what travel plug do i need for italy

Plug For Italy: What You Need To Know

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What is the plug for Italy? Before you travel, check the information below to make sure your electronic devices are compatible with the outlet type and voltage.

Electrical Summary

Italy uses outlet types C, F, L at a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50 Hz.

Plug Compatibility: Type C, Type F, Type L

Voltage: 230V

Frequency: 50 Hz

Can North Americans use Electronics in Italy without an Adapter?

No! North Americans will need an adapter for the outlets and a transformer for the voltage when traveling to Italy . North Americans device plugs will not work with the outlet types in Italy . Also, the voltage in Italy is different from North American voltages.

Can Europeans use Electronics in Italy without an adapter?

Yes! Europeans do not need a travel adapter or transformer when traveling to Italy . Most device plugs will work with the outlet types in Italy . Some travelers may require an adapter for outlet Type L. Also, the voltage in Italy is the same as in Europe.  

What Outlet does Italy Use?

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Type C plug sockets are used in Europe, Africa and Asia. They have two round pins and no grounding pin. These plugs are typically used with devices that have a voltage of 220-240V. Plug Type E, and Type F are compatible with this socket. All other plug types will need an adapter.

Type F electrical plug sockets are used in Germany, Spain, Italy and some parts of Africa . They have two round pins and a grounding pin. These outlets are typically used with devices that have a voltage of 220-240V. This outlet is rated for 16 amps. Plug Type C and Type E are compatible with this socket. All other plug types will need an adapter.

Type L plug sockets are used in Chile and Italy. They have three round pins and a grounding pin. These plugs are typically used with devices that have a voltage of 220V.

Is it safe to drink water in Italy?

To be on the safe side, you can use common precautions such as boiling tap water for at least one minute, using water purification tablets, or drinking bottled water. It’s also important to note that ice may be made from tap water and that foods may be washed or prepared with tap water.

We recommend always packing a filtered water bottle when traveling:

Travel Essentials

Be sure to check our list of travel essentials before your trip!

Recommended Travel Essentials

Should I get travel insurance when traveling to Italy?

It is generally recommended to get travel insurance when traveling to a different country. Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind in case of unexpected events, such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost or stolen baggage, or other travel-related mishaps.

Travel insurance can cover various expenses related to your trip, such as medical expenses, emergency medical transportation, trip cancellation or interruption, lost or stolen baggage or personal belongings, and other travel-related expenses.

Before purchasing travel insurance, it’s important to carefully review the policy details, including the coverage limits, exclusions, and any applicable deductibles or copays. You should also make sure that the policy covers any activities or destinations that you plan to participate in or visit during your trip.

Travel Summary

Where is italy.

Italy is a country located in Southern Europe, bordered by France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia.

How big is Italy?

Italy has a total land area of approximately 301,340 square kilometers (116,350 square miles).

What language is spoken in Italy?

The official language of Italy is Italian. However, there are also several regional languages spoken throughout the country, such as Sicilian, Sardinian, and Neapolitan.

What time is it in Italy?

Italy is in the Central European Time (CET) zone, which is one hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1). However, during the summer months, Italy observes Daylight Saving Time (DST), shifting to Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is two hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

What is the capital of Italy?

The capital of Italy is Rome.

Why did the Renaissance start in Italy?

The Renaissance started in Italy in the 14th century due to a combination of factors, including the rediscovery of classical texts and ideas, the wealth and patronage of powerful families and institutions, and the influence of humanist philosophy.

What currency does Italy use?

Italy uses the Euro as its official currency.

What is Italy known for?

Italy is known for its rich history, culture, and contributions to art, architecture, literature, and music. It is also known for its cuisine, fashion, and beautiful natural landscapes, such as the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, and the Italian Lakes.

What to do in Italy?

The capital city, Rome, is a top tourist destination, known for its world-famous landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Vatican City. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s lively piazzas, delicious Italian cuisine, and cultural events.

Beyond Rome, there are many other regions in Italy that are worth exploring. Tuscany, located in central Italy, is famous for its rolling hills, charming medieval towns, and delicious wine. Visitors can explore the region’s vineyards and wineries, visit historic landmarks such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.

The Amalfi Coast, located in the south of the country, is another popular destination known for its stunning coastal landscapes, charming fishing villages, and delicious seafood. Visitors can explore the region’s rocky cliffs and sandy beaches, visit historic landmarks such as the Pompeii Archaeological Site, and enjoy outdoor activities such as sailing and hiking.

