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The 6 Best Travel Adapters and Converters of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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

north america travel adapter

In This Article

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  • Our top picks
  • Other Options We Liked

Our Testing Process

  • Tips for Buying
  • Why Trust T+L

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

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

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

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

Best Overall

Epicka universal travel adapter.

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

It’s able to charge six devices at once. 

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best for Apple Users

Apple travel adapter kit.

  • Effectiveness 5 /5

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

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

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

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

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

Most Compact

Ceptics travel adapter plug for south africa & botswana.

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

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

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

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

Best for Families

Bestek travel adapter and voltage converter.

  • Value 4.5 /5

You can power seven devices at one time. 

It’s bulkier than a lot of other adapters. 

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

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

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

Best Multipack

Ceptics european travel plug adapter.

  • Ease of Use 3 /5

It’s easy to use.

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

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

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

Best for Europe

Jarvania european travel plug adapter.

It works in both the EU and the UK. 

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

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

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

Other Travel Adapters We Liked

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

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

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

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

Tips for Buying Adapters and Converters

Research your destination.

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

Consider a kit

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

Read the fine print

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

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

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

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

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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

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The Best Travel Adapters

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

Ceptics World International Travel Plug Adapter

Best Overall Ceptics World International Travel Plug Adapter Read more

Zendure Passport III charger

Upgrade Pick Zendure Passport III Read more

Plug adapter

Budget Pick Epicka Universal Travel Adapter Read more

Plug adapters

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

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

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

Updated January 2024: We added the OneBeat Travel Plug Adapter, mentioned the OneWorld135 and OneWorld30, added a note on our OneAdaptr recommendations, and updated prices throughout.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get WIRED for just $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED.com , full Gear coverage, and subscriber-only newsletters. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

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 or 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. It’s expensive, but 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.

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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.

Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit

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 ($36) , though it lacks the two USB-C ports.

OneAdaptr OneWorld 100

Fast Charging

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

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

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

OneWorld PD travel adapters

Safest Option

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

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

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

RapidX Modula 5 Wireless Charging System

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 ($15) , and there’s a version with a phone pod and an Apple Watch pod ($45) .

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.)

Mophie 3in1 travel charger kit

For Apple Devices

This handy trio of chargers keeps your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods ticking and folds neatly into a felt carrying case for travel. The magnetic pad in the center can charge your iPhone at the fastest 15-watt rate, the Apple Watch dock pops up for Nightstand mode (sadly no fast charging here), and there is a grooved spot for your AirPods. It is compact and lightweight, and charges all three devices from a single cable and outlet. A 30-watt US wall adapter and a short USB-C to USB-C cable are included, but you must pair this with a travel adapter. We recommend this Mophie charger for travelers in our guide to the  best Apple 3-in-1 wireless chargers .

Type C outlets

International Plug Types and Universal Adapters

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

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

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

phones plugged into power strip

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.

north america travel adapter

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The Best Travel Plug Adapter

A group of some of our picks arranged on a wooden table.

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

Everything we recommend

north america travel adapter

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Best universal travel adapter.

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

Buying Options

north america travel adapter

Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set

The best plug adapter.

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

north america travel adapter

Ceptics Plug Adapter Set

Heavier, but sturdier.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The research

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where in the world will your travel plug adapter work?

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

A view of the slim outlets found in Italy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our pick the Epicka sitting on a table by itself.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A look at the adjustable sliders.

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

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

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

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

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

A group of our adapter picks.

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

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

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

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

A charger plugged into our adapter pick

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

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

A group of our runnerup plugs

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

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

north america travel adapter

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

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

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

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

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

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

north america travel adapter

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

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

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

Universal travel adapters

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plug adapters

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

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

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

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

north america travel adapter

Geoffrey Morrison

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

Further reading

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

The Best Travel Power Strips and Surge Protectors With USB Charging

by Sarah Witman

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

Various travel gear items laid out on a yellow background.

The Best Gear for Travel

by Wirecutter Staff

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

Our picks for the best USB-C cables and adapters.

The Best USB-C Cables and Adapters

While Cable Matters’s USB-C to USB-C Charging Cable is our favorite USB-C option, we also have recommendations for almost every need you could imagine.

north america travel adapter

The Gadgets We Bring on Every Trip

by Haley Perry

You don't have to be a digital nomad to travel like one. Here are a few gadgets and accessories to make travel as painless as possible.

'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean?

ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing.

When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers.

ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form .

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

lena-borrelli-author.jpg

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. 

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Best travel plug adapter overall.

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

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 4.7 star rating 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. 

Also: These are the travel essentials you need, according to tech and travel experts

Bestek Universal Travel Adapter

Best converter combination travel plug adapter.

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

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. 

Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit

Best all-in-one travel plug adapter.

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

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

Targus World Power Travel Adapter

Best portable travel plug adapter.

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

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.

Zendure Passport III

Best travel plug adapter for fast charging.

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

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

The best magsafe battery packs: expert tested, the best power banks of 2023: anker, apple, and more compared, the best travel vpns: expert tested.

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Select editors’ favorite travel adapters for your next big trip

Travel adapters are essential when traveling abroad, since different countries have different wall outlets.

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.

north america travel adapter

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

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

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

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

Foval Travel Voltage Converter

north america travel adapter

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.

A U.K. to U.S. plug adapter, shown sitting on three different sides

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

A universal adapter with four different plug options. The levers on the side of the case slide each plug option forward.

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.

north america travel adapter

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.

north america travel adapter

Harry Rabinowitz is a reporter for Select on NBC News.

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north america travel adapter

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

Electrical Summary

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

Plug Compatibility: Type A, Type B

Voltage: 120V

Frequency: 60 Hz

Type A Outlet: A white electrical outlet with two sockets

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

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

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

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

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

What Outlet does the United States Use?

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

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

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

Is it safe to drink water in the United States?

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

We recommend always packing a filtered water bottle when traveling:

Travel Essentials

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

Recommended Travel Essentials

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

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

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

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

Travel Summary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

United States of America (USA)

In the United States, power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type A and type B are used. The standard voltage is 120 V at a frequency of 60 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?

Universal Travel Power Adapter - EPICKA

Check out our checklist

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

Frequently asked questions

north america travel adapter

Travel adapter needed?

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

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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Need help? Call (800) 347-0394 or (602) 938-6057 (US & Canada). Email at [email protected].

Plug Adapters & Voltage Converter for Traveling to North America

North America entices millions of tourists each year looking to discover and explore the vast region. However, suppose you plan to explore it with your must-have gadgets like a cellphone, tablet, camera, or more. In that case, you will need to figure out how to charge each of them into the local power grid. 

