Power adapter types and world power outlets

The purpose of this page is to explain which power outlets to expect in a foreign country, different types of power adapters, practical advice on the best travel adapters to buy and help on deciding which power adapter you need to bring. For practical advice on bringing electronics to specific countries read our individual guides on power outlets around the world and how to recharge popular cell phones, tablets and electrical appliances when travelling to different countries.

Different types of power outlets

How many different types of power outlets are there?

The lack of a universal standard has led to the development of 14 distinct types of plug sockets, identified as Type A to Type N, with voltages that vary between 100 and 240 volts. In 80% of countries, multiple socket types are in use, adding complexity to travel preparations. Attempts have been made to establish regional standardization; for example, Type C is widely used across Europe. However, each country still maintains a unique set of electrical outlets due to historical influences. [1]

How many different types of power outlets are there?
https://www.iec.ch/worldplugs/list_bylocation.htm

Power adapters

What type of power adapter do I need?

This will depend on which country that you are visiting from America, read our individual guides on each country which includes the type of power adapter you need, if you need to bring a power converter along with guides for using common appliances and electronics for each country.

What is a power adapter?

A small and lightweight type D plug adapter

What is a power adapter?

A power adapter is a lightweight, small and typically cheap plastic adapter which allows an electrical plug from one country to fit into an electrical appliance in another country.

A typical power adapter body is square in shape and measures 2 inches wide, 2 inches tall and 1 inch deep with the pins adding an additional potential 1 inch in depth depending on the type of adapter. Depending on the make and model of the power adapter there are a number of slots, shutters and holes in the front face of the adapter which are designed to accept a single plug.

Power adapters are also known as: travel adapters, power adaptors (alternative spelling), plug adapters, electrical adapters, mains travel adapters or electrical adaptor. [2]

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adapter

What does a power adapter do?

A power adapter allows a visitor travelling from a different country to use their own electronic and electrical appliances simply by altering the shape of the plug from one type to another.

Do I need a power adapter?

If the type of power outlet in the country you are visiting is different to the shape of the power plug you wish to use then you will need to use a power adapter.

Can a power adapter change the voltage from a power outlet?

No; a power adapter only adapts the shape of a plug to fit into a different type of power outlet and isn't designed to convert different voltages. Use a power converter for changing the voltage of an incompatible appliance from a different country.

Where to buy a power adapter in the US

Power adapters for sale in an airport

Where to buy a power adapter in the US

Power adapters will most likely be available in most major US International airports prior to departure, however the range of adapters might be limited to popular destinations. It is recommended to research the exact type of adapter required prior to shopping at the airport. Look in the travel accessories section of airport newsagents, electronic stores and pharmacists such as Hudson News or Brookstone, but expect to pay more than regular prices. Airports will be your last chance to buy a power adapter before departure, always check the returns policy to ensure you can easily exchange or refund a faulty or unsuitable product in an airside shop.

It will be more convenient and cheaper to buy the correct power adapter in advance of your trip. High street electrical stores such as Best Buy, Walmart, Target, Home Depot or Fry's normally sell a limited range of travel adapters to popular locations but for widest choice it is recommended to buy a power adapter online.

Which type of power outlets does a Europlug fit into?

A Type C plug adapter Europlug will fit into types C, E, F, H, J, K, L and N power outlets.  [3] [4] [AD]

Types of power adapters

A plug adapter set

Types of power adapters

This is a comprehensive list of the 14 various types of travel power adapters, with each type described in detail:

  • Type A plug adapter - A two-blade, ungrounded electrical plug adapter for US plug types, Canadian power outlets, Thailand sockets, Mexico plug types, and select Asian power outlets..
  • Type B plug adapter - A Type B adapter, rated at 15 A and 125 V, featuring two parallel flat blades and a longer grounding pin, in compliance with NEMA 5-15 specifications. Suitable for travel to the US plug types and Canadian plugs..
  • Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  • Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
  • Type E plug adapter - A CEE 7/5 socket and CEE 7/6 plug compliant Type E adapter designed with a focus on safety, featuring two round pins and an earthing hole. Ideal for use in the France, Belgium, Poland and several African nations..
  • Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  • Type G plug adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
  • Type H plug adapter - A Type H electrical adapter, compliant with Israel SI32 standards, featuring either flat or round pins depending on the version. This adapter is specifically designed for use in Israel and its surrounding territories..
  • Type I plug adapter - A Type I electrical adapter, compliant with AS/NZS 3112, fits in a standard Australia electrical outlet. This adapter features two flat pins in an inverted V-shape with an earthing pin and is also commonly used in New Zealand, China, and Argentina..
  • Type J plug adapter - This 3-pin Type J travel adapter adheres to the Swiss SN 441011 standard, offering grounded connectivity for safe electrical use in Switzerland and Liechtenstein..
  • Type K plug adapter - A Type K travel adapter enables you to power your foreign devices through Denmark's grounded, 3-pin outlets, compliant with the Danish Plug Equipment Section 107-2-D1 Standard..
  • Type L plug adapter - A Type L travel adapter is compatible with Italy's 10A and 16A grounded outlets and can also be used in other countries like Chile and Uruguay which use the Italian standard CEI 23-50..
  • Type M plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type M travel adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in African countries like South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Swaziland, as well as in parts of India..
  • Type N plug adapter - A 3-pin Type N travel adapter adheres to the Brazilian Standard NBR 14136, offering grounded connectivity for safe electrical use in Brazil..

Recommendation if buying multiple power adapters

The initial cost of buying a single power adapter may be lower, but a plug adapter set is often more economical in the long term, especially for those planning to travel to different locations.  [1] [5] [AD]

Comparison of power adapter types

Plug adapter types compared

Type A plug adapterType B plug adapterType C plug adapterType D plug adapterType E plug adapterType F plug adapterType G plug adapterType H plug adapterType I plug adapterType J plug adapterType K plug adapterType L plug adapterType M plug adapterType N plug adapter
TypeABCDEFGHIJKLMN
Countries554713739387451120699162
Main regionUS, JapanUS, JapanEuropeGermanyUK, Hong KongIsraelAustraliaSwitzerlandDenmarkItalySouth AfricaBrazil
Pins23232233333333
Earthedungroundedgroundedungroundedgroundedgroundedgroundedgroundedgroundedgroundedgroundedgroundedgroundedgroundedgrounded
StandardsNEMA 1-15, JIS C 8303 Class IINEMA 5-15, NEMA 5-20, JIS C 8303 Class IEuroplug, CEE 7/16, CEE 7/17, CEE 7/1, CEE 7/2, GOST 7396 C 1, BS 4573BS 546 (2A), IS 1293, SANS 164-3CEE 7/5, CEE 7/6Schuko, CEE 7/3, CEE 7/4, CEE 7/7BS 1363, IS 401 & IS 411, MS 589, SS 145SI32AS/NZS 3112, GB 1002, GB 2099.1, IRAM 2073/2071SEV 1011:2009107-2-D1CEI 23-50BS 546 (15A), IS 1293, SANS 164-1NBR 14136, IEC 60906-1
Europlug compatibleCompatibleCompatibleCompatibleCompatibleCompatibleCompatibleCompatibleCompatible
BuyBuyBuyBuyBuyBuyBuyBuyBuyBuyBuyBuyBuyBuy
[3] [AD]

Travel adapters

Universal Travel Power Adapters

A universal travel adapter

Universal Travel Power Adapters

Benefits of a universal travel power adapter

  • Perfect when visiting to multiple countries. Typical models will work in over 150 different countries.
  • An all-in-one design, small and lightweight.
  • There are some universal travel adapters that have multiple charging ports for USB devices built in.
  • Straightforward operation.
  • Some models include a built in surge protector, this will prevent any device from being overloaded by an unstable power grid.
  • The pins retract so don't get caught against other items when packed in luggage.
  • When you return to America the travel adapter will still be useful as a USB charger.
  • Typical models change shape to fit Types A/B, E/F, G and I power outlets.

Disadvantages of a universal travel power adapter

  • Universal travel adapters only charge a single plug.
  • Universal travel adapters will overload when used with a high powered appliance; for example clothes irons, hair straighteners, kettles, curling irons or hair dryers.
  • They don't have include a built in voltage converter.
  • As with any adapter with moving parts this could be fragile on some models, we recommend avoiding cheaper models in case they fail whilst abroad.
  • A universal travel power adapter might not be completely universal - adapters might not work in some countries with less popular power outlet types. [6] [AD]
Travel USB Wall Chargers

