Travel adapters explained: which plug you need, and whether your charger will survive
Short answer: an adapter changes the shape of the plug and nothing else. Most phone and laptop chargers also handle foreign voltage, so a plug adapter is all you need. Hair tools and some small appliances often do not, so check the label before you plug them in abroad.
Adapter or converter?
A travel adapter lets your plug fit a foreign socket. It does not change the electricity. A voltage converter changes the voltage, and you only need one for devices that cannot take it. Mixing the two up is how people damage hair dryers.
Check the label first
Look for small print on your charger or device. If it says something like "100-240V", it works on mains power almost anywhere in the world, and you only need an adapter. If it says only "230V", it is made for UK and European mains and may be damaged by a lower voltage such as the one used in the US and Japan. Phones, laptops, cameras and most USB chargers are almost always dual voltage. Hair dryers, straighteners and kettles often are not, unless they say so.
Plug types by destination
These are the common types. Sockets can vary within a country, and hotels sometimes fit different ones, so treat this as a guide.
| Destination | Plug type | Voltage (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| UK and Ireland | G | 230V |
| France | E (also fits C) | 230V |
| Spain, Portugal, Germany, Netherlands | F (also fits C) | 230V |
| Italy | L (also C) | 230V |
| Switzerland | J (also C) | 230V |
| USA and Canada | A and B | 120V |
| Japan | A and B | 100V |
| Australia and New Zealand | I | 230V |
What to buy
- For Europe only: a small, inexpensive Type C/F adapter is all you need for most of the continent. Take two if you charge several things.
- For several countries: a multi-region adapter with USB ports charges a phone and a laptop from one socket and covers the usual types. Choose one with a built-in fuse, and check it is rated for your laptop charger.
- Cheaper than extra adapters: a short extension lead with UK plugs, plus one adapter, lets you power everything from a single foreign socket.