So many countries—and even regions— develop their own electricity standards. It's safe to say that diversity reigns out here. In some cases, you'll only need a plug adapter, but there are many where you'll need a voltage converter. Follow these steps to figure out if you need an adapter or converter throughout your travels through the United States:

  • Verify the plug type
  • Purchase the correct adapter plug for that outlet
  • Verify the voltage in the outlet
  • Verify the voltage input on each device
  • Get the proper voltage conversion accessory

Your first challenge is ensuring you can plug your device into the wall outlet. In places where the plug type differs, you'll need an adapter plug with the correct prong configuration for outlets at your destination.

16 different plugs (Type A through Type O) used worldwide

According to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), 16 different plugs (Type A through Type O) are used worldwide. There are two associated plug types for the United States and Canada: Type A or NEMA 1-15 and Type B or NEMA 5-15. Type A is the first plug type with two flat parallel pins, and Type B is the second type with two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. An adapter plug will be vital if your devices do not fit either the Type A or the Type B wall outlet. 

Adapter Plug Shopping Tips

An  adapter  will allow you to plug your appliance into a different type of outlet. In addition, most are small and lightweight, making them easy to pack.

However, a universal travel adapter is well worth the investment if you travel a lot. A universal adapter is an all-in-one device allowing most prong and socket types to be compatible. This is the best device for frequent travelers, as you won't need to worry about changing the prongs on your adapter. 

Before purchasing a Travel Adapter

Before purchasing your travel adapter, here are some essential shopping tips and tricks:

  • Buy adapter plugs before you leave.  Don't leave it to chance to find out if your destination will have an adapter or waste precious travel time searching for one. 
  • Pay attention to the back side of the adapter.  You need to plug your device into the backside of an adapter plug.
  • Examine the adapter plug and universal adapters carefully.  Don't assume an adapter plug or a universal adapter will cover you. Instead, double-check that they have the specific plug or setting that works in the United States before you purchase.
  • Charging multiple devices:  Simultaneously charging more than one device will require an adapter plug for each device or a single adapter plug and a power strip with multiple outlets. In addition, a multi-outlet surge protector will add protection for places with less stable electrical grids.

Quick 220 ® International Power Strip

north america travel adapter

If you want to power multiple devices, consider an electrical strip to power everything in one location. The Quick 220 ® international power strip is perfect for your devices. It can power anything from the UK, Asia, Europe, South America, Africa, Australia, and North America. Since America has the universal international multi-prong outlets, they provide the correct plug face for all of your appliances or hair styling tools. In addition, this power strip has a Type B wall plug and a built-in surge protector to protect your electronics. 

The World of Voltages

Throughout the world, two voltage ranges are standard, 110-120V or 208-240V. Suppose your electronic device falls into either of those ranges. In that case, the variations within that range will not be an issue. For example, it will work if the local power is 220 volts, and your device requires an input of 240 volts. 

In Europe and much of the rest of the world, the voltage from the public grid is 220-240 volts. However, outlets in  North America  output 120 volts. The good news is that the power delivered to every building is still 240 volts. Once inside, the current splits into two phases of 110-120 volts dispersed throughout the building and called phases.   These phases can be electrically tapped with a Quick 220 ® System to give 208-240 volts. 

What is Your Voltage?

Your next step will be to check the voltage (V) for your destination and the requirements for each device. For more information on the voltage of your destination, refer to the   IEC World Plugs List , order the "Electric Potential" column or call the location you will be staying. On the other hand, devices can be single, dual, or multi-voltage devices. 

Single and Multi-Voltage Devices

If you have a newer electronic device, there is a possibility you'll only need a plug adapter. First, check the label on your device to find out if this is the case. The label is usually on the back of the device, the power cord, or molded into the plastic. Look for the word "INPUT" for the information you need.

If your device is  single-voltage , it will have a narrow voltage range (usually 220-240V for European devices). These are generally older devices or items with sensitive electronics and no built-in transformer. You'll need a plug adapter and a Quick 220 ® voltage converter for these items.

A  dual-voltage  device will use a slash to separate the two voltages (120V/240V in most cases). These are usually newer consumer electrical devices designed for several countries and require minimal modification. Dual voltage devices typically have a switch somewhere on them to specify which voltage they are operating.

Multi-voltage  items use a dash in the INPUT line to indicate that they can operate from a wide range of voltages (typically 100-240V). Devices like this only require a plug adapter.

Voltage Converters

north america travel adapter

In the United States and Canada, the supply voltage is 120V. However, suppose you have a single-voltage device that differs from the voltage level at your destination. Then, a  voltage converter  is necessary for the appliance to work safely and correctly at 120V. 

The good news is that  Quick 220 ® Systems  has you covered on everything you need to operate your international devices from North American outlets. We offer universal plug adapters that even support Shuko-style grounding plugs. We even have incredibly portable and easy-to-use voltage adapters to supply your devices.

How does the Quick 220 ® voltage converter work?

Remember when we talked about two phases, each at 120V, in North American buildings? A  Quick 220 ® voltage converte r can combine those phases. All you need is two standard outlets, one in each of the phases. Plug one supply cord from the Quick 220 ® voltage converter into each one. The indicator on the front of the unit will light up if it is connected properly. Then flip the breaker on the side of the unit to supply the outlet. However, this still gives you a North American spec NEMA 6 outlet. To connect your device, take the plug and insert it into the universal plug adapter or the Shuko grounding adapter if it's needed.

Wrapping Up

North America is full of vast terrains, memorable landmarks, and rich with culture. Ensure your must-have gadgets can capture each moment by staying powered up throughout your stay. Before your trip, verify the plug type and voltage to where you will be staying. Suppose an adapter plug or voltage converter is needed for your electric devices. In that case, purchasing these before your travels is essential. 

If you still have unanswered questions, leave a comment below. We'll update this post with your question and our answer.  

If you're unsure what voltage or Quick 220 ® systems you need, try our simple  questionnaire  or  contact us  for help, we would love to hear from you. 

Telephone:  1-800-347-0394 (US & Canada) or 1-602-938-6057

Fax:  1-602-862-0215

Email:  [email protected]

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North America Travel Adapters

14 products

Adapter Canada, Mexico, US North America Travel Kit | Going In Style

Adapter Canada, Mexico, US North America Travel Kit | Going In Style

Watch the Eagle Creek Pack It Cube Organization Packing Video

North America Canada, US, Mexico Adapter Plug Kit has the adapters you will need for traveling to North America.

Deluxe:  Includes two adapters for traveling Mexico, Canada and the US.  This kit includes Priority Shipping with tracking.

Standard :  Includes one Grounded Adapters for traveling North America.

Basic:  Includes one Non-Grounded Adapter for traveling North America.

This North America adapter kit DOES NOT include the United Kingdom adapter plug that is used in many countries in the Caribbean and Belize. Please see  the Caribbean Adapter plug kit and Central America adapter plug kit.

Visiting North America is a wonderful experience with lots to see and do. Canada is a large country. If you find yourself on the West Coast you need to visit the beautiful and diverse city of Vancouver. Many movies are filmed in Vancouver including Cabin In The Woods (2012) and Fantasic Four (2005) . Vancouver is less than an hour drive to the United States border and about a three hour drive to the city of Seattle.

