whether you are planning to go abroad on a family vacation, solo adventure or business trip, have the right travel gadgets are an absolute must, and they are no more essential than a reliable plug adapter to keep your electronic goods at maximum battery.
Despite being a crucial part of any vacation, these gadgets can sometimes be the most problematic part of packing. When we’re not rummaging through a box of unlabeled and temperamental plugs, we frantically try to figure out which adapter works in which country – no easy feat considering there are 15 different types of plugs in the world.
Thankfully, this stress is now a thing of the past, as we’ve taken a deep dive into the world of travel adapters to bring you the crème de la crème.
Forget the basics, many plugs now work in more than one region thanks to the interchangeable output pin. Even more impressive, you can charge multiple devices at once with a single adapter – no more choosing between charging your phone, Laptop, tablet or camera (it’s like asking us to pick our favorite kid).
If you’re not sure which adapter you need for your next vacation, we’ve put together a helpful guide below.
- USA, Canada, Mexico & Japan: type A – two flat parallel pins, or type B – two flat parallel pins and a round ground pin
- Europe: type C – two rounded pins
- india: type D – three large round pins in a triangular configuration
- Australia: type I: three flat pins in a triangular pattern
Top Tip: always buy them in advance. Not only can you save quite a bit of money (airport adapters are always astronomically priced), but you can also buy something much more advanced than a standard single adapter.
Say goodbye to a low battery when you’re away and say hello to your new travel friend.
Shop our top recommended travel plug adapters below.
iBlockCube Global Travel Adapter
If you’re anything like us, at least once during any holiday packing process, you’d want every country to use the same outlets to make life easier. Even if that’s not possible, the iBlockCube travel adapter eliminates the need to buy multiple adapters for different countries and devices as it works in over 150 countries including the US, EU, UK, Australia and many from Asia.
The travel adapter has four plugs that can be accessed via the multiple sliders and lock buttons on the side. It also has three fast-charging USB-A ports and two Type-C ports, meaning you don’t have to pack hundreds of plugs and adapters for your next trip, as you can charge up to six devices simultaneously and quickly.
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Universal USB Plug Charger 2 Port USB for Traveling Around the World
One of Amazon’s top-rated adapter plugs, it covers over 150 countries and works in the US, UK, EU, Australia and most of Asia thanks to its four extendable charging pins. There are also two handy USB ports that can charge electronic devices impressively fast – the power is automatically split when charging more than one device, but this can be adjusted accordingly.
In addition to charging the usual low-power devices, the power outlet ensures that non-USB devices such as shavers and hair dryers can be powered. A sturdy travel companion, it’s lightweight, easy to pack and, most importantly, allows three devices to be charged simultaneously.
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Go Travel Worldwide USB Charger
Forget about taking multiple plugs on holiday to charge all your electronic gadgets, as Go Travel has made a four USB port adapter with an integrated US plug and an interchangeable UK, EU and Australasian one. Since most items charge via USB, this adapter is pretty universal, meaning you can ditch the heavy plugs for any device and just grab the charging cable.
In addition, the two 2.4V USB slots provide fast charging for your phone and can also charge a tablet or laptop. Given the number of countries in which this adapter can be used, it is relatively compact and easy to carry in your hand luggage.
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Jsdoin EU Travel Adapter, UK to 6″ European Plug Pack
For under £10 you can get your hands on not one, not two, but six UK-to-EU travel adapters. This set is perfect if you are traveling with a family or a large group and will work for all low to medium power devices such as mobile phones, cameras, laptops and power banks.
Unlike larger adapters that have more features, these are small and very easy to pack. It’s nothing fancy, but if you’re looking for something that does the job and doesn’t break the bank, this is your best bet.
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UK to US Plug Adapter with 2 USB
If you’re traveling to the US, we recommend getting a travel adapter now – there’s little worse than being at the airport with adapters. The TESSAN adapter is one of our top rated as it features a standard UK outlet and two USB charging ports with 2.4A output. The USB ports recognize the connected device and automatically distribute the optimal charge. Even when charging three items, the adapter is surprisingly fast.
The LED indicator is useful for showing when charging is complete. Not only does it work in the US, but it is also compatible in Canada, Mexico and part of South America. At just 82 grams, this is one of the lightest adapters on the market.
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SKROSS PRO World travel adapter for all 2/3 pin devices and USB
Renowned travel adapter brand, SKROSS, has launched an updated pro model that works almost anywhere in the world thanks to its two-pin and three-pin design. Unlike some cheaper models, it’s impressively sturdy and solid – a few bumps in your luggage won’t affect its performance.
Our favorite feature? Unplug the top of the plug for a standalone European adapter that’s light and thin and also has a USB port – ideal for those traveling light or on holiday for just a few days.
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Wilko Visitor to UK Travel Adapter
For those traveling to the UK, or looking for a plug adapter for razors and toothbrushes, this is one of the most affordable gadgets we’ve come across. For just £3.80, this adapter converts European, American, Australian and Asian plugs to work in UK sockets. If you’re looking for multiple adapters that work in different countries, Wilko has an impressive deal of three for £9 across the range.
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