A USB travel charger with swappable plugs

Travel USB Wall Chargers

Benefits of a travel USB wall charger

  • Works in over 150 countries around the world.
  • Perfect if you only need to charge USB devices such as iPhones, tablets or eReaders.
  • Supplied with interchangeable adapter heads which make them versatile in a large number of locations. The interchangeable adapter heads which are supplied with USB wall chargers are usually small and lightweight making them easy to store in hand luggage.
  • You will only need to bring one unit instead of bringing multiple domestic USB power chargers. Typically travel USB chargers include 4 or more USB charger ports, meaning you now only need to bring a single charger to charge multiple devices. This helps cut down on the size and weight of your luggage by only needing to pack one USB wall charger rather than needing to bring several USB power chargers.
  • Includes a built in surge protector. The power grid in some countries can be unstable, a quality travel USB wall charger allows for unexpected fluctuations and will prevent damage to any devices connected to it. Trying to repair an overloaded cell phone or tablet abroad might prove to be difficult and expensive.
  • Good power chargers are compact, rugged and lightweight; perfect for rigors of travel instead of than risking bringing along a domestic charger which might be impossible to replace or repair whilst abroad.
  • Power outlets found in airport departure gates can be scarce and demand for charging multiple cell phones from other passengers before a flight can be high, therefore a USB travel charger with multiple ports and the ability to charge quickly is ideal.
  • It's possible that hotels might only have a single power outlet, by using a travel charger with multiple USB ports means you can share the single wall outlet with family or other travelers instead of waiting to charge each device one by one.
  • After you return to America the USB charger can still be useful for every day use.
  • Certain cellphones and tablets might require more than the usual 500 mA supplied by a standard 5 volt USB power adapter to charge or provide fast charge. Premium USB chargers will support fast charging should any of your devices require additional power.
  • The swappable heads will fit in Types A/B, E/F, G and I power outlets.

Disadvantages of a travel USB wall charger

  • Restricted to USB ports so you can't charge any appliances, only USB powered devices.
  • Multiple heads mean more items to carry separately rather than a single unit. [7] [AD]
Travel Power Strips

Power strips feature multiple USB ports

Travel Power Strips

Benefits of a travel power strip

  • Some models work in over 200 countries around the world.
  • A travel power strip is capable of powering more than one appliance or device at the same time from just a single power outlet.
  • Some travel power strips also feature multiple USB charge ports.
  • Some models have voltage conversation for lower wattage devices (for example laptops). So even if your device isn't dual voltage it can still be used with just a travel power strip in areas with different voltages. This can make them a cheaper and more lightweight substitute for a dedicated power converter depending on what you wish to power.
  • Offers surge protection. The voltage from power grids in certain countries could be tempremental, a sudden surge in power can damage or disable your delicate electronic devices. There are some power strips which have a surge protector built in which aims to protect any electronics from being overloaded by unstable power grids.
  • When you return to America it should still be useful as a power strip and USB charger.
  • US and Canadian power strips include Type A, B, D, E/F, G, H, I, L and N plug adapters.

Disadvantages of a travel power strip

  • The conversion on travel power strips doesn't support high wattage appliances such as hair straighteners and clothes irons.
  • Due to the size and weight of a power strip it might be unsuitable for packing in hand luggage if space is at a premium.
  • Travel power strips could be considered excessive if you only bring a small number of items that need powering. [8] [AD]
Power Plug Adapters

A small and lightweight type D plug adapter

Power Plug Adapters

Benefits of a power plug adapter

  • The most affordable option due to their simple nature.
  • Small, light and compact.
  • Simple to operate.

Disadvantages of a power plug adapter

  • Only one power adapter per appliance - for every individual appliance you will also need to bring a separate plug adapter.
  • If you wish to power a USB device then you also still need to pack your USB charger.
  • Adapter only changes the shape of the plug to fit a power outlet and won't change the voltage, if your device uses a different voltage and isn't dual voltage then you will need to bring a separate voltage converter.
  • Should you plan on visiting more than one country you might need to bring along multiple power adapter types.
  • Your hotel room may only have a single wall outlet, therefore you'll only be capable of powering one appliance at once.
  • No use when you return to America. [9] [AD]
Plug Adapter Sets

A power plug adapter set

Plug Adapter Sets

Benefits of a plug adapter set

  • Covers every eventuality and not just individual countries.
  • The most flexible option for frequent holidaymakers and business travellers visiting multiple countries.
  • Buying in bulk once will work out cheaper than buying multiple plug adapters for multiple trips.
  • A typical plug adapter set includes Type A, B, C, D, E/F, G, H, I, J, L, M and N adapters.

