The Foval Power Voltage Converter earns our top pick
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One thing you don't want to forget on your next trip to Europe? The right power adapter. Without it, you won't be able to keep the electronics and devices you need juiced up and ready to go. But finding the right one can be tricky: Each region of the world has its own outlet shape, so you'll need to find the one that works for your travel destination—or invest in a universal one. Also, consider the number of devices you'll likely bring and how much you're willing to spend.
Read on for the best power adapters that will keep your devices charged and ready to go wherever you find yourself in the world.
Not suitable for heat tools
While many modern devices can transition automatically between different voltages, some can't. This is where the Foval Power Step-Down Converter comes in. Although priced higher than most adapters, it converts 220/240V to 110/120V, allowing you to use your single-voltage American appliances in Europe safely. Plus, it has a European power cable and three removable adapters for the U.S., the U.K., and Australia, so you can also use it for other trips. This made it convenient for our product tester, Rebekah Joan, to travel with the device, only needing the correct adapter to attach it, plugging it into a socket, and pressing the power button to get it to work.
With two standard U.S. plugs and four 5V/2.4A USB ports, you can charge an array of devices simultaneously—just make sure that the total wattage doesn't exceed 200. "It started making a quiet whirring noise, and in a second or two, our devices were charging at a normal pace," Joan said. "We charged plenty with it, including our phones, a portable charger, and our camera. Other than the expected slight delay, everything ran smoothly."
The converter automatically shuts down to prevent overloading, overheating, or short-circuiting, keeping you and your appliances safe. Be wary of using curling irons, hair dryers, or hair straighteners, as Foval notes that it isn't safe to use with these tools. It is only compatible with devices within the 110- to 120-volt range, which includes most American devices. What makes up for this is the converter's small size, measuring 4.8 x 3.1 x 1.5 inches for a device that "will save you space and money," according to our tester. There is also a detachable 5-foot cord for easy packing.
Out Power: 230 watts max. | Dimensions: 4.8 x 3.13 x 1.47 inches | USB Ports: 4
Not compatible with heat tools
In addition to a single AC power socket, the HAOZI Universal Travel Adapter features two USB ports—all of which can be used simultaneously. It's FCC, CE, and RoHS safety-certified, while a lifetime guarantee gives you confidence in your purchase. The downsides? It's not suitable for use with high-powered appliances, including hair dryers, and at 2.2 x 3.2 x 2.6 inches, it's slightly bulkier than your standard single adapter.
If you travel frequently, consider investing in the HAOZI All-in-One Universal Travel Adapter rather than limiting yourself to one exclusively for Europe. Our product tester, Rebekah Joan, tested the adapter's reliability abroad and noticed a slight delay in the electricity getting from one point to another. "After those few initial seconds, it charged our devices smoothly and without making a sound," she said. "We did notice a slight issue with some of the prongs getting stuck on the way out, but it was easily fixed by wiggling the slider back and forth."
Travelers from North America may need a voltage converter for non-dual-voltage devices, but Joan found that the adapter worked well with a converter as it did alone. This is also an excellent purchase for those planning a European trip with stops in countries that don't accept the standard Type E/F plug. Interchangeable input and outlet sockets allow you to use the power adapter in more than 150 countries.
Out Power: 660 watts max. at 110V, 1,380 watts max at 230V | Dimensions: 3.2 x 2.2 x 2.6 inches | USB Ports: 2
Designed with safety in mind
Whether you often travel abroad for business or are a wanderlust vegetarian, a compact and reliable adapter system is in order. That's what you get with the all-in-one World Adapter Kit from Ceptics. It has two US-grounded inputs, two USB ports, and a USB-C cable.
No matter where you're headed, this lightweight (12.8 ounces altogether) kit has you covered. Six international adapters easily switch out and provide Quick Charge 3.0 power in North America, the United Kingdom, most of Europe, Australia, Japan, Africa, the Middle East, China, and Asia. Safety features such as built-in surge protection and voltage indicators LEDs add peace of mind. Unfortunately, this system does not convert voltage, i.e., not curling-iron friendly.
Out Power: 1,250 watts | Dimensions: 2.75 x 1.5 x 3.75 inches | USB Ports: 2
Can power two devices at once
Excludes some big tourist countries
The OREI European Power Adapter Plug is a no-frills, cost-effective solution for American travelers to Europe and Russia. It is compatible with Type E/F plugs and should work in most countries except Italy, Switzerland, and the U.K. Plus; it fits into the recessed, circular plug sockets found in many parts of Western Europe and standard square-faced sockets.