Overall, Italy is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. It is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and memorable travel experience in Southern Europe.

Traveling to another country? Check out our Countries page for more info.

Electricity in Italy - Plugs, Adapters and Converters

Staying Charged Up in Italy

Tourists wishing to use laptops, cell phones , battery chargers, and other electrical appliances in Italy need to know how to convert the appliances for use in Italy, and how to connect that appliance to the sockets in the wall.

Electricity in Italy, as in the rest of Europe , comes out of the wall socket at 220 volts alternating at 50 cycles per second. In the US, electricity comes out of the wall socket at 110 volts, alternating at 60 cycles per second. Not only the voltages and frequencies but the sockets themselves are different.

What You Need to Know about Italian Electricity

The photo above shows a normal Italian power socket. To access it with an adapter that connects to a typical American power plug, you'll need an adapter like the one shown in the photo below, or one of these recommended power adapters and converters .

What You Need to Use Your Electrical Items in Italy

The plug adapters shown in the photo are probably all you need to convert the US rectangular pronged plug to the round prong Italian power plug used in most Italian homes and hotels. This adapter is ungrounded, which is why it doesn't have a third, center prong. This is fine for devices which are insulated (having a plastic body, for instance). Some adapters of this type have a USB port, meaning you can use them to charge a cell phone or digital camera via USB.

Plug Adapters

Plug adapters are the interfaces between the American flat-pronged plug and Italy's two (or three) round-prong socket. These allow you to plug your electrical device into the Italian wall socket, but they do not convert the electricity to the American 110 volts . If your appliance is designed to run only on 110-120 volts, you are likely to see smoke, if not fire, from this potent miss-mating. You will need a step-down power converter or transformer to safely step the voltage down from 220 to 110. More on this later.

You can get along with just a plug converter for many of today's small electrical devices designed to run on dual voltages. Devices like this include most laptops and phones, most recently produced battery chargers, and many small, electrical gadgets, especially those designed for world travel. You can check the back of the device or the "power brick" for the electrical input specifications.

You may see adapters with three prongs in a row, but only buy a 2-prong adapter. That's because some, but definitely not all, Italian outlets have three holes—just don't risk it and stick with a 2-prong adapter. You may also see round outlets with two or three holes—in most cases, your 2-prong adapter will work fine in these.

To buy adapters or converters to take to Italy, see our guide to the latest  Power Adapters and Electrical Converters .

Transformers or Power Converters

Hair dryers and curling irons are the bane of modern day travel. These devices cannot often be used in dual voltage situations without voltage conversion . They are extremely high current devices, meaning that combined with the high voltage, they use a whole lot of power (current times voltage = power). You'll need to lug a large power converter or power transformer to convert Italy's higher voltage to the lower American voltage--or you'll risk having the curling iron really curl (meaning "fry") your hair.

There's really no need to pack a blow-dryer for your trip to Italy, as most hotels and rental properties will supply one. If you're really worried about being without a dryer or curling iron, you might want to simply buy one of these devices in Europe to avoid carrying both the device and the converter around. 

If you buy a power converter, make sure its power rating meets or exceeds the power rating of the single device you will use with it. This information is usually found on the body of the device near the power cord.

For more information, see: Electricity in Europe - Power Sockets and the Connected Tourist .

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Before we discuss tackling this question, we need to establish a few very important safety issues. Then we’ll tell you the simple equipment you will need to use your devices in Italy – as well as some tips and tricks.

The important thing to know is that Italy doesn’t just differ in shape and size of sockets, but can also differ in voltage delivery – and the latter is a safety issue.

What important safety information do I need to know about Italy's electricity supply?

Italy works with a domestic electricity supply of 230 volts.

This allows for higher-powered devices such as washing machines and dishwashers to be used with a simple plug and socket.

The disadvantage of this is that this makes the danger to an individual from an Italian domestic socket far higher than sockets in countries that use lower voltages. Briefly coming into contact with 110V (as used in the US) usually gives you a nasty shock, but a mere touch of a 230V domestic circuit can kill you.

Despite this, most of the world uses domestic electric circuits that are between 220 volts and 240 volts, and so devices from those countries are almost always totally compatible with the 230 volt supply in Italy.