North America, Canada, US and Mexico Deluxe Travel Adapter Plug Set includes a grounded and an ungrounded plug. These adapter plugs allow you to plug your foreign (Australia, Europe, China) electric plugs into United States wall outlets.

Adapter plugs allow electrical connections up to 240 volts. An adapter plug does NOT change the current or voltage (this requires a converter) unless your appliance is dual voltage. A non-grounded adapter may NOT be used with appliances that have grounded plugs; for these you will need a grounded adapter.  If your hair dryer, curling iron, electric razor is not dual voltage you will most likely need a converter to use your electric.  

Deluxe Adapter Plug Kit Includes: 

  • Four adapters total
  • Personal adapter travel bag
  • Priority shipping upgrade with tracking
  • Going In Style North America Adapter Plug Kit GIS-000

Standard Adapter Plug Kit Includes:

  • Two grounded adapter plugs
  • CE Certified plugs

Basic Adapter Plug Kit Includes:

  • Two non-grounded adapter plugs
  • Polarized Plugs

Going In Style Adapters Feature:

  • CE Certified
  • Polarized adapter to fit polarized plugs (one prong larger than the other) 
  • Allows connection up to 240 volts
  • Enables United States appliance plugs to fit into foreign country wall outlets
  • Enables Europe appliance plugs to fit into foreign country wall outlets
  • An adapter plug does NOT change the current or voltage (this requires a converter).
  • Going In Style Adapters will work with Going In Style Converters
  • Note:  This Continental Europ e Kit does NOT include the UK adapter

Going In Style Grounded and Non Grounded Adapter Plug Travel Video

Going In Style North America Adapter Plugs Video

Grounded Adapter Plugs

If you are traveling with a grounded United States dual/multi-voltage appliance or using a grounded Transformer you will need to use a grounded adaptor plug. A grounded United States plug has two flat blades and one round pin.

Non-Grounded Adapter Plugs

Going In Style offers non-grounded adapter plugs for use with your voltage converter, transformer, or dual/multi voltage appliance. A non-grounded United States plug has two flat blades.

Computers and Apple Products If you are traveling overseas with a Toshiba, HP, Lenovo, Asus, laptop or Apple device such as an iPad, chances are you won’t need a voltage converter. Most laptops are multi-voltage and will operate on voltages ranging from 100 to 240 volts. However, computers do need to make safe connections to foreign power systems and a surge protector is recommended and you will still need an adapter to use your plug.

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Adapter Caribbean Travel Kit | Going In Style

Adapter Caribbean Travel Kit | Going In Style

When traveling through the countries and islands of the Caribbean these adapter plugs allow you to plug in your North America appliances into Caribbean wall outlets.

Deluxe Adapter Kit:  Includes 8 adapters and ships Priority Mail

Standard Adapter Kit:  Includes 4 grounded adapters.  

Basic Adapter Kit:   Includes 4 non-grounded adapters.

The Caribbean Region is a beautiful travel destination composed of over 700 islands.  The country of Aruba, the Bahamas and the Virgin Islands are some of the most popular Caribbean travel destinations. 

When traveling to a foreign country it is important to remember to take along the correct adapter for each country you will be visiting. With the Caribbean Complete Adapter Kit, you will be sure to have the correct adapter to charge your smart phone and operate your hair dryer when you are traveling abroad.

The Deluxe Caribbean Adapter Plug Set comes with a total of eight adapter plugs and includes both grounded and non-grounded plugs. Going In Style's Deluxe Adapter Plug Kits always ship Priority Mail with tracking so you will have your adapters to you in time for your trip.

The Standard Caribbean Travel Adapter Kit comes with four grounded adapter plugs to plug in your three-prong, grounded devices.  The Basic Caribbean Adapter Plug Set comes with four non-grounded adapter plugs to plug in your non-grounded, two-pronged devices into Caribbean wall outlets.  If you are not sure whether you will need grounded or non-grounded adaptors for your trip, watch Going In Style's Adapter Video showing grounded and non-grounded plugs.

Adapter plugs allow electrical connections up to 240 volts. An adapter plug does NOT change the current or voltage (this requires a converter) unless your appliance is dual voltage. A non-grounded adapter may NOT be used with appliances that have grounded plugs; for these you will need a grounded adapter.  If your hair dryer, curling iron, electric razor is not dual voltage you will most likely need a converter to use your electric.  

Many of our customers find it handy to have multiple adaptors while traveling - either to run several appliances simultaneously or simply as a backup.

Why do I need a North American adapter?

Even though a country uses North American sockets, the sockets are not required to be polarized. Since devices such as laptops have a polarized plug with one prong wider than the other, you may still need an adapter to use your plug in this country.

Deluxe Kit Features:

  • Nine adapter plugs
  • Priority shipping upgrade
  • Handy travel bag
  • Going In Style Caribbean Adapter Model GIS-000-A-GUA

Standard Kit Features:

  • Five grounded adapter
  • CE Certified 

Basic Kit Features:

  • Four non-grounded adapter
  • Polarized plugs

Going In Style Kit Features:

  • Enables United States appliance plugs to fit into foreign outlets
  • Enables Europe appliance plugs to fit into foreign outlets

Cycles: 50 Hz vs. 60 Hz.

Always check to see how many volts your destination country operates on before you travel.

Always check your appliances before your trip to make sure all of your appliances and electronics are dual voltage.  If an appliance is not dual voltage you will need a converter.  

Computers and Apple Products

If you are traveling overseas with a Toshiba, HP, Lenovo, Asus, laptop or Apple device such as an iPad, chances are you won’t need a voltage converter. Most laptops are multi-voltage and will operate on voltages ranging from 100 to 240 volts. However, computers do need to make safe connections to foreign power systems and a surge protector is recommended and you will still need an adapter to use your plug.

Converter- Changing Current Voltage

Going in Style adapters allow electrical connections up to 240 volts. Adapter plugs DO NOT convert voltage and only change the configuration of the pins. When voltage conversion is needed, use an electricity converter. An electricity converter changes the voltage input into your appliance. The United States electrical appliances operate on a lower current of 110-120 volts AC (Alternating Current). Most of the world operates on 220-240 volts AC. Therefore converter units enable your electronic and non-electronic appliances to run on foreign electricity (220-240 volts) to match the voltage requirements of your 110-120 volt device. Failure to run your appliance with a converter could damage your appliance.

Countries in the Caribbean

  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Bahamas, The
  • British Virgin Islands
  • Cayman Islands
  • Dominican Republic
  • Netherlands Antilles
  • Puerto Rico
  • Saint Barthelemy
  • Saint Kitts & Nevis
  • Saint Lucia
  • Saint Martin
  • Saint Vincent
  • Trinidad & Tobago
  • Turks & Caicos Islands
  • US Virgin Islands

Map highlighting the region of Central America where Central America adapters will work

Adapter Central America Travel Kit | Going In Style

Central America Adapter Plug Kit has the adapters you will need for traveling to the countries of Central America including Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador..