Its newly improved design features internal metal interfaces for better conductivity. The power adapter plug has a maximum capacity of 250V/13A and can accommodate devices that require up to 3,000 watts of power (including most hairdryers). Be aware, though, that it is only suitable for dual-voltage appliances. You can use the dual ports to charge two devices simultaneously—which is especially handy in hotel rooms with limited plug sockets. The universal input accepts plugs from most countries except South Africa.
Out Power: 3,000 watts max. at 250V | Dimensions: 1 x 1 x 1 inch | USB Ports: 0
Designed in the U.S., the Ceptics Type G Travel Adapter Plug keeps things simple for those planning a vacation to the U.K. (where standard European adapters won’t work). The plug also works for British Overseas Territories and ex-colonies within Europe, including Gibraltar and Cyprus, as well as other destinations like Hong Kong and Dubai. Your purchase includes three adapters, allowing you to simultaneously utilize all the sockets in your hotel room.
Each power adapter features two inputs, both of which accept two-prong polarized U.S. plugs or three-prong grounded U.S. plugs. They have a maximum load rating of 250V and are suitable for dual appliances only. The product’s limited lifetime warranty means you can return faulty adapters for a free replacement.
Out Power: 2,500 watts at 220-240V | Dimensions: 1.5 x 1.5 x 1.75 inch | USB Ports: 2
Charges up to three devices
Must be paired with a converter
The TESSAN Swiss Outlet adapter has three different charging ports: two for USB charging and one for standard U.S. prongs. The USB charging ports can charge up to 2.4A and are compatible with all USB charging devices, such as your phone, camera, tablet, and more. It is also the ideal size for travel, measuring just 2.8 x 2.1 x 2.67 inches, and can be used in Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and some areas of Rwanda. Plus, the adapter features a blue indicator light to tell you when it is on or off.
A voltage converter is needed with this adapter, as it is only compatible with devices between the voltage range of 100 to 250V.
Out Power: 2,500 watts at 250V max. | Dimensions: 2.8 x 2.1 x 2.67 inches | USB Ports: 2
Each piece supports two devices
If you’re planning a trip to Italy, the OREI USA to Italy Travel Adapter Plug is your best choice. The two-pack includes two Type L plugs for charging devices in Italy and the microstate of San Marino. Both adapters feature dual inputs, which allow them to accommodate two U.S. plugs at the same time. One of the inputs is universal and can accept plugs from any country except those that use Type M plugs (e.g., South Africa, Swaziland, and Lesotho). The adapters are CE-certified and RoHS-compliant, giving you added peace of mind.
Out Power: 3,000 watts at 250V | Dimensions: 1.5 x 1.5 x 1.5 inches | USB Ports: 0
Supports up to five devices
Although this type of E/F plug can be used in other parts of Europe, such as Germany and Spain, it is especially great if you plan on taking a trip to France. The adapter is considered to be five in one, with two AC outlets for standard US prongs and three USB ports to charge multiple devices at once. It may only be compatible with devices between 100V to 250V, but the plug has an impressive max capacity of 2,300 watts and is lightweight.
Out Power: 2,300 watts at max 230V | Dimensions: 3.62 x 2.85 x 1.77 inches | USB Ports: 3
The general rule is that the more universal the plug, the bulkier it is. If you’re taking a backpacking trip across Europe—or traveling with just a carry-on—get an adapter only designed for Europe. You won’t need the weight or size of one designed for Australia or South America, for example—so why bother?
Consider a charging station if you’re a gadget head bringing plenty of electronics. They can handle multiple electronics on the same strip, with USB charging ports and regular outlets to spare. Sure, they’re a little more expensive, but it’s one (or three) fewer things to leave behind in a hotel room.
Simpler adapters tend to be cheaper. Think about how much you want to spend, particularly if this is your first trip out of the U.S. If you have future trips in mind, consider spending a bit more on an adapter that can do more.
Check the adapter’s packaging or online description to see what countries or regions it’s marked as compatible.
A universal adapter connects you to many regions’ types of plugs in one single unit. Plug adapters, on the other hand, have different plugs you swap out depending on the region you’re in. Universal adapters tend to be on the bulkier side (a common style is a cube with outlets for multiple regions and even USB chargers built into it). A plug adapter keeps a little lower profile, so if you’re making a point to travel light and are only going to a region or two, this might be your best bet.
Check the voltage of your electronics against the voltage your adapter says it’s converting. (If you’re unsure what it is, Google or look at the instructions or manual for your device.) The voltage shouldn't be an issue for most generic devices and things like hair straighteners.
Jessica Macdonald is a freelance writer based in South Africa specializing in travel, scuba diving, and wildlife conservation. Besides TripSavvy, Macdonald has written about her scuba diving experiences for Scuba Diver Life and is a two-time winner of The Telegraph's Just Back travel writing competition. She also has been TripSavvy's Africa expert since 2016.
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