Skip to main content

Simply EVERYTHING you need to know about travel adapters

Travelling for the first time? Heading somewhere new and don’t know how you’re going to keep your phone charged or hair straightened? Here’s a comprehensive guide to all things travel adapters…

Do I need a travel adapter?

If you’re travelling away from your home country or region of the world then chances are that yes, you do.

Power outlets have different shapes in different parts of the world and you may need an adapter to convert the shape of your home power plugs to the shape of the outlets in the region of the world you are travelling to. A universal adapter that allows you to change the pins is a great investment for any avid traveller, and with the move to more USB charging options worldwide, finding one with a slot for these is an even better buy.

 

Where to buy travel adapters

Travel shops (including online travel shops), department stores and even cheap knick-knack shops are great places to pick up power point converters and travel adapters. They are also available in shops in airport departure lounges, but they can be a little more expensive there so best to grab one before you go.

Voltage converters

Do you need a voltage converter for your trip? Voltage is a measure of electrical force (#sciencelesson) and varies from region to region throughout the world, so it will depend on what region your electrical devices come from and in what region you intend to use them.

North America

The UK and Ireland

Feeling inspired?

Boot Scoot N Blues

Boot Scoot N Blues

Book your trip now

Europe

Feeling inspired?

England and Scotland

England and Scotland

Book your trip now

Australia and New Zealand

How many travel adapters should I bring?

It depends on how many electrical devices you plan on using really! Many hotel rooms only have 2 or 3 power outlets per room, so this should be taken into consideration. As a general rule though, 2 power point adapters (or a power board) should be enough for any trip. Many of the coaches used on tours in Europe are also equipped with European power outlets or USB slots for all your charging needs.

Up next