6 Handy Travel Adapters That’ll Help Juice Up Your Gadgets No Matter Where You Go

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Making sure you have all the travel necessities is essential to having a smooth trip, whether you’re going abroad or are attending festivals and tours across the country. As you pack your luggage, an international travel adapter should be at the top of your list for its ability to charge your smartphone, tablet and commuter gadgets no matter where you are in the world — and what outlet you’re trying to plug into.

Not all outlets are the same, which is why having a universal travel adapter is a must-have. In the U.S., you’ll find two different plug types: A and B, which have two flat parallel pins (with type B also including a grounding pin). Whereas if you go to Europe they use type C; the U.K. uses type G; Japan type A and Australia uses type I.

Investing in a universal travel adapter will allow you to keep your devices charged or plugged in no matter where your journeys take you.

Keep reading to learn more about travel plugs and where to buy international adapters online.

What Are the Best Travel Adapters & Converters?

To help you narrow down your search, ShopBillboard put together a list of top-rated and bestselling travel adapters you can buy online below.

Do You Need An Adapter or Converter for International Travel?

During travels abroad, you’ll most likely just need an adapter over a converter if your devices are newer. Converters are usually only needed when you have older hair dryers or irons that require a specific amount of electricity to avoid shorting out as well as fit into a specific plug shape.

What Is the Difference Between a Travel Plug Adapter and Converter?

An adapter is used to fit into plugs that your cable isn’t compatible with — that way you can still use your charging cables or hair tools without having to buy a new one from the country you’re in. Converters are single-voltage items that aim to convert the electricity and prevent your devices from shorting out. Most modern-made electronics are usually multi- or dual-voltage, which means they can withstand different types of electricity and can withstand an adapter on its own.

For more product recommendations, check out our roundups of the best travel deals, travel backpacks and festival gear.