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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 travel steamer (or other device) while abroad and spend the rest of the trip sporting wrinkles. 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. 

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The Best Travel Adapters

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Best Overall Ceptics World International Travel Plug Adapter Read more

Upgrade Pick Zendure Passport III Read more

Budget Pick Epicka Universal Travel Adapter Read more

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 July 2024: We added a new honorable mentions section with entries from Ceptics, Masterplug, and Anker, added 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.

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.

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.

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 fulfillment and customer service, and we will continue to monitor the situation.

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 fulfillment and customer service and we will continue to monitor the situation.

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.

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.)

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 .

Honorable Mentions

There are many travel adapters out there. These are a few others we tested and liked but that missed out on a place above for one reason or another.

Ceptics 65W World Travel Adapter for $55 : This versatile adapter comes with Type A, B, C, E/F, G, and I slide-on plugs. They fit onto the rectangular brick and plug directly into the outlet, or you can attach them to the optional 5-foot cable. The brick has one grounded US outlet and a second non-grounded outlet, with one USB-A (30-watt) and two USB-C (65 and 33-watt) ports at the other end.

Masterplug Visitor to UK Travel Adaptor (3 Pack) for £12 : For visitors to the UK, this simple trio of adapters accepts European, American, Australian, and Asian plugs. They are single outlet adapters with 13-amp fuses inside, and they work perfectly. These are the adapters I use for long-term testing of devices from the US and elsewhere that lack UK plugs. If you forgot to buy an adapter before you arrived in the UK, you can find this affordable three-pack at any Argos.

Anker European Travel Plug Adapter for $16 : One of our favorite portable charger brands, Anker also makes travel adapters. This one plugs into most European outlets to give you a single grounded US outlet, a USB-A, and two USB-C ports. Unfortunately, the three USB ports max out at 15 watts total, so it’s best for overnight gadget charging, but I appreciate the temperature and overload protection. There is also a UK version ($16) .

Ceptics Travel Power Strip for $35 : Much like the World Travel Adapter Kit 2 above, this wee power strip offers two grounded US outlets, but it has only one USB-A and one USB-C port, and instead of plugging directly into the wall a cable attaches to an interchangeable plug head with Type A, B, C, E/F, G, and I adapters. The adapters can be stiff to change, but it works well otherwise.

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.

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.

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.

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The best universal travel adapters: Compare picks from Epicka, Targus, and more

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What to Consider

Functionality

With so many mobile accessory options on the market, it’s crucial to consider how you need mobile accompaniments to function and benefit your life. Do you need a compact charger to travel with? Or a standalone wireless charger for at home? We recommend considering these factors before diving into mobile accessory shopping because it’s easy to get lost and waste your cash if you aren’t sure what you want.

Often, you know what type of mobile accessory you’re shopping for. You know you need a MagSafe wallet, a portable charger, or a phone grip. But it’s also important to consider the most frequent use cases of whichever accessory you want. Do you need a slim MagSafe wallet? Or one that has a larger card capacity? Will you use this MagSafe wallet to commute to work, or is it for special occasions? Getting an idea of your best use case for a mobile accessory before you buy it makes it easier to consider how it must function in your routine to be worth your investment.

Compatibility

Perhaps the most crucial factor to consider when shopping for mobile accessories is compatibility. Be sure to identify the make and model of your mobile device and read up on the compatibility offerings on specific products. Remember that certain features like MagSafe connection and wireless charging aren’t available for every phone model, and you’ll need to consider that while scoping out the mobile accessory market.

Mobile accessories can range extensively in cost, from under $20 to over $100, depending on what type of accessory you’re looking for and from what brand. Flagship accessories from brands like Apple or Samsung will often cost more than other options on the market, but accessories from more bespoke places like Casetify, Nomad, and more can get pretty pricey, too. That’s why it’s important to always consider your budget.

There's a lot to pack and remember when preparing for an international trip: passports, IDs , luggage , and more. Just don't forget to include a capable charger in the mix before you end up stranded without directions or a pocketable translator .

Also: These are my 5 must-have devices for work travel now

But not just any charger is fit to power your devices abroad given different countries use various outlets. So that you're prepared no matter where your international travels take you, we compiled a list of chargers that can easily adapt to different port types and voltages. Here are our top picks based on socket types, voltage output, build, and price. 

• Multiple ports
• Can charge six devices simultaneously
• No voltage converter

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Best travel plug adapter overall.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter tech specs: Size: 2.8 x 1.97 x 2.05 inches | Weight: 5.1 ounces | Maximum voltage: 240 volts | Types: A/B, C/E/F, G, I, J, L, N 

With a from verified Amazon customers, it's clear consumers love the product -- and they're not alone. I personally fell in love with this best travel plug adapter on recent travels to Italy and Malta, and I could not be more grateful for its help in keeping my devices charged and operating throughout my two-week trip. 

This is an all-in-one adapter that incorporates four separate plugs. Together, they cover over 150 countries, including Canada, Ireland, Spain, Australia, Argentina, and - you guessed it - Italy. This adapter is capable of reaching 240 volts, so you charge up to six devices using the USB-A, USB-C, and AC options. That means you are not just restricted to charging your phone; you can also charge your tablet, camera, and headset. And, at just five ounces, it is lightweight enough to take with you on travel. 

However, this is not a voltage converter, so you will need to purchase a separate device for higher-powered items like your hair dryer or curling iron. 

• Three international adapters
• Charges up to seven devices simultaneously
• Built-in safety feature
• Larger hardware

Bestek Universal Travel Adapter

Best converter combination travel plug adapter.

Bestek Universal Travel Adapter tech specs: Size: 7.4 x 6.8 x 1.8 inches | Weight: 1.15 pounds | Maximum voltage: 240 volts | Types: A/B, G, I 

The Bestek Universal Travel Adapter makes it easy, including a voltage converter so that you don't have to make a separate purchase. The unit is designed for 110V devices and can convert voltage in countries like Australia and Japan up to 240V. The safety protections are four-fold: this travel plug adapter is armed with over-current, over-load, over-heat and short-circuit protections. 

Equipped with four USB ports and three AC sockets, you can charge up to seven different devices.  Additionally, it includes an EU power cable, with three different international adapters to suit U.S., UK, and Australian plugs. Overall, this outlet works in over 150 countries like Japan, China, New Zealand, Ireland, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Columbia, and the Philippines. 

This adapter comes in a compact build that includes a five-foot detachable power cable in case outlets aren't conveniently positioned. 

• Compact design
• Fast-charging
• Built-in surge protector

Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit

Best all-in-one travel plug adapter.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter tech specs: Size: 2.75 x 1.5 x 3.75 inches | Weight: 12.8 ounces | Maximum voltage: 100 volts | Types: A/B, C/E/F, G, I

The Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit is another versatile pick that makes for a great all-in-one plug adapter. 

At 100 volts, this unit comes equipped with multiple outlets: two A and B types -- mostly found in America, two USB quick-charge ports, and a micro USB cable. This variety allows you to charge a number of devices, including your smartphone and laptop. Even better, it includes fast-charging technology to work with the Quick-Charge feature on devices like your Samsung Galaxy . Built-in surge protection helps to keep your devices safe while they charge.

This model works with six different adapter types, making it suitable for locations in North America, the UK, Australia, Asia, and more. Plus, it is extremely light, so it won't weigh you down as you travel. 

Also: Traveling soon? Take this 6-port charger with you

• Safety shutters
• Durable build
• Interchangeable face plates
• Does not specify specific outlet types

Targus World Power Travel Adapter

Best portable travel plug adapter.

Targus World Power Travel Adapter tech specs: Size: 5.6 x 3 x 7.6 inches | Weight: 5.1 ounces | Maximum voltage: 250 volts | Types: North America, Europe, UK, Australia and Asia Pacific

Thanks to its compact design, weighing less than five ounces, the Targus World Power is ZDNET's choice for the best portable plug adapter. Its small footprint makes it easy to throw in your bag and take with you on the go, whether you're running to the office or traveling to another country. 

Its design features universal faceplates with red safety shutters for extra protection against contact with harmful electrical currents. For greater versatility, there are three interchangeable adapters that you can switch out based on your needs. This travel plug adapter works in several countries throughout Europe, the UK, and Asia, as well as in Australia. No matter adapter you choose, your adapter will connect directly to your AC power cord.

