A travel adapter is one of the essential items to pack when travelling abroad. Why? Because not every country uses the same electrical outlets. The last thing you want is to be unable to charge your smartphone, laptop, or camera or use electrical devices like a hairdryer.
This guide will help you learn everything about the product, including how to pick the best one for your next trip.
Why is it essential to carry a travel adapter?
Did you know that there are 15 types of electrical outlets worldwide? They come with different sockets compatible with varying kinds of plugs, so what works for you at home may not work in many other countries.
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Different countries use different electrical voltages as well. For instance, European appliances run on 220-240V, while their American counterparts run on 110-120V.
If you plug in a hairdryer, for example, that is incompatible with a particular voltage, you could fry it in seconds. I learned that the hard way on my first trip across the pond.
However, as you may know, an adapter cannot convert the voltage, so you might also need a voltage converter. Luckily, you can find a travel adapter/converter combo.
Most travel adapters feature USB ports, too, so you can charge multiple electrical devices simultaneously.
How to choose the best travel adapter
To choose the best one for your needs, take these essential steps:
- Check your destination country’s outlet type
Now that you know that not all electrical outlets are the same, this step is a no-brainer. For instance, if you are travelling to China, you will need one compatible with the type C and type I plugs.
- Determine how many plugs and USB ports you will need
Many travel adapters allow you to plug in multiple devices simultaneously. They typically have several USB ports and either one multi-plug socket or several integrated AC sockets.
- Figure out if you will need a converter
If your devices run on a different voltage, a converter is a must. Most travel adapters’ labels show the wattage, but you can calculate the power by multiplying volts by amps. That is how you will know if a particular adapter can handle the power your devices produce.
What is the best travel adapter?
The best version is usually a universal adapter. With a universal travel adapter, you can switch between different plugs compatible with various outlets. You simply use a toggle switch to find a suitable two-prong or three-prong plug.
Most universal travel adapters work in most countries worldwide so that you can use all your devices safely anywhere you are.
To help you choose the best universal travel adapter, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top-rated devices on the market. Let’s have a look.
- EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter
- BESTEK Universal Travel Adapter
- BONAZZA All-in-One Travel Adapter
- SYNCWIRE Travel Adapter
- NEWVANGA International Travel Adapter
1. EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter
According to most consumers, the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter is the best one out there.
It is a compact, dual-fuse version compatible with outlets in over 150 countries (it does not work in India, Israel, and South Africa). It has one three-plug AC socket, four USB Smart 2.1A and 2.4A ports, one USB Type-C port, and built-in protective functions, including surge protection, safety shutters, and a plug-lock system.
It supports 100-240V and can handle a maximum of 880W at 110V and a maximum of 1840W at 230V. It does not have a converter.
2. BESTEK Universal Travel Adapter
The BESTEK Universal Travel Adapter comes with an integrated converter that supports a maximum of 250W and a maximum of 240V. It can reduce 220V to 110V, making it ideal for travelling to the US or using American devices worldwide.
Thanks to three different AC sockets and four direct plugs, it works in over 150 countries, including India, South Africa, China, and Japan. It comes with four USB ports with a combined 6A output, a power cable, and features for preventing overheating, overloading, overcharging, and short circuits.
3. BONAZZA All-in-One Travel Adapter
The BONAZZA All-in-One is another adapter/converter combo that can reduce 220-240V to 110-120V. It is compact, lightweight, works in over 150 countries, and supports dual-voltage appliances (in Adapter Mode only).
Suppose you need to use a hairdryer, straightener, iron, electric kettle, or other high-wattage American appliance. In that case, this is the best universal travel adapter for you, as it can handle 2000W. The only downside is you can use it for one device or appliance at a time.
4. Syncwire Travel Adapter
The Syncwire 34W 4-Port USB Wall Charger is a compact, lightweight, and budget-friendly universal travel adapter that supports 100-240V. Designed with tech travellers in mind, it features only USB charging ports.
There are two 1A and two 2.4A ports and Smart IC technology that ensures every device receives the optimal electrical current. It has protection from overheating, overloading, and overcharging.
A foldable US plug and two direct plugs for the UK and European outlets make this universal travel adapter an excellent choice for travelling to most countries.
5. NEWVANGA International Travel Adapter
The NEWVANGA International Travel Adapter is another must-have, universal travel adapter that you can use in over 150 countries, including the US, the UK, Europe, Australia, India, China, Thailand, and more.
It comes with five different input plugs, two USB ports, a surge protector, built-in fuse protection, and safety shutters. It supports 110-240V, with a maximum of 660W at 110V and a maximum of 1380W at 230V. It does not have a voltage converter.
Which universal travel adapter will you pack for your next trip?
You cannot go wrong with any of the devices above, but your final choice will depend on your destination country and the devices/appliances you plan on using abroad. Do your research to make an informed decision and have a carefree trip.
