Now check the voltage requirements for each of your devices. That info is also on the IEC World Plugs List, listed in the “Electric Potential” column. Your next step is to check the voltage (V) at your destination(s). If you’re planning to live in a country for several months or more, then replacing your device with one purchased locally (for an exact voltage match) is worth consideration. If the local power is 110V, for example, and your device lists its input at 125V, it will work. If your device falls within either range, variations within that range won’t be a problem for short-term use. The world runs in two voltage ranges: 110-127V or 220-240V. Though it’s bulkier and pricier, a multi-outlet surge protector is even better, because it adds a level of protection for places with less stable electrical grids. Or you can buy a single adapter plug and a power strip with multiple outlets. Strategies for multiple devices: To plug in more than one device at the same time, you can buy an adapter plug for each device and plug each one into a separate outlet. Double-check that they have the specific plug or a setting that works where you’re going. Don’t assume a set of adapter plugs or a universal adapter will cover you everywhere. Some adapters also include USB ports.Įxamine adapter plug sets and universal adapters carefully. Some might have an outlet designed to accept a few different plug types. You have to be able to plug your device into the back side of an adapter plug. Pay attention to the back side of adapters. Why chance it that you won’t find what you need at your destination, and why waste precious travel time on a quest for adapters? If you forget, though, big international airports are a good place to look for them. If your itinerary takes you to a nearby business or another hotel that doesn’t have that type of outlet, though, you still need to get an adapter plug.īuy adapter plugs before you leave. If your lodging has a universal outlet that’s compatible with your native plug, that can forgo your need for an adapter plug. Universal outlets: Some hotels and other businesses have outlets designed to accept plugs from multiple countries. Or you can play it safe and get adapter plugs for all the listed plug types for a country. For countries that list multiple plug types, advice from your travel company or lodging provider can narrow your choices. To research the plug(s) you need for any destination worldwide, check out the IEC World Plugs List, which is broken down country by country. Ireland and the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales) Iceland and Scandinavia (Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden) Plugs and Electrical Information for Common Destinations In places where the plug type differs, you’ll need an adapter plug that has the correct prong configuration for outlets at your destination.Īccording to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), there are 14 different plugs (Type A through Type N) used around the world. The good news is that more than 50 countries around the world have outlets that accept U.S.-style “A” plugs. Your first challenge is to be sure that you can plug your device into the wall outlet. Ask if they provide appliances like hair dryers, which can be challenging.Ask if plugs (or voltages) used in nearby regions or businesses differ from the outlets at your lodging.Ask about specific electricity needs at your destination.Get the correct voltage conversion accessory: This isn’t needed for dual-voltage devices (many are) or if your single-voltage device matches your destination’s voltage.īefore you go, check with your travel company or lodging providers:.Look for this info on its cord, plug or somewhere on the device itself. Verify the voltage input on each of your devices.Verify the voltage in the outlets at your destination.This isn’t needed if you’re headed to a destination that has U.S.-compatible outlets. Get the correct adapter plug for that outlet.Verify the plug type that fits outlets at your destination.Here are the steps to figure out if you need an adapter or converter while traveling: Because so many countries-and even regions within countries-developed their own electricity standards, it’s safe to say that diversity reigns out there. If you plan to explore it with your must-have gadgets like a cellphone, tablet, action cam and more, you need to figure out how to plug each of them into the local power grid. For information about outdoor activities wherever you go (close to home is best), read Recreate Responsibly: An Activity-Specific Guide. If you need to travel, check the CDC FAQ page about COVID-19 risks for travelers, which provides the latest guidance. Editor’s note: This article was published prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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