• Packed with power
• All-in-one design
• Excellent value

Zendure Passport III

Best travel plug adapter for fast charging.

Zendure Passport III tech specs: Size: 6.61 x 4.25 x 2.32 inches | Weight: 9.6 ounces | Maximum voltage: 250 volts | Types : A/B, C/E/F, G, I, J, L, N 

One of the best things about the Zendure Passport III is its ability to provide ultra-fast charging for your devices. With easy USB connectivity, it works with a number of different devices, whether it is your laptop, iPhone , Samsung Galaxy, digital camera , or Nintendo Switch . No matter which device you need to charge, there are five total USB ports that are all available and waiting. An extra AC outlet is also included. 

There is the added peace of mind of short circuit protection with 250-volt power. This device can recover from overload an incredible 6,000 times without requiring attention. Having tested it himself , ZDNET contributor, Adrian Kingsley-Hughes is impressed with the intentional design. "On the safety side, it's built using the care and attention to detail that I expect from a Zendure product," he says. 

This best travel plug adapter works in over 200 countries within Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the United Kingdom, as well as Australia and Canada.

Review: Zendure Passport III: The ultimate travel accessory

What is the best travel plug adapter?

Users agree, and so do I - the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter is the best travel plug adapter to have at your side when you travel. It's an affordable option that comes packed with power and is versatile enough to work in more than 150 countries. 

To see how it compares, here's a quick overview of the best travel plug adapters you can buy by price, max voltage output, and port types. 

Which is the best travel plug adapter for you?

I get it - travel plug adapters can all look the same. Consider these expert suggestions to help you find the best one for your needs.

How did I choose these best travel plug adapters?

There are several factors that can help you find the best travel plug adapter for your needs.

Socket type: There are many different types of outlets that are used throughout the world. Before you travel, check the type of outlet that is used in your destination. If you are not sure, you can check Ceptic's handy guide to find out which outlets work in which countries.

Voltage: Each outlet can supply a different amount of electricity, depending on the country, so you will need a voltage converter if there is a difference in voltage. The best travel plug adapters range from 110 volts to 250 volts, so check the electrical requirements for your destination country so you can be sure that a voltage converter is not necessary.

Build : Look for convenient, thoughtful construction that incorporates multiple plugs for all of your devices. A lightweight build is an extra bonus for travel, so your adapter does not weigh down your bags.

Price: The cost of the best travel plug adapter can vary from less than $20 to more than $100, depending on the type you choose. If you choose one of the best travel plug adapters, be prepared to spend between $18 and $80, depending on the brand and retailer you pick. 

What are the benefits of a travel plug adapter?

The best travel plug adapters simplify travel by giving you a place to charge all of your devices. It works with foreign electrical outlets to provide you with seamless charging. It is a cost-effective way to charge multiple devices simultaneously without the need for multiple cords or outlets. There are also integrated safety features to protect your devices while they charge. 

What types of travel adapters are there?

There are three types of travel adapters that you can buy: individual, all-in-one, and universal. Here are the main differences. 

Individual travel plug adapters: These travel plug adapters are country-specific, working with a specific type of outlet. If you travel often, this may not be ideal, as you will need to purchase separate adapters to work with each country.  

All-in-one travel plug adapters: These travel plug adapters are designed to work with several different types of devices, integrating multiple plugs into a single design. They can be used in multiple countries, giving greater flexibility.

Universal travel plug adapters: This kind of adapter is designed to work with any outlet, so it is a safe bet when you are not sure of your exact travel plans. All of the adapters included on our list fall into this category. 

What plug type does the EU use?

Also referred to as the Europlug, the EU uses a type C plug, which has two round pins spaced apart.

Where is the best place to buy a travel plug adapter?

There are many places to buy a travel plug adapter, including your local airport. However, you may not find the best deal or variety if you do not know where to look. Amazon often offers the best pricing and selection of travel plug adapters. Walmart and Best Buy are other popular retailers that I like for availability and affordability. 

Are there alternative best travel plug adapters worth considering?

In my search, I also found these best travel plug adapters that may be worth your consideration.

ZDNET Recommends

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

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

823 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

41 Published Articles 3364 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 50 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

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

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

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.

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

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:

• The Best Checked Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Carry-on Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones To Buy for Travel
• What Are the Best GoPro Alternatives? [We Found Several Options]
• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place

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Select editors’ favorite travel adapters for your next big trip

A travel adapter is crucial for international travel — without it, you won’t be able to charge most of your electronics. Put simply, travel adapters let you plug your electronics into wall sockets in other countries, says Carl Prouty, a product specialist with over 20 years of sales experience at Abt , an electronics and appliance retailer. (Since Abt sells travel adapters, we only spoke with Prouty about technical shopping guidance, and did not ask for specific product recommendations.)

Travel adapters come in small individual plugs or a single universal adapter, which have multiple plugs built-in. We consulted electronics experts to better understand how they work, and based our recommendations on expert advice, highlighting Select staff favorites as well as top-rated options on the market.

SKIP AHEAD Select staff favorite travel adapters | What is a travel adapter? | What is voltage? | What is a travel voltage converter? | How to shop for travel adapters

Our top picks

• Editor’s pick : Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
• Most portable: Ceptics Travel Plug Adapter

Voltage converter: Foval Travel Voltage Converter

How we picked our favorite travel adapters.

We spoke with electronics experts and asked Select staffers for their favorite travel adapters. We selected products that met the following criteria:

• Compatibility : We picked products designed for multiple regions, focusing on the EU, U.K., and the U.S. in particular.
• Price : We highlighted products across different price points, including small adapters that cost less than $15 and larger converters costing less than $50.
• Top-rated : We considered top-rated products with at least a four-star average rating from over 1,000 reviews on Amazon.

select 34 top-rated Amazon travel accessories for your next trip

Select-staff favorite travel adapters.

We rounded up the following highly rated travel adapters, universal adapters and voltage converters based on expert advice and Select staff picks that are in line with that advice.

Editor’s pick: Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

I have used this universal travel adapter for over a year to charge small electronics like phones, earbuds , fitness trackers and tablets in the U.S., U.K., France and Italy. This adapter has both USB-A and USB-C ports, so I can charge multiple devices at the same time. Even though this is a travel adapter, I sometimes use it at home in the U.S. when I need to charge my smartphone, earbuds and smartwatch at the same time.

Compatible regions : EU, U.K., U.S., AUS | Ports : 3-prong power plug, USB-A (4), USB-C (1) | Voltage range : N/A, does not convert voltage | Dimensions: 2.8 x 1.97 x 2.05 in.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Budget pick: mingtong universal travel adapter.

CNBC Select associate reporter Andreina Rodriguez uses this adapter when she travels to  Italy, France, Ireland, Greece, Spain, Belgium and the Netherlands. She mostly used it to charge her smartphone or laptop — it charges each one just as quickly as chargers in the U.S. do. Like our editor’s pick, it has multiple USB ports for charging different devices at once.

Rodriguez uses the original version of this product, but there are other versions that offer USB-C charging and extra USB ports if you’re looking to charge other devices.

Compatible regions: EU, U.K., U.S., AU | Ports : 3-prong power plug, USB-A (2) | Voltage range : N/A, does not convert voltage | Dimensions: 3 x 1.5 x 1.9 in.

Mingtong Universal Travel Adapter

Most portable: ceptics travel plug adapter set.

Individual plug adapters are especially useful if you are traveling light. This top-rated set includes five different plugs for countries like the U.S., the U.K., and Australia. Each plug is labeled with the countries and continents you can use it in. It also comes in a slightly larger white version , where each plug has a third metal prong, called a ground port, to protect your device from power surges, according to the brand.

Compatible regions: EU, U.K., U.S., AU | Ports : N/A | Voltage range : N/A, does not convert voltage | Dimensions: Individual plugs

Ceptics Travel Plug Adapter Set

Consider this converter If you are bringing devices like hair straighteners or curling irons that will need their voltage adjusted while abroad. This voltage converter adjusts incoming electricity to fit the 110 to 120-volt requirement for U.S. electronics to work properly. It can power devices with up to 230 watts of energy — check your device to make sure it uses less than 230 watts.