However the US, Japan, some Caribbean countries, and Taiwan, use much lower voltages – from 100V to 120V. A few devices from these counties are compatible with Italy’s domestic electrical systems, but many are not. Read on to find out which.

What devices aren’t compatible with Italian electricity system?

If you are from a country that uses 100-120V, and you bring high-powered electric goods – such as hair dryers or straightening tongs – they will literally blow up in a shower of sparks , or overheat and melt down if plugged in in Italy. It is a significant safety issue.

To use devices like those safely you would need an expensive – and really heavy – AC step-down transformer.

This may be suitable for someone relocating to Italy who doesn’t want to buy a new Kitchen Aid, but at about 20 lbs, isn’t really suitable for a short-term visitor!

Simple solution: don’t bring your higher-powered devices (unless you know they’re suitable for Italy). The most common item visitors carry is a hairdryer, but remember that nearly every hotel or Airbnb in Italy has a hairdryer in the bathroom (or will provide one on request). Same with a clothes iron.

Note in particular Dyson hair dryers have a safety cut-out that will prevent them from working when plugged into the wrong voltage, so if you bring a 110V one you will have essentially have brought an expensive piece of plastic that you’ll have to carry around with you until you get back to 110V-land again.

If you really think you can’t do without one, you can order a voltage-compatible travel hair dryer that will fold up small, such as this one rated up to 240V:

Or these tongs rated to 240V:

And this travel iron rated to 240V:

What appliances will work in Italy?

Most smaller consumer electronics such as laptops, tablets, and cellphones will be compatible with the higher voltage. They run on DC which is derived from a small transformer inside the plug or adapter. Most of these transformers can convert any voltage from between 100V and 240V, so will work fine in Italy with no voltage alteration.

You can tell if they’re rated for higher voltages by looking at the small print on the device. Verify 100% before you try them.

What kind of sockets and plugs does Italy use?

Italy has unfortunately never managed to standardise itself following each attempt at modernization, so there are now three different socket standards running in parallel: the small two or three-pin Italian plug (C), large three-pin Italian plug (L), and large robust two-pin European type (F, also known as Schuko, with no earth pin), the latter of which facilitates easy import of electrical goods from other parts of Europe.

Each basic socket is not compatible with any other plug, which can create great confusion in domestic settings, with various sockets of differing sizes in different parts of houses and hotel rooms.

Builders and electricians have adopted various different strategies used to attempt to mitigate the incompatibility of the various plugs, and different combined socket solutions are being produced all the time by manufacturers.

Depending on the age of the property you may find various different socket configurations built into the wall, from F to C to L to various hyper-modern combination sockets that attempt to allow all three plugs to be compatible, plus USB charging.

The good news is that both of the three-pin sockets will allow two-pin plugs to be inserted into them, and both the Schuko and the L type allow a two-pin C to be plugged in to them – which in turn means that a two-pin Italian C plug will work in any of the three potential socket types.

Repeat: a 2-pin Italian C plug will fit all Italian sockets .

Do I need an adapter at all?

There are circumstances in which you may not need an adapter at all. Bearing in mind that you must take into account the voltage rating of your appliance:

If you just need USB charging on your visit, you can buy cheap USB chargers with an Italian two-pin C plug (thus fully compatible with all sockets), anywhere in the street in Rome or in the Chinese casalinghi (housewares) stores all over the city, for like €2 or €3. These will likely be low quality but will usually suffice during your stay.

Or you can order slightly more robustly tested versions from any of the electronic retail chains (Euronics, Unieuro, MediaWorld, Expert City) with higher power ratings for €12-€20.

The caveat to this is that Apple devices are a bit fancy and may require higher power output than a regular USB charger. Or Apple may want to charge you $150 for a new cable. In that case you will need a socket adapter.

If you have a device that uses charger with a generic fitting that’s rated for all voltages, you can also just buy the Italian equivalent. For example the pictured Lenovo laptop charger is rated 1o0V-240V and takes a universal “clover leaf” plug. This author has three “clover leaf” cables: one with a US plug, one for the UK/Ireland, and one for Italy – each bought for around €5. It’s easy enough just to switch cables, since the transformer unit works at any voltage.

You can buy such cables from the electronics chains mentioned above, branches of which are all over Rome.

What plug adapter should I get?