Disadvantages of a plug adapter set

  • Will involve some planning; before any trip you will need to decide which power adapters to bring. Alternatively bring every plug adapter in the set with you, with only one of the set being useful at any one time.
  • Not every plug adapter type is included (especially the less common adapters) - so check that the set that you intend to buy includes the ones you need.
  • Each adapter only changes the shape of the plug but doesn't convert the actual voltage.
  • You will still need to bring separate chargers for USB devices. [5] [AD]
Voltage Converters

Larger voltage converters

Voltage Converters

Benefits of a voltage converter

  • A step down voltage converter should allow you to power any 110-120 volt appliance in a 220-240 volt country and vice versa.
  • Voltage converters have a surge protector to prevent your electronics from being overpowered.

Disadvantages of a voltage converter

  • A power converter only changes the voltage and won't change the actual shape of the plug, therefore you may still need to use a suitable power adapter.
  • The size and weight of most models makes them impractical for carrying in hand baggage.
  • A voltage converter won't be useful when you return to America.
  • It is typically much cheaper to buy a dual voltage travel appliance capable of using any voltage than to buy a much more expensive power converter to use your existing single voltage domestic appliance. [10] [AD]

What is the best USB world travel adapter to buy?

Due to fourteen different types of power outlets being used around the world means there is no single travel adapter suitable for every single country. However, a multiple USB port charger such as a 4 port USB travel charger is versatile enough to cover a large number of the world's most popular travel destinations. These chargers are supplied with interchangeable heads which handle 100 volts to 240 volts which give you the freedom to travel to multiple countries and recharge your devices simply by swapping the heads over.

Having 4 USB ports will allow you to recharge multiple devices at the same time without needing to pack 4 individual power adapters. An added benefit of only packing a single lightweight travel charger frees up space, making it ideal to store in hand luggage and available at the airport. If your device can support Fast Charge (not all USB devices do) then you'll benefit from much quicker recharging times and will also support more power hungry devices.

Due to their flexibility these types of power chargers can also be used back at home so when you are not on vacation they can be used for charging multiple smartphones and tablets overnight whilst using only a single power outlet.

If you travel frequently we suggest searching for a multipurpose power charger like this online, the travel charger illustrated below is the 4 Port USB Wall Charger which has been tested successfully with multiple USB devices in numerous foreign countries with good reliably. [7] [AD]

What is the best USB world travel adapter to buy?

What is the best travel charger?

A 4 port USB travel charger is the most compact option for travellers from around the world wanting to recharge devices using USB, however for those also wanting to use their domestic plugs these power adapters provide larger but more versatile solutions. All 3 power strips offer surge protection which can be necessary for travellers to regions with unreliable or unstable power grids to prevent damage to any connected devices from voltage spikes. These travel adapters come with interchangeable type C, I and G plugs covering over 150 destinations:

  • BESTEK Portable International Travel Voltage Converter - The BESTEK international travel adaptor has 4 USB charging ports with 3 AC power outlets and is the best selling compact power converter for travellers originating from North America.
  • ORICO Traveling Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip - Also having 4 USB ports but only 2 AC power outlets the Orico travel adapter is also aimed at travellers from North America using type B plugs and gives almost the same functionality as the BESTEK with 1 less AC outlet at almost half cost.
  • BESTEK International USB Travel Power Strip - This power strip has just 2 AC outlets but offers 5 USB charging ports. This versatile power strip is compatible with both American plugs and popular plug types A, D,E/F, G, H, I, L and N making it suitable for most travellers from around the world. [7] [AD]

Comparison of travel adapters

Travel adapters compared

Power Adapter
Power Plug Adapter
Universal Travel Power Adapter
Universal Travel Power Adapter
Travel USB Wall Charger
Travel USB Wall Charger
Travel Power Strip
Travel Power Strip
Plug Adapter Set
Plug Adapter Set
Voltage Converter
Voltage Converter
Types of plug included Dependant on type A/B, E/F, G and I A/B, E/F, G and I A, B, D, E/F, G, H, I, L and N A, B, C, D, E/F, G, H, I, J, L, M and N B
Compatible number of countries (A) 1 to 130+ dependant on type 150+ 150+ 200+ 230+ 230+
Useful when you return to America Yes Yes Yes
Typical combined number of USB ports and AC outlets 1 3 4 7 1 2
Powers USB devices Yes Yes Yes
Typical number of USB ports 0 2 4 4 0 0
Powers an AC appliance Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Typical number of AC outlets 1 1 0 3 (B) 2
Converts voltage Yes (C) Yes
Surge protection Yes Yes Yes Yes
Typical dimensions 2.6 x 1.9 x 1.4 inches 3 x 2.1 x 2.1 inches 4.3 x 3.4 x 1.3 inches 6.6 x 3.6 x 1.5 inches 7.1 x 3.9 x 2.8 inches 11.7 x 8.1 x 6.7 inches
Typical weight 4.5 ounces 4 ounces 4.5 ounces 1.6 pounds 13 ounces 20 pounds
Typical number of items to carry (D) 1 1 5 8 12 2
Suitable for hand luggage Yes Yes Yes • (E) • (F)
Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy

Substantiations

  1. Compatible number of countries based on data from the International Electrotechnical Commission World Plugs page (cited November 2018).
  2. Assuming only a single plug adapter from the plug adapter set will be used at any one time in a compatible location.
  3. Depending on if the power strip supports voltage conversion for low wattage items. All travel power strips tested do not convert voltage for high wattage appliances.
  4. Including the device itself, any supplied plug heads and power cords.
  5. Some travel power strips featuring less AC outlets may be small and lightweight enough to be suitable for hand luggage.
  6. Number of items if bringing an entire set of plug adapters for use in multiple locations to cover all eventualities (unless bringing only the necessary single plug adapter)[11]

How we compared travel adapters

Typical specifications based on top 5 popular electrical adapters for each form-factor from different manufacturers.

  • Power Plug Adapters - Ceptics Grounded Universal Plug Adapter, TESSAN Grounded Universal Travel Power Plug Adapter, Tmvel Universal International Power Adapter Plug, EnriQ Plug Adapter, Ckitze Travel Power Plug Adapter.
  • Universal Travel Power Adapters - BESTEK Universal Travel Adapter, NEWVANGA International Universal All in One Worldwide Travel Adapter, Bluegogo Universal All in One Worldwide Travel Adapter, HAOZI All-in-one International Power Adapter, UROPHYLLA Universal European Adapter Dual Fuses.
  • Travel USB Wall Chargers - iKits 4-Port USB Wall/International Charger, LENCENT 4 Port USB Travel Adapter, PISEN USB Wall Charger, Anker 27W 4-Port USB Wall Charger PowerPort 4 Lite, USB Plug Travel Charger Adaptor, Turata 4 Port Universal World Wall Charger.
  • Travel Power Strips - BESTEK International USB Travel Power Strip, TESSAN 3 Outlet Surge Protector travel Power Strip, Portable Travel Adapter Power Strip Charging Station, GR-8 Power Compact & Slim Travel Charging Station, NTONPOWER Portable Charging Station.
  • Plug Adapter Sets - Ceptics GP-12PK International Travel Worldwide Grounded Universal Plug Adapter Set, Ceptics World Travel Adapter Set - 11 Pack, BESTEK Grounded Universal Plug Set, OREI 7 World Travel Adapter Plug Set, Ceptics Adapter Plug Set for World Wide International Travel Use.
  • Voltage Converters - Power Bright VC2000W Voltage Transformer Step Up/Down converter, LiteFuze LT-3000 3000 Watt Voltage Converter Transformer - Step Up/Down, SEYAS 1000W Auto Step Up & Step Down Voltage Transformer Converter, Rockstone Power 5000 Watt Heavy Duty Step Up/Down Voltage Transformer Converter, KRIEGER 1700 Watt Voltage Transformer Step up/down 120V / 230V AC outlet American European Converter.

Weight, dimensions, number of AC outlets and number of USB powers were all based by calculating and rounding an average figure for each attribute where known.

What type of adapter do you need?

Which type of power adapter should you buy?

The decision to buy a particular plug adapter or power converter is influenced by your unique circumstances and requirements. Before selecting a type, it is beneficial to read this checklist:

How many electrical items will you be bringing?

How many devices are you packing

How many electrical items will you be bringing?

  • List how many electrical items you'll need to pack (for example laptops, phones, tablets, clothes irons or hair dryers).
    • Remember to allow for more electrical devices at a later date.
    • There are an increasing number of smaller rechargeable devices (such as electric shavers) which are switching to using USB powered recharging. The next time you buy a new device it could use a USB power adapter so allow for enough spare USB ports to support these additional devices as well.
    • Will you also be travelling with family who will need to use their electronics too?
What different types of electrical devices do you need to use?

A USB powered phone

What different types of electrical devices do you need to use?

