12 of the best travel adapters and converters for your next trip abroad
International adapters let travelers charge dual-voltage devices in any electrical outlet by converting the shape and size of the prong socket — and without being tied down to (potentially dangerous) USB charge points in hotels and airports.
There are also power converters, which convert the voltage of your electronics to avoid blowing a fuse in your hotel room or burning out single-voltage devices. These are often required for hair straighteners, clothes steamers and similar appliances.
Selecting the right travel adapter or converter can be tricky. You need to consider your destination, the devices you need to charge and the number of outlets and USB ports required. This is particularly important when traveling with multiple gadgets.
'A good international adapter can make or break your trip,' says Scott Mayerowitz, travel industry expert and founder of GlobeTrotScott Strategies. 'Access to outlets and USB charging points is so inconsistent. At some airports and hotels, there are plenty of outlets and charging ports while at others you are scrambling for that one outlet hidden away behind a nightstand.'
Here are some of our favorite travel adapters and converters to keep you charged around the world.
Universal power adapters work in most regions worldwide, so you can use the same adapter on all your future trips. Many have built-in USB-A and USB-C ports for easy device charging, as well. Just note that they do not convert voltage, so don't use them with single-voltage devices like hairdryers.
Epicka Universal Travel Adapter with USB-C
This is Mayerowitz's pick for an international power adapter because it has multiple USB-C ports, including a 70-watt port that can charge his MacBook Air without having to plug in another power adapter.
Epicka Mini Universal Travel Adapter
This is the smallest international travel adapter I've seen. It's barebones — there are no USB ports, just a US-style plug for conversion — but it works with most plugs, including UK, EU, AU and others. And at just $10, it's perfect for travelers on a budget.
Saunorch Universal Travel Power Adapter
This budget-friendly universal power adapter is another CNN Underscored favorite, largely because of its low price. When I tested the device, I had no issues using it in 10+ countries. It also has one USB-C port and three USB-A ports.
Targus World Power Travel Adapter
The Targus World Power Travel Adapter has individual adapters for each region, all contained in a case that's little more than the size of a pepper grinder. If you're only visiting a single country, take individual adapters to save space in your luggage. If you're heading to Europe, these adapters will work great across the region and in non-European countries like Morocco that use EU-style outlets. The universal adapters highlighted in the previous section also work in Europe.
One thing to note. Some of these power adapters do not work in the UK and Ireland unless specifically noted. These countries use a different outlet (type G) than the rest of Europe.
Foval European Travel Plug Adapter
This is my power adapter of choice for trips to Europe. It has four USB-A ports, a USB-C port and three US plug outlets, plus a 5-foot cable. The device has a built-in European plug and includes US and UK adapters.Read our review
Orei European Power Plug Adapter, 3-Pack
This small European power adapter has two US-style outlets: one grounded and one ungrounded. You can use both at the same time, perfect for charging a phone and a tablet with their US power blocks. This three-pack means you have enough adapters for the whole family.
Anker European Travel Plug Adapter
I like this European adapter because it's compact and has two US-style plugs (one grounded, one not grounded), two USB-C ports and a USB-A port. The charger can output up to 15 watts through the USB ports for relatively quick charge speeds. Looking to charge your smartphone, smartwatch and other gadgets worldwide and don't need a US-style AC outlet? These devices have you covered.
Satechi GaN Travel Charger
Our travel products editor swears by this travel power adapter. It has four USB-C ports with a combined total output of 145 watts, so you can quickly charge phones, MacBooks and more. Plus, it includes US, EU, UK and AU power adapters.Read our review
Apple World Travel Adapter Kit
The Apple World Travel Adapter Kit includes converters that pop right on your existing MacBook charger so it can work throughout North America, Japan, China, the UK, Europe, Korea, Australia and beyond. Plus, it has the iconic all-white Apple aesthetic that matches the rest of your devices.
Twelve South ButterFly 2-in-1 MagSafe Charger
This premium wireless charger has been in our senior money and travel editor's backpack for the past couple of months. Not only does it charge his iPhone and Apple Watch, but it includes a 30-watt USB-C charger with US, UK, EU and AU plug adapters.Read our review If you need to use single-voltage devices — think electric razors and hair straighteners — abroad, you'll need a power converter. These drop voltage from 220V to 110V, so you can use them safely. Just make sure you read the specifications of the adapter you're using to ensure it works with your devices.
Note you do not need these to charge most smartphones, laptops and other dual-voltage devices. However, since power converters have multiple outlets, you can use them alongside other devices.
Key Power 230W Step Down 220V to 110V Voltage Converter
This universal travel adapter was made for digital nomads and those taking a working vacation. The compact design easily fits into a travel backpack or carry-on bag, but the best part is the built-in USB ports and an extension cord that lets you plug in a laptop or tablet on the other side of the room. It is compatible with five socket types: UK, EU, US, Australia and India. It claims to work with single-voltage devices like electric razors, curling irons and electric toothbrushes.