The converter has fans built in that prevent overheating and short-circuiting, according to the brand. It has four USB ports and two power outlets, making it a good option if you need to charge multiple devices at the same time. It comes with four different plug types and a detachable power cable.

Compatible regions: EU, U.K., U.S., AU, IT | Ports : 3-prong power plug (2), USB-A (4) | Voltage range : 110V — 220V, converts voltage down | Dimensions : 4.82 x 3.13  x 1.47 in.

Foval Travel Voltage Converter

select Keep your travel essentials organized with these highly rated toiletry bags

What is a travel adapter.

Travel adapters typically come in two shapes: plug adapters and universal adapters.

In America, plug adapters have electrical prongs on one side and two or three pronged U.S. slots on the other. If you are traveling to the U.K., for example, your adapter will plug into rectangular-shaped U.K. outlets, and have slots where you can plug your two or three pronged U.S. devices into the adapter.

Universal adapters contain multiple plug adapters in one base. Typically, different electrical prongs slide in and out of the base via levers or buttons.

Travel adapters are typically intended to charge electronics like smartphones, laptops, headphones and portable batteries , says Sandra Miller, product manager at Ceptics, a travel adapter manufacturer. (Because Ceptics sells travel adapters, we only spoke with Miller about technical shopping guidance, not specific product recommendations).

What is voltage?

“Voltage is essentially the pressure required to push the electrons coming out of the wall socket through the power cord that goes into your device, allowing that device to operate,” says Prouty.

Countries around the world have different voltage ratings for their electricity. North American power outlets use 110 to 120-volts so most electronics made there are designed to operate in that voltage range. Countries outside of North America typically have 220 to 240-volt outlets, and design their electronics to function in that range. 

Products like smartphones, laptops and tablets are exceptions: they operate on a worldwide voltage range — as long as you have the right adapter, you can charge them in most places, according to our experts.

When traveling abroad with other types of devices, you need to match your destination’s plug type as well as its voltage rating in order to safely use your electronics. If you connect a device to an outlet with mismatched voltage ratings, you risk damaging the device, burning it out or causing an electrical fire, says Miller.

All electronics have a voltage rating printed on either the charger or the device itself, says Miller. Larger electronic devices like curling irons, hair straighteners and hair trimmers typically operate at a specific, limited voltage range. If you plan to travel with one of those devices, you will need a travel voltage converter to safely use them.

What is a travel voltage converter?

Voltage converters change the voltage of the outlet at your destination. This is crucial if you want to use single-voltage electronics like hair and curling irons abroad.

Hair and curling irons need a lot more power than small devices like smartphones and earbuds. That’s why travel voltage converters will typically have a power rating, measured in watts (W), that tells you how much power they can deliver to a plugged-in device, says Miller. “For example, a 200W voltage converter is limited to devices that require 200W or less, so you can’t use a 15,000W hair dryer with it,” says Miller. Connecting a device outside the supported wattage range can damage both the device and the voltage converter.

select Make room in your luggage for these travel tech gadgets

How to shop for travel adapters.

To make sure you buy the right adapter for your trip, it’s important to check what kind of electrical plug your destination uses. It’s also a good idea to contact the place you’ll be staying, to ask what kind of outlets they use, says Prouty.

What kind of travel adapter do I need?

There are over a dozen types of common plugs used across the world according to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), a global not-for-profit organization that works to improve international electrical trade and innovations. Each plug type is given a letter, depending on which regions they’re compatible in. 

Many countries share the same plug type — type C plugs, for example, are used across most of Europe. Some countries use different plug types depending on where you are in the country and when the electrical outlets were last updated— Italy uses three types (C, L and F).

Travel adapters, including our recommendations, list the regions they support by name or by plug type letter. Below is a world plugs list from the IEC :

• Type A (two prong) : North America, Central America, Japan
• Type B (three prong) : North America, Central America, Japan
• Type C : Europe (except UK, Ireland, Cyprus and Malta) 
• Type D : India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Namibia
• Type E : France, Belgium, Slovakia and Tunisia among others
• Type F : Germany, Austria, the Netherlands and Spain among others
• Type G : UK, Ireland, Cyprus, Malta, Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong
• Type H : Israel
• Type I : China, Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Argentina
• Type J : Switzerland and Lichtenstein
• Type K : Denmark and Greenland
• Type L : Italy
• Type M : South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho
• Type N : Brazil
• Type O : Thailand

Do I need a voltage converter?

Miller recommends checking the voltage rating of all the electronics you plan to travel with to see if any require conversion. Essential electronics like cell phones, tablets and laptops are typically rated for worldwide (100 to 240) voltage use and do not require conversion. 

The most common travel electronics that require voltage conversion are hair straighteners and curling irons, says Miller. If you plan on using one, pack one with a worldwide voltage rating to eliminate the need for a voltage converter.

If you are traveling with an item that requires voltage conversion, look up the power rating (in watts) of the device, and make sure your voltage converter supports at least that much power output (in watts). For example, an expert-recommended curling iron like the Babyliss Pro Nano is rated for 120 volts and needs 140 watts to operate. 

Meet our experts

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Carl Prouty is a product specialist with over 20 years of experience in consumer electronics sales at Abt . Since Abt sells travel adapters, we only spoke with him about technical shopping guidance, and did not ask for specific product recommendations.
• Sandra Miller is a product manager at Ceptics , a travel adapter manufacturer. Since Ceptics sells travel adapters, we only spoke with her about technical shopping guidance, and did not ask her for specific product recommendations.

Why trust Select?

Harry Rabinowitz is a reporter at Select, and has covered consumer tech for over three years. To better understand travel adapters, he combined his own experience with Select staff recommendations and the advice of electronics experts. He also looked for top-rated models that were versatile and reliable and in line with our experts’ guidance.

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Harry Rabinowitz is a reporter for Select on NBC News.

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The 9 Best Power Adapters for European Travel of 2024

Keep your devices charged and moving your trip along

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

• What to Look For

Frequently Asked Questions

Why trust tripsavvy.

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.

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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The 11 Best Travel Adapters, According to Frequent International Travelers

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

“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.

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

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.

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.

“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.

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

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.”

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.”

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

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.”

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 Best Travel Power Strips and Surge Protectors With USB Charging

By Sarah Witman

Sarah Witman is a writer focused on batteries and charging accessories. She has spent countless hours charging, discharging, and recharging batteries.

Wall outlets are in short supply on planes, trains, and buses—and in many airports and hotels—so packing a portable power strip is a must for frequent travelers.

Everything we recommend

Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector

Best power strip for travel.

This compact strip gives you three AC outlets and two USB power ports but doesn’t take up much space in a bag or weigh you down. We don’t recommend it for international travel.

Buying Options

May be out of stock

Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Travel-Size Surge Protector

Better surge protection with a cord.

This is the only portable option we tested with reliable surge protection. The 18-inch cord adds a little extra bulk but gives you more flexibility than models that plug directly into an outlet.

Allocacoc PowerCube ReWirable USB

Best for traveling abroad.

With four international plugs and a protection rating of 100 to 250 volts, this charger is a convenient option for overseas travel.

After researching dozens of models and testing the top contenders, we’ve concluded that the best power strip for North American travel is the Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector .

It has three outlets and two USB-A charging ports with adequate spacing for bulkier plugs, and it’s smaller and lighter than any other travel model we’ve tested.

This travel power strip has been our top pick every year since 2015. Although other companies use a similar design in their models, we've found that the Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector offers the best capabilities at a price that’s usually lower than that of the competition.

If you prefer a power strip with robust surge protection and a cord, Tripp Lite’s Protect It 3-Outlet Travel-Size Surge Protector is the best choice.

It’s the only portable model we tested that clamps down on harmful power surges as effectively as full-size surge protectors . Other portable models we tested let more than twice as much surge voltage through, which could potentially damage anything plugged into them.

The third AC outlet on the back of this unit helps reduce plug clutter, and its right-angle plug lets it easily fit into tight spots.

If you travel outside of North America, we recommend the Allocacoc PowerCube ReWirable USB .

Two features make this model ideal for international travel: It’s rated for 100 to 250 volts, so it doesn’t need an additional voltage converter, and it comes with four interchangeable plugs to fit a wide variety of international wall outlets.

