When it comes to packing for international travel, there are a number of different things to consider: weather-appropriate clothing, the right types of shoes for activities, and the accurate currency depending on your destination. But there’s one more aspect that many of our smarTravelers have questions about, and that’s electricity. From cameras to hair tools and phones, so much of our everyday lives depend on electronic devices- and this reliance doesn’t stop overseas! We want travelers to make the most of their experience, and part of that includes using their devices in the safest way possible. We’ll cover the basics of adapters and converters to ensure you have the right equipment for your overseas adventure!
Adapters and Voltage Converters: What’s the Difference?
The need for an adapter or converter will vary based on location and voltage. An adapter is a convenient plug piece that can adjust your device to fit into the correct-sized outlet. Converters, on the other hand, handle voltage differences between countries. An adapter helps you adapt your device to the correct outlet size, while a converter adjusts your device’s voltage to match the specific voltage requirement of a particular country.
Should I Pack a Converter?
The main way to determine if you need a converter is by checking the voltage number of your appliance. Converters are commonly used with older hair tools or cooking appliances like blenders or mixers, as they typically operate on a single voltage. More modern devices such as newer electric razors, computers, and cellphones are designed to be dual voltage or multi-voltage, which means they’re allowed to be used in different countries.
- Single Voltage
- Voltage: 110-120 volts
- Converter: Yes
- Dual Voltage
- Voltage: 120~240 volts
- Converter: No
- Multi-Voltage
- Voltage: 100-240
- Converter: No
Should I Pack an Adapter?
Similar to voltages, the adapters you use will vary based on the country. Listed below are the different types of adapter plugs you can purchase to ensure a great international trip!
Pro tip: If you’re traveling overseas to multiple countries, we recommend investing in a convenient universal travel adapter that can adjust to different types of outlets.
Types of Outlets
Outlet Type A/B
Places: Canada, USA, the majority of South and Central America, as well as Caribbean countries and Japan!
A
B
Outlet Type C/E/F
Places: Countries in Asia, Africa, Europe, and Israel.
C
E
F
Outlet Type D
Places: Mainly countries in India like Bhutan and some countries in Africa.
D
Outlet Type G
Places: Pack this outlet if you’re traveling to Dubai, Bhutan, and a number of countries in Europe, like England and Ireland. Select countries in Africa also require G outlets.
G
Outlet Type H
Places: Countries including Israel and the Gaza Strip.
H
Outlet Type I
Places: Australia, New Zealand, and China travelers will need an adapter to acquire this kind of outlet.
I
Outlet Type J
Places: Mainly Switzerland.
J
Outlet Type K
Places: Countries such as Bangladesh, Denmark, and Greenland.
K
Outlet Type L
L
Outlet Type M
Places: This outlet can be used in parts of India like Nepal as well as South Africa.
M
Outlet Type N
Places: Mainly South Africa as well as Brazil.
N
Figuring out the international electronic differences is never easy, but with a little extra help from this guide, you should be on your way to having a stress-free electronic experience! If you need additional assistance and more clarity regarding a country’s adapters, visit this site for a complete list. We hope you have the trip of a lifetime!
