russia travel adapter

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What is the plug for Russia? Before you travel, check the information below to make sure your electronic devices are compatible with the outlet type and voltage.

Electrical Summary

Plug Compatibility: Type C, Type F

Voltage: 220V – 240V

Frequency: 50 Hz

Can North Americans use Electronics in Russia without an Adapter?

No! North Americans will need an adapter for the outlets and a transformer for the voltage when traveling to Russia . North Americans device plugs will not work with the outlet types in Russia . Also, the voltage in Russia is different from North American voltages.

Can Europeans use Electronics in Russia without an adapter?

Yes! Europeans do not need a travel adapter or transformer when traveling to Russia . Most device plugs will work with the outlet types in Russia . Also, the voltage in Russia is the same as in Europe.  

What Outlet does Russia Use?

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Type C plug sockets are used in Europe, Africa and Asia. They have two round pins and no grounding pin. These plugs are typically used with devices that have a voltage of 220-240V. This outlet is rated for 2.5 amps. Plug Type E, and Type F are compatible with this socket. All other plug types will need an adapter.

Type F electrical plug sockets are used in Germany, Spain, Italy and some parts of Africa . They have two round pins and a grounding pin. These outlets are typically used with devices that have a voltage of 220-240V. This outlet is rated for 16 amps. Plug Type C and Type E are compatible with this socket. All other plug types will need an adapter.

Is it safe to drink water in Russia?

Tap water in Russia is generally safe to drink, although the quality may vary depending on the location. The quality of the water supply system and the drinking water is regulated by the Russian government, and the water treatment processes include filtration, disinfection, and distribution through a network of pipes.

However, some areas may have issues with water quality due to old pipes, lack of maintenance, or other factors. In general, tap water in larger cities, such as Moscow and St. Petersburg, is safe to drink, although it may have a slight taste or odor due to the chlorine used in the treatment process.

In some rural areas or smaller towns, it is recommended to use bottled water or to boil the tap water before drinking it. Bottled water is widely available in Russia, and it is safe to drink.

If you are unsure about the quality of the tap water in a particular location, it is recommended to use bottled water or a water filtration system to ensure safe drinking water.

We recommend always packing a filtered water bottle when traveling:

Travel Essentials

Be sure to check our list of travel essentials before your trip!

Recommended Travel Essentials

Should I get travel insurance when traveling to Russia?

It is generally recommended to get travel insurance when traveling to a different country. Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind in case of unexpected events, such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost or stolen baggage, or other travel-related mishaps.

Travel insurance can cover various expenses related to your trip, such as medical expenses, emergency medical transportation, trip cancellation or interruption, lost or stolen baggage or personal belongings, and other travel-related expenses.

Before purchasing travel insurance, it’s important to carefully review the policy details, including the coverage limits, exclusions, and any applicable deductibles or copays. You should also make sure that the policy covers any activities or destinations that you plan to participate in or visit during your trip.

Travel Summary

The country’s capital city, Moscow, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis, home to iconic landmarks such as the Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the Kremlin. Visitors can also explore the city’s numerous museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, showcasing Russia’s rich heritage and artistic traditions.

Other major cities in Russia include St. Petersburg, known as the cultural capital of the country, and Kazan, a vibrant and colorful city with a unique blend of Russian and Tatar cultures. The country is also home to many natural wonders, including the stunning Lake Baikal, the Golden Ring of historic cities, and the rugged mountains of the Caucasus region.

Russia is known for its diverse cuisine, with a range of traditional dishes such as borscht (beetroot soup), pelmeni (dumplings), and blini (pancakes), as well as a thriving tea culture. Visitors can also enjoy the country’s famous vodka and beer.

Russia is a destination for travelers with a mix of cultures and languages. The official language is Russian, but English is widely spoken and understood in major cities. The country has a well-developed tourism infrastructure, with a range of accommodations and activities to suit all budgets and interests.

Overall, Russia is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and natural beauty. With its vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and welcoming locals, Russia offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

Traveling to another country? Check out our Countries page for more info.

Power Plugs and Outlets in Russia: Do I Need a Travel Adapter?

Last Updated Mar 16, 2024

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Are you planning a trip to Russia? If so, you may be wondering about the types of power plugs and outlets in Russia, and whether or not you need a travel adapter for your electrical devices. Here is a quick guide to help you figure out if you need a travel adapter for Russia:

What Power Plugs and Outlets Are Used in Russia?

In Russia, there are two main types of power plugs and outlets: Type C and Type F.

Type C: Type C plugs have two round prongs on either side of the plug, commonly known as Euro plugs. Mostly used in Europe, South America, and Africa. Type C outlets can be fit with either Type E or Type F plugs.

Type F: Type F plugs are slightly thicker than Type C plugs. Type F plugs have two round prongs on either side of the plug, commonly known as Schuko plugs. Mostly used in Europe, Asia, and Africa. Type F outlets can be fit with either Type C or Type E plugs.

If you are traveling to a country with a different type of outlet, you will need to purchase an adapter. The adapter will convert the outlet from one type to another and allow you to fit your plug into it.

There are various types of adapters available on Amazon , including universal adapters that can fit most outlets in the world.

Buy a Travel Adapter for Russia

If you would like to bring your hair dryer , hair straightener , curling iron , or any other electrical appliance with you while traveling to Russia, make sure that it is compatible with Russia outlets. If it is not, you will need to purchase a travel adapter for Russia.

There are many different types of adapters available on Amazon that can be used in Russia. You can purchase a universal adapter that will fit most outlets in the world, or you can purchase a specific adapter for Russia .

→ Find travel adapters on Amazon .

What Voltage and Frequency Are Used in Russia?

In Russia, the standard voltage is 220 V and the frequency of electricity is 50 Hz.

If you’re traveling from another country and your electronic device isn’t compatible with Russia voltage, it may not work properly.

If you’re concerned about how your electronic devices will work in Russia, it’s important to check their voltage and frequency before traveling.

Additionally, you should know that some electronic devices may require a voltage converter or transformer to function properly in Russia.

You can find voltage converters on Amazon , or at your local electronics store.

Buy a Voltage Converter for Russia

If you would like to bring your laptop , tablet , camera , or other electronic devices with you to Russia, it’s important to check their voltage and frequency before traveling. If your electronic device isn’t compatible with Russia voltage, it may not work properly.

If you’re concerned about how your electronic devices will work in Russia, it’s best to buy a voltage converter or transformer before leaving home.

You can purchase one from Amazon, or at any electronics store near your home before you leave for Russia. If you don’t have time to shop around for the best price or if you feel like purchasing your voltage converter from a trusted source (like Amazon), check out the variety of voltage converters on Amazon here:

→ Find voltage converters on Amazon .

Are you looking for more information? Check out the following posts:

13 Best Gifts for Someone Traveling to Russia

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Before you go, packing tips for traveling to russia.

Here you are, preparing for your once-in-a-lifetime trip to far away Russia. By now, everything is ready, (if it's not, please don't hesitate to contact our professional Russia travel experts for unlimited help with your Russia travel plan ) but what's next? It's time to start packing! Do you know how cold or warm it's going to be during your time in Russia? What electric plugs you will need? If your phone will work abroad? We have all the answers. Our experience as one of the world's leading destination management companies for Russia allows for us to give you the most accurate and reliable info to ensure seamless travel from start to finish and unforgettable (positive) memories. Let's dive in:

Money, Rubles and Credit Cards

Interested in a deep dive into Russian money? Go here

Do not bring all of your debit/credit cards. A debit card and cash (we will explain how much below) will be the most useful and appropriate source of funds in Russia. ATMs abound, in hotels and all throughout cities. They use a favorable exchange rate and you can withdraw in US dollars, Russian rubles, or Euros. Many smaller stores only accept cash. Most restaurants accept credit cards, but we recommend you ask them in advance to avoid surprises. So just bring one or two credit cards. Tip: For emergencies, it's a good idea to have cash with you as well.

How much cash do I need?

It's likely not possible to exchange to rubles in your home country before you leave. We advise not to use an ATM at the airport in Russia when you arrive as airport exchange rates are high. If someone is meeting you at the airport and can afford to wait, you can use the ATM at the hotel, in the city, or at a bank. The Russian currency has been not so strong lately and the rate of the Russian ruble fluctuates around 70-80 rubles for 1 US dollar. In the last couple of years, the USD - RUB exchange has doubled, however prices in Russia remained on almost the same level as before the spike which makes it the best time to visit Russia . We recommend that you have anywhere from 3,000 to 10,000 rubles on you at any time. Tip: Call your bank before you depart and let them know that you will be traveling so they do not block your cards while you are in Russia (not all banks do this, but we recommend that you look into it). Bring more than one card in case one gets blocked. If all of your cards get blocked, call Travel All Russia’s emergency number and we'll organize a cash delivery to you, no problem. Important: Carry your money and cards in a pocket that is not easily reached from the outside to prevent any pick-pocketing. It's smart to keep your cards and cash in separate pockets. Find more information about Russian money here.