Plus, it has two USB-A ports like our other picks, and it provides four AC outlets instead of three.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked and tested, our pick: tripp lite protect it 3-outlet surge protector, also great: tripp lite protect it 3-outlet travel-size surge protector, also great: allocacoc powercube rewirable usb, other good power strips for travel, the competition.

Senior staff writer Sarah Witman has been a science writer for nearly a decade, covering a wide variety of topics from particle physics to satellite remote sensing. Since joining Wirecutter in 2017, she has reported on portable power stations , household surge protectors , and more.

Consulting engineer Lee Johnson , who has more than 10 years of experience designing and testing electrical components, performed our surge tests.

When you’re traveling, a portable power strip can be a lifesaver in places like airports and hotels, where wall outlets are often few and far between. A power strip that easily fits into a carry-on bag can mean the difference between enjoying fully charged devices en route or trying to stretch the last 10% of your battery over an hours-long flight.

Generally, a power strip is a device that merely adds extra outlets, whereas a surge protector is designed to absorb the voltage from commonplace power surges and keep them from frying your electronic devices. Surge protection is especially important if you’re traveling in places with an unstable power grid.

Most portable versions are surge protectors in name only and don’t provide a level of protection that we would trust, especially long-term. We’ve highlighted any models that have surge protection similar to what you can expect from a full-size surge protector .

If you aren’t worried about surges—and the damage they can cause to unprotected devices—and need only to charge USB-powered devices such as a phone, laptop, or handheld gaming console, you might prefer a multiport USB wall charger instead. Or you can skip wall outlets entirely and pack a high-capacity power bank .

For every round of testing, we scour the websites of popular retailers and brands, cultivating a list of contenders based on the following criteria:

• Size and weight: When you’re traveling, the most important factors to consider when you pack are size and weight. A power strip won’t serve you well on the road if it’s too bulky or too heavy to stick in a backpack or suitcase. So we give preference to lighter, more compact models, which in most cases eliminates models with more than three AC outlets and two USB ports.
• Outlet placement: We seek out models that maximize the number of devices you can plug in—even if those devices have big, blocky power bricks—and dismiss models with tightly spaced AC outlets.
• Plug design: We give preference to power strips with a plug that can retract or fold into the body of the unit, which makes the power strip easier to pack into small spaces and helps prevent the plug from snagging on surrounding items and damaging them. We also prefer models with grounded (three-prong) plugs, which reduce the risk of electric shock.

• Surge protection: Most portable power strips are too small to include meaningful surge protection. The joule rating on the box gives you some indication of how long a model will take cumulative surges, but not how much power could hit the gear you have plugged in. What really matters is how much voltage from a surge makes it through the outlets. In other testing, we’ve found that many electronics can survive a 400-volt hit—the amount that most home surge protectors let through when struck by a 5,000-volt surge. Most portable models, though, let through more than 1,000 volts. We call out models that can serve as true surge protectors, but if that’s your main concern, you need to invest in a larger option .
• USB charging: Since many devices and accessories charge via USB, we limit our search to power strips with USB ports, which helps reduce the number of wall warts you have to pack. We prefer that each port be rated for at least 2.4 amps—which is what most phones and tablets require to charge at full speed—but such ports are relatively rare. Most of the units we’ve tested split this current over two ports, which means that if you plug in two devices, they’ll each charge at less than half their maximum speed.

To test each model, we insert plugs of various shapes and sizes into the power strips, trying different combinations to see which outlet layouts can accommodate the most devices. We also take into account whether each model can be plugged into a two-outlet wall plate without obstructing the second outlet, and we assess its overall appearance.

Next, we test the charging capabilities of each USB port by plugging in a PortaPow USB Power Monitor along with an iPad Air 2, noting the monitor’s amperage reading. We then connect a second iPad to measure the total output while charging two devices.

Our consulting electrical engineer, Lee Johnson, tests each model with a 5,000-volt surge generator, which is capable of creating voltage surges 40 times the standard AC power in the US. He starts with a series of surges from 160 volts all the way up to 5,000 volts, recording the voltage at the outlet where you would normally plug in your devices. Then he subjects each contender to a series of five 5,000-volt surges and averages the outlet measurements to get the protected output voltage. These tests show that our picks can protect most devices in the face of common power surges—and even in rare surge events up to thousands of volts.

With three outlets, two USB ports, and a handy fold-up plug, the pocket-sized Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector is the best and most portable power strip to pack for a trip.

It has lots of room for plugs. This power strip’s unusual design keeps all three outlets easily accessible, as they’re located on different faces—the front and either side. As a result, it can accommodate an impressive variety of plug shapes and sizes.

It’s small and light. At 4.5 inches long, 2.5 inches wide, and just under 1.5 inches deep, this power strip is one of the smallest of those we’ve tested.

It’s easy to fit into the pocket of a backpack or a carry-on suitcase, and the plug prongs fold away neatly when it’s not in use. You’ll barely notice the 5-ounce weight (which is about as heavy as a roll of pennies ) in your bag.

It’s sturdily built. In our testing, this power strip stayed firmly in the wall outlet with minimal wobbling, even with three bulky plugs and adapters plugged into it.

Not only does its stability help keep your devices charging at full power, but it’s also safer; a plug pulled partly out of an outlet can damage your electronics or start a fire.

It has a pair of USB ports, letting you charge two devices without an adapter. This power strip worked as advertised in our USB speed tests: Our first iPad drew up to 2.1 amps from a single port, and plugging a second iPad into the other port halved the current flowing to each device.

This means that your phone or tablet might charge more slowly than it would with its own charger or one of our favorite multiport USB chargers , especially if both ports are occupied. That isn’t optimal, but it is par for the course for this type of device.

It’ll likely last for years. Over the past five years, three Wirecutter editors have taken the Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector on dozens of trips. After extensive use, the foldable plug of one unit got stuck in the “out” position, but otherwise the power strip has been trouble-free.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Because this power strip is rated for only 110-volt outlets, we don’t recommend using it internationally. Even if plugged into an international adapter, it is not a safe option, because most countries have 220-volt electrical grids.
• The manufacturer might call this device a surge protector, but we don’t—according to our tests, the included protection isn’t likely to save your gear. When we sent a 5,000-volt surge through this power strip, it let nearly 1,000 volts slip through to our attached devices. That’s far more than most electronics can handle without dropping dead. Also, its 540-joule rating is on the lower end, which means its surge protection is likely to wear off sooner than that of models with a higher rating, such as our pick with a cord or our home surge protector picks.

If you want robust surge protection on the go, or if you prefer a power strip with a cord instead of one that sits flush against a wall outlet, the Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Travel-Size Surge Protector is the model to get.

Its surge protection is far better than that of most units of this size. When we hit this model with repeated 5,000-volt surges, it let only an average of 447 volts through to the outlets. That’s close to the performance of our favorite home surge protectors , which let between 368 and 444 volts through in the same test.

Its protection is designed to last. Not only does this model provide better protection for each individual surge, but it also should handle more surges before wearing out. The protection circuitry inside is rated to take a cumulative 1,050 joules, or about twice the rating of our top pick.

It has a cord. Since this power strip has an 18-inch cord, it’s easy to plug into a standard wall plate without blocking the second outlet as other units typically do.

And because it has a right-angle wall plug, it can easily fit behind furniture—a bonus if you’re often plugging into obstructed outlets in hotel rooms, hostels, or short-term rentals.

It has three adequately spaced outlets. With two outlets on the front face and a third on the back, this model allows you to plug in at least one large power brick without blocking the other outlets.

It has two USB ports, but they’re not as powerful as we’d like. Similar to our other picks, this model includes two USB ports that supply up to 2.1 amps, and you can use each of them to charge a single device at full power or share them between two devices.

Most modern phones and tablets can fast-charge at more than 2 amps, so if you’re charging multiple devices simultaneously, you’re better off with a dedicated USB charger .

If you’re traveling outside of North America, get the Allocacoc PowerCube ReWirable USB : It works with 100 to 250 volts, so it can be safely plugged in pretty much anywhere in the world, and it has the most outlets among our picks.

It’s small and light. This model is a 2.5-inch cube that weighs just a little more than 7 ounces. It has one outlet on each of its four outside faces, plus two USB ports on the face opposite its own AC plug. This design ensures full access to each outlet for almost any size plug, without any of those plugs blocking the other outlets.

