North and Central America mainly use the A type. For a European plug adapter, you’ll mainly need on that fits the C type plug (with the exception of the UK which prefers the G type). Plug types tend to stretch across a wide region. There are 15 different plug types used around the world, but some are a lot more common than others. Universal travel adapters are ideal for long, especially if you get one with USB sockets, but sometimes these can be bulkier than single function converters, such as a European power adapter for all the EU plugs.
Hardware stores in Europe sell cheap three-way plug adapters that let you keep the lamp on while you charge your camera battery and smartphone.When you’re travelling, it’s important to get the right power adapter for your destination. Some budget hotel rooms have only one electrical outlet, occupied by the lamp. (Swiss and Italian outlets accept plugs with three slim round prongs arranged in a triangular shape two-pronged adapters work as long as they don't have the thicker "Schuko" style prongs - and if the body of the adapter is small enough to fit in the recessed outlet.) If, for some reason, your adapter doesn't work in your hotel, just ask for assistance hotels with unusual sockets will invariably have the right adapter to loan you. (Although you can get universal adapters that work Europe-wide - or even worldwide, these tend to be large, heavy, and expensive.)Īlthough sockets in Switzerland and Italy differ from others on the continent, most continental adapters work just fine. Many sockets in Europe are recessed into the wall your adapter should be small enough so that the prongs seat properly in the socket. Secure your adapter to your device's plug with electrical or duct tape otherwise it can easily get left behind in the outlet (hotels and B&Bs sometimes have a box of abandoned adapters - ask). Even on a Continent-only trip, I keep a British adapter on hand for London layovers. Adapters are inexpensive - bring a handful. (Consider replacing your appliance instead, or traveling without it.)Ī small adapter allows American-style plugs (two flat prongs) to fit into British or Irish outlets (which take three rectangular prongs) or continental European outlets (which take two round prongs).
Some older appliances have a voltage switch marked 110 (US) and 220 (Europe) - switch it to 220 as you pack.Įven older devices (and some handheld gaming systems) aren't equipped to deal with the voltage difference - you'll need a separate, bulky converter. If you see a range of voltages printed on the item or its plug (such as "110–220"), you're OK in Europe.
But since most modern gadgets are "dual voltage" - meaning they work on both American and European current - these days most travelers don't need to do anything more than pack a few inexpensive plug adapters.Īmerican appliances run on 110 volts, while European appliances are 220 volts. Europe's electrical system is different from ours in two ways: the voltage of the current and the shape of the plug.
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