Weather & Clothing

If you are traveling during the summer, bring what you would wear in the summer at home, plus a warm sweater and/or a light jacket for evenings. The hot summer season is quite short and by August it will have already cooled down substantially. If you have booked one of our guided tours, please bring comfortable walking shoes. Sneakers will be perfect (that is one of the ways Americans are spotted in a crowd as Russians tend to prefer casual leather shoes). If your program includes a visit to an opera or theater, bring a jacket and dark shoes for men and nice clothes for women. Black tie and fancy gowns are unnecessary. If you are traveling for a week, pack enough clothes for the entire visit so you won't have to worry about laundry. If your trip is longer, laundry service will be available at your hotel or cruise ship. Tip: Since airlines baggage restrictions are getting tighter, we recommend one bag per traveler and a smaller carry-on. If you bring more, you might be required to pay airline luggage fees. Having one bag per traveler also helps you get through airport lines faster.

Check your documents before departure to make sure they are valid for your trip. You cannot enter Russia twice on a single entry visa. If you plan to enter and leave Russia multiple times in one trip, you will need a multi-entry visa. Tourist visas are valid for 30 days, so make sure your departure date is before your visa expiration date. If you arrive a day or two earlier than the date on your visa, you will be fined at customs up to $300. If you notice any irregularities in your visa, please contact your travel specialist. Tip: Make two copies of your passport and visa before leaving.  Keep one copy with you and one with the hotel.

Electric plugs

Russia uses 2 round European outlets (see the image). You can easily find an adapter at an electronics store or pharmacy in the US or online. Russia uses 220-volt electricity (America uses 110 volts). Most electrical devices support both. Look on the back of your power adapter it to find its supported voltage. If you see the range “110-240 volts”, your devices are compatible and you're set to go. If it says “110 volts”, it won't be useful.

Phones and SIM cards

To use your cell phone while in Russia, either activate international roaming or unlock your phone with your service provider. The first is easier but more expensive. Unlocking your phone allows you to use local Russian calling services and plans. A phone call made this way from Russia to the US will cost about $1, while US cell phone companies can charge up to $5/minute for international roaming in Russia...so give your service provider a call and they'll set it up for you. SIM cards can be bought on almost every street corner in Russia (you will be required to show your passport when making a purchase). Tip: If you want to keep it simple, just buy a cheap pay-as-you-go phone in Russia for around $20, get a SIM card, and you're ready to go.

Reading list

Russian literature is a treasure trove reflecting on the country's complex and tangled history. Reading some Russian classics before your trip or while exploring Moscow and Saint Petersburg will only enhance your overall experience. Imagine walking the same streets and looking at the same buildings Dostoevsky, Tolstoy and Chekhov did while writing one of their classic novels. Sightseeing will take on a whole new depth.

You do not need any shots before you visit Russia – it is a civilized European country that is safe for foreigners. Tap water is avoided, even by Russians who don’t drink it unless it is boiled (tea, anyone?). If you are taking prescription medication, we recommend that you bring enough to last your entire trip. To get the same prescription in Russia, you will need a prescription from a Russian doctor, which can be challenging as a foreigner. Tip: in case you forget to bring your medicine, please contact our emergency number and we will arrange a visit to an American hospital in Russia. A general rule is to always refer to the emergency number that we provide you with.

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Power Plug & Socket

Russia plug & power outlet: travel adapter needed.

Traveling to Russia? It is important to determine if you need a travel adapter or a voltage converter for Russian plug and power outlets.

Not to worry, we have all the information you need to ensure a problem-free trip.

What type of plug is used in Russia power outlets?

The power plugs and outlets used in Russia plugs are the types C and F plugs.

Type C plug has two round pins.

The type F plug has two round pins with earth clips on each side.

What is the voltage and frequency in Russia?

The standard voltage in Russia is 220 V, while the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

For travelers from countries with a standard voltage between 220 – 240 V, such as Australia, the UK, Europe, Africa, and most parts of Asia, electric appliances can be used in Russia without a voltage converter.

This is because manufacturers take into consideration deviations in voltage.

However, the case is different for travelers from countries with a standard voltage between 100 V – 127 V, such as Canada, the US, and countries in South America.

Travelers will require a voltage converter to make use of electrical appliances in Russia.

If the frequency of your country is different from the standard frequency of Russia, it is recommended that you do not use your electrical appliances in Russia.

Certain devices can be used in Russia and other countries without a voltage converter.

This is because they cover a wide range of voltage and frequency.

An inscription such as ‘INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz’ is written on the label of such devices. This indicates that the device can be used in any country in the world.

This is often seen in chargers of cell phones, laptops, tablets, cameras, and electric toothbrushes.

Want to buy a power plug/travel adapter or voltage converter?

The list of travel adapter products and converters available online is endless. However, when you choose a quality travel adapter, you can stay connected to a power source.

Fortunately, here’s our top-3 travel adapter picks from Amazon, in terms of quality, design, and price.

• Find more travel adapters/converters combo on Amazon
• Find more voltage converters on Amazon

Electricity in Russia: How does Russia get its energy?

Russia ranks as one of the largest producers and consumers of electricity in the world.

Two-thirds of Russia’s electricity is  produced  from fossil fuels.

About one-sixth of Russia’s electricity is generated from nuclear power and hydroelectricity.

Russia Power Plugs Types & Socket : Travel Adapter Required?

If you are planning a trip to Russia, it’s important to know what types of power plugs are used there.

Russia’s power outlets are different from those in most other countries, so you’ll need to make sure you have the right type of plug. In this article, we will provide you with everything you need to know about power plugs in Russia.

What types of power plugs are used in Russia?

Russia has two kinds of plug types: C and F . Plug type C is a plug with two round pins, while plug type F has two round pins with two earth clips. In Russia, the standard voltage is 230V and the frequency of electricity is 50Hz.

Voltage and Frequency in Russia

If you want to use electrical appliances in Russia, just a friendly reminder to be aware of the specific voltage and frequency systems. This applies to everyone, whether you’re visiting Russia, studying there, or working.

The voltage in Russia is 230V, which is lower than other countries such as the United States (120 volts) and Europe (230 volts).

The frequency in Russia is 50Hz, depending on the region. Some appliances, such as clocks and timers, may not work properly. They can create problems if they are used at the wrong frequency.

This is because manufacturers consider slight deviations in voltage of up to plus or minus 5%.

If the appliance doesn’t work with the local electrical outlets, you need to use an adapter that converts voltage or adapts plugs.

It is important to check the voltage and frequency requirements of each device before bringing them to Russia. If the appliance is not compatible with the local electrical outlet system, you will have to use a voltage converter and/or a plug adapter.

Dual Voltage Rated Appliances

You can determine whether you will need to use a converter or transformer, by checking at the appliance rating plate.

A dual voltage-rated appliance, for example, if your devices have this, written ‘INPUT: 100-240V’ on its exterior or its power supply. You won’t need a converter or transformer, just a travel adapter because Russia uses a 100V supply voltage, which is the same voltage that the dual voltage appliance uses.

Using Power Plugs in Russia

Using power plugs in Russia is simple, but you have to be careful. Simply insert the plug into the socket and connect your electronic device, like a hair dryer, charger, iron, etc. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Make sure your device is rated for 100 volts. Most modern electronics can handle 100v voltage, but it’s always best to double-check.

Be aware that Russia’s power outlets are designed for flat plugs, so if your device has a polarized plug (one prong is wider than the other), you may need an adapter.

Travel Adapters for Russia

There are many different types of power plug adapters for Russia available on the market. Some popular options include:

Universal Travel Adapter: This type of adapter usually includes multiple plug types, including each types of plugs, making it perfect when you are traveling internationally.

Russia’s Adapters: These adapters are specifically designed for use in Russia and also include surge protection to keep your devices safe.

You can also check the map to see the use of different plugs and sockets in the world.

Comparing Different Power Plugs

When comparing power plugs for Russia, here are a few things to consider:

Compatibility: Make sure the plug you choose is compatible with all your electronic devices.

Convenience: Look for a plug that is easy to use and carry with you while traveling.

Safety Features: Consider whether the plug includes any safety features, such as surge protection, overcurrent protection and short circuit protection.

