If you shop around, you can usually find one for less than $10 online. If you travel a lot, invest in a universal travel adapter, which lets you slide out different plug formations so that you can use the adapter in outlets in any country. If you’re packing lots of devices (like a camera, smartphone and tablet), you should invest in multiple adapters so that you can charge all of your electronics at once. Most are small and lightweight, making them easy to pack. An adapter will allow you only to plug your appliance into another type of outlet. Travel adapter plugsĮven if two countries operate on the same voltage, their outlets might not take the same shape of plug - and that’s where an adapter comes in. Since travel power converters take up so much space on their own, you’ll want to buy one that comes with a built-in plug adapter. Remember that you will always need to use an adapter with a converter, but you won’t always need to use a converter with an adapter. Power converters are generally bulkier and heavier than adapters (which makes sense as they are actually changing electricity). Note that many devices are now available in dual-voltage travel versions, such as this travel iron or this travel hair dryer. Check the label on your electrical appliance to find its wattage. You can also purchase combination converters for both types (many of which also come with adapter plugs). Heating appliances such as dryers, irons, coffee makers and other high-powered electrical devices need converters up to 2000 watts. Small electronics, razors and non-heating appliances will need a 50-watt converter. If this is the case, you’ll only need a plug adapter (see below for more details). If you see something like “INPUT AC 120/240 V 50-60 Hz 1300 W,” then your device is dual-voltage, and you can safely use it for voltages anywhere between 120 V and 240 V. If you want to use it elsewhere, you’ll need a converter. How do you know if your device is dual-voltage? Check the label and/or owner’s manual: If it says something similar to “INPUT AC 120 VAC 60 Hz 200 W,” then your gadget is single-voltage and can only be used on 120 V. Most smartphones, tablets and other gadgets are dual-voltage, and if you use a converter on something that is already dual-voltage, you can damage your device. The vast majority of modern travel gadgets are dual-voltage, meaning they automatically convert to run on other voltage systems. For a complete list of voltage requirements by country, visit .īefore you run out and buy a voltage converter, there’s a very important piece of information you need to know. While Japan, most of North America, and parts of South America and the Caribbean use voltage between 100 and 125, the vast majority of the world uses 220 to 240 volts. Most American-made electrical appliances work at 110 volts. Battery-operated appliances are another option if you’re willing to bring plenty of replacements. If you plan on staying in one country for a while, you might want to buy a hair dryer or electric razor there. While your cell phone is a no-brainer, can you get by without a tablet or laptop? Most hotels offer hair dryers and irons so you don’t have to bring your own, and you can easily use manual razors and toothbrushes instead of their electric counterparts. The first thing to consider is which devices you really need to pack on your trip. View Gallery: International travel: Tips for traveling abroad, from money to Wi-Fi Which devices do I need to bring? Consult this handy chart to see which outlet designs are used in different countries. An outlet adapter changes the shape of your plug, not the electrical voltage, allowing you to plug appliances into wall outlets in countries with different-shaped plugs than your own. Let’s start with the basics: What exactly is the difference between an adapter and a converter?Īn electric converter changes the voltage of your electronic device. Never fear, has put together all the details you need: Travel adapter vs. Otherwise, you may end up with an overheated curling iron (just imagine what this would do to your hair!) or a fried cell phone charger. That means making sure you have the right travel adapter and, if necessary, the right voltage converter.Īll electrical sockets are not created equal if you are going to use a device overseas, you need to know what type of voltage is used in the country you’re traveling to and what type of adapter is needed to plug your devices into the outlet. One is making sure you have the right equipment needed to use any electrical devices you’re bringing on your trip. You’ve renewed your passport, bought your plane tickets, and researched your destination now it’s time to prepare for the little details of traveling overseas. Watch Video: Gadgets that make adulting easier
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