Travel Plug Adapters vs Voltage Converters (2024)

FAQs

Is a travel adapter the same as a voltage converter? ›

The big difference between an adapter and a converter is electricity. While the purpose of an adapter is to simply help the plugs on your electronics fit into (or more aptly, adapt to the shape of) foreign outlets, a converter's job is to change the voltage found in an outlet to match that of your devices.

If your appliance can only run on 110 – 130 volts, you will need to use a converter. If, however, your appliance is dual voltage you will not need to use a converter. Dual voltage appliances require only a plug adapter and can then be plugged directly into any foreign outlet.

Do I need a travel adapter or converter? If your destination has a different prong type than your outlets at home, then you'll need an adapter. But if the voltage is different in the place you're traveling than it is at home, you'll need a converter to convert that voltage.

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You only need a converter if you're using a device that cannot convert 110V to 220V. Today's smartphones, tablets, and most devices are able to withstand both 110V and 220V electricity without damage because they've been manufactured as dual voltage appliances.

Do I need a converter for my phone in Europe? A majority of modern cell phones are charged using a USB cable, therefore all that will be required is a low cost USB charger which is compatible with the local power supply and fits the correct outlet type.

Most modern chargers, including those for iPhones, can handle voltages ranging from 100V to 240V. This adaptability eliminates the need for a voltage converter, simplifying your charging experience.

You would only need the appropriate adapter for that country which you can find in Step #2. If your hair dryer is 120V or 125V only then it will not work in Europe with just an adapter plug. You'll need a proper voltage converter.

The good news about USB-charging devices is that you don't need a plug adapter. Using one would probably ruin your charger. You just need a compatible charger. USB is standardized.

If your 110V device is plugged into a 220V power supply, it will be forced to operate at power levels higher than it can tolerate. You might see smoke or a flash, or the fuse could melt and your appliance will be damaged and become inoperable.

Can plug adapters go in carry-on luggage? ›

Firstly, according to airline regulations, passengers are allowed to carry power adapters when traveling on the plane. Power adapters are often seen as accessories for electronic devices, similar to items such as phones and laptops, and can be placed in a portable suitcase or backpack.

Avoid buying your adapter at the airport

If you're thinking about picking up an adapter at the airport convenience store, think again. You'll likely pay twice as much. Most items, inclusive of food, books, and tech, are marked up at airports. For starters, there's no competition.

a plug that connects a piece of electrical equipment brought from one country to the electricity supply in another when they cannot be connected directly, used especially when travelling.

Mains converters

Such a device may be called a voltage converter, power converter, travel adapter, etc. Most single phase alternating-current electrical outlets in the world supply power at 210–240 V or at 100–120 V.

This means that you will not need a converter or transformer but just a travel adaptor, because Italy operates on a 230V supply voltage, which is within the 110-240V range that the dual voltage appliance operates on.