Traveling with electronics? Check if your devices are safe to use abroad, what adapters you need, and whether you require a voltage converter.
Device Safety Calculator
Check if your electronics are safe to use abroad
💡 Check your device label for "INPUT: 100-240V" — this means dual voltage
Select your countries to begin
We'll analyze electrical compatibility for your trip
⚡Understanding Voltage Bands
The world uses two main electrical voltage standards:
Low Voltage Band: 100-127V
North America, Japan, Taiwan, and parts of Central/South America
High Voltage Band: 220-240V
Europe, UK, Asia, Africa, Australia, and most of the world
Devices within the same band are generally compatible. Crossing bands with single-voltage devices requires a converter.
🔌Dual vs Single Voltage
Check your device's label for voltage specifications:
Dual Voltage (100-240V) ✓
Phone chargers, laptop adapters, camera chargers, most modern electronics. Only need a plug adapter.
Single Voltage ⚠
Hair dryers, curling irons, electric kettles, older electronics. May need a voltage converter.
⚠️Plug Adapter vs Voltage Converter
Plug Adapter
• Changes the physical plug shape
• Does NOT change voltage
• Small, lightweight, inexpensive
• Safe for dual-voltage devices
Voltage Converter
• Changes the electrical voltage
• Required for single-voltage devices
• Heavier, more expensive
• Must be rated for device wattage
💡 A plug adapter alone won't protect single-voltage devices from damage in different voltage bands!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my phone charger abroad?▼
Yes! Most phone chargers are dual voltage (100-240V). Check the fine print on your charger. You'll only need a plug adapter to fit the local outlets.
What happens if I plug a 120V device into 220V?▼
The device will receive nearly double its rated voltage, which can cause overheating, damage, fire risk, or immediate failure. Always use a step-down converter for single-voltage devices.
Do I need a converter for my laptop?▼
Almost all laptop power adapters are dual voltage (100-240V). Check the label on your power brick - if it shows "100-240V", you only need a plug adapter.
Should I bring my hair dryer when traveling?▼
Hair dryers are typically single-voltage and high-wattage (1000-1800W), making converters impractical. Consider buying a dual-voltage travel hair dryer or using one provided by hotels.
Does frequency (50Hz vs 60Hz) matter?▼
For most electronics, no. However, devices with AC motors (some clocks, fans, record players) may run slightly faster or slower. Modern electronics handle both frequencies fine.