Safety Tips

When traveling to Russia, it is important to keep safety in mind when using electrical devices. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

Check your device’s compatibility.

Before plugging in any device, make sure it is compatible with Russia’s electrical system. Russia uses a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz, which is different from many other countries. If your device is not compatible, you may need to use a voltage converter or transformer to avoid damaging your device.

Use the Correct Plug

Russia uses Type C and Type F plugs, which are different from the plugs used in many other countries. Make sure you have the correct plug for your device before plugging it in. If your device has a grounding pin, you will need an adapter to use a Russia outlet.

Avoid Overloading Outlets

Be careful not to overload electrical outlets in Russia. Overloading can cause a fire or damage to your device. If you need to plug in multiple devices, use a power strip with surge protection.

Keep water away from electrical devices.

Water and electricity do not mix. Keep water away from electrical devices, and do not use electrical devices near water. If a device gets wet, unplug it immediately and let it dry completely before using it again.

Be Careful with Portable Chargers

Portable chargers can be a convenient way to keep your devices charged on the go, but they can also be dangerous if not used correctly.

Make sure your portable charger is compatible with your device and use it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not leave your portable charger plugged in for extended periods of time, and do not use it near water.

By following these safety tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Russia.

What type of power outlets are used in Russia?

Russia uses two types of power outlets: Type C and Type F.

Can I use my U.S. power plug in Russia?

No, you cannot use a U.S. power plug in Russia. You will need an adapter that is compatible with Local power outlets.

Do I need a voltage converter for Russia?

If your electronic devices are rated for 100 volts, you do not need a voltage converter.

Can I charge my laptop in Russia?

Yes, you can charge your laptop in Russia, as long as you have the right type of power plug or adapter.

Where can I buy power plugs for Russia?

You can buy power plugs for Russia at most electronics stores or online retailers.

You don’t have to be a genius to use power plugs in Russia. You just need some common sense. If you choose the proper plug or adapter and follow the described steps, your electronic devices will stay charged while you’re traveling. Make sure you bring a power adapter before you go on your Russia’s adventure!

If you have any queries and questions, you can ask in the comment section of this page.

Russia Other Related Information

• Russia Popular States: Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg, Nizhny Novgorod
• Russia Area (SQ Km): 17,098,242.00
• Russia Capital: Moscow
• Russia Population: 145,912,025.00
• Russia Spoken Language: Russian
• Russia Currency: Russian Ruble

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Travel Adaptor for Russia

Russia travel adaptors.

Whether you’re a new or returning visitor, this beautiful country never fails to impress. Whatever type of holiday you’re planning in Russia, it’s important to do your research beforehand, to ensure you have a hassle-free trip.

Russia travel adaptors: which type do I need?

You will need to consider what to pack, to ensure you can use your personal electrical appliances safely whilst abroad. This normally includes the use of a  travel adaptor , which is a device that simply allows you to plug any UK electrical appliance into a foreign electrical socket. It is important to note that it does not convert the voltage or frequency.

For Russia there are two associated plug types, C and F. Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins and plug type F is the plug which has two round pins, with two earth clips on the side. Russia operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz.

Voltage converters and transformers

Electricity supplies worldwide can vary from anything between 100V and 240V. It can be extremely dangerous to use an electrical appliance that is rated at a voltage different from the supply.

As voltage can differ from country to country, you may need to use a voltage converter or transformer whilst in Russia. If the frequency is different, the normal operation of an electrical appliance may also be affected. For example, a 50Hz clock may run faster on a 60Hz electricity supply.  Most voltage converters and transformers come supplied with plug adaptors, so you may not need to buy a separate travel adaptor.

All converters and transformers will have a maximum power rating (AMPS or WATTS) so make sure that any appliance you intend to use does not exceed this rating.

Dual voltage rated appliance

You can determine whether you’ll need to use a converter or transformer, by looking at the appliance rating plate.

A dual voltage rated appliance will display for example ‘INPUT: 110-240V’ on the body of the appliance or its power supply. This means that you will not need a converter or transformer but just a travel adaptor, because Russia operates on a 230V supply voltage, which is within the 110-240V range that the dual voltage appliance operates on.

Single voltage rated appliances

In Russia the supply voltage is 230V. If the appliance is a single voltage rated appliance, it will need to operate at the same voltage as the supply voltage of the country i.e. 230V. If this is not the case it should be used alongside a voltage transformer or converter to allow the appliance to work safely and properly.

Converters and transformers perform a similar function, but their applications differ. Converters are typically used with appliances that operate for a short duration (1-2hours), whilst most transformers can be used alongside appliances that operate continuously.

It’s important to understand that some travel adaptors are not suitable for any appliances that require an earth connection. These types of travel adaptors should only be used with double insulated equipment, which will be clearly marked with the symbol shown below.

We recommend you check your appliances before embarking on your journey, to understand the requirements in Russia.

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The Best Travel Plug Adapter

By Geoffrey Morrison

If you want to use electronic devices in a different country, you’ll probably need a travel plug adapter. After spending more than 30 hours researching and testing 14 options, we found the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter to be the best one. It fits four types of outlets, and it has more USB ports than any of its competitors, so it can can charge more devices at higher speeds.

Everything we recommend

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Best universal travel adapter.

With four plugs that will work in most countries, plus faster-charging USB ports (and more of them) than its competitors, this adapter is the best all-around choice.

Buying Options

Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set

The best plug adapter.

Individually, these tiny plug adapters are smaller, lighter, and cheaper than any universal travel adapter. To juice up multiple devices, though, you’d need a separate multiport charger too.

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Ceptics Plug Adapter Set

Heavier, but sturdier.

The plugs in this set of five are bigger and heavier than our top pick for plug adapters, but more solidly built.

In a sea of almost-identical travel adapters, the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter stands out, combining the best of the features we were looking for. It contains the three most common international plugs and a US-style plug, which should cover you in the majority of countries around the world. It has the most USB ports—four of the standard USB-A and one USB-C—of any universal adapter we tested, and it could charge more of our devices faster. A replaceable fuse and an included spare should take the brunt of any accidental, unfortunate, or shockingly bad connections. The Epicka is fairly compact and well built, and it even comes with a nylon case.

However, no universal travel adapter is truly universal, and they’re all a lot bulkier and more expensive than simple plug adapters. If you want the smallest adapter possible, or if you’re going someplace where a universal adapter won’t work (more on that in a minute), then a plug adapter could be what you need.

The Ceptics tiny plug adapters are barely larger than the prongs they convert. Small, simple, and cheap, they’re perfect for someone who wants to carry only the adapter they’ll need and who already has a multiport USB wall charger they like. Like our universal adapter picks, this set contains the three most common international plugs and the US plug. However, it also includes a somewhat rarer plug used in some European countries that has two thick, cylindrical prongs. This means that the Ceptics will likely cover you in even more places—as long as you pack the appropriate plug adapter.

These plug adapters are bigger than our top pick for plug adapters, but this means they offer a larger surface for chargers to brace against, which makes them more stable and less likely to fall off the wall. (We’ll call these “ Ceptics White ” to minimize confusion and set them apart from our “Ceptics Black” top pick.) While you can purchase these as a five-pack, which contains basically the same assortment of plugs as the Ceptics Black set, the company also sells, in this same model line, three-packs for nearly a dozen specific regions. So if you’re headed to a country not covered by the so-called universal travel adapters (for example, Brazil , India , Israel , or South Africa ), or if you want to purchase multiple adapters for your gear, there’s probably an option available here.

A note up here, which we’ll discuss in detail below: All of these are adapters only . They do not convert voltage. The majority of your electronic devices only need adapters—the voltage converter is built into the charger itself. (If the device charges via USB, just about any USB port will suffice, though different ports may provide different charging speeds.) Check out Do you need a voltage converter? if you’re curious about these aspects.

The research

Why you should trust us, who should get this, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: epicka universal travel adapter, flaws but not dealbreakers, our pick: ceptics international worldwide travel plug adapter 5 piece set, runner-up: ceptics adapter plug set for worldwide international travel use, do you need a voltage converter, the competition.

In addition to my work here at Wirecutter, I also write about tech and travel for CNET, Forbes, and Wirecutter’s parent company, The New York Times . Perhaps more relevant to this guide, I usually spend a good chunk of each year (global pandemics aside) as a digital nomad, living months at a time in different countries all over the world. My current country count is 50, spread across six continents, and since I travel with a lot of electronics gear for work, being able to plug in is obviously crucial.