The best socket adapter we’ve ever owned is made by Skross. It can plug into 90% of the world’s sockets, and can receive 90% of the world’s plugs. It also has two USB charging sockets.

Warning – again, it’s not a transformer – it is a plug/socket adapter. Apart from the USB sockets, the main part will transmit as many volts as you plug it into!

For Italy it provides the two-pin Italian C plug that works in all sockets, and can accept UK and US two-pin plugs (though unfortunately not US three-pin, nor Australian plugs).

Finally, if you have a lot of devices, you could also get a multi-socket outlet cable like this and plug that into the Skross adapter above, then plug all your devices into that. As long as you’re not drawing too much power (e.g. just charging your devices) then you’ll be fine. Here’s an example for US devices:

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What Plug is Used in Italy & Best Plug Adapters for Italy

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What plug do you need for Italy? What about an adaptor for Italy? Scroll down to find out!

If you’re packing for your trip to Italy, you’re likely wondering what type of electrical plugs they use.

Finding out in advance is a great idea because you don’t want to waste a day of your trip running around Rome looking for the correct adaptor plug for Italy with no cell phone battery!

As someone who has been to almost 40 countries, including Italy a number of times, I understand how important it is to bring the right travel plug for Italy.

In this guide to electrical plugs in Italy, I’ll show you the power plugs and sockets to expect, plug types, and voltage, as well as share where to buy a travel adapter for Italy should you want to get one!

Universal Travel Adapter

Stay connected with 4 interchangeable plugs covering 150+ countries! This universal plug adapter charges 6 devices at once via 4 USB-A ports, 1 USB-C port, and 1 AC socket. Safety-certified with a built-in fuse, shutters, and plug lock.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

What Plug Does Italy Use?

When it comes to plug shape in Italy, which plugs do Italians use?

Italy uses Type C, Type F, and Type L plugs.

Both Type C and F plugs consist of two round prongs (or pins). However, there are a few small differences—although both will work in outlets in Italy.

The Type C plug, or “Europlug,”  is the most commonly used plug internationally . You actually will find the unearthed Type C plugs in almost every European country! There are two Type C plugs with differently shaped heads, the normal one that is used for low energy-consuming appliances and a higher amp, round version for things like hair dryers, heaters, etc.

Type F plugs (also called “Schuko plugs”) are similar to Type C, except that they are round and have top and bottom indentations with conductive clips in them to earth the appliance.

The Type L plug is a grounded plug/socket consisting of three rounded pins placed in a straight line. The Italian plugs are used in only a few countries, and there are two different styles rated at 10 & 16 amps.

Now, that you know which plugs to look for you may still be wondering, “What plug sockets are used in Italy?”

As far as which outlets Type C and F pins fit into, you’ll find two universal sockets to plug your electronics into throughout Italy. First, there is bipasso receptacle (literally: twin-gauge outlet). This is a very commonly used Italy plug socket that accepts C and L plugs.

The second type of plug socket in Italy is the Schuko-bipasso receptacle, which is recessed into the wall. This accepts plug types E & F.

There’s also a less common L socket that accepts L and C plugs.T

Do I Need a Travel Adapter for Italy?

Yes, you need to take a travel adapter if you’re traveling to Italy from a country that uses a different type of plug. These will allow you to plug in your devices that have the plug from your home country.

For example, travelers from America, Canada, and the UK all need an Italy adaptor plug!

See this (non-exhaustive) electrical adapter for Italy chart for quick reference:

What Plug Adapter Do I Need for Italy?

You have a few options when it comes to the best plug adaptor for Italy .

A Universal Travel Adapter is a great choice for charging your personal electronics abroad.

These adaptors are compact and compatible with the plugs and outlets of multiple countries around the world (US, EU, UK, and Australia)!

This one takes input from multiple countries and charges up to 6 devices at a time. Universal adaptors are good for backpackers who want to travel light while traveling to multiple countries that use different plugs.

My favorite travel adaptor plug for Italy is a simple Type C adaptor like this one . It’s compact and lightweight, and I can plug in multiple devices with the USB or USB C inputs.

I don’t need a universal adapter when I’m only going to Italy (or other European countries like Portugal that use the same adapter). On longer trips, I prefer to bring a couple of travel plugs—one for my bedside and one for everywhere else.

I also like to bring separate power adapters for Italy like these that I can leave on my laptop or other items with prongs that need to stay plugged in.

