Travel Electricity
Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about using electronics abroad. Voltage, plug types, adapters, converters, safety tips, and device protection — all in one comprehensive guide.
🚀Quick Start Checklist
Don't have time to read the full guide? Here's what you need to do before your trip:
Check your devices
Look at the label on each charger. If it says "INPUT: 100-240V", you only need a plug adapter.
Know your destination
Look up the voltage, frequency, and plug types used in your destination country.
Get the right adapter
Buy a plug adapter that matches your destination (or get a universal adapter for multiple destinations).
Consider a converter
If any device is NOT dual-voltage (especially hair dryers), either get a converter or buy locally.
Pack smart
Bring a power strip for multiple devices and a portable battery for emergencies.
Pro Tip: Most phones, laptops, tablets, and cameras are dual-voltage. You usually only need a cheap plug adapter!
⚡Electricity Basics for Travelers
There are three key things that vary between countries: voltage,frequency, and plug shape. Understanding these is essential for safe travel with electronics.
Voltage
The "pressure" of electricity. Two main standards:
- 100-127V: Americas, Japan
- 220-240V: Most of the world
⚠️ Using wrong voltage can damage or destroy devices!
Frequency
How fast the current alternates (Hertz):
- 60Hz: Americas, parts of Asia
- 50Hz: Most of the world
Most electronics handle both. Motors may run at different speeds.
Plug Shape
Physical shape of the plug and socket:
- 15 types worldwide (A through O)
- Some are compatible with others
This is what plug adapters solve!
🔌Adapters vs Converters: The Critical Difference
⚠️ This is the #1 source of confusion for travelers. Understanding the difference can save your devices (and potentially prevent fires).
Plug Adapter
Changes shape only
What it does:
Changes the physical shape of your plug so it fits into a foreign outlet. Does NOT change the voltage.
When to use:
- ✓ Dual-voltage devices (100-240V)
- ✓ Most phone/laptop chargers
- ✓ USB power adapters
- ✓ Camera battery chargers
Cost:
$5-25 for universal adapter
Voltage Converter
Changes voltage
What it does:
Actually converts the electrical voltage (e.g., 220V down to 110V). Required for single-voltage devices.
When to use:
- ! Hair dryers/straighteners
- ! Curling irons
- ! Some older electronics
- ! Certain medical devices
Cost:
$25-100+ (based on wattage)
| Feature | Plug Adapter | Voltage Converter |
|---|---|---|
| Changes plug shape | ✓ Yes | ✓ Usually included |
| Changes voltage | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
| Size & weight | Small, light | Bulky, heavy |
| Price range | $5-25 | $25-100+ |
| Works for most electronics | ✓ Yes (if dual-voltage) | Overkill |
📱How to Check Your Devices
Every electronic device has a label showing its voltage requirements. Here's how to find and read it:
What to Look For
✅ Dual Voltage (Safe Anywhere)
This device works worldwide with just a plug adapter
⚠️ Single Voltage (Needs Converter)
This US device needs a converter for 220V countries
Common Devices Reference
| Device | Usually Dual Voltage? | What You Need |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone/Android charger | ✓ | Plug adapter only |
| Laptop charger (MacBook, Dell, etc.) | ✓ | Plug adapter only |
| iPad/Tablet charger | ✓ | Plug adapter only |
| Camera battery charger | ✓ | Plug adapter only |
| Electric toothbrush | ✓ | Plug adapter only |
| Electric shaver | ✓ | Plug adapter only |
| USB power bank | ✗ | N/A - uses USB charging |
| Hair dryer | ✗ | ⚠️ Converter OR buy locally |
| Hair straightener/curling iron | ✗ | ⚠️ Converter OR buy locally |
| Electric kettle | ✗ | ⚠️ Converter OR buy locally |
| CPAP machine | Varies | Verify with manufacturer |
🌍World Standards at a Glance
North America
USA, Canada, Mexico
Europe
UK, Germany, France, etc.
UK & Ireland
United Kingdom, Ireland
Australia/NZ
Australia, New Zealand, Fiji
China
Mainland China
Japan
Japan
India
India, Nepal, Sri Lanka
Brazil
Brazil
South Africa
South Africa, Namibia
🎒What to Pack: Essential Gear
✅ Essential Items
- •Universal travel adapterWorks in 150+ countries. Get one with USB ports.