I’ve owned and used many different types of universal-style travel adapters, and several different companies’ worth of plug adapters, plus I’ve talked with countless travelers about what they like … or, more important, what they hate. We also got some advice from Wirecutter's Mark Smirniotis, who used to oversee our power devices section.

Do you travel? Are you going to travel sometime in the (near or far) future? Do you want to be able to charge or use electronic devices in a different country? If so, you’re probably going to need a travel plug adapter. There’s a variety of different outlet types around the world, not to mention different voltages and frequencies, so you can’t expect your phone charger to just plug in and work wherever you’re headed. Sure, Canada, Mexico, Japan, and many other countries use the same small pair of prongs as the US, but places like continental Europe, the UK, Australia, India, Russia, and pretty much everywhere else do not.

You have two main choices when it comes to travel plug adapters: the universal-style travel adapters (that’s one device with multiple sets of prongs that you extend and retract) and smaller, individual plug adapters that usually come in sets. Both have pros and cons.

Should you get a universal travel adapter or a simple plug adapter?

Universal travel adapters are for the person who wants one handy adapter that will work in just about every country. You can keep it next to your passport and toss it in your luggage when you’re packing. The ones we considered have USB ports, so you don’t need to worry about bringing a separate charger for anything that charges via USB (think  phones  and noise-cancelling headphones ). However, these are bulky, they have parts that can break, and even the best will take longer to charge your phone or tablet than will a good USB wall charger .

The alternative is small and simple plug adapters. These attach to the prongs of your current USB charger (whether it’s a multiport one or the charger that came with your device) to allow them to fit into a foreign outlet. These can work because nearly every modern charger can adjust to the available voltage in pretty much every country, as long as you can adapt the prongs to fit in the outlet. (More on this in Do you need a voltage converter? ) These are great for people who already have a multiport USB charger they like and don’t want to deal with the additional bulk of a universal travel adapter. Also, these are necessary if you’re traveling to a country that has outlets incompatible with any of the four types included in a universal adapter (which, as that sentence reveals, aren’t actually universal).

The choice between universal travel adapters and individual plug adapters ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both types work, and different people will like or dislike each. If you’re not sure which will be best for you, read each section here closely.

Here’s the big caveat: If you’re planning on bringing something with you that has a motor, a heating element, or a single power cord that leads directly from the plug to the device (i.e. there’s no power brick or wall wart ), it almost certainly won’t work with a travel plug adapter. Most people will only need one of the adapter choices we recommend, but very occasionally there’s a piece of gear that needs a voltage converter. For more on that topic, also check out the voltage converters section below.

Where in the world will your travel plug adapter work?

All universal travel adapters have four different sets of prongs, which cover most countries most Americans tend to travel to. First is the big, wide-blade UK-style plug (often designated "Type G”) . This will work in places like the UK, obviously, and also Ireland, Hong Kong, and some other parts of Asia and the Middle East.

Next is the round Europe-style plug, aka the Europlug (Type C) . However, this is where we run into complications. This plug should work in most of Europe—it was designed, in fact, to fit into a wide range of European outlet types. For instance, parts of Italy, Switzerland, and Denmark each use different plugs from one another. Should this double-round one work in those locations? Yes. Will it? Hard to say. I’ve stayed in places where my Europlug didn’t work, yet it did in the hostel before and the hotel after—all within the same small region of a country. With any luck, if this happens to you, the place you’re staying will have a power strip that will let you plug in, though there’s no guarantee of that.

Third is the angled small-blade style (Type I) found in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and other parts of Oceania, and a few other areas. Some universal adapters have one set of blades for this and the US style—you just manually rotate the blades into the correct position depending on where you are. In our testing, we had no trouble getting them to work.

The last, the small US-style blades (Type A or B) , mean you could use our picks to visit the US and other countries that have the same plugs—if, that is, you’re reading this from outside the US.

What are the places not covered by these four styles? Some parts of Brazil, South Africa, India, and more. I’ve stayed in parts of Italy, for example, that should have Europlugs but only had something called Type L . I’ve stayed in houses in Brazil that had Type N , but the Europlug fit enough to work. In others, it wouldn’t.

To find out which plugs you might need while traveling, refer to the excellent Wikipedia article called Mains electricity by country that shows pictures of (almost) all the possible plugs and outlets, along with a list of the world’s countries and (almost all of) the style or styles they use. This is invaluable information to check before you leave. If multiple plug types are listed for a specific country and you’re staying in an older building, you should probably assume its outlets will require whatever plug isn’t on a universal travel adapter, since these only have the most common, newer varieties of plugs.

Which brings us to perhaps the most important fact: Getting your gear to work in different countries isn’t quite as simple as it should be, and there’s no single solution that’s guaranteed to work for everyone. Our picks should work for you, but you may have some random piece of equipment, or be traveling to some country, for which our “good for most” picks just won’t work. (Case in point: One Wirecutter editor visited Iceland recently. The house she stayed in had outlets unlike anything on Wikipedia’s chart, and the plug adapters she’d used elsewhere in Reykjavik didn’t fit at all. It turns out the mystery sockets belonged to an obscure Italian system from the 1960s that was popular in Iceland for a time. Luckily, the hosts had power strips in the house that her adapters fit into.) We’ll try to mention such potential caveats when we can, but the world is a big place, and when it comes to electricity and wall outlets, there’s a lot of variation. That’s important to keep in mind.

There are approximately 70 billion universal travel plug adapters on the Web. However, after spending 20 hours staring at them, I found there’s only about a dozen basic designs—and countless “companies” selling them. Among those dozen or so actually different products, I saw a few distinctions that helped narrow the field. Since most options had four USB ports, that seemed like a reasonable minimum to require. Their maximum power output, rated in amps, became a determining factor in our rankings. The higher the maximum output, the faster the port will charge your gear.

Some plugs came with a replaceable fuse, which seemed like a good idea, and a few included a replacement for said fuse, which seemed even better. This way, if either you plug the adapter into a sketchy outlet or a roommate at the hostel uses your adapter to plug in their completely necessary portable arc welder, the fuse will go, not your adapter. Then it’s just a matter of swapping in the included spare fuse and you’re good to go.

These fuses have a maximum power rating, and therefore the adapters have a maximum wattage rating. However, you shouldn’t be connecting anything with a high enough power draw to trip these fuses. Check out Do you need a voltage converter? for more information. The short version is that recharging portable electronic devices is fine, but powering anything that has a motor or heats up is not. Nearly every appliance or device has its power draw written on it somewhere , so worst case, you can compare that to what’s listed on the adapter. And so you don’t have to look it up, volts × amps = watts.

The other option we considered and tested is individual plug adapters. These small adapters attach to the prongs of your current charger so they’ll plug into a foreign outlet. In deciding which of these to test, we judged by size and available plug-type options. As you’ll see with our two picks, one is exceptionally small, and the other offers sturdier plugs that are available in a range of plug types that’s wide enough to cover you no matter where in the world you’re headed.

The universal travel adapters are far more similar to one another than they are different. However, getting in a dozen and playing with them for a while revealed that some felt better put together than others. After spending several minutes with each one, forcefully extending the various plugs, slamming them back in, and just being fairly rough with them, I found it easy to tell which felt like they’d last a few trips, and which wouldn’t. None felt like you’d own them for a lifetime. Since none are expensive, though, this didn’t seem like a major issue.

All had a US-style plug, so I tested each one in several outlets around my house—some new, some old. I didn’t find much difference in how they fit and worked. I connected several chargers and plugs to the output side of each adapter as well. Again, not much difference. Last, I checked how bright the LED on each was, since a too-bright LED keeping me awake has been a pet peeve of mine for years. Many USB chargers have LEDs bright enough to practically read from; I eliminated any universal adapter that had this problem.

For the plug adapters, I tried plugging in several devices, as well as inserting them into outlets around my house. I checked how tight the connections were and how they felt overall. Would they fall apart with simple use or perhaps hold up to being tossed around in bags for a few weeks or months?

In reality, the testing for all the adapter types didn’t reveal much variation in terms of performance. These are all remarkably similar products. How they felt to use and their different features played a far bigger role in establishing our final picks.

While all the universal travel adapters we tested included the same three types of plugs (plus the familiar US-style one), they differed in how many USB ports each had and how quickly they could charge—and that’s where the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter excelled. It has five USB ports: four of the standard USB-A size and one of the newer USB-C. (You may not have a USB-C device at the moment, but you likely will in the future.) These will let you charge, say, three phones, two tablets, and—via the adapter’s main plug—a camera battery that has its own wall charger, all at once.

In addition, and just as important, is the maximum power output: 5.6 amps. This was the highest of all the adapters we considered, which means you can charge more of your devices at higher speeds before hitting the max output.