Deluxe:  Includes four adapter plugs for Central America.  This kit includes Priority Shipping with tracking.

Standard :  Includes two Grounded Adapters for traveling Central America.

Basic:  Includes two Non-Grounded Adapter for traveling Central America.

Central America has a lot to offer travelers.  If you find yourself in Belize, you need to visit the Belize Zoo. Many of the animals at the Belize Zoo are rescue animals. The night tour of the Belize Zoo is awesome because many of the animals are nocturnal.

Nicaragua has an museum in the city of Granada called Iglesia San Francisco.  Black basalt statues at the museum are a must see. Tikal National Park in Guatemala is located in the jungle of Guatemala.  Mayan architecture gives you a glimpse of how the Mayans lived thousands of years ago.  Beautiful temples and Mayan plazas make for a breathtaking view.

  • Going In Style Central America Adapter Plug Kit GIS-000
  • Going In Style Central America Adapter Plug Kit GIS-000

Belize Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Belize Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Belize Travel Adapter Plug Kit allows you to plug in your North America, European and Australia appliances into Belize wall outlets.

Deluxe  Adapter Kit:  Includes four adapters and ships Priority Mail with tracking.

Standard Adapter Kit:  Includes two grounded adapters.  

Basic Adapter Kit:   Includes two non-grounded adapters.

The Standard Going In Style Antigua and Barbuda Adapter Plug Set comes with two grounded adapters.  The Basic Going In Style Antigua and Barbuda Adapter Kit comes with two non-grounded adapters.  If you are not certain whether you will need a grounded or a non grounded plug for your trip to the Caribbean, you can  watch Going In Style's Adapter Video featuring grounded and non-grounded plugs .

Two of Peru's three adapters have two flat pins that fit into Peru and US outlets. Outlet sockets in Peru are not required to be polarized, whereas US appliance have polarized plugs. In order for US appliances to fit into Peru outlets a polarize adapter may be needed. If you decide you don't need the North America flat pin adaptor, make sure you still bring the two round pin type adapter plug for your trip in case you encounter a round pin wall outlet. Adapter plugs allow electrical connections up to 240 volts. An adapter plug does NOT change the current or voltage (this requires a converter) unless your appliance is dual voltage. Check to make sure your hair dryer, curling iron, electric razor and other appliances are dual voltage before you leave on your trip. Non-grounded adapters may NOT be used with appliances that have grounded plugs; for these you will need a grounded adapter. Many of our customers find it handy to have multiple adaptors while traveling - either to run several appliances simultaneously or simply as a backup.

  • Going In Style Adapter Model GIS-000-D-E-GUD-GUE
  • Going In Style Adapter Model GIS-000
  • All Going In Style Adapters will allow a US (North America) Plug
  • Going In Style Adapters also allow China and Australia plugs to adapt
  • Note:  The plug may fit tightly at first but will loosen up after multiple uses

Canada Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Canada Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Canada Adaptor Kit has the adaptors you will need for traveling to the North America country of Canada.

Deluxe Adapter Kit: Includes two adapters and ships Priority Mail with tracking.

Standard Adapter Kit: Includes one grounded adapter.

Basic Adapter Kit: Includes one non-grounded adapter.

Canada is a country in the northern part of North America. It is bordered by the United States. Canada uses the same type of two flat pin adapter as the United States and Mexico uses. If you are traveling to Canada, US and Mexico you will only need this type of adapter to use your Australia, China or European Appliances. Canada adaptors allow you to plug in your Australia, China and European appliances while visiting Canada. The adapters change the pin configuration to fit into Canada wall outlets.

The Deluxe Going In Style Canada Adapter Plug Kit comes with two adapter plugs and ships Priority Mail with tracking. This Kit is great for someone traveling to Canada from overseas such as Australia, China or Europe.

The Standard Canada Adapter Kit comes with a grounded plug. The Basic Canada Adapter Kit comes with a non-grounded plug Adapter plugs allow electrical connections up to 240 volts.

An adapter plug does NOT change the current or voltage (this requires a converter) unless your appliance is dual voltage. Non-grounded adapters may NOT be used with appliances that have grounded plugs; for these you will need a grounded adapter. Many of our customers find it handy to have multiple adaptors while traveling - either to run several appliances simultaneously or simply as a backup.

Going In Style Canada Adapter Model GIS-CAN-A-GUA

Grounded Adapter Plugs If you are traveling with a grounded United States dual/multi-voltage appliance or using a grounded Transformer you will need to use a grounded adaptor plug. A grounded United States plug has two flat blades and one round pin.

Non-Grounded Adapter Plugs Going In Style offers non-grounded adapter plugs for use with your voltage converter, transformer, or dual/multi voltage appliance. A non-grounded United States plug has two flat blades.

Canada operates on 120 volt electricity and is generated at 60Hz (Cycles) Alternating Current. United States 110-120 volt electricity is generated at 60Hz (Cycles) Alternating Current. Many foreign countries operate on 50Hz. This difference in cycles may cause the motor in your 60Hz United States appliance to operate slightly slower when used on 50Hz foreign electricity. Most modern electronic equipment including battery chargers, Lenovo, HP, Asus, Toshiba computers, iPods, etc., will not be affected by the difference in cycle.

Channel Islands Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Channel Islands Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Channel Island Adapter Plug Kit allows you to use your US appliance when traveling to the Channel Islands.

Deluxe Adapter Kit: Includes four adapters and ships Priority Mail with tracking. Standard Adapter Kit: Includes two grounded adapters. Basic Adapter Kit: Includes two non-grounded adapters.

British Channel Islands are not officially part of the United Kingdom  Jersey is the largest of the channel Islands and 47 square miles. Travelers to the Channel Islands can enjoy beautiful green landscapes, cliffs, beaches and harbors. The Channel Islands are a charming group of islands with plenty of cute shops, restaurants and hostels.  Travelers can travel to the Channel islands either by boat or plane. The islands of Jersey and Guernsey are the main points of entry for travel.

Adapter plugs allow electrical connections up to 240 volts. An adapter plug does NOT change the current or voltage (this requires a converter) unless your appliance is dual voltage. A non-grounded adapter may NOT be used with appliances that have grounded plugs; for these you will need a grounded adapter. If your hair dryer, curling iron, electric razor is not dual voltage you will most likely need a converter to use your electric. For more information see Going In Style's Adapter and Converter Finder.How to tell the difference between a grounded and a non-grounded plug. adapter.

Going In Style Channel Islands Adapter Model GIS-CHAN-B-D-GUB-GUD

  Going In Style Adapter Plug Grounded and Non Grounded Video

Channel Islands operates on 220 volt electricity and is generated at 50Hz (Cycles) Alternating Current. United States 110-120 volt electricity is generated at 60Hz (Cycles) Alternating Current. This difference in cycles may cause the motor in your 60Hz United States appliance to operate slightly slower when used on 50Hz foreign electricity. Most modern electronic equipment including battery chargers, computers, iPods, etc., will not be affected by the difference in cycle.

