power adapter that was supplied with some of Hatch’s Rest 1st generation sound machines can come off when removing the product from an outlet, leaving its prongs exposed, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said. That increases risks of electric shock.

There have been 19 reports of the plastic housing surrounding the adapter coming off, including two instances of consumers getting a minor electric shock, the CPSC said in its Wednesday recall notice .

The recall is specific to power adapters supplied by Jiangsu Chenyang Electron Co., Hatch said in a company announcement, adding that it is no longer sourcing from Jiangsu Chenyang for its products.

Palo Alto, California-based Hatch also noted that the issue is only with the adapter accompanying the sleeping machines, not the device itself. “Once a replacement power adapter is issued, the Hatch Rest 1st generation device is safe to continue using,” the company wrote.

In the meantime, consumers in possession of the faulty power adapters are urged to stop using them. The now-recalled adapters, which were manufactured in China, can be identified by their model number: CYAP05 050100U.

The adapters were sold with Rest 1st generation sound machines on Hatch.co, as well as major retailers including Target and Walmart, between January 2019 and September 2022. Some were also sold on Amazon through May 2024. The machines produce white noise or lullabies to help babies and young children sleep, and also have features including a night light.

An estimated 919,400 of them were purchased in the U.S., and over 44,000 in Canada. Hatch is offering a free replacement adapter to impacted customers and says it’s contacting all registered owners directly.

Consumers can learn more about registering for the recall on the company’s website .

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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European Travel Plug Adapter, TESSAN US to Europe Plug with 4 Outlets and 3 USB Ports(1 USB C), Type C Power Adaptor for USA to EU Italy France Spain Iceland Germany Israel Greece Portugal

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European Travel Plug Adapter, TESSAN US to Europe Plug with 4 Outlets and 3 USB Ports(1 USB C), Type C Power Adaptor for USA to EU Italy France Spain Iceland Germany Israel Greece Portugal

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

  • European Plug Adapter: TESSAN type C plug adapter can work in Italy, France, Spain, Iceland, Germany, Israel, Greece, Portugal, Switzerland, Poland, Netherlands, Turkey, Austria, Finland
  • 7 in 1 European Power Adapter: This European adapters for travel can turn 1 EU Type C socket into 4 outlets and 3 USB ports, charge up to 7 devices at a time without blocking; Ideal for traveler, business man and foreign student use in airports, hotels and dorm room
  • Outlet Adapter Europe with USB-C: Dual USB A ports can charge up to 2.4A, the USB C port provide charging speed up to 3A; 2 types of USB ports can detect charged devices and give you more charging options; Ideal for cellphone, tablet, earphone, etc
  • Compact Size: With only 4.1oz lightweight design, portable size allows this US to European adapter easily put in your pocket, effectively saving the space of your suitcase, backpack and handbag; No surge protection, no cords, making it fully cruise ship essentials
  • NOTE: This adapter for Europe plug only works on 100V to 250V wide voltage devices. If you want to use your hair dryer, straightener or curling irons, they need to support wide voltage, or you may need a power voltage converter

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travel adapter to usa

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European Travel Plug Adapter, TESSAN US to Europe Plug with 4 Outlets and 3 USB Ports(1 USB C), Type C Power Adaptor for USA

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UK Adapters for Travel, TESSAN Type G Travel Adaptor with 4 Outlets and 3 USB Ports(1 USB C), Power Adaptor for USA to London

PRODUCT CERTIFICATION (1)

Climate neutral by ClimatePartner

Climate neutral by ClimatePartner certifies the carbon footprint of a product was calculated and all associated emissions were offset.

220V to 110V Voltage Converter US to Europe Travel Plug Adapter International Universal Travel Adapter with 1 USB A and 1 USB

Product Description

european travel adapter

Type C for Most of Europe Countries

european power adapter

Compatible with: Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, the Azores, Algeria, the Balearic lslands, Belarus, Belgium, lslands, Chad, Denmark, Estonia, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, Georgia, Greece, Hungary, italy, lran, lraq, lsrael, Kuwait, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania and more.

7 in 1 European Travel Plug Adapter

  • This Europe travel adapter offer 7 charging ports, you can use with family or friends in hotel with limited plug sockets.
  • 4 AC outlets accepts the standard N American 2 or 3 prong flat pin plug, AC outlets are separated without blocking each other
  • 2 USB A & 1 USB C multifunctional design can meet a variety of charging needs; Idea for laptop, cellphone, tablet, smartwatch, etc

electric converters for european travel

Widely Compatible for Travel

  • Cruise lines require power outlets to be non-surge protected, and many cruise lines prohibit the use of extension cords; This adapter with no cords, no surge protector, fully cruise ships essentials

germany plug adapter

Mini Size Compact for Europe

  • Palm-size and ultra-light weight Euro plug adapter can easily put in any bags or luggage, easy to carry out
  • Suitable for widely use in hotel, airport, bedroom, college dorm room, travel accessories
  • Product Dimension: 3.07*2.21*2.64 inch

us to eu plug adapter

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TESSAN European Adapter with with 4 AC 3 USB Ports(1 USB C)

Tessan Direct

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travel adapter to usa

Nearly 1 million power adapters for popular Hatch Baby sound machines recalled due to shock risk

This combination photo shows a Hatch Baby Rest 1st Generation sound machine and power adapter.

A popular brand of parenting devices is voluntarily recalling nearly 1 million sleep machine power adapters due to the potential risk of electrical shock.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced Wednesday that Hatch Baby was recalling adapters sold with its Rest 1st Generation sound machines. The recall affects 919,400 adapters sold in the U.S., as well as 44,352 sold in Canada from from January 2019 through May 2024.