It can charge more devices at full power. Unlike most travel plug adapters , which often have just one outlet, this Allocacoc model’s four outlets are convenient for charging up to four devices as fast as possible (with a sufficiently powerful wall charger ). For instance, while working remotely on a two-month trip abroad, I found it invaluable to be able to charge a laptop, phone, power bank, and wireless headphones at the same time—and still have two USB ports to spare.

The USB ports share the available 2.1 amps, much as on our other picks.

It’s perfect for international travel. The PowerCube ReWirable USB includes four interchangeable AC plugs to fit Australian, European, UK, and North American (including the US, Canada, and Mexico) outlets .

There are a lot of pieces to keep track of. The plugs are easy to swap in and out as needed, and because they push the cube away from the wall, the wall plate’s second outlet remains accessible for most plugs and power bricks. However, the extra plugs are easy to misplace, so we recommend getting a designated bag organizer to keep track of them.

Don’t count on this model to provide surge protection. The PowerCube ReWirable USB is not advertised to provide any surge protection, but we tested it in that respect anyway, and it knocked 5,000-volt surges down to the same 900- to 1,000-volt range as our top pick. (That is to say, the surge protection is minimal, and we wouldn’t rely on it for that purpose.)

If you want more outlets and ports, plus a long cord, and you don’t mind a slightly bulkier unit: Get the Anker A9166 or Anker A9183 . They have more outlets (six and eight, respectively) than any of our picks, as well as plenty of USB ports to charge additional devices (the former has three USB-A ports and the latter has one USB-C port and one USB-A port).

Both models have a cord that’s as long as any we encountered in our tests (5 feet) and come with a hook-and-loop fastener to keep it neatly coiled in your luggage. Also, the cord and plug on the A9183 are flat—just a few millimeters thick—so you can wind the cord around the body of the unit to pack it up even smaller.

These models are among the heaviest we tested, weighing about a pound each (15.1 and 16.4 ounces, respectively), but they’re still about as sleek and compact as any of our picks.

The surge protection of both models is lackluster—letting through 758 and 742 volts, respectively, in our testing—but no worse than that of some of our picks. In short, we wouldn’t make either of them a permanent fixture at home, but they’ll do for short-term use.

Anker’s 18-month warranty on these models falls slightly short of the coverage on our picks, but it should still give you plenty of time to confirm that your unit is working properly.

This is not a comprehensive list of models we’ve tested. We have removed discontinued models and those that no longer meet our criteria.

The RND Power Solutions Wall Power Station is bulkier than our top pick , and its outlets are too close together.

The CyberPower P405UC has four outlets, two USB-A ports, and (unlike any of our picks) a fast-charging USB-C port. Its 5-foot, fabric-sheathed cord is longer than that of our corded pick , but it has a shorter warranty and is heavier and clunkier.

The GE 33654 has a longer cord (3 feet) and one more outlet (four) than our pick with a cord , and it weighs about the same as that model. However, it provides less surge protection, and its blocky shape makes it less convenient to stow in a suitcase.

The Bestek MRJ201GU-EU-P , Ceptics World Power Plug Adapter Set (PK8-WS) , Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit (WPS-2B+) , and Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit (WPS-5B) come with more adapters and/or other accessories than our international-travel pick does, but none of them demonstrated any surge protection whatsoever in our testing.

The Greatness Line GR-8 Power Travel Charging Station has four outlets and four USB-A ports, and it costs a few bucks less than our international-travel pick at this writing. Plus, it comes with twice as many adapters (eight), so you can use it in even more countries. However, it has no listed warranty, the company’s customer support is reachable only via onsite form, and in our testing this model emitted a loud pop when 5,000 volts passed through it—and we could hear internal components rattling around afterward.

The Mogics Power Bagel (MPB-AB) has more outlets than our pick for international travel , and it has a retractable cord as well as an innovative design that allows you to pack up the international adapters inside the body of the unit. However, it typically costs more than our international pick, and in our testing it didn’t provide any surge protection at all.

The  Tripp Lite Safe-It International Universal Wall Travel Charger has a longer warranty and weighs less than our pick for international travel , but it has only two outlets and performed abysmally in our surge tests.

This article was edited by Ben Keough and Erica Ogg.

Meet your guide

Sarah Witman

Sarah Witman is a senior staff writer who reports on powering and charging technology for Wirecutter. She previously worked as a writer, editor, and fact checker for several science magazines. Though she researches and tests chargers for a living, her phone battery is usually low.

Further reading

The Best Surge Protector

by Sarah Witman

Tripp Lite’s Protect It 12-Outlet Surge Protector TLP1208SAT absorbs thousands of volts so they won’t fry your gear, and it helpfully lets you know when its protection wears out.

The Best Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

We tested leading UPS models and found that the CyberPower CP900AVR is the best option to keep essential gear running for up to four hours during a blackout.

The Best Portable Solar Battery Charger

The Allpowers SP012 Solar Panel 100W is the best choice for charging a phone and other essential devices in the great outdoors.

The Best Qi Wireless Charger for iPhone and Android Phones

The Belkin BoostCharge Pro is your best bet for charging a single device wirelessly. It has MagSafe capabilities, a long cord, and a handy built-in stand.

The Best Travel Adapters for International Adventures

Don’t leave home without packing one of these.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

But all of that is only useful if you remember one necessary, if not-so-glamorous, piece of travel equipment: a travel adapter.

A travel adapter is a small device that allows you to plug your electronic devices into outlets in different countries. Electrical outlets and sockets vary from country to country; in fact, there are 15 different types of power sockets requiring a variety of plugs. That includes sockets that fit two rounded plugs, as you'll find in much of Europe, to the slanted, three-prong sockets you'll find in Australia. The concept is simple: plug the travel adapter directly into the wall socket, then plug your device or USB cord into the front.

Travel adapters may not be the most stylish travel accessory, but they're certainly one of the most essential. Here are the best travel adapters to buy before your next international getaway.

Best Travel Adapters

Best Overall

Epicka universal power adapter.

Best Budget

Vintar european travel adapter.

Best for Families

Tessan u.s. to europe power adapter set.

The Expert: As a travel writer in my mid-30s, I've been traveling for a while. My first international trips were with my parents as a child, when my biggest concern was making sure my reusable battery charger would work to power up my Gameboy while visiting Europe. In college, I studied abroad in the mid-2000s, when some devices worked internationally, but others would all but blow up if you plugged them in without a voltage converter. And in my years as a travel writer, I've been to around 40 countries, including some less-touristy destinations like Lesotho.

So, my experiences have run the gamut, from carrying a chunky converter only to realize it didn't work in my hotel room's sockets to successfully packing just one converter that did it all. I've used adapters specific to one socket type, supposed global adapters that actually weren't, and overpaid by nearly double for an adapter in an airport when I realized I left my sole adapter in my checked luggage. I've become an expert on using travel adapters, whether I like it or not.

What to Look for in a Travel Adapter

Travel adapters used to be big, bulky chunks of plastic with just one plug. That's changed, although you'll still find some older, oversized designs on the market. But most modern adapters are small enough to hold in your palm (a tad smaller than a Rubik's Cube , if you will) and weigh no more than a pair of socks .

The best travel adapters are retractable, meaning the prongs that go into the wall retract into the body of the adapter when not in use. This makes planning and packing easier and reduces the risk of breaking or bending a prong while in transit, which will likely render your adapter useless (and necessitate buying one from an overpriced airport tech store).

Don't Forget These: Best Travel Pillows • Best Travel Accessories • Best Carry-On Luggage • Best Laptop Bags and Backpacks for Traveling and Commuting

Types of Ports

You may think you need to carry three or four travel adapters—one for your laptop, one for your phone, one to charge your camera battery, and so on. However, you can usually get away with a one-plug adapter if it has additional ports, such as USB or USB-C ports. My current adapter (which, full disclosure, also happens to be my top pick) has one plug I use for my laptop, plus four USB ports and a USB-C port. My laptop cube doesn't block any USB ports, so I can charge all my devices simultaneously with just one adapter.

All-in-One Versus Customizable

I like universal adapters, with various buttons and switches for configuring the prongs to fit any socket worldwide. They're ideal when a hotel has different sockets from what you'd find in the rest of the country; something common in hotels that cater to European or western travelers. However, they can sometimes be a little bigger and bulkier as they have to include more prongs and pieces, and you may have to toss it if one prong breaks.