Keep in mind that the maximum output per USB-A port is 2.4 amps, the max on the USB-C port is 3 amps, and if you’re using all five ports you won’t be able to charge every connected device at full speed—it’ll only give you that 5.6 amp output in total . The output is still far lower than what you can get from a decent USB charger combined with our pick for a simple plug adapter (more on that in the plug adapter section , below), but it’s significantly better than most universal travel adapters, which often max out under 3 amps total.

The Epicka has three sliders on one side, with a button on the other to lock/unlock your chosen plug in place. This arrangement feels more secure than the semi-locking or slide-locking system that some other universals use. However, this is plastic-on-plastic, so don’t expect a tank. As these things go, the Epicka feels sturdy. The US and Australia share a pair of prongs—you twist the prongs manually to set them up for an angled Australia-style outlet.

The four regular USB plugs are all on one side, which is tidier than the “flailing gibbon” look of some other universal adapters.

The above details were what put the Epicka at the top of our list, but the adapter has a few other features that are the cherry on top, so to speak. For instance, it comes with a small nylon case and a USB cable with a split end, so it works with either Micro-USB or Lightning devices. While the adapter has an LED to show you it’s working, the glow isn’t so bright as to be a distraction at night.

One last note. There are multiple Epicka universal adapters, and even Epicka can’t keep the names straight. We’ve seen this one called, variously, Universal Travel Adapter, International Travel Adapter, Travel Adapter-2, Universal USB Travel Power Adapter (2018), and even Universal Travel Adapter One Worldwide International Wall Charger AC Plug Adaptor with 5.6A Smart Power 3.0A USB Type-C for USA EU UK AUS Cell Phone Tablet Laptop (Grey). Best to follow the link above. Also, you may find another company selling a twin of this. The Epicka has the most reviews and offers free shipping with Prime. The other options we saw have few or no reviews, or charge outrageous shipping costs.

As with all of these adapters, I wouldn’t expect the Epicka to last forever. Given its locking design and case, it’s probably going to last longer than many others, but all of these are almost entirely inexpensive plastic devices. Just something to keep in mind.

While the prongs themselves felt secure, and being able to lock them into place was nice, it’s entirely possible that the size and weight of the adapter, plus whatever you’ve plugged into it, could pull it out of an outlet. That is, unfortunately, a risk with every universal adapter.

Another risk with any universal adapter—as we mentioned above—is that it’s not going to work where you’re headed. Epicka claims it will work in 150 countries, but there are more than 200 countries (the exact number is harder to pin down than you might realize) . And even in each of those 150 countries, there’s no guarantee that the adapter will work in every outlet in every building. Plug adapters are a somewhat safer bet to work specifically where you’re going, but they have their own downsides, which we’ll discuss below.

Also, while the Epicka is a little smaller than some of the others we tested, all universal adapters are much bulkier than plug adapters. As someone who has spent most of the past several years traveling, I feel plug adapters are far easier and less annoying to deal with. This is largely why we have two recommendations for that category.

The Ceptics Plug Adapter set combines everything we were looking for in plug adapters: small size, solid build quality, and—well, small size is really the thing here. Each adapter is no larger than it needs to be to fit over the American-style prongs of your charger. The plastic feels solid and not flimsy. Each adapter has the region or countries it should be used in written on the side. The five plugs in the set are the same four as you’ll find on the universal adapters recommended above, plus the thicker, round European-style prongs used in parts of France, parts of Asia, and elsewhere.

Though the set comes with a small case, you probably wouldn’t be traveling with the entire set very often. Instead, you’d pack just the specific adapter or adapters you’d be using on each trip. These are for the person who wants to travel as light and as simply as possible. I myself, and my friends who travel frequently, swear by these small, inexpensive adapters. Also, if you have a USB multiport charger you like or a charger that’s especially fast, you can use that charger with just a tiny, almost weightless plug at the end.

However, plug adapters aren’t for everyone, and that’s why they’re not our main pick. For one thing, if you don’t already own a multiport USB wall charger, you’ll still have to get one if you don’t want to carry a charger for each device. Also, depending on what you’re connecting with these plug adapters, your charger or device could wobble and maybe fall out. The connections inside are solid enough that this shouldn’t happen, but it’s possible. Our universal-adapter picks, as well as the other Ceptics set we discuss below, have a larger “face” for your charger to brace against—more like that of a traditional outlet—so there’s less chance of gravity having its way with your gear.

Being small and inexpensive, plug adapters are not built for high-power, high-wattage items, though hopefully we’ve persuaded you to leave those at home . If you’re charging a battery, you should be fine. If you’re running a motor, probably not. Laptops, yes; mini-fridges, no.

Last, these things being so small, you could easily lose them in your bag or leave them behind in an outlet somewhere, if you’re the type of person who loses things. (That’s why I usually keep mine connected to my charger.)

For a hardcore traveler like me, these are my pick. They’re cheap, light, and small, and they work.

Though made by the same company as the Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set—and bearing a confusingly similar name—the plug adapters in the Ceptics Adapter Plug Set for Worldwide International Travel Use are, as you can see, a completely different design. They’re much larger than the other Ceptics (let’s call the previous set Ceptics Black and this one Ceptics White for simplicity). Nonetheless, they’re each smaller than a universal adapter, and they have one key benefit over our top plug-adapter pick: You can purchase them in multipacks for individual regions, including regions beyond those covered by the Ceptics Black set.

The Ceptics White are small, but not as small as the Ceptics Black. That extra size does offer one benefit, however: These adapters have more of a face on the output side, so there’s more surface for your charger to lean against. This means your charger is less likely to fall out. Again, neither set of plugs we tested had loose connections, but this is always a risk, as chargers vary. One other difference: In place of the two-pronged US plug we saw (type A) in our other picks, this set includes the three-pronged grounded version .

The real benefit to the Ceptics Whites, however, is not their physical characteristics. This range is one of your only options if you want to buy a plug adapter for a specific region or country. Headed to India or South Africa ? A universal adapter probably won’t work, but you can get a three-pack of Ceptics that will. You can also buy the offset three-prong and in-line three-prong for Switzerland and Italy, respectively, as well as plugs for Israel and Brazil , both the thin and the thick European plugs, and of course, Australia and UK versions too. They cost less than $10 per set. Any of those links will bring you to a page that lets you choose among plugs for different regions—definitely verify at checkout that you’ve picked the correct ones!

These adapters are ideal for someone headed to a country not covered by a universal adapter, or who has multiple chargers they want to plug in while traveling. They’re not quite as compact as the Ceptics Black adapters, but for most people, this difference in size won’t be an issue. I’ve traveled with these Ceptics plugs for many years, and they show no signs of wear.

Every adapter you see in this guide merely sends the current from the wall directly to whatever you plug into it. These are not voltage converters. Which is to say, if you’re in the UK, whatever you plug into the front of the adapter is going to get the UK’s 220 volts/50 hertz electricity, not the 120 volt/60 hertz that you’d get in the US. Travel plug adapters don’t convert the voltage; they only convert the plug . (Our universal picks do convert the local current to USB voltage, but only for the USB ports.)

However, for the vast majority of people, this is all you need. It’s exceptionally rare that anyone would need a voltage converter anymore. This is because most so-called wall warts, like on your phone charger or your camera’s battery charger, will convert the wall voltage into what it needs automatically.

Take a look at your charger. Somewhere, it should say “100–220V 50/60Hz.” This means it can accept anything between 100 V and 220 V, which covers domestic electricity pretty much everywhere, and either 50 Hz or 60 Hz, which again covers everything. If your charger doesn’t say this, it might not work with a travel adapter. If it only says "120V–60Hz," it will almost certainly not work—or not work correctly—with a travel adapter.

But here’s the other reason we don’t recommend buying a voltage converter: Your device might not work even with one. Anything with a motor (like hair dryers), anything with a heating element (like a clothing iron or a curling iron), or anything with a plug that goes directly to the device (as in no wall wart), probably won’t work in another country regardless of what kind of converter or adapter you bring . The good news is, pretty much every hotel, hostel, and Airbnb will have a hair dryer you can borrow. This is one of those times where we can’t cover everything you might want to bring, but for the vast majority of you, you don’t need a voltage converter. Either it’s not necessary, or the device that needs one won’t work anyway. Worst case, if it’s something cheap and you really need it—a hot pot or an electric kettle, say—consider buying one at your destination.

