European power adapters - What power adapter do I need for The United Kingdom?
Power adapters for The United Kingdom
When planning a vacation to The United Kingdom it can be useful to know if you'll be able to charge any essential devices when you arrive. But, without knowing which power supply to expect you are more likely to bring the wrong power charger, therefore having to purchase a suitable charger on arrival which might not be compatible. Different combinations of standards and plug types can often be daunting when planning on staying in a foreign country especially if you've never been there before. With only a handful of different types of common standards used throughout the world this article shows exactly what you'll need in advance to power your device in The United Kingdom. This page has links to instructions which shows exactly how to supply power to your devices when you're visiting The United Kingdom by using the 230 volt 50Hz G Type wall outlet, with the British using BS 1363 13 amp plugs for wall outlets. When travelling anywhere you'll discover power adapters will change from country to country so we recommend that you read the Wiki Connections travel power adapters list where you'll find a complete list of destinations.
What is the best power adapter for The United Kingdom?
The best power adapter for The United Kingdom is a Type G power adapter which allows you to use any 230 volt appliance or device. [2] [AD]
What is a power adapter?
Power adapters are small and cheap plastic adapters which permit a different shaped power plug from another country to correctly slot into a UK power outlet. [3]
Do I need a plug adapter in The United Kingdom?
If the type of wall outlet in The United Kingdom power plug you are using then you will need a power adapter.
What does a power adapter do?
A power adapter allows a visitor travelling from another country to use electronic appliances and devices in The United Kingdom by altering the shape of the power plug.
Will I need a plug adapter if I'm visiting The United Kingdom from the US?
If you are visiting from America bring a plug adapter for The United Kingdom as American plugs won't physically fit in a UK power outlet, and as the voltage is different you will also need to bring a power converter for The United Kingdom to prevent overheating or damage to your appliance or device if it isn't dual voltage.
Can a power adapter change the voltage in The United Kingdom?
A power adapter only adapts the shape of a plug to fit into a 230 volt UK power outlet and can't convert to a different voltage. Should you need to safely use any 100, 110 or 120 volt appliance then you will also need to bring a step down power converter for The United Kingdom along with the right adapter.
Where to buy a power adapter for The United Kingdom in the US
The United Kingdom to 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.
Where to buy a power adapter in The United Kingdom
On arrival power adapters could be found in local electrical high street shops and drug stores, but always check the build quality first as safety standards might be different in a foreign country as this is important when dealing with electrical goods. Keep in mind that a shopping trip searching for power adapters in an unknown location might be impractical, especially as this needs to happen quickly before batteries run out.
Hotel receptions could have a power adapter for sale, hire or as a complimentary extra for guests; however, availability is normally limited and a hotel might not have the exact type required for your country. If in doubt, call ahead to the hotel first and request a reservation as it is unlikely that an adapter will be found in your room on arrival.
External links
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- Wikipedia - UK Wikipedia web page.
- Type G power 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..
- Wikipedia - power adaptor