I’ve met many travelers who use a power strip to charge multiple devices like laptops. Not only are plugs sometimes hidden away behind furniture, but it’s convenient when you’re traveling long term and have many devices to charge.

Besides, it’s always nice to offer an open socket to other travelers or digital nomads, too!

Please note that plug adaptors do not convert voltage or frequency (more on that, below).

Where to Buy an Adaptor Plug for Italy

The best way to get an adaptor plug for Italy is Amazon . On Amazon, you can find a reasonably-priced Italian adaptor and have it delivered to you in days, if not hours.

They are often sold in multiples (Hint: Give one to a travel buddy or traveler who forgot hers!).

Not to mention the ability to read the reviews to verify if the plug works in Italy without issue is wonderful!

Should you forget to order a plug adaptor before your trip , you can purchase travel adapters at airports, travel or tourist shops, or electronics stores. Do note that travel adapters can be more expensive in touristy areas in Italy.

Do I need a Voltage Converter for Italy?

Let’s go over the details of voltage for Italy to determine whether you need a voltage converter in addition to an adapter.

The voltage in Italy is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.

This is the same in most European countries. So, if your appliances are rated the same, you won’t need to worry about getting a voltage converter for Italy. A travel plug adaptor for Italy is all you need! 

If you’re coming from the US or Canada (which uses a different voltage and frequency from Italy) you’ll need to look at your devices to verify they are dual-voltage.

Fortunately, most electronic devices like laptops, phone and tablet chargers, and camera chargers are dual voltage. Even better, many hair styling tools like hair dryers and flat irons (known to be problematic for some travelers) are dual voltage these days. Do note that while some devices convert voltage automatically, some require you to flip a switch between voltages.

Editor’s Note: If you plan to travel a lot (or are spending extended time in Italy), you may want to consider getting European hair tools upon arrival. They are a little more expensive than in the United States, but worth it for frequent travelers.

That means you can use them in both your home country (the US or Canada, in this example) and in Italy—without a voltage converter! A travel adapter plug for Italy would be all you need.

To check if your device is dual voltage, look for “100-240V 50/60Hz” printed on the device. If you see that, the device will work with all voltages and frequencies used worldwide.

(Sometimes, the numbers vary a little, but that’s okay as manufacturers account for small variations. Technically, appliances rated between 220V and 240V are safe to plug into Italy outlets using an adaptor only. 60 Hz electronics will also operate on 50 Hz.)

On the unlikely chance your appliances don’t have two numbers side by side, that means they are single voltage and won’t work in Italy without a voltage converter. Grab a voltage converter for Italy . ⤵

Type of Plug in Italy FAQ’s

Will a 2 prong adapter work in italy.

Yes, a 2 pin adapter will work for Italy. The electrical outlets used in Italy are type C, F, or L, which will all take a 2-prong adapter (C Type plug). Americans need a US to Italy adapter to convert their A/B plugs. Please note that power adapters for Italy don’t convert voltage or frequency.

Are Italy plugs the same as Europe?

Yes, the electrical outlets in Italy are the same as the ones used in most of Continental Europe. The plug sockets in Italy are Types C & F like in Spain, Greece, and other European countries. However, Italy also sometimes uses an older, 3-prong L Type socket. Fortunately, the 2-pin plugs are compatible so you only have to take one adapter with you.

Can I use my curling iron or straightener in Italy?

If your curling iron or flat iron is dual voltage, you should be able to insert it into Italian outlets with a travel plug adaptor only. Please be aware that an adapter only changes the shape of the plug. Since it doesn’t convert the voltage or frequency of the supply, you’ll need to check that your hot tools (curling irons, hair dryers, straighteners, etc.) are rated dual voltage. Fortunately, many companies now make travel curling irons that are dual-voltage (I’ve used this one for years). The Babyliss travel hair dryer is also a good choice.

Do I need a converter to charge my iPhone in Italy?

No, you do not need a converter to charge your phone in Italy. Apple chargers are all universal in voltage 100-240 volts so you can charge your iPhone, iPad, etc. abroad. Just pick up a power adapter, and you’ll be able to charge your devices in electrical outlets in Italy. You can double-check that you phone is dual-voltage by looking for numbers like “100/240 V.”

Do American cell phones work in Europe?