One occasional exception is electric razors. These often fall into the “single cable, no wall wart, has a motor” category. Which is to say, they probably won’t work without a voltage converter. (Again, check the fine print near the plug or on the device itself.) Many hotels have a shaver plug in the bathroom , with a US-style outlet and US-style 110 volt-or-so voltage. However, not every hotel will have these, and they’re very rare in hostels and Airbnbs. If you need one, best to call ahead and see if your hotel has them. Or use disposables on your trip.

It’s worth noting again for clarity, USB is USB, so if you’re just plugging in a USB cable , unless something is horribly wrong, one USB port’s voltage is the same as any other USB port’s voltage. How fast that port will charge your gear will vary (that’s related to amperage), but unless the charger is faulty, a USB port shouldn’t damage your gear.

We considered many more adapters than those listed here. However, the majority of travel adapters available boil down to just a dozen or so designs sold by myriad companies. We’ve listed two representatives of each of the most common designs, but in most cases, many more exist. Chances are, if it looks similar and has similar specs, it’s probably the same inside.

Universal travel adapters

Askali, Unidapt , others: Only 3.4 amps maximum output, which means it’ll take longer to charge all of your devices.

Bluegogo  (currently unavailable): Only two USB and slower-charging than our picks.

Bonaker: Formerly our runner-up pick, this travel adapter had the usual mix of four plug types to cover you in most countries, but its four USB-A ports were slower than our top pick’s, and it had no USB-C port at all. It’s also since disappeared from Amazon.

Bonazza , Urbo , others: Feels flimsy, even compared with others here. Two-piece design is more cumbersome than helpful. Only 3.4 amps maximum output.

Ceptics Travel Power Strip : The Travel Power Strip combines the interchangeable-plug aspect of the Ceptics Plug Adapter Set with a two-outlet power strip and short extension cord. It also has USB-A and USB-C outputs. If you have multiple non-USB items you want to charge at once—a laptop and a camera charger, for instance—this is a good option. But we think most travelers will prefer the more portable brick design of our picks over this power strip.

Conair Travel Smart : It has only one USB port, with a maximum of 1 amp, but with three outlets, it’s one of the few travel adapters that lets you plug in multiple non-USB devices.

Monoprice Compact Cube Universal Travel Adapter : I own one of these, and it’s fine, but if you’re going the universal route, our picks have USB charging for just a few dollars more. If you don’t need USB charging, our plug-adapter picks are probably better choices. Insten is a similar product but with, apparently, surge suppression built in. But as there’s no way to change the fuse, this is likely one-and-done if you plug in something too powerful.

Mu One (currently unavailable): The Mu offered a much higher power output than other travel adapters: 45 watts, enough to quickly charge even a big-battery device such as a MacBook Air. However, after trying and failing to launch a Mu Two in 2020, the company went out of business. The name and remaining assets were bought by a company called Discovery Club, which seems to be selling off the inventory.

Ougrand (green) : Same shape as the Unidapt, but with a USB-C in place of one of the regular USB connections; 3.4 amp max total.

Huanuo  (currently unavailable): A bit bulky, with three regular USB ports and one USB-C; 3.4 amps maximum.

WGGE , Jollyfit : Only 2.4 amps max, less than either of our picks.

Plug adapters

Bestek Grounded Universal Worldwide Plug : Likely made in the same factory as the Ceptics White plugs, the Bestek set looks the same and is roughly the same price. It offers a wide variety of plug types, but lacks the Type C Europlug that’s common in most adapter sets and usable across most of Europe. (The Europlug was invented to fit into a wide range of European outlet types.) If our Ceptics White pick is sold out, these will also work.

Lewis N. Clark Adapter Plug Kit  (currently unavailable): This kit looks fine, but it is more expensive and has one less plug compared with our Ceptics pick.

Insignia Global Travel Adapter Kit  (currently unavailable): The Insignia has a clever interlocking and compact design, akin to that of the old Flight 001 universal adapter (Flight 001, the specialty travel-gear retailer, is now no longer operating in the US), and the individual plugs feel solid. However, it is expensive compared with our picks, and it doesn’t offer anything that you couldn’t do with our picks just by connecting them end to end (if you wanted to).

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Geoffrey Morrison

Geoffrey Morrison is Wirecutter’s former AV editor, current editor-at-large, and a travel writer and photographer. He covers action cameras, gimbals, travel backpacks, and other gear. He has been to all 50 states and 60 countries, and he is the author of Budget Travel for Dummies and the sci-fi novel Undersea .

Further reading

The Best Travel Power Strips and Surge Protectors With USB Charging

by Sarah Witman

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The Best Gear for Travel

by Wirecutter Staff

We put in another year and tens of thousands more miles of travel to test the best travel gear—and we stand by last year’s choices alongside a few new picks.

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You don't have to be a digital nomad to travel like one. Here are a few gadgets and accessories to make travel as painless as possible.

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4 top-rated travel adapters for your next trip

Select independently determines what we cover and recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more. 

A travel adapter is crucial for international travel — without it, you won’t be able to charge most of your electronics. Put simply, travel adapters let you plug your electronics into wall sockets in other countries, says Carl Prouty, a product specialist with over 20 years of sales experience at Abt , an electronics and appliance retailer. (Since Abt sells travel adapters, we only spoke with Prouty about technical shopping guidance, and did not ask for specific product recommendations.)

Travel adapters come in small individual plugs or a single universal adapter, which have multiple plugs built-in. We consulted electronics experts to better understand how they work, and based our recommendations on expert advice, highlighting Select staff favorites as well as top-rated options on the market.

SKIP AHEAD Select staff favorite travel adapters | What is a travel adapter? | What is voltage? | What is a travel voltage converter? | How to shop for travel adapters

Our top picks

• Editor’s pick : Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
• Most portable: Ceptics Travel Plug Adapter

Voltage converter: Foval Travel Voltage Converter

How we picked our favorite travel adapters.

We spoke with electronics experts and asked Select staffers for their favorite travel adapters. We selected products that met the following criteria:

• Compatibility : We picked products designed for multiple regions, focusing on the EU, U.K., and the U.S. in particular.
• Price : We highlighted products across different price points, including small adapters that cost less than $15 and larger converters costing less than $50.
• Top-rated : We considered top-rated products with at least a four-star average rating from over 1,000 reviews on Amazon.

Select-staff favorite travel adapters in 2023

We rounded up the following highly rated travel adapters, universal adapters and voltage converters based on expert advice and Select staff picks that are in line with that advice.

Editor’s pick: Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

I have used this universal travel adapter for over a year to charge small electronics like phones, earbuds , fitness trackers and tablets in the U.S., U.K., France and Italy. This adapter has both USB-A and USB-C ports, so I can charge multiple devices at the same time. Even though this is a travel adapter, I sometimes use it at home in the U.S. when I need to charge my smartphone, earbuds and smartwatch at the same time.

Compatible regions : EU, U.K., U.S., AUS | Ports : 3-prong power plug, USB-A (4), USB-C (1) | Voltage range : N/A, does not convert voltage | Dimensions: 2.8 x 1.97 x 2.05 in.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter $ at Amazon

Budget pick: Mingtong Universal Travel Adapter

CNBC Select associate reporter Andreina Rodriguez uses this adapter when she travels to  Italy, France, Ireland, Greece, Spain, Belgium and the Netherlands. She mostly used it to charge her smartphone or laptop — it charges each one just as quickly as chargers in the U.S. do. Like our editor’s pick, it has multiple USB ports for charging different devices at once.

Rodriguez uses the original version of this product, but there are other versions that offer USB-C charging and extra USB ports if you’re looking to charge other devices.

Compatible regions: EU, U.K., U.S., AU | Ports : 3-prong power plug, USB-A (2) | Voltage range : N/A, does not convert voltage | Dimensions: 3 x 1.5 x 1.9 in.

Mingtong Universal Travel Adapter

Mingtong Universal Travel Adapter $ at Amazon

Most portable: Ceptics Travel Plug Adapter Set

Individual plug adapters are especially useful if you are traveling light. This top-rated set includes five different plugs for countries like the U.S., the U.K., and Australia. Each plug is labeled with the countries and continents you can use it in. It also comes in a slightly larger white version , where each plug has a third metal prong, called a ground port, to protect your device from power surges, according to the brand.

Compatible regions: EU, U.K., U.S., AU | Ports : N/A | Voltage range : N/A, does not convert voltage | Dimensions: Individual plugs

Ceptics Travel Plug Adapter Set

Ceptics Travel Plug Adapter Set $ at Amazon

Consider this converter If you are bringing devices like hair straighteners or curling irons that will need their voltage adjusted while abroad. This voltage converter adjusts incoming electricity to fit the 110 to 120-volt requirement for U.S. electronics to work properly. It can power devices with up to 230 watts of energy — check your device to make sure it uses less than 230 watts.