Converter- Changing Current Voltage Going in Style adapters allow electrical connections up to 240 volts. Adapter plugs DO NOT convert voltage and only change the configuration of the pins. When voltage conversion is needed, use an electricity converter. An electricity converter changes the voltage input into your appliance. The United States electrical appliances operate on a lower current of 110-120 volts AC (Alternating Current). Most of the world operates on 220-240 volts AC. Therefore converter units enable your electronic and non-electronic appliances to run on foreign electricity (220-240 volts) to match the voltage requirements of your 110-120 volt device. Failure to run your appliance with a converter could damage your appliance.

Costa Rica Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Costa Rica Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Costa Rica Adapter Plug Kit has the adapters you will need for traveling to all parts of the beautiful country of the Costa Rica, from the Caribbean Sea to the east to the Pacific Coast to the west.

Deluxe Adapter Kit:  Includes two adapters and ships Priority Mail with tracking.

Standard Adapter Kit:  Includes one grounded adapter.  

Basic Adapter Kit:   Includes one non-grounded adapter.

The Costa Rica adapter plug allows you to plug your foreign appliances and electronics into Costa Rica wall outlets.  These adapter plugs will work in Costa Rica including Heredia, Cartago, and Liberia.  Costa Rica is located in Central America and uses a North America, two flat prong, type adapter plug. These adaptor plugs enable your appliance's plug configuration to fit into Australia electrical power outlets.

 Adapter plugs allow electrical connections up to 240 volts. An adapter plug does NOT change the current or voltage (this requires a converter) unless your appliance is dual voltage. Grounded adapter plugs maintain the ground from the electrical outlet to your appliance.

Even though Costa Rica uses North American sockets, the sockets are not required to be polarized. Since devices such as laptops have a polarized plug with one prong wider than the other, you will still need an adapter to use your plug in Costa Rica.

  • Two adapter plugs
  • Going In Style Costa Rica Model GIS-COS-A-GUA
  • One grounded adapter
  • Going In Style Costa Rica Model GIS-COS-GUA
  • One non-grounded adapter
  • Going In Style Costa Rica Model GIS-COS-A
  • Enables United States appliance plugs to fit into India outlets
  • Enables Europe appliance plugs to fit into India outlets

El Salvador Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

El Salvador Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

El Salvador Adapter Plug Kit for charging your cell phone, tablet and other electronics when you travel overseas to El Salvador

The Deluxe El Salvador Adapter Plug Set comes with two adapter plugs, one grounded and one non-grounded plug. These adaptor plugs enable your appliance's plug configuration to fit into this Anguilla's electrical power outlets. Adapter plugs allow electrical connections up to 240 volts. An adapter plug does NOT change the current or voltage (this requires a converter) unless your appliance is dual voltage. Grounded adapter plugs maintain the ground from the electrical outlet to your appliance. Many of our customers find it handy to have multiple adaptors while traveling - either to run several appliances simultaneously or simply as a backup. If you think you will need additional adapters for your trip, you can also purchase individual adapters.

Even though this country uses North American sockets, the sockets are not required to be polarized. Since devices such as laptops have a polarized plug with one prong wider than the other, you may still need an adapter to use your plug in this country.

Going In Style Adapter El Salvador Model GIS-ELS-A-GUA

  • Going In Style Adapter Model GIS-ELS-A-GUA
  • Going In Style Adapter Model GIS-ELS-GUA
  • Going In Style Adapter Model GIS-ELS-A

Guatemala Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Guatemala Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Guatemala Adapter Plug Travel Kit for traveling to the North American country of Guatemala.

Guatemala is located in Central America bordering Mexico and the Pacific Ocean. Guatemala uses a North America, two flat pin, type of adapter plug that is used in Canada and Mexico. Adapter plugs allow electrical connections up to 240 volts. An adapter plug does NOT change the current or voltage (this requires a converter) unless your appliance is dual voltage.A non-grounded adapter may NOT be used with appliances that have grounded plugs; for these you will need a grounded adapter. If your hair dryer, curling iron, electric razor is not dual voltage you will most likely need a converter to use your electric. For more information see Going In Style's Adapter and Converter Finder. Many of our customers find it handy to have multiple adaptors while traveling - either to run several appliances simultaneously or simply as a backup.

  • Going In Style Guatemala Adapter Model GIS-GUAT-A-GUA
  • Going In Style Guatemala Adapter Model GIS-GUAT-GUA
  • Going In Style Guatemala Adapter Model GIS-GUAT-A

Guatemala operates on 120 volt electricity and is generated at 60Hz (Cycles) Alternating Current. United States 110-120 volt electricity is generated at 60Hz (Cycles) Alternating Current. Many foreign countries operate on 50Hz. This difference in cycles may cause the motor in your 60Hz United States appliance to operate slightly slower when used on 50Hz foreign electricity. Most modern electronic equipment including battery chargers, computers, iPods, etc., will not be affected by the difference in cycle.

If you think you will need a converter visit Going In Style's  Converter and Transformer page.

Honduras Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Honduras Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Honduras Adapter Plug Kit for traveling to Honduras.  Buy your adapters before your trip so you can charge your cell phone and tablet as soon as you land at your destination.

Honduras is located in Central America bordering Guatemala.  Honduras uses a two flat pin style of North America Plug that is also used in the United States and Canada.  When traveling to a foreign country it is important to take along the correct adapter plug for your trip.

Even though Honduras uses North American sockets, the sockets are not required to be polarized. Since devices such as laptops have a polarized plug with one prong wider than the other, you will still need an adapter to use your plug in Honduras.

  • Going In Style Honduras Adapter Model GIS-HOND-A-GUA
  • Note:  The plug may fit tightly at first but will loosen up with use. 

Mexico Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Mexico Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Mexico adaptor kit has the adapters you will need to travel to Mexico.  Buy adapter plugs so you can charge your iPhone and tablet when you vacation to Mexico.  Mexico adaptors will work in all regions and cities in Mexico including, Mexico City, Guadalajara, Chihuahua, Cuautitlán Izcalli, Tampico, Texcoco...

Mexico is located in North America south of the United States and uses a North America, two flat pin, type adapter plug that is used in the United States and Canada.

Mexico adaptor kit has the adapters you will need to travel to Mexico. Even though Mexico uses the same type of plug as the United States, Mexico wall outlets are not required to be polarized, therefore an adapter plug may be needed to plug in your US appliances that have polarized plugs (one pin larger than the other).

These adaptor plugs can also be used with European, Australia and China appliances. Adapter plugs allow electrical connections up to 240 volts. An adapter plug does NOT change the current or voltage (this requires a converter) unless your appliance is dual voltage. A non-grounded adapter may NOT be used with appliances that have grounded plugs; for these you will need a grounded adapter. If your hair dryer, curling iron, electric razor is not dual voltage you will most likely need a converter to use your electric.