Hatch said it has received 19 reports of the plastic housing on the adapter coming apart, including two reports of people who experienced "a minor electrical shock." The white rectangular adapters being recalled will have model number CYAP05 050100U printed in the back near the prongs, along with the words "Jiangsu Chenyang Electron Co. LTD" and "Made in China."

Identifier for the recalled Hatch Baby 1st Generation sound machine power adapters.

Consumers in possession of the recalled adapters are being urged to immediately stop using them and contact Hatch to receive a replacement, free of charge. This can be done by unplugging the recalled adapter, cutting the cord, and emailing a photo of the destroyed adapter to [email protected], along with your name and mailing address.

The company said once consumers receive a replacement adapter, their Rest 1st generation sound machines will be safe to continue using.

Related stories:

  • Thousands of baby swings recalled due to suffocation risk
  • Dollar Tree left lead-tainted applesauce pouches on store shelves for weeks after recall, FDA says
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    Price When Reviewed: $59.99. Best Prices Today: $29.99 at Amazon. The Zendure Passport II Pro is a travel adapter that's so powerful you'll probably end up using it at home too. It can plug into UK, US, EU, or Australian sockets, and you can also plug all of those into it, covering more than 200 countries.

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    The Epicka Universal is the best travel adapter for most people today. It features four different international plugs that covers more than 150 countries, including the US, UK, EU and Australia. With four USB-A ports, one USB-C port and one AC socket, you can potentially power or charge six devices at once.

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    These are some of the best performing, most convenient, and top travel-ready adapters your money can buy: BESTEK Universal Travel Adapter and 220V to 110V Voltage Converter. Bonazza All in ONE World Travel Plug Power. EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter. FLIGHT 001 5-In-1 Adapter.

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    All other plug types (including Type B) will need an adapter. Type B. Type B electrical plug sockets are used in North and Central America, including the United States, Canada, and Mexico. They have two round pins and a grounding pin. These outlets are typically used with devices that have a voltage of 110-120V. This outlet is rated for 15 amps.

  15. Voltage Converter vs. Travel Adapter: How do They Work?

    A travel power adapter or European converter adapter fits the plug into the wall socket, while travel converters change the electrical current from 120V to 220V or vice versa. The only time you'll need an international converter is if you're traveling with a device that is not dual voltage. Best Travel Converter with Adapter Functionality ...

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    Everything you need to know about your international travel plug adapter. When it comes to finding the right international travel plug adapter you can be spoilt for choice. There are USB travel adapters, voltage converters, differing plug types, wireless adapters, dual travel adapter/converters and even universal travel adapters.

  17. The 4 Best Universal Travel Adapters

    USB-A ports: 3. USB-C ports: 2. Combined power output: 28 watts. Tessan's International Plug Adapter usually costs a few dollars more than our top pick, is just a little shorter and offers a ...

  18. Amazon.com: Us Travel Adapter

    UK to US Travel Adapter, India to US Plug Adapter, Unidapt Adapters for USA, 2-Pack, Plug Converter, USA Travel Adapter, EU to US with Dual Inputs, Universal to American Outlet Plug. 4.5 out of 5 stars. 1,301. 500+ bought in past month. $5.99 $ 5. 99. FREE delivery Sat, Jun 8 on $35 of items shipped by Amazon.

  19. Universal Travel Adapter, Worldwide Travel Power Adapter, International

    [Universal Compatibility Travel Adapter]: 1500W Worldwide Travel Adapter, our world travel adapter has 4 kinds of international standard plugs for USA, EU, UK and AUS. It can work in more than 170 countries including US, UK, France, Italy, Europe, Australia, China, Japan, etc. Small and Portable, it is your best travel accessories.

  20. Heading Overseas? A Guide to Choosing the Right Travel Adapter

    It's increasingly common for travel gadgets to charge via a USB cable, whether that's a phone or tablet, camera, Kindle, or Bluetooth headphones. If everything you're taking can charge from a micro-USB, USB C, or Lightning cable, you're in luck. Grab a dedicated USB travel adapter like this LENCENT model, which can charge up to four ...

  21. The 9 Best Power Adapters for European Travel of 2024

    OREI Power Adapter Plug at Amazon ($8) Jump to Review. Best for the U.K.: Ceptics Travel Adapter Plug at Amazon ($14) Jump to Review. Best for Switzerland: TESSAN Swiss Outlet Adapter for US to Switzerland at Amazon ($16) Jump to Review. Best for Italy:

  22. About Apple USB power adapters

    Many of these countries and regions, including the United States, have adopted the Safety of Information Technology Equipment standard, IEC/UL 60950-1. ... You can charge some iPhone models with an iPad or Mac power adapter. Charge your iPhone when you travel to different countries or regions. Find the right power adapter and cable for your Mac ...

  23. Hatch recalls nearly 1 million power adapters sold with baby sound

    The adapters were sold with Rest 1st generation sound machines on Hatch.co, as well as major retailers including Target and Walmart, between January 2019 and September 2022. Some were also sold on ...

  24. Amazon.com: European Travel Plug Adapter, TESSAN US to Europe Plug with

    This item: European Travel Plug Adapter, TESSAN US to Europe Plug with 4 Outlets and 3 USB Ports(1 USB C), Type C Power Adaptor for USA to EU Italy France Spain Iceland Germany Israel Greece Portugal . $14.99 $ 14. 99. Get it as soon as Tuesday, Jul 16. In Stock.

  25. Nearly 1M Hatch Baby sound machine power adapters recalled due to shock

    The recall affects 919,400 adapters sold in the U.S., as well as 44,352 sold in Canada from from January 2019 through May 2024. Hatch said it has received 19 reports of the plastic housing on the adapter coming apart, including two reports of people who experienced "a minor electrical shock."