Foval Power Step Down 220V to 110V Voltage Converter
This multi-use power converter can accommodate up to four smartphones at once and also has two standard plugs for charging or using larger electrical devices like laptops or hairstyling products like straighteners or curling irons. However, do not use devices that produce more than 230W with this device, like hair dryers.What is the difference between a travel adapter and a travel converter?
What is the difference between a travel adapter and a travel converter?
A travel power adapter makes it so you can use your existing chargers and devices with other types of power outlets, but it does not convert voltage. You can only use travel power adapters for dual-voltage devices, which includes most laptop and phone chargers.
Meanwhile, a travel power converter changes voltage so you can use some single-voltage devices abroad. For example, if your curling iron is only rated for 110-120V, you need a converter to safely use it in 220-230V countries.
It's important to know that power converters — especially ones designed for travel — do not support all devices. Hairdryers, for example, are too high-powered for many of these converters. Do your own research and make sure your single-voltage devices are compatible with the power converter you buy.
What appliances need a converter?
What appliances need a converter?
Single-voltage devices need a power converter. An appliance's supported voltage is often listed on the bottom of the appliance or near its plug. So if your appliance of choice only supports 110-120V and you're traveling somewhere with 220-230V, you'll need a power converter to use it.
What happens if you use the wrong power adapter?
What happens if you use the wrong power adapter?
Using a device made for 110-120V outlets in a 220-230V outlet could damage the device and the outlet it's plugged into. Worst yet, it could pose safety risks.
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Just place this near your trash can, sink, or fruit bowl, and empty half of the lure solution into the apple. Promising review: "Very easy to use and extremely effective. These small simple fruit fly traps when used will kill the gnats and small flying irritants quickly. 4 of them scattered about my apartment killed an infestation of fruit flies in less than 48 hours. In the same time span on of those plug-in blue light bug killers with glue boards managed to trap maybe a dozen. Now that's what I call effective. Great value and silent." —Mike WellsPrice: $10.98 (originally $15.99; also available in packs of six or 12). A cooling comforter for 30%, tied for its lowest price ever! All you hot sleepers can now rejoice that there's a comfy option that will keep you cool throughout the night. It's made from a lightweight, breathable fabric and reviewers say it holds up great even after multiple washes. Promising review: "It's SOOOOOO soft. It feels like my second skin when I sleep with it. What is most surprising is that I don't feel too cold or too hot in it. It somehow balances the temperature really well, and always feels like the cool side of the pillow. I've got other cooling comforters before, but some do not work well after wash. This one feels like new after I washed it. Great feature and low maintenance needs. Can't recommend it more." —Anna $174.30 (originally $249; available in three sizes and six colors) A portable charger for 37% off that'll save you from living off a measly 10% and quickly charge up your device (or six of them simultaneously). The four attached cords make it super convenient to bring on the go, and the digital display makes it easy to know when it's time to recharge. Promising review: "Just buy it. This replaced all my cords when traveling. Charged my phone faster than I thought it would. I can also charge my AirPods and OTF band. Never gets hot which is a bonus. Love it!!!! Perfect for backpacking hiking or traveling." —Stephanie BPrice: $18.99 (originally $29.99; available in five colors) A Wavytalk Thermal Hair Brush for 23% off, which is tied for its best price, for those who love a blowout look but don't love spending money on weekly trips to the hair salon. You're able to choose from five heat settings and the elongated bristles work to grip your hair without tangling them. Promising review: "I am so impressed with the Wavytalk Thermal Brush! From the moment I plugged it in, I could tell this tool was going to be a game changer. It's incredibly easy to use, even for someone who usually struggles with styling tools. With just a few passes, my hair looked like I walked out of a professional blowout bar. The results? STUNNING. It gave me the most beautiful, voluminous blowout with minimal effort. No complicated steps or wrist gymnastics! Just smooth, sleek, bouncy hair in minutes! I absolutely LOVE this tool and genuinely couldn't be happier with my purchase. It's now a staple in my hair routine and I recommend it to everyone. Worth every penny! 💁🏻♀️✨" —KayePrice: $45.99 (originally $59.99; available in four colors) A cold press juicer for up to 32% off (tied for the best price you can get it for) — so you can make your own custom juices at home and save yourself from spending more money at Joe & The Juice. It's got an extra large chute so you can throw in whole fruits and veggies and has a double-layer filter to reduce clogging and excess chunks from getting in your fresh juice. Promising review: "I am extremely pleased with this countertop blender. The cold press slow juicing technology works amazingly well—it extracts juice smoothly and keeps all the nutrients intact. The operation is very quiet compared to other blenders I've used, which is great for early mornings. The BPA-free jug is a nice size and feels sturdy. Cleaning is surprisingly easy since all the parts come apart quickly and rinse clean without any hassle. The sleek black design looks stylish on my kitchen counter too. Overall, this is a fantastic blender for making fresh juices, smoothies, and even sauces. Highly recommend it for anyone who wants a reliable, high-quality appliance!" —nino $129.99 (originally $189.99; available in two colors)
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
No holiday for 42 million EU workers: Where is holiday the most unaffordable in Europe?