The second option is to buy either a power adapter specific to just one country (ex: it only coverts type A plugs to a type C plug) or one with a base and various attachments. With the latter, you'll always need to carry the base, but you'll only need to bring the adapter tip you'll need for that specific country. Repeat as needed for future trips.

I don't recommend those for disorganized or forgetful travelers, as it's easy to lose the various attachments.

How We Selected These Travel Adapters

Aside from the testing I’ve done over the last decade and change of travel, I took into account recommendations from different types of travelers: from my fellow travel writers, who may visit a different country every month, to my parents, who start packing weeks in advance for their once-every-few-years Europe trip.

I also looked at online reviews—not just the number of reviews but the quality, paying special attention to any ongoing negative themes. I also considered the number of ports and plugs vis-a-vis the size and weight.

You’ll find the EPICKA Universal Power Adapter on more than a few lists of the best travel power adapters, but that’s not because of savvy marketing—it’s genuinely a great buy. I’ve used quite a few travel adapters over the years and this is by far my favorite.

It charges six devices at once, but since four of the plugs are USB chargers, it’s still very small. In fact, it’s probably the smallest travel adapter I’ve ever used, which makes it easy to fit in my carry-on luggage for use in international airports.

It converts any plug type to any plug type (so it works with non-type A or B plugs), and the carrying case helps get crumbs and dust from your bag out of the various USB and USB-C ports (the latter of which is a high-speed charging port.

This is the perfect adapter for multi-country travel or for hotels that may have European sockets in a non-European country. I’ve yet to find any downsides, though there’s one obvious one: the weight of everything plugged in at once. If you have short USB cords and your devices are hanging off the adapter, it could cause it to fall out of the wall socket, especially if you have six plugged in at once.

You can find travel power adapters cheaper than the VINTAR Travel Adapter, but they’re generally only going to have one socket and no additional ports, which means carrying a separate travel adapter for every device you need to charge.

Buying all those will get expensive, so it’s best to spend a few extra bucks to get a budget travel adapter with a few extra ports, like this adapter from VINTAR. It’s still only going to set you back around $13.

The downside is that this is a Europe-only adapter, meaning it only converts type A or B plugs for use in a type C socket. But if you’re traveling to a country with type C sockets, it’s a great second travel adapter to have in your bag in case your primary one breaks (or gets left in a hotel room).

If you’re planning a family vacation to a country where you know for sure you’ll need either a type C (most countries in Europe) or type G (UK) plug, consider buying in bulk. This TESSAN bundle includes three adapters with a total of three power plugs and six USB ports, so the whole family will be set even if everyone has their own laptop, camera, and phone to charge simultaneously.

The most notable downside of this travel adapter pack is that they aren’t universal. Depending on which set you buy, you’ll be able to adapt US appliances to type C or type G only. It’s great for single-country and most European trips, but won’t be very handy if you check into your hotel only to find it doesn’t have the sockets you anticipated.

RXSQUL Universal International Power Travel Plug Adapter

It may seem like a small detail, but having a brightly colored, hard-to-miss travel adapter greatly reduces the chances that you’ll forget it in your hotel room. Black and white travel adapters can easily blend into the walls when you’re doing a final pre-checkout look around the room, especially since you’re probably not used to pulling two items from the wall sockets. Of the RXSOUL’s color options, I find green the most noticeable.

I’ve left more than a few travel adapters in hotel rooms, and while it hasn’t ruined my trip, it is sometimes annoying to try to find a store to buy one on trips to remote areas.

On that note, however: if you do leave your travel adapter behind, call your next hotel and ask if they have one you can borrow. Often, lost-and-found items like travel adapters become hotel loaner items if they’re still unclaimed after a few months.

Greatness Line GR-8 Power Compact & Slim Power Charging Station

If you’re a “digital nomad” working internationally, you’ll likely just need one travel converter. But if you’re traveling for work and plan to have meetings or give presentations while abroad, you’ll want a travel adapter that doesn’t require you to stay hunched over a power socket because your projector or laptop cord is too short.

That’s why the GR-8 Charging Station is ideal. It’s styled akin to a power strip you’d find in the U.S., so you can lay the strip under a desk or meeting space to give everyone more space to plug in. It also has a built-in surge protector to keep your work-provided electronics from getting fried during an outage or surge, but is still small enough to slide into a briefcase or roller bag if you’re going carry-on only.

Foval Power Step Down Travel Voltage Converter

The FOVAL Power Step Down Voltage Converter is the most expensive of my recommendations, but that’s because it’s a two-in-one: it’s a multi-device travel adapter and a power converter. It converts single-voltage devices that use more power (like hair straighteners or CPAP machines) to a lower voltage, which means they’ll work in other countries. Plug in a single-voltage device without a converter, and the reaction could vary: it could not work at all, it could start overheating, or it could start making a buzzing sound and potentially give a mild shock when touched.

There’s a lot to like about the FOVAL voltage converter. It has a long cord rather than plugging directly into the wall, and it comes with four adapters to work in nearly every country. It also comes with a drawstring bag to help you not lose said power adapters. The downsides are size and weight; voltage converters are always bulkier than standard travel adapters, but this will still add just over a pound to your suitcase.

Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit

I prefer universal adapters, but multi-piece adapters (which have different removable tips for each type of port) do have one strong selling point. If a universal adapter breaks, or any of the prongs bend or break, that’s pretty much the end of its useful lifespan. But if your travel adapter has removable tips, you can still convert to type D even if you broke the type G attachment.

If that appeals to you, opt for the Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit. It’s small and has two type B plugs as well as two USB ports. One extra-smart feature worth noting is the built-in USB-C cord, which saves you from carrying a cord when using USB-C devices on the go. It’s also available in a version with two USB ports and two USB-C ports (in addition to the built-in USB-C cord). Note: the front plugs only accommodate Type A and B sockets.

TESSAN Universal Travel Adapter

If most of your devices charge via a USB-C cable, you’ll want to buy a travel adapter with more than one USB-C port. That makes the TESSAN Universal Travel Adapter worth the reasonable price, as it has not one but three USB-C ports (in addition to two standard USB ports).

While you can use a USB to USB-C cord in a pinch, being able to plug your USB-C optimized devices into a USB-C port means you’ll spend less time charging—useful if you need to charge a dead phone battery in the middle of a sightseeing day.

Another great thing about this adapter is that it doesn't just work for US plus (Type A or B) appliances. It can convert any plug type to any other plug type, making it useful for digital nomads or anyone else not based in the U.S. This isn’t the best pick if you mostly charge with standard USB cables, but it’s the best choice for buyers deep in USB-C devices.

Heading Out of the Country? If So, Expert Suzie Dundas Shares Why You Need a Travel Adapter and Which One To Buy!

PM: What’s the difference between a power adapter and a power converter?

SD: A power adapter, also known as a travel plug or a travel adapter, is a small device you’ll need when traveling to a country where the electrical plugs aren’t the same as in the US. These adapters plug into the power sockets in other countries on one side and, on the other, you plug in your device made for US power sockets. However, it does not change the voltage of the power coming from the outlet.

A power converter, also known as a voltage converter, is a device that changes the voltage of the power coming from an outlet. Voltage is essentially the power with which electricity is forced into your device. In the US, most devices like hair straighteners or electric razors are 110 volts. However, most newer devices (including most phones and computers, including Apple computers and both Apple and Google phones) are dual voltage, which means you do not need a power converter—just an adapter.

If you plug something in and notice it getting warm, making a slight buzzing noise, or delivering a very tiny shock when handling the cord, you should unplug it immediately and not use it again until you have a converter.

PM: When do you need a travel adapter?

SD: You will need a travel adapter any time you travel to most countries other than the U.S., Mexico, or Canada. In the U.S., electrical devices have either a type A port (two prongs) or a type B port (two prongs with a central round prong below).

A few countries use these same ports (such as Antigua, Panama, and Saudi Arabia), but in general, most other countries use one of a few other combos. There are 15 different plugs around the world, some of which are used in only one or two countries.

Remember, though, that there is variety within countries. For example, a cruise ship that caters to mainly French tourists may have mostly type E ports, commonly used in France, even if it sails in a country that primarily uses type L.