The converter has fans built in that prevent overheating and short-circuiting, according to the brand. It has four USB ports and two power outlets, making it a good option if you need to charge multiple devices at the same time. It comes with four different plug types and a detachable power cable.

Compatible regions: EU, U.K., U.S., AU, IT | Ports : 3-prong power plug (2), USB-A (4) | Voltage range : 110V — 220V, converts voltage down | Dimensions : 4.82 x 3.13  x 1.47 in.

Foval Travel Voltage Converter

• Foval Travel Voltage Converter $ at Amazon
• Foval Travel Voltage Converter $ at Walmart

What is a travel adapter?

Travel adapters typically come in two shapes: plug adapters and universal adapters.

In America, plug adapters have electrical prongs on one side and two or three pronged U.S. slots on the other. If you are traveling to the U.K., for example, your adapter will plug into rectangular-shaped U.K. outlets, and have slots where you can plug your two or three pronged U.S. devices into the adapter.

Universal adapters contain multiple plug adapters in one base. Typically, different electrical prongs slide in and out of the base via levers or buttons.

Travel adapters are typically intended to charge electronics like smartphones, laptops, headphones and portable batteries , says Sandra Miller, product manager at Ceptics, a travel adapter manufacturer. (Because Ceptics sells travel adapters, we only spoke with Miller about technical shopping guidance, not specific product recommendations).

What is voltage?

“Voltage is essentially the pressure required to push the electrons coming out of the wall socket through the power cord that goes into your device, allowing that device to operate,” says Prouty.

Countries around the world have different voltage ratings for their electricity. North American power outlets use 110 to 120-volts so most electronics made there are designed to operate in that voltage range. Countries outside of North America typically have 220 to 240-volt outlets, and design their electronics to function in that range. 

Products like smartphones, laptops and tablets are exceptions: they operate on a worldwide voltage range — as long as you have the right adapter, you can charge them in most places, according to our experts.

When traveling abroad with other types of devices, you need to match your destination’s plug type as well as its voltage rating in order to safely use your electronics. If you connect a device to an outlet with mismatched voltage ratings, you risk damaging the device, burning it out or causing an electrical fire, says Miller.

All electronics have a voltage rating printed on either the charger or the device itself, says Miller. Larger electronic devices like curling irons, hair straighteners and hair trimmers typically operate at a specific, limited voltage range. If you plan to travel with one of those devices, you will need a travel voltage converter to safely use them.

What is a travel voltage converter?

Voltage converters change the voltage of the outlet at your destination. This is crucial if you want to use single-voltage electronics like hair and curling irons abroad.

Hair and curling irons need a lot more power than small devices like smartphones and earbuds. That’s why travel voltage converters will typically have a power rating, measured in watts (W), that tells you how much power they can deliver to a plugged-in device, says Miller. “For example, a 200W voltage converter is limited to devices that require 200W or less, so you can’t use a 15,000W hair dryer with it,” says Miller. Connecting a device outside the supported wattage range can damage both the device and the voltage converter.

How to shop for travel adapters

To make sure you buy the right adapter for your trip, it’s important to check what kind of electrical plug your destination uses. It’s also a good idea to contact the place you’ll be staying, to ask what kind of outlets they use, says Prouty.

What kind of travel adapter do I need?

There are over a dozen types of common plugs used across the world according to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), a global not-for-profit organization that works to improve international electrical trade and innovations. Each plug type is given a letter, depending on which regions they’re compatible in. 

Many countries share the same plug type — type C plugs, for example, are used across most of Europe. Some countries use different plug types depending on where you are in the country and when the electrical outlets were last updated— Italy uses three types (C, L and F).

Travel adapters, including our recommendations, list the regions they support by name or by plug type letter. Below is a world plugs list from the IEC :

• Type A (two prong) : North America, Central America, Japan
• Type B (three prong) : North America, Central America, Japan
• Type C : Europe (except UK, Ireland, Cyprus and Malta) 
• Type D : India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Namibia
• Type E : France, Belgium, Slovakia and Tunisia among others
• Type F : Germany, Austria, the Netherlands and Spain among others
• Type G : UK, Ireland, Cyprus, Malta, Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong
• Type H : Israel
• Type I : China, Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Argentina
• Type J : Switzerland and Lichtenstein
• Type K : Denmark and Greenland
• Type L : Italy
• Type M : South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho
• Type N : Brazil
• Type O : Thailand

Do I need a voltage converter?

Miller recommends checking the voltage rating of all the electronics you plan to travel with to see if any require conversion. Essential electronics like cell phones, tablets and laptops are typically rated for worldwide (100 to 240) voltage use and do not require conversion. 

The most common travel electronics that require voltage conversion are hair straighteners and curling irons, says Miller. If you plan on using one, pack one with a worldwide voltage rating to eliminate the need for a voltage converter.

If you are traveling with an item that requires voltage conversion, look up the power rating (in watts) of the device, and make sure your voltage converter supports at least that much power output (in watts). For example, an expert-recommended curling iron like the Babyliss Pro Nano is rated for 120 volts and needs 140 watts to operate. 

Meet our experts

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Carl Prouty is a product specialist with over 20 years of experience in consumer electronics sales at Abt . Since Abt sells travel adapters, we only spoke with him about technical shopping guidance, and did not ask for specific product recommendations.
• Sandra Miller is a product manager at Ceptics , a travel adapter manufacturer. Since Ceptics sells travel adapters, we only spoke with her about technical shopping guidance, and did not ask her for specific product recommendations.

Why trust Select?

Harry Rabinowitz is a reporter at Select, and has covered consumer tech for over three years. To better understand travel adapters, he combined his own experience with Select staff recommendations and the advice of electronics experts. He also looked for top-rated models that were versatile and reliable and in line with our experts’ guidance.

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

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6 Handy Travel Adapters That’ll Help Juice Up Your Gadgets No Matter Where You Go

Wherever your adventures take you, these plugs will make sure you're always at full battery.

By Rylee Johnston

Rylee Johnston

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Investing in a universal travel adapter will allow you to keep your devices charged or plugged in no matter where your journeys take you.

Keep reading to learn more about travel plugs and where to buy international adapters online.

What Are the Best Travel Adapters & Converters?

To help you narrow down your search, ShopBillboard put together a list of top-rated and bestselling travel adapters you can buy online below.

EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter

Not only is this one Billboard editor’s favorite travel adapter to use on adventures overseas, it’s also the No. 1 bestseller on Amazon for electrical adapters. The design features four different plug types that can be used in 150 countries including Japan, Europe and the U.K. It can also charge up to six devices at once thanks to its various charging ports and USB options. It’s so popular that more than 10,000 of the adapters have been bought in the past month, according to the online retailer.

Travel Smart Type Worldwide All-In-One Adapter

Travel Smart has come out with an all-in-one adapter that can be used worldwide. It’s built with plug types A, B, C, E, F, G and I, and includes a USB port as well, making it a versatile travel tool no matter where you’re going.

TESSAN Universal Travel Adapter

More than 10,000 Amazon shoppers have purchased TESSAN’s universal travel adapter , and it’s currently on sale for less than $25. It’s compatible with 100V to 250V wide voltage devices and comes with a compact size that you can easily slip into luggage and backpacks without worrying about it taking up space.

UGREEN 65W USB C Travel Charger with USA EU UK Plug

If your plans are only to go to Europe, then this travel adapter comes with two different plug-ins that are compatible with European and U.K. outlets. You can charge up to three devices at once using the three USB ports built-into the devices, making it easy to juice up your phone, laptop and more.

Meromore Universal Travel Adapter

Meromore’s international travel adapter can charge up to five devices at once and includes USB ports for the cables that don’t have a plug built into it. You can switch from the different plug types using the side and button while the small size allows you to carry it with you on the go.

Travel Smart by Conair All-in-One Adapter

If you’re looking to spend less than $15, pick up Conair’s All-in-One Adapter , which features four of the most common plugs that can be used in more than 150 countries such as North America, South America, Ireland, Europe and more. The device also has a built-in surge protector you can plug dual-voltage appliances into.

Do You Need An Adapter or Converter for International Travel?

During travels abroad, you’ll most likely just need an adapter over a converter if your devices are newer. Converters are usually only needed when you have older hair dryers or irons that require a specific amount of electricity to avoid shorting out as well as fit into a specific plug shape.

What Is the Difference Between a Travel Plug Adapter and Converter?