Yes, most of the newer American cell phones with GSM capabilities will work in Europe. To use your phone, you can either purchase international data through our carrier or get a SIM card (physical or eSIM). We recommend trying Airalo, the world’s first eSIM store that allows you to set up everything on your phone before you land! Don’t forget to unlock your phone with your carrier, and get a power adaptor plug before traveling.

Are Italy electrical outlets the same as the US?

No, the electrical outlets in Italy are not the same as in the United States. The plug sockets in Italy are Types C & F, whereas the United States uses electrical outlets Types A & B. To use your electronics and other dual-voltage appliances in Italy, you’ll need to pick up a travel adapter plug.

Does Italy use the same plug as England?

No, the electrical outlets in Italy are not the same as in the United States. The plug sockets in Italy are Types C & F, whereas the UK uses electrical outlet Type G. To use your electronics and other dual-voltage appliances in Italy, you’ll need to pick up a UKL to Italy travel adapter plug.

Conclusion: What Plug is Used in Italy?

Now you know what type of plug is used in Italy, you can enjoy your vacation without any concern as to whether your electronics will power up in Italian power outlets.

Your next step is simply to order a travel adaptor for Italy , and you’ll be on your way!

Italy Travel Guide

🏨 Where should I book accommodations in Italy?

Access a clear and easy hotel booking process that includes hotels, hostels, B&Bs, guesthouses, and more on Booking.com . Or, rent an entire home to live like a local using Vrbo .

🚉 Where do I book train tickets in Italy ?

Italy is well connected by its rail network. To get from one city to the next, book tickets on Omio . (You can also buy bus tickets through Omio or BusBud .)

🚗 Do I need to rent a car in Italy ?

You don’t need a car if you’re visiting major cities in Italy. However, if you’d like to get off the beaten path, we recommend hiring a car through Discover Cars !

📱 Where can I get cellular data for Italy?

Try using Airalo , the world’s first eSIM store! Download, and install your eSIM, and get connected as soon as you land .

🏙 Where do I find the best Italy city tours and day trips?

Search for top-rated Italy tours (with reviews!) on Viator and/or Get Your Guide .

📃 Should I buy travel insurance for Italy?

Yes! Protect your investment from trip interruptions to unexpected injuries — compare rates on Travel Insurance Master and SafetyWing (which has some of the cheapest rates when you subscribe to a 1+ Month plan).

✈ What are the best sites to book flights to Italy?

Search Skyscanner for best flights that other search engines miss !

👒 What should I pack for Italy?

Download the Ultimate Europe Packing List for Women to get all the info you need on packing for Europe.

Go to our resources page  for more booking tools we use to plan our trips.

More Helpful Articles on Italy Travel

• Is Omio Legit? Full Omio Review

Blogger & Ex-Spanish Teacher

Tristina Oppliger has traveled to 35+ countries on five continents. Having previously lived in Spain, she loves studying foreign languages and cultures. In fact, she has a Master's in Foreign Language Education and is a former Spanish Teacher! Tristina is passionate about living free—remote work, exploring the world, and finding adventure wherever she goes.

Italian Electricity: Adapters Needed for Plugs in Italy

Are you wondering how your flat irons, blow dryers will work in electrical outlets in Italy? Or how your phone will get charged when the plugs are totally different from the United States? I get the confusion. But, understanding the Italian voltage and power isn’t quite as hard as you might think, and a simple plug adapter is probably all you need in order to use all your electronics.

Answers to Your Questions about Adapters for Italy Voltage

What is a plug adapter.

A plug adapter is a device that changes a foreign outlet into one that will fit the plugs on your electronics. For Americans traveling to Italy, it would have a round 2 or 3-prong plug on one end that would stick into the wall and the other end would be US style to plug your items into. It does not change voltage (you would need a converter for that). 

Which Type of Power Plug Outlets are in Italy?

There are three main types of plugs that Italy has:

• Type C: Two round pins, slightly thinner than Type F, so it will work in a Type F socket.
• Type F (Schuko Plug): Two round pins, slightly thicker than Type C
• Type L: Three round pins.

I have traveled to 60 different countries (including Italy 5 times) with my Mintong Universal Adapter that includes a Type C without any issues. If you want to be safe, you could also bring the Tessan Type L which is a three round pin.

What Voltage is Used in Italy?