- •Portable power bank10,000-20,000mAh. For emergencies and long flights.
- •Travel power stripTurn one outlet into multiple. Great for hotels.
- •Short extension cordOutlets in foreign hotels are often inconveniently placed.
💡 Good to Have
- •Surge protectorProtects electronics from power spikes. Essential in some countries.
- •Multi-USB chargerCharge 4-6 devices from one outlet. Space saver.
- •Cable organizerKeep your cables tidy and untangled.
- •Dual-voltage hair dryerIf you must bring one. Look for 100-240V models.
⚠️Safety Guidelines
DO
- • Always check voltage before plugging in
- • Use surge protectors in countries with unstable power
- • Unplug devices during thunderstorms
- • Keep adapters away from water
- • Use quality adapters from reputable brands
DON'T
- • Don't force a plug into an outlet
- • Don't use damaged adapters or frayed cables
- • Don't leave high-power devices unattended
- • Don't overload circuits with too many devices
- • Don't assume voltage without checking
🚨 Warning Signs to Watch For
- • Burning smell from device or adapter
- • Visible sparks when plugging in
- • Device becomes unusually hot
- • Buzzing or crackling sounds
- • Discoloration on adapter or outlet
- • Device not working properly
If you notice any of these, unplug immediately and do not use the device/outlet.
❌Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming adapter = converter
⚠️ Destroyed devices, potential fire hazard
✅ Always check if your device is dual-voltage FIRST
Not checking voltage before plugging in
⚠️ Fried electronics, wasted money
✅ Read the INPUT label on every device and charger
Bringing hair dryer from home
⚠️ Either it burns out OR you carry a heavy converter
✅ Buy a cheap one at your destination or get dual-voltage
Buying cheap adapters from airport shops
⚠️ Poor quality, potential safety issues, overpriced
✅ Buy quality adapters before your trip from reputable sellers
Only bringing one adapter
⚠️ Fighting to charge all your devices
✅ Bring a power strip or multi-USB charger
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a voltage converter for my phone charger?
Almost certainly no. Phone chargers (iPhone, Samsung, etc.) are virtually always dual-voltage (100-240V). You only need a plug adapter.
Will my laptop work overseas?
Yes, nearly all laptop chargers are dual-voltage. Check the label to confirm it says "INPUT: 100-240V". You just need a plug adapter.
What about my electric toothbrush/shaver?
Most are dual-voltage, but always check the label. These are designed for international travelers and usually work everywhere.
Can I bring my hair dryer?
Most hair dryers are NOT dual-voltage and will burn out on 220V. Options: buy a dual-voltage travel hair dryer, buy locally at your destination, or bring a heavy voltage converter.
What's a universal adapter?
A universal adapter has multiple plug configurations that work in most countries. They typically cover Type A/B (Americas), Type C/E/F (Europe), Type G (UK), and Type I (Australia). They do NOT convert voltage.
Will the frequency difference (50Hz vs 60Hz) damage my devices?
Modern electronics handle both frequencies fine. The only devices that might be affected are those with motors (like older clocks), which may run slightly faster or slower.
What about cruise ships?
Most cruise ships have both American (Type A/B) and European (Type C/F) outlets. Check with your cruise line. Some luxury cabins even have USB ports.
Do hotels usually have adapters I can borrow?
Many international hotels have adapters available at the front desk, but don't count on it. Always bring your own to be safe.
📚 Dive Deeper
Global Plug Types Database
Complete reference for all 15 plug types (A-O) with technical specs.
Global Voltage Standards Guide
Understand 110V vs 220V systems and why different countries use different voltages.
Voltage Safety Guide
Learn if your devices need voltage converters or just plug adapters.
Device Safety Calculator
Check if your specific devices are safe to use at your destination.
Ready for Your Trip?
Look up your specific destination for detailed information on plug types, voltage, and exactly what adapter you need.
Traveler Favorites
Most popular with PlugHopper travelers this month
Universal Travel Adapter
Works in 150+ countries with USB-C fast charging
Travel Surge Protector
Protect your devices from voltage spikes abroad
Saily eSIM
Instant data in 150+ countries, no physical SIM needed
We may earn a commission from purchases. This helps keep PlugHopper free! 💖
Protect Your Data Abroad
Secure public WiFi connections with NordVPN
🏨 Find Your Perfect Stay
Compare prices on hotels, vacation rentals & more