An adapter is used to fit into plugs that your cable isn’t compatible with — that way you can still use your charging cables or hair tools without having to buy a new one from the country you’re in. Converters are single-voltage items that aim to convert the electricity and prevent your devices from shorting out. Most modern-made electronics are usually multi- or dual-voltage, which means they can withstand different types of electricity and can withstand an adapter on its own.

For more product recommendations , check out our roundups of the best travel deals , travel backpacks and festival gear .

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Complete Guide to Travel Plug Adapters

Picking the right travel plug adapter needn't be complicated - our guide is here to help identify the correct type.

Why are there So Many Different Plug Types?

In addition to the varying socket standards found around the world, different technology and electronics require varied equipment. This can result in a lot of variables and there is no single one size fits all approach.

There are many different plug types for multiple reasons, but it is primarily due to the varying speeds with which different nations first set up their own domestic power grids.

Why are there So Many Different Socket Types Today?

When mains electricity first started to be wired into domestic properties, it was largely used solely for lighting. However, as the use of electrical devices and appliances began to spread, power for lights was often cheaper than power for appliances, so many lower-wattage devices were adapted for use in light fixtures. Further rapid growth in the popularity of electrical appliances then meant that many more devices began to feature dedicated  mains plugs and sockets .

The US initially led the way in standardising pin-based appliance plugs for wall sockets, quickly followed by Europe and Asia. However, most countries rejected the early North American standard of 60Hz, 110V power and their corresponding, less secure two-pin plugs.

Instead, alternative designs were used which often included higher voltages for more efficient power transmission and plugs with ground pins attached. For instance, the UK eventually settled on three-pin plugs featuring a built-in safety fuse.

Various plans to introduce a universal system have since been considered but there are currently no plans to move towards a single international standard. This leaves us where we are today, with a wide array of international plugs with usage varying by country.

Travel Plug Types

There are currently 15 different socket types found around the world, 12 of which are considered to be common types.

A handy first step in buying the right adapter for various plug types is learning to recognise the most widely-used types. The following reference diagram should help.

Once you know which type of plugs are used in particular regions, you can then start to narrow down your options. Depending on your specific requirements, you can opt for a single-region travel adapter, a multi-region plug, or a universal model.

Single-Region Travel Adapters

Single-region travel adapters are the most straightforward option. As well as particular countries, these models can also be used in countries which all use the same sockets and voltages. However, although these models are usually the cheapest option, it is also worth bearing in mind that choosing a single-region travel adapter may limit future flexibility.

Variations on single-region travel adapters include multi-way models (featuring the ability to plug in multiple devices simultaneously) and the option to pair a one-way single-region adapter with a multi-socket  extension lead  for multiple devices or increased demand.

Multi-Region Travel Adapters

For greater versatility, you can instead opt for a multi-country or region plug adapter. These are typically slightly larger or more complex units, with different pins for different sockets. Essentially, they are designed to accommodate several national standards of plug and socket arrangements simultaneously.

The most common types of multi-region travel adapters tend to handle a combination of European, Asian, UK, and North American standards. Once again, multi-region versions can be single-way or multi-way to suit your requirements.

Universal Travel Adapters

Universal travel adapters are generally the most flexible option as they are suitable for use in the majority of countries around the world. However, it is worth noting that this flexibility comes with increased size, especially compared to the smaller single or multi-region models.

The added functionality offered by the best universal travel adapter can be a real bonus, but their size can make them less convenient and tricky to transport. It’s also worth noting that in less stable socket types (such as the US two-pin), this added weight can make them feel less securely attached in the socket. Additionally, the larger the universal travel adapter, the greater chance that it may block neighbouring sockets or not fit certain layouts.

International Plug Sockets and Voltages

No matter which type of travel adapter you choose, it is important to remember that these devices only convert the pin layout on a device’s plug to work with certain types of  wall sockets . In most cases, they do not convert voltages or currents.

That being said, it is still crucial to be aware of this, particularly in countries where the supply from the wall is not rated the same as your home country. In the UK, Europe, and Asia Pacific regions, many nations tend to use either 230V or 240V mains power as standard. As a result, devices and appliances in these countries are designed to handle higher power draw. Conversely, in regions using 110V or 120V power, such as North America and Taiwan, electronics designed for 240V may not work as well so it is important to plan accordingly. It is also worth bearing in mind that devices rated for 110V or 120V could potentially suffer damage if supplied with much higher mains voltages.

While many modern travel plug adapters can handle a full range of voltages from 100V to 240V, it is recommended to always double-check compatibility beforehand. Verify that both the adapter and the device being used are suitable before you plug anything in.

Below, you will find a handy table detailing the voltages that each country uses as standard:

100V, 110V, 115V, 120V and 127V Sockets

100V-127V outlets are used in many locations across the world, as you can see from the handy table above. Countries using these sockets include the USA and Canada.

There are both advantages and disadvantages to lower voltages from the mains. Advantages include:

• Generally safer and lower risk of electrocution
• Significantly lower insulation requirements than higher voltages
• Smaller and cheaper connectors and switches required due to lower voltages

Disadvantages include:

• Larger appliance cabling tends to be thick and heavy due to the additional copper insulation required for higher current needed to deliver power at lower voltages
• Lower voltages from 110V sockets could result in certain types of higher-draw electronics operating/charging less efficiently

220V, 230V and 240V Sockets

220V-240V outlets are typically standard in the UK, Europe and the majority of Asia and the Asia Pacific. The advantages of this higher voltage supply include:

• 220V-240V supplies are often said to be cleaner and more efficient, as they can transmit power at a reduced overall cost due to the lower current required
• Less insulation is needed so cables can be smaller and cheaper
• Less energy as heat is lost along the route to the device or appliance
• Higher voltages are more convenient for high power draw applications and larger lighting arrays, as higher voltage means that more wattage can be pushed through at fewer amps
• Higher voltages have the potential to cause electrocution more easily so additional care in both design and use must be taken
• 220V-240V connectors and switches tend to be larger and bulkier, yet also more robust

Do I Need a Travel Converter or Adapter?

If you are travelling overseas and need to use or charge electronics or devices brought with you, a travel adapter or converter will usually be required. As there are so many different standards used around the world, portable socket converters are highly beneficial. Many options are available, including simple one-region adapters, multi-way converters, and more complex universal Wi-Fi-enabled sockets.

Do Travel Adapters Change Voltage?

The vast majority of travel adapters do not change voltage, although many models are designed to work with a wide range of voltage and current ratings. As noted above, it is vital to check both the adapter and the device you are using for compatibility with local voltages and current before use.

What Features Should I Look for in the Best Universal Travel Adapter?

Handy additional features and benefits might include the following, depending on the model of plug adapter you choose:

• USB charging
• USB-C ports
• Wi-Fi functionality
• Quick charge capabilities
• Multiple voltage ratings

In some locations, you may find that the voltage you need is not achievable with a particular adapter. Certain devices may be more at risk than others from incompatibility with local current ratings. If this is the case, you may be able to solve the problem with a voltage transformer or similar device.

Travel Adapter Brands

We stock a wide range of high-quality products from our in-house brand RS Pro. Browse the full range online.

PowerConnections

With a wide range of products available, travel adapters from PowerConnections are sure to meet your requirements.

High-quality and durable, travel adapters from Legrand are available online with RS.

Browse the full range of travel adapters from SKROSS and shop online with RS.

Related Guides

In Russia, power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type C and type F are used. The standard voltage is 220 V at a frequency of 50 Hz.

• Yes, you need a power plug travel adapter for sockets type C and F in Russia.

Do your power plugs fit in Russia?

In Russia, they use power sockets (outlets) of type C and F. In Australia, you have plugs I. You need a power plug adapter in Russia for sockets type C and F. The plugs of your electric devices don't fit without.

Buy a power plug (travel) adapter

We don't sell power plug adapters. We refer you to Amazon or Ebay where you will find a great selection of travel adapters.

• Find travel adapters at Amazon (AU)
• Find travel adapters at Ebay (AU)

You need to look for a power plug adapter for sockets type C and type F. Alternatively, choose a world travel adapter that fits multiple sockets, in case you travel more often.

Voltage converter needed in Russia?

The standard voltage in Russia (220 V) matches more or less the voltage level your devices typically operate at in Australia (230 V). Manufacturers take these small deviations into account.

• You don't need a voltage converter in Russia.

To be sure, check the label on your devices. Some devices never need a converter. If the label states 'INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz' the device can be used in every country in the world. This is common for devices with chargers like tablets/laptops, photo cameras, cell phones, toothbrushes, etc. For these devices you will only need a power plug adapter.

Frequently asked questions