For more information see Going In Style's Adapter and Converter Finder. Many of our customers find it handy to have multiple adaptors while traveling - either to run several appliances simultaneously or simply as a backup.

Why do I need a North American adapter? Even though Mexico uses North American sockets, the sockets are not required to be polarized. Since some devices such as laptops have a polarized plug with one prong wider than the other, you may still need an adapter to use your plug in Mexico.

Going In Style Mexico Model GIS-ME-A-GUA

Grounded Adapter Plugs If you are traveling with a grounded United States dual/multi-voltage appliance or using a grounded Transformer you will need to use a grounded adaptor plug. A grounded United States plug has two flat blades and one round pin. Buy grounded adapters if you will be traveling with a laptop that has a three-prong plug.

Mexico operates on 120 volt electricity and is generated at 60Hz (Cycles) Alternating Current. United States 110-120 volt electricity is generated at 60Hz (Cycles) Alternating Current. Many foreign countries operate on 60Hz. This difference in cycles may cause the motor in your 60Hz United States appliance to operate slightly slower when used on 50Hz foreign electricity. Most modern electronic equipment including battery chargers, Lenovo, HP, Asus, Toshiba computers, iPods, etc., will not be affected by the difference in cycle..

Nicaragua Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Nicaragua Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Nicaragua Adapter Plug Travel Kit for traveling to the North American country of Nicaragua. Buy adapters for plugging in your United States electrics into Nicaragua wall outlets when you travel.

Nicaragua is located in Central America bordering Costa Rica.  Nicaragua uses a two flat pin style of North America adapter plug that is also used in the United States.

Adapter plugs allow electrical connections up to 240 volts. An adapter plug does NOT change the current or voltage (this requires a converter) unless your appliance is dual voltage. This adapter may NOT be used with appliances that have grounded plugs; for these you will need a grounded adapter.

Even though Nicaragua uses North American sockets, the sockets are not required to be polarized. Since devices such as laptops have a polarized plug with one prong wider than the other, you may still need an adapter to use your plug in Nicaragua.

Going In Style Nicaragua Adapter Model GIS-NIC-A-GUA

  • Going In Style Adapter Model GIS-NIC-A-GUA
  • Going In Style Adapter Model GIS-NIC-GUA
  • Going In Style Adapter Model GIS-NIC-A

Watch our video on grounded vs non-grounded adapters.

Panama Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Panama Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

Panama Adapter Plug Set allows you to plug in your foreign appliances into Panama wall outlets.  Panama adapters adapt China, Australia and North America plugs to fit into Panama wall outlets. Buy adapter plugs so you can charge your iPhone while traveling.

Panama is located in Central America and uses a North America style of adapter plug that is also used in the US and Canada. When traveling to Panama it is important to take along the correct adapter plug for your trip. Adapter plugs allow electrical connections up to 240 volts.An adapter plug does NOT change the current or voltage (this requires a converter) unless your appliance is dual voltage. This adapter may NOT be used with appliances that have grounded plugs; for these you will need a grounded adapter. Many of our customers find it handy to have multiple adaptors while traveling - either to run several appliances simultaneously or simply as a backup.

Going In Style Panama Adapter Model GIS-PAN-A-GUA

  • Going In Style Country Panama Adapter Model GIS-PAN-A-GUA
  • Going In Style Adapter Panama Adapter Model GIS-PAN-GUA
  • Going In Style Adapter Panama Adapter Model GIS-PAN-A
  • The Deluxe Kit comes with a handy drawstring adapter bag.

Grounded Adapter Plugs | Earthed Adapters

Non-Grounded Adapter Plugs | Non Earthed Adapters

Panama operates on 120 volt electricity and is generated at 60Hz (Cycles) Alternating Current. United States 110-120 volt electricity is generated at 60Hz (Cycles) Alternating Current. Many foreign countries operate on 50Hz. This difference in cycles may cause the motor in your 60Hz United States appliance to operate slightly slower when used on 50Hz foreign electricity. Most modern electronic equipment including battery chargers, Lenovo, HP, Asus, Toshiba computers, iPods, etc., will not be affected by the difference in cycle.

United States Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

United States Travel Adapter Kit | Going In Style

North America Adapter Plug Kit has the adapters you will need for traveling to all parts of the United States.

North America Adapter Plug Kit has the adapters you will need for traveling to all parts of the beautiful country of the United States including New York , San Francisco, Seattle, Chicago and Austin. The North America adapter plug allows you to plug your foreign appliances and electronics into US wall outlets.

  • Going In Style United States Model GIS-UNITEDS-A-GUA
  • Going In Style United States Model GIS-UNITEDS-GUA
  • Going In Style United States Model GIS-UNITEDS-A

Free Shipping on Orders | No Minimums

Free domestic shipping within the continental US on all orders - use code GISSHIP

Travel Fashion Girl

Power Outlet Guide: Which Plug to Use in What Country

Packing , Packing Tips

north america travel adapter

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

The plug shape dilemma can be a nightmare for travelers, especially if you’re planning to visit various countries – why oh why can’t there just be one plug shape that fits all? Worry no more; Travel Fashion Girl has put together the ultimate power outlet guide for determining which plug to use in what country!

International Power Outlet Guide

by Chantelle Malin

Table Of Contents

Plug shapes, holes, sizes and sockets vary in different countries, meaning a plug adapter is necessary to ensure your appliances from home can work abroad. However be warned, check the voltage as well, a hairdryer designed for use in North America could cause an involuntary fireworks display if plugged into a European socket.

This power outlet guide will give you a full breakdown on everything you need to know about plug shapes and sizes for each country around the world and you can find suggested travel gadgets at the end of the post.

Please read this voltage guide  to learn about the difference between travel adapters and converters.

We use and recommend the  Universal World Wide Travel Charger Adapter Plug  which works worldwide (except in South Africa as explained below). While it doesn’t act as a converter for your power supply, it’s a great value and offers a relatively compact option for those of you looking for an easy solution for international travel.

power-outlet-guide-for-travelers

Plug Adapters

Here’s a quick look of the plugs and sockets used around the world. You can read more about each of them in the article below.

power-outlet-guide-for-travelers

Used North and Central America and Japan (among others)

Power outlet type A  has two flat parallel prongs, it is predominantly used in North and central America and Japan.

The Japanese plug has two identical flat prongs, whereas the US plug has one prong that is slightly larger, it is not a problem to use Japanese plugs in the US, however the opposite doesn’t always work. The holes at the tip of the prongs on type A (and B) plugs are there to prevent the plug slipping out from the socket, pretty nifty!