PM : How do I know which adapter I need?

SD: Fortunately, figuring this part out is easy. If you’re staying at a hotel or going on a cruise that caters to international guests, just ask them what ports they have (or check their FAQ page).

Otherwise, it’s as simple as doing an online search for “what type of power socket does country use?” There are also useful websites available, such as https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com , where you can click on where you live and where you’re coming from to see if you need an adapter (or converter).

Originally from the East Coast, Suzie Dundas is a Lake Tahoe-based freelance writer and editor who now splits her time between enjoying the outdoors and writing about them—she's the senior outdoor editor at Matador Network and a regular adventure and travel contributor at TripSavvy.com . She has written feature stories for publications like Outside Magazine , SkyLife Magazine , Playboy , Frommers, INSIDER, and more, and contributes couples travel and honeymoon content for TheKnot.com . Suzie co-authored Lonely Planet Sustainable Travel Guide and is the author of 2021's "Hiking Lake Tahoe." She has undergraduate degrees from the University of Maryland and an M.A. in media and political communication from George Washington University. Follow her on Instagram at @HikeUpYourSkirt or find more of her work at suziedundas.com . 

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Russia Electric Plug Types: Will You Need An Adapter In Russia?

Planning a trip to the beautiful and historically rich country of Russia? Whether you’re exploring the vibrant city of Moscow , relaxing in the scenic landscapes of St. Petersburg , or discovering the historic wonders of Kazan , it’s essential to know about the electric socket types and whether you’ll need an adapter. This guide will help ensure you stay powered up throughout your adventure in Russia.

Electric Socket Types in Russia

Russia primarily uses Type C and Type F electrical outlets. These types are common in many European countries.

The standard voltage in Russia is 230V , and the frequency is 50Hz . Devices from countries with different voltage standards, like the United States (120V), may require a voltage converter in addition to a plug adapter.

Do You Need a Power Adapter in Russia?

Whether you’ll need a power adapter depends on the type of plug your devices use. Here’s a breakdown based on travelers from different countries and continents:

Travelers from North America (USA, Canada)

In North America, the standard plug types are Type A and Type B , with a voltage of 120V. Since Russia uses Type C and F outlets, you’ll need a Type A/B to Type C/F adapter . Additionally, as the voltage in North America is different, you may also need a voltage converter for devices that are not dual-voltage. Ensure your devices are ready as you explore the vibrant streets of Moscow or the historic city of St. Petersburg.

Travelers from the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom uses Type G outlets with a voltage of 230V. If you’re traveling from the UK, you’ll need a Type G to Type C/F adapter . Fortunately, the voltage is similar, so you won’t need a voltage converter for most devices. Enjoy the seamless experience of using your devices as you visit the historic sites of the Kremlin or the scenic landscapes of Lake Baikal.

Travelers from Europe

Many European countries use the same Type C and Type F outlets as Russia. If you’re traveling from countries like Germany, France, Italy, or Spain, you likely won’t need an adapter. However, it’s always good to double-check your device’s plug type. Keep your camera ready to capture the sights at the Red Square or the vibrant markets of Moscow.

Travelers from Australia

Australia uses Type I outlets with a voltage of 230V. If you’re coming from Australia, you’ll need a Type I to Type C/F adapter . The voltage is compatible, so no voltage converter is required. Ensure your devices are ready for your adventures at the beautiful Trans-Siberian Railway or the cultural festivals in St. Petersburg.

Travelers from Asia

Asia has a variety of plug types and voltages. For example, Japan uses Type A and B (100V), while China uses Type A, C, and I (220V). If you’re traveling from Japan, you’ll need both a plug adapter and a voltage converter. From China, a Type A/C/I to Type C/F adapter may suffice, with a voltage converter for non-dual voltage devices. Stay connected as you enjoy the cultural treasures of Kazan or the natural beauty of the Kamchatka Peninsula.

Summary of Electric Plug Types in Russia

Knowing the electric socket types and whether you need an adapter can save you a lot of hassle during your trip to Russia. Make sure to pack the right adapters and converters to keep your devices powered throughout your journey. Whether you’re exploring the lively streets of Moscow, visiting the historic sites in St. Petersburg, or enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Baikal, staying connected is essential for a smooth travel experience.

Happy travels!

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

Electrical Summary

Plug Compatibility: Type C, Type F

Voltage: 220V – 240V

Frequency: 50 Hz

Can North Americans use Electronics in Russia without an Adapter?

No! North Americans will need an adapter for the outlets and a transformer for the voltage when traveling to Russia . North Americans device plugs will not work with the outlet types in Russia . Also, the voltage in Russia is different from North American voltages.

Can Europeans use Electronics in Russia without an adapter?

Yes! Europeans do not need a travel adapter or transformer when traveling to Russia . Most device plugs will work with the outlet types in Russia . Also, the voltage in Russia is the same as in Europe.  

What Outlet does Russia Use?

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Type C plug sockets are used in Europe, Africa and Asia. They have two round pins and no grounding pin. These plugs are typically used with devices that have a voltage of 220-240V. This outlet is rated for 2.5 amps. Plug Type E, and Type F are compatible with this socket. All other plug types will need an adapter.

Type F electrical plug sockets are used in Germany, Spain, Italy and some parts of Africa . They have two round pins and a grounding pin. These outlets are typically used with devices that have a voltage of 220-240V. This outlet is rated for 16 amps. Plug Type C and Type E are compatible with this socket. All other plug types will need an adapter.

Is it safe to drink water in Russia?

Tap water in Russia is generally safe to drink, although the quality may vary depending on the location. The quality of the water supply system and the drinking water is regulated by the Russian government, and the water treatment processes include filtration, disinfection, and distribution through a network of pipes.

However, some areas may have issues with water quality due to old pipes, lack of maintenance, or other factors. In general, tap water in larger cities, such as Moscow and St. Petersburg, is safe to drink, although it may have a slight taste or odor due to the chlorine used in the treatment process.

In some rural areas or smaller towns, it is recommended to use bottled water or to boil the tap water before drinking it. Bottled water is widely available in Russia, and it is safe to drink.

If you are unsure about the quality of the tap water in a particular location, it is recommended to use bottled water or a water filtration system to ensure safe drinking 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 Russia?

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 country’s capital city, Moscow, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis, home to iconic landmarks such as the Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the Kremlin. Visitors can also explore the city’s numerous museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, showcasing Russia’s rich heritage and artistic traditions.

Other major cities in Russia include St. Petersburg, known as the cultural capital of the country, and Kazan, a vibrant and colorful city with a unique blend of Russian and Tatar cultures. The country is also home to many natural wonders, including the stunning Lake Baikal, the Golden Ring of historic cities, and the rugged mountains of the Caucasus region.

Russia is known for its diverse cuisine, with a range of traditional dishes such as borscht (beetroot soup), pelmeni (dumplings), and blini (pancakes), as well as a thriving tea culture. Visitors can also enjoy the country’s famous vodka and beer.

Russia is a destination for travelers with a mix of cultures and languages. The official language is Russian, but English is widely spoken and understood in major cities. The country has a well-developed tourism infrastructure, with a range of accommodations and activities to suit all budgets and interests.

Overall, Russia is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and natural beauty. With its vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and welcoming locals, Russia offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

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

In Russia, power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type C and type F are used. The standard voltage is 220 V at a frequency of 50 Hz.

• For more information, select the country you live in at the top of this page .

Buy a power plug (travel) adapter

We don't sell power plug adapters. We refer you to Amazon, where you will find a great selection of travel adapters. If you travel a lot, consider buying a world travel adapter that fits multiple sockets. It will come in handy when you go abroad again.

• Find travel adapters at AMAZON

Need anything else?

Check out our checklist

Check if you have packed everything for your trip at our TRAVELER'S CHECKLIST !

Frequently asked questions

Travel adapter needed?

Please select your country of residence, so we can determine if your power plugs fit into the sockets in Russia.

We don't collect any personal data. We only use your input to check if you need a travel adapter. Without it, we can only provide basic information.

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Before you go, packing tips for traveling to russia.