In 2023, 15% of employed people in the EU were unable to afford a one-week holiday away from home. While this percentage might not appear very high at first glance, it represents around 42 million workers. In each of the EU's "Big Four" economies (Germany, France, Spain and Italy), over 5 million workers were unable to afford a week-long holiday according to Eurostat data published by the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC). 'Taking a break with family or friends is important for our physical and mental health, and it is a basic part of the European social contract,' said ETUC General Secretary Esther Lynch, criticising the situation. Holiday poverty among workers continues to rise Holiday poverty among workers is on the rise across the EU, marking the third consecutive annual increase. In 2022, 40.5 million employed people reported being unable to afford a one-week holiday away from home. That number rose to 41.5 million in 2023—an increase of over one million workers in just a year. The share of affected workers grew from 14% to 15%. 'The findings are the result of an increasingly unequal economy, in which workers are forced to give up their holidays due to rising costs for accommodation, transport and food, combined with declining purchasing power and speculation', the ETUC stated. Related The cost of love: Europe's most expensive and cheapest cities for a date Cost of living: Which are the cheapest and most expensive countries in Europe? East-West gap in holiday affordability for workers The data reveals a strong disparity in holiday affordability across the EU, particularly between Eastern/Southern Europe and Western/Northern Europe. Romania tops the list, with 32% of workers unable to afford a one-week holiday. Close behind are Hungary (26%), Bulgaria (24%), Portugal and Cyprus (both 23%), and Slovakia (22%). The Nordic countries—Finland, Sweden and Denmark—along with the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and Slovenia, report the lowest levels of holiday poverty, ranging between 5% and 7%. Czechia, Austria, and Belgium reported holiday poverty rates at or below 10%. Despite their economic weight, even the EU's largest economies report concerning levels of holiday poverty. Among the EU's Big Four, Spain (18%) and Italy (17%) exceed the EU average of 15%. France (12%) and Germany (11%) fall below the average, but both still remain above 10%. EU's Big Four: Over 5 million workers in each country can't afford a holiday Absolute figures speak louder than percentages. Over 5 million workers in each of the EU's Big Four were unable to afford a holiday in 2023. In Italy, the number stood at 6.2 million, followed by 5.8 million in Germany, 5.6 million in Spain, and 5.1 million in France. Over 3.5 million workers in Romania and Poland also couldn't afford a holiday. This figure was more than 1.5 million in Hungary and Portugal. In Austria and the Netherlands, over 550,000 workers couldn't afford even a one-week holiday despite being employed or having a business. 'After working hard all year, it is the least working people should be able to expect to afford and should not be allowed to become a luxury for the few,' Lynch said. 'However, these figures show that Europe has a quality jobs emergency and that our social contract is continuing to crumble as the result of growing economic inequality.' Related China rare earth exports to the US surge 660% after trade agreement The Big Question: Do companies need to re-evaluate how they set climate goals? Is holiday poverty linked to income? There is a moderately strong negative correlation between the share of workers who cannot afford a one-week holiday away from home and annual net earnings. This means that as net earnings increase, the proportion of workers unable to afford such a holiday tends to decrease. However, since the correlation is moderate, it also indicates that in some countries, this relationship is not strong or does not follow the overall trend as closely. For example, Ireland (€43,897) had one of the highest annual net earnings in the EU in 2023, yet holiday poverty remains comparatively high. In contrast, Slovenia has a low level of holiday poverty among workers, even though the incomes are similar to countries where more people struggle to afford a holiday. Related Win for the crypto industry: US passed the first major bill to regulate digital assets Strong correlation between workers and general population By comparing workers (aged 15-64) and the general population aged 16 and over, Euronews Business found a strong correlation: the higher the rate of workers who cannot afford a holiday, the higher it tends to be in the overall population. In 2023, among the general population, the share of people unable to afford a one-week holiday ranged from 11% in Luxembourg to 60% in Romania, while the EU average stood at 29%. This suggests that the rate among the general population is nearly double that of workers. Experts speaking to Euronews Business had noted that differences between countries are largely tied to the strength of their economies. The level of disposable income plays a key role, as it directly affects people's ability to spend on holidays—particularly when looking at figures for the general population. The ETUC calls on national governments to fully implement the Minimum Wage Directive and urges the European Commission to ensure that the Quality Job Package due this year includes legislation to rebalance the economy—making respect for collective bargaining a condition for access to public contracts. 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