Worth a note -Both A and B plugs are amongst the most dangerous types in the world, the prongs are not insulated – meaning if the plug is pulled halfway out its prongs are still connected to the socket, increasing the risk of electrocution. Always make sure you’re electronics are properly disconnected!

power-outlet-guide-for-travelers

Power outlet type  B  has two flat parallel prongs and a grounding pin, it is a standard plug for North America and Japan, but probably used less frequently in the latter, as with type A, the Japanese plug and sockets differ slightly from their American equivalents.

power-outlet-guide-for-travelers

Used in all countries of Europe except the United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus and Malta

Power outlet type  C  has two round prongs – it is probably the most widely used international plug and is commonly known as the Europlug. Type C plugs are commonly used; however this isn’t the case for type C sockets – the sockets are ‘ungrounded’, and because of this safety issue, have become illegal.

Worth a note : Only the SOCKETS have become illegal, the type C plug fits into type E, F, J, K, and N sockets.

power-outlet-guide-for-travelers

Used mainly in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Namibia

Power outlet type  D  has three large round pins in a triangular pattern and is a rated at 5 amps, along with type A and B, the type D plugs are amongst the most dangerous ones in the world – they again feature prongs that are not insulated, increasing the risk of electrocution.

power-outlet-guide-for-travelers

Primarily used in France, Belgium, Poland, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Tunisia and Morocco

Power outlet type  E  is fairly similar to that of C, with the plug featuring two round prongs, with the exception that the type E socket includes an ‘earth pin’ that fits into the slot located on the plug.

power-outlet-guide-for-travelers

Used in (amongst others) Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Portugal, Spain and Eastern Europe

Power outlet type  F was designed in Germany shortly after the First World War, it is commonly known as the ‘Schuko plug’ which is the acronym of the German word ‘Schutzkontakt’ translating as ‘protection contact’. It is similar to a type C plug except that it has the addition of two earth clips on the side of the plug; generally a type C plug fits perfectly in the above socket.

power-outlet-guide-for-travelers

Mainly used in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Malta, Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong

Power outlet type  G  has three rectangular prongs that form a triangle, it is in no doubt that the type G plugs are the safest in the world, however have often been described as being ‘hulking’, ‘cumbersome’ and ‘bigger that the appliance they’re connected to’ (being from the UK I can confidently say this is a SLIGHT exaggeration).

power-outlet-guide-for-travelers

Used exclusively in Israel

Power outlet type  H is unique to Israel, it has two flat prongs – similarly to plug B – however they form a V shape rather than being parallel, they also include an earth pin, in the 80’s the holes of the plugs were made round in order to accommodate type C plugs as well. Along with the other plugs mention the type H plug can be dangerous, containing no insulation to protect from electrocution. The plug is also used in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.

power-outlet-guide-for-travelers

Mainly used in Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Argentina

Power outlet type  I  features 3 pins, two flat prongs and a earth pin, that form a V shape, there is also a ungrounded version of the plug, featuring only two flat V shaped prongs. Although there are minor differences, the type I plug can fit with the sockets used in mainland China.

power-outlet-guide-for-travelers

Used almost exclusively in Switzerland and Liechtenstein

Power outlet type  J  is similar to the C plug, except that it has the addition of an earth pin, a type C plug can fit into a type J socket.

power-outlet-guide-for-travelers

Used exclusively in Denmark, Greenland and the Faeroe Islands

Power outlet type  K  is similar to that of F, except that it has an earth pin instead of grounding clips; again a type C plug generally fits into a type K socket. Denmark features a large amount of E/F plugs; because of this the Danish government chose to make it legal to install type E and F sockets as well.

power-outlet-guide-for-travelers

Used almost exclusively in Italy and randomly found throughout North Africa

Power outlet type  L  features two different styles (a 10 and 16 amp variety) that have different prong thickness and spacing, the 10 amp socket is compatible with type C plugs. Nowadays universal sockets are become more popular, a ‘bipasso’ socket accepts L and C plugs, whereas the universal ‘schuko’ accepts C, E, F and L plugs.

power-outlet-guide-for-travelers

Used almost exclusively in South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho

Power outlet type  M  is similar to the Indian type D; however its pins are much larger, even though the type D plug is standard in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Namibia, type M can be also used, generally for larger appliances – some power outlets can take both M and D plugs; it is also used in Israel for heavy appliances.

Please note : the type M is the one plug style that is usually NOT included in worldwide travel adapters.

power-outlet-guide-for-travelers

Used almost exclusively in Brazil

Power outlet type  N  consists of two pins and an earth pin, is very similar in look to the Swiss type J standard, however it is incompatible as the type N earth pin is in a slightly different position. Like the type M, the above plug features two versions (one at 10amps and one at 20amps), like many the N socket has been designed to accommodate the type C plug.

You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly !

Travel Gadget Ideas

power-outlet-guide-for-travelers

TFG Top Pick for Worldwide Travel: NEWVANGA  

For the top-rated international adapter for multiple countries , readers love the  NEWVANGA Universal Travel Adapter which works for 150 countries that include spots in Europe to Asia. It has two USB charging ports, surge protection, and works with devices such as cell phones, tablets, and laptops. 

However, it’s not recommended you use this with heavier appliances like a clothes iron or hair dryer. You’d be better off purchasing a hair dryer that’s dual voltage. Buy it here!

best-travel-adapter

SublimeWare Fast Charging International Adapter

Best Worldwide Adapter for Multiple Devices: SublimeWare

If you’re traveling in a pair and need a few ports, the SublimeWare Adpater has four USB ports and fits nicely into the wall, allowing for charging and power to multiple devices. 

This also is compatible in 150 countries and there’s a pin locking mechanism so the prongs stay out and secure while in use. With over 7,000 positive reviews, this one’s a worldwide winner. Buy it here!

best-travel-adapter

Best Worldwide Adapter for Single Destination Trips: Ceptics

If you’re only hitting one or two places and don’t want to haul around an weighty adapter, this set of 5 single adapters by Ceptics are ideal to bring instead! The one pictured is a set of 5 adapters, but you can get a 13-piece set that includes a wall plugin with USB ports, or you can grab a world power strip with two USB ports. Buy it here!

best-travel-adapter

BESTEK Universal Travel Adapter 100-220V to 110V Voltage Converter

Best Worldwide Adapter and Conveter for Europe: BESTEK

Equipped with a d irect EU plug and four worldwide adapters, and a converter for 100-240V to 110-120V which powers up your US electronic device safely, this BESTEK converter and adapter kit is worth a look. It also has multi-charging capability which is perfect for business travelers or digital nomads. If you need a carrying case for your BESTEK kit Aproca sells a functional, cute one!

While recommended for Europe, the adapters also cover over a 100 countries and users say its become their go-to power source for travel. Buy it here!

best-travel-adapter

DOACE X11 2200W Travel Voltage Converter and Adapter

Best Worldwide Adapter and Conveter for Hair Appliances: DOACE

While it’s recommended to buy dual voltage hair tools, there may be an occasion you prefer to bring what you already own. In that case, reviewers say the DOACE Travel Voltage Converter Kit is reliable and can handle the power conversion easily— from 220-240V to USA standard voltage 110V/120V . 