  • There are three different types of electrical devices or appliances:
    • Low wattage electrical devices that plug into a power outlet - for example a camera.
    • High wattage electrical appliances that plug into a power outlet - for example hair dryers and curling irons.
    • USB devices which connect to a USB port - for example phones.
  • If you only want to take just USB powered devices then you'll find that a travel USB wall charger is perfect as you'll only have to pack asingle compact charger and leave your domestic chargers at home.
  • Travel power strips are made for powering and voltage conversion for several low wattage devices of any voltage, but unsuitable for high wattage appliances (such as hair dryers) which require voltage conversion.
Will your devices and appliances work with a different voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

Will your devices and appliances work with a different voltage?

Do you only need to recharge USB devices?

A USB cable

Do you only need to recharge USB devices?

  • If you only need to recharge USB powered devices such as cell phones abroad then it is recommended to only bring a travel USB wall charger.
  • If you bring a normal power plug adapter you will still need to carry the domestic USB power charger that came with your device too, thereby adding more weight and items to your baggage. [7] [AD]
How many wall outlets will be available?

Are multiple outlets available

How many wall outlets will be available?

  • A hotel may only offer one power outlet on the wall, this may be a problem when simultaneously charging up the batteries of multiple devices such as cellphones, tablet computers and laptops overnight as you'll only be able to charge a single device at a time - then have to swap every few hours.
  • To charge more than one device simultaneously we recommend packing a travel power strip or travel USB wall charger which can power multiple power outlets and USB ports simultaneously. [8] [AD]

Are you planning on visiting anywhere else abroad in the future?

Do you plan on travelling with just hand baggage?

Are you only using hand baggage

Do you plan on travelling with just hand baggage?

Do you plan on visiting multiple countries?

  • A single power adapter only typically works in a single country that it is built for, therefore if you want to visit more than just one country then you'll need to carry additional plug adapters.
  • On the other hand travel USB wall chargers and universal travel adapters are perfect for travelling to multiple countries becuase of their interchangeable head system.

How much can you afford to pay?

  • A basic power adapter is the cheapest option but powers only one device in only one region (provided that the device works with different voltages or is dual voltage).
  • Paying slightly more for a universal travel power adapter will allow you to charge multiple devices at once and bring them to a wider number of countries. [6] [AD]
How long will your journey take?

Making a call after a long haul flight

How long will your journey take?

  • For long journeys consider a airport-suitable charger that works in different power outlet types, one that is small enough to pack in hand luggage and has Fast Charge so can quickly top up phones and tablets right before a long flight.
  • Not all airports actually have power outlets for travellers, one option is to bring a portable charger for recharging USB devices on the move. After landing in another country cell phones are excessively used for making calls, checking emails, using sat nav to locate accomodation or reading an itinerary; a charger ensures that your phone will have ample power left to do these. [12] [AD]

Would you like to use your charger when returning to America?

Power outlets around the world

Regions

For individual guides on power outlets around the world select a country from the following list:

Global power supplies

Africa

Asia

Europe

North America

Oceania

South America

Corrections

If you are from one of the countries mentioned in these articles and wish to submit any corrections please contact travel@wikiconnections.org. For more comprehensive technical details visit the Wikipedia page on AC power plugs and sockets[3]

  1. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs page
  2. Wikipedia - power adaptor -
  3. Wikipedia - AC power plugs and sockets -
  4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  5. Plug adapter set - A plug adapter set is a future-proof travel essential, containing various adapters to fit diverse power outlets around the world to ensure compatibility in a wide range of countries..
  6. Universal travel power adapter - The universal travel power adapter is a versatile single solution for power on the go, compatible in over 150+ countries worldwide. A single unit compact design makes it a travel essential which easily fits into any travel bag..
  7. 4 Port USB Wall Charger - A 4-port USB wall charger is an electrical device that provides simultaneous charging for up to four USB-compatible devices. It often includes interchangeable international plug adapters for global use..
  8. Travel power strip - Combining surge protection, AC outlets, USB ports and swappable plug adapters, the travel power strip is a comprehensive power solution for global travellers..
  9. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  10. Step down power converter - Step-down power converters are engineered to safely convert higher voltages of 220V / 240V to 110V / 120V, allowing the use of appliances designed for lower voltage systems to be used in countries with higher voltage power outlets..
  11. iec.ch - International Electrotechnical Commission World Plugs -
  12. Portable charger - Portable chargers are invaluable batteries for travel, especially in unfamiliar locations. Advanced charging technologies offer fast and efficient power delivery to mobile phones, tablets and headphones via USB ports..