Here you are, preparing for your once-in-a-lifetime trip to far away Russia. By now, everything is ready, (if it's not, please don't hesitate to contact our professional Russia travel experts for unlimited help with your Russia travel plan ) but what's next? It's time to start packing! Do you know how cold or warm it's going to be during your time in Russia? What electric plugs you will need? If your phone will work abroad? We have all the answers. Our experience as one of the world's leading destination management companies for Russia allows for us to give you the most accurate and reliable info to ensure seamless travel from start to finish and unforgettable (positive) memories. Let's dive in:

Money, Rubles and Credit Cards

Interested in a deep dive into Russian money? Go here

Do not bring all of your debit/credit cards. A debit card and cash (we will explain how much below) will be the most useful and appropriate source of funds in Russia. ATMs abound, in hotels and all throughout cities. They use a favorable exchange rate and you can withdraw in US dollars, Russian rubles, or Euros. Many smaller stores only accept cash. Most restaurants accept credit cards, but we recommend you ask them in advance to avoid surprises. So just bring one or two credit cards. Tip: For emergencies, it's a good idea to have cash with you as well.

How much cash do I need?

It's likely not possible to exchange to rubles in your home country before you leave. We advise not to use an ATM at the airport in Russia when you arrive as airport exchange rates are high. If someone is meeting you at the airport and can afford to wait, you can use the ATM at the hotel, in the city, or at a bank. The Russian currency has been not so strong lately and the rate of the Russian ruble fluctuates around 70-80 rubles for 1 US dollar. In the last couple of years, the USD - RUB exchange has doubled, however prices in Russia remained on almost the same level as before the spike which makes it the best time to visit Russia . We recommend that you have anywhere from 3,000 to 10,000 rubles on you at any time. Tip: Call your bank before you depart and let them know that you will be traveling so they do not block your cards while you are in Russia (not all banks do this, but we recommend that you look into it). Bring more than one card in case one gets blocked. If all of your cards get blocked, call Travel All Russia’s emergency number and we'll organize a cash delivery to you, no problem. Important: Carry your money and cards in a pocket that is not easily reached from the outside to prevent any pick-pocketing. It's smart to keep your cards and cash in separate pockets. Find more information about Russian money here.

Weather & Clothing

If you are traveling during the summer, bring what you would wear in the summer at home, plus a warm sweater and/or a light jacket for evenings. The hot summer season is quite short and by August it will have already cooled down substantially. If you have booked one of our guided tours, please bring comfortable walking shoes. Sneakers will be perfect (that is one of the ways Americans are spotted in a crowd as Russians tend to prefer casual leather shoes). If your program includes a visit to an opera or theater, bring a jacket and dark shoes for men and nice clothes for women. Black tie and fancy gowns are unnecessary. If you are traveling for a week, pack enough clothes for the entire visit so you won't have to worry about laundry. If your trip is longer, laundry service will be available at your hotel or cruise ship. Tip: Since airlines baggage restrictions are getting tighter, we recommend one bag per traveler and a smaller carry-on. If you bring more, you might be required to pay airline luggage fees. Having one bag per traveler also helps you get through airport lines faster.

Check your documents before departure to make sure they are valid for your trip. You cannot enter Russia twice on a single entry visa. If you plan to enter and leave Russia multiple times in one trip, you will need a multi-entry visa. Tourist visas are valid for 30 days, so make sure your departure date is before your visa expiration date. If you arrive a day or two earlier than the date on your visa, you will be fined at customs up to $300. If you notice any irregularities in your visa, please contact your travel specialist. Tip: Make two copies of your passport and visa before leaving.  Keep one copy with you and one with the hotel.

Electric plugs

Russia uses 2 round European outlets (see the image). You can easily find an adapter at an electronics store or pharmacy in the US or online. Russia uses 220-volt electricity (America uses 110 volts). Most electrical devices support both. Look on the back of your power adapter it to find its supported voltage. If you see the range “110-240 volts”, your devices are compatible and you're set to go. If it says “110 volts”, it won't be useful.

Phones and SIM cards

To use your cell phone while in Russia, either activate international roaming or unlock your phone with your service provider. The first is easier but more expensive. Unlocking your phone allows you to use local Russian calling services and plans. A phone call made this way from Russia to the US will cost about $1, while US cell phone companies can charge up to $5/minute for international roaming in Russia...so give your service provider a call and they'll set it up for you. SIM cards can be bought on almost every street corner in Russia (you will be required to show your passport when making a purchase). Tip: If you want to keep it simple, just buy a cheap pay-as-you-go phone in Russia for around $20, get a SIM card, and you're ready to go.

Reading list

Russian literature is a treasure trove reflecting on the country's complex and tangled history. Reading some Russian classics before your trip or while exploring Moscow and Saint Petersburg will only enhance your overall experience. Imagine walking the same streets and looking at the same buildings Dostoevsky, Tolstoy and Chekhov did while writing one of their classic novels. Sightseeing will take on a whole new depth.

You do not need any shots before you visit Russia – it is a civilized European country that is safe for foreigners. Tap water is avoided, even by Russians who don’t drink it unless it is boiled (tea, anyone?). If you are taking prescription medication, we recommend that you bring enough to last your entire trip. To get the same prescription in Russia, you will need a prescription from a Russian doctor, which can be challenging as a foreigner. Tip: in case you forget to bring your medicine, please contact our emergency number and we will arrange a visit to an American hospital in Russia. A general rule is to always refer to the emergency number that we provide you with.

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The mercedes glc 350e nearly doubles the battery only range of many phevs..

The new 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e 4MATIC SUV stands out with an impressive EPA-estimated all-electric range of up to 54 miles. It is now available at dealerships in the U.S. starting at $61,050, including destination and delivery fees.

Why the GLC 350e range matters

PHEVs are unique because, although they have a gasoline engine, they recharge their batteries by plugging into an external charger rather than using the gas engine for charging. Regarding range, PHEVs have two: an electric-only range and a combined range with the gas engine. Many PHEVs can go 20 to 30 miles on electric power alone, which is enough for some people. Still, the Mercedes GLC 350e’s 54-mile electric range represents a big step toward making electricity the primary fuel for daily driving.

Additional major features of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e 4MATIC SUV

Mercedes-Benz states that the GKC 350e’s 24.8 kWh battery can be fully charged in as few as 30 minutes when plugged into a DC fast charger. The EPA-estimated combined fuel economy for gas and electric power is 64 MPGe, while the gas engine power estimate is 25 MPG for combined city and highway driving.

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Hot on the heels of Mercedes-Benz EQS update announcement, we now know the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet is scheduled to arrive at U.S. dealerships this spring with new safety technology, optimized aerodynamics, and the next-generation MBUX infotainment system. Powered by mild hybrid engines, the CLE 300 4MATIC Cabriolet and CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet are also larger than the previous models. Why the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet matters

Not many large automakers could get away with introducing a new-generation vehicle today that's not a pickup truck, SUV, battery-electric vehicle, or plug-in hybrid. However, it is arguable that Mercedes sets the standard for four-seat medium-luxury European convertibles. BMW convertible four-seaters are a bit sportier, and Audis are less costly, but the Mercedes CLE Cabriolet fits the drop-top dream car profile nicely. 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet: lets' talk about power

The 2025 Mercedez-Benze EQS Sedan will arrive at U.S. dealerships later in 2024 with significant upgrades. In addition to new exterior design features, the EQS Sedan will have a greater range due to its larger battery and new regenerative braking software. New rear seat comfort features may discourage passengers from wanting to leave the car. Why the 2025 Mercedes-EQS updates matter

Besides Mercedes-Benz's traditional role as a standard-setter for the automotive world, there are two additional reasons to follow EQS developments. EVs present a new frontier for all existing automakers, which carries risks but also provides an open opportunity for outstanding game-changing advances and innovations. Mercedes-Benz definitely wants to continue in that role with EVs.

Over the past few years, Mercedes-Benz has unveiled electric vehicle models such as the EQS, EQB, and EQE models. As is tradition, you also have the option to choose Mercedes-Maybach and AMG electric models to suit your taste. The AMG EQE SUV starts at $109,300, while the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV will cost you around $200,000.

However, the all-electric G Wagon, dubbed the EQG, is missing from the action. The last time we caught a glimpse of it was back in 2021 as a concept car. Well, it’s expected to be produced later this year, and Mercedes-Benz teased it at the 2024 CES technology show in Las Vegas. Here is what you can expect.