This all in one International power adapter and converter has two adapters and four USB ports, which is enough to simultaneously power seven devices. And the adapters can cover 150 plus countries. Satisfied users report it works well with Conair and Babylisspro hair tools, with one even saying it powered their cpap machine! 

Just remember to plug into the adapter with the US flag for conversion and pack it into the sturdy plastic carrying case to keep it from getting damaged. Buy it here!

Product Comparison Chart

  Do you travel with a single or multi-country travel adapter?

Please read these posts for more travel packing tips:

  • Best Travel Accessories 
  • How to Avoid Theft While Traveling
  • How to Downsize Your Toiletries 
  • Voltage Converter vs. Travel Adapter

Hope you found this international power outlet guide helpful. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

13 comments.

Alison

This is the best article I have found on travel adapters. Thank you for breaking it down and giving different options. Glad I found this before our trip!

Victoria

Such great info! Definitely marked this post as a keeper!

Julie

I have two sockets in my home. One is a US socket. I can’t identify the other having used your guide. I believe it is a 220v socket. Not sure if I can bring in a 240 appliance from the UK to fit the socket.

Alex

Hi Julie, this article explains everything you need to know about voltage, adapters, and converters: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/voltage-converter-vs-travel-adapter-how-do-they-work/

To get the best advice I would also highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ It’s a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their travel advice and recommendations.

Hope this helps. Have an awesome time on your travels!

Cynthia Mrak

I am traveling to Hanoi Vietnam. What adapter do I need to accommodate my C Pap?

Hi Cynthia, thank you for reaching out! Vietnam use type A, C and D: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/vietnam/electricity It would be best if you purchased a universal world wide travel adapter, such as the one featured on the article. There are more suggestions and tips here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/voltage-converter-vs-travel-adapter-how-do-they-work/

If you need any more help with your packing, we also have this guide on Vietnam: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-vietnam/ Have an amazing time! ?

Linda

Thanks for the recommendation. Unfortunately delivery to Australia was gong to be $168AUD and the item is only approx. $66AUD. Would love the product but can not justify it

Hi Linda, at the moment, we are only able to sell our Compass Rose products via Amazon USA. When Amazon global shipping stopped working for Australia, we set up an independent site with direct sales and shipping on the Travel Fashion Girl website just for our readers located in Australia. However, due to a low volume of sales, shipping challenges, and complaints, I’m afraid we had to discontinue this service.

We hope you understand that we are still in the beginning stages of this business journey and hope we can offer global shipping in-house in the future. For now, we are only able to ship globally to the countries serviced by Amazon USA, I am sorry about this ? Hope you have an amazing time on your trip!

Chris

Please note that the C will not always fit into a J for two reasons:

1) The J socket is quite often inside a hexagonal recess and the pins on a normal EU plug, are not long enough to make contact however sometimes the sockets do not have this hexagonal surround.

2) The pins on a C plug are quite often thicker than those used on a J plug, so if you are lucky enough to find a socket without the hexagonal shape as mentioned above, the C plug pins are too thick for the J socket.

As a quick hack, you can cut off the earth pin of a J plug and as a result you now have a plug that will fit a C socket and G (if you insert something into the earth pin opening, to open the live and neutral small doors on the G socket).

Hi Chris, thank you for sharing this with us! 🙂

Debbie Wilkins

Can I use a type c adapter in Israel?

Hi Debbie, for Israel there are three associated plug types, C, H and M. Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins, plug type H has three pins in a triangular shape and type M has three round pins.

Israel operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.

Hope this helps!

Jessica

I just bought this to use in Spain next month. I have an adapter for my camera battery charger but otherwise, I’m looking forward to using this!

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north america travel adapter

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The 8 Best Power Adapters for European Travel of 2024

Keep your devices charged and moving your trip along

north america travel adapter

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

TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

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

Final Verdict

  • What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, foval voltage converter.

User-friendly

Not suitable for heat tools

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

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Rebekah Joan

Best Universal

Haozi universal travel adapter.

Covers Europe and beyond

Generous warranty

Not compatible with heat tools

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

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

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

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

Best Lightweight

Ceptics world travel adapter kit.

Packs easily

Covers several regions

Comes with a travel pouch

Only supports dual-voltage electronics

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

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

Powers two devices at once

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

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 gadgethead 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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Travel Adaptor for North America

North america travel adaptors.

With so much to see and do, discovering all the delights of North America can take a bit of planning. It’s important to arm yourself with knowledge, to make sure you see all the delights this continent has to offer.

North America travel adaptors: which type do I need?

You will need to consider what to pack, to ensure you can use your personal electrical appliances safely whilst abroad. This normally includes the use of a travel adaptor, which is a device that simply allows you to plug any UK electrical appliance into a foreign electrical socket. It is important to note that it does not convert the voltage or frequency.

Travelling to North America? Find out which travel adaptor you’ll need by following one of the links below:

Canada | Greenland | United States | Mexico

Voltage converters and transformers

Electricity supplies worldwide can vary from anything between 100V and 240V. It can be extremely dangerous to use an electrical appliance that is rated at a voltage different from the supply.

Converters and transformers perform a similar function, but their applications differ. Converters are typically used with appliances that operate for a short duration (1-2hours), whilst most transformers can be used alongside appliances that operate continuously.

As voltage can differ from country to country, you may need to use a voltage converter or transformer. You can determine whether you’ll need to use a converter or transformer, by researching the voltage used in the destination you’re travelling to on our travel adaptors page .

North America

Double insulated equipment

It’s important to understand that some travel adaptors are not suitable for any appliances that require an earth connection. These types of travel adaptors should only be used with double insulated equipment, which will be clearly marked with the symbol shown below.

Double -insulated -symbol

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north america travel adapter

Worldwide Adaptor Kit

Worldwide Adaptor Kit

• North America to Worldwide travel plug set

• Ideal for travel

• Safe & easy to use

• Compact & easy to pack

• Allows electrical devices to be used on the move

Lightning Retractable Cable (MFI)

  • Remove This Item

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COMMENTS

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    United States of America (USA) A. B. 120 V. 60 Hz. In the United States, power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type A and type B are used. The standard voltage is 120 V at a frequency of 60 Hz. For more information, select the country you live in at the top of this page.

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    We'll update this post with your question and our answer. If you're unsure what voltage or Quick 220 ® systems you need, try our simple questionnaire or contact us for help, we would love to hear from you. Telephone: 1-800-347-0394 (US & Canada) or 1-602-938-6057. Fax: 1-602-862-0215. Email: [email protected].

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    Travel Adaptors for America / Canada. Both the USA and Canada use two pin, unearthed (Type A) and 3 pin, earthed (Type B) plugs. A UK 3 pin to type A/B adaptor will therefore allow you to plug in your appliances in both countries. Please be aware that whilst a US travel adaptor will allow you to physically plug a UK 3 pin plug into a North ...

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