Italy uses 220V-230V, whereas in the USA we mostly use 110V-120V. This means that if you’re bringing electronic devices, you’ll need to check if they’re compatible with Italy’s voltage and frequency. Some devices may require voltage converters, which is different from a plug adapter. 

What is a Converter?

A converter changes the voltage of an outlet from one voltage, like 110V to a different one, like 220V. 

Do I Need A Converter in Italy? 

That depends on the electronics you are traveling to Italy with, but most likely not. You just need to check the input range for the electronics you’re bringing, which can typically be found on the device (or its power source). It will have an input range that should include 220v to 230v, like this one from my canon camera: 

Most newer electronics can be brought to Italy without having to purchase a converter. I’ve traveled all over the world with my flat iron ( The Nition Titanium Straightening Flat Iron ), Iphone, Macbook and Canon camera batteries that needed charging and have never needed one. But, if you do then Bestek makes a highly-rated voltage converter that you can purchase on Amazon .

What are the Best Plug Adapters for Outlets in Italy?

Here are the top 3 plug adapters on Amazon. I have been using the first one for years, and it has traveled with me to 60 countries with no issues.

Mintong Universal Adapter

MINGTONG $16.99

Get ready to conquer the world with this international plug that covers a whopping 160+ countries! Don’t worry about leaving any devices behind – this USB-C Smart Charging feature can charge up to 3 devices at once, all while delivering the fastest possible charging speed.

Tessan Type C

TESSAN $11.99

Heading to Italy (or somewhere else in Europe)? Don’t forget this trusty plug adapter that works in most European countries. Compatible with most cellphones, tablets, cameras, and more.

Tessan Type L

TESSAN $15.99

Though the Type L sockets in Italy aren’t quite as common as the Type C ones, it’s good to have one in your travel bag just in case.

With your perfect plug adapter in hand, you can now enjoy all the wonders that Italy has to offer without worrying about finding a compatible electrical outlet. From the renaissance architecture in Florence to the rolling hills of Tuscany, there’s no end to the beauty and adventure waiting for you. And with your electronic devices fully charged, you’ll be able to capture every moment and stay connected with loved ones back home. 

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

More things to do in italy.

25 Best Walking Shoes to Wear in Italy: Spring to Summer Florence Bucket List: 40 of the Best Things to Do in Italy’s Top City Italian Food Bucket List: 50 Best Foods From Italy to Eat How to See the Pope at the Vatican in Rome: The Papal Audience Recipe: Italian Sausage & Oven Roasted Eggplant Farro Risotto Walk on the Via Dell’Amore Trail in Cinque Terre 10-Day Northern Italy Itinerary

8 thoughts on “Italian Electricity: Adapters Needed for Plugs in Italy”

Hi…have been visiting your website for a few months now….

Anyways…I travel overseas a lot and have had similar dilemmas.  Yes apple chargers are dual voltage.  I have used them in a few continents now and they work like a charm everytime.  As for a straightener I used the Conair Flat Iron 2" and never had any issues with it.  I had a friend who brought her expensive Chi and it started smelling like it was burning inside after about 5 minutes.  Converters definitely do not work with things like straighteners. 

I also got this adapter kit that has names of the countries it works in.  It's great if you travel a lot.  Just grab the ones you need and go.  God bless you for wearing heels in Italy!  Italy really did a number with my ankles, and the cobblestone kills.  They get slippery during those sporadic rains too.  So be careful!  I used the Merrell Siren traveling/hiking in South America and they were great (however I used them when hiking a sand dune and months later I am still finding sand in them). 

Have fun drinking cheap wine, and make sure to get lost in Venice (it's part of the experience). 

Thanks for the tips! I am leaving tomorrow morning and I’m sure I will not be able to sleep tonight. I’m pretty sure my feet will be hurting by the end of day 2, but I hear Italy makes the best shoes, so I’ll just have to get some comfy ones there. I’ll post when I return how my adapters, flat irons and shoes work out. I hope this trip is just the start of my travel experiences and that I learn something from each one. Arrivederci!!!

GREAT article. Thanks so much. I am going to Italy and Greece in 3 weeks and I was freaking out about my flat iron. Thanks for the info. Happy travels  

I was in a “flat iron” panic before my trip, but the adapters worked great. Have fun!

Hi- So did the flat iron you bought with the adapter work out for you?  Or, I'm considering just investing in a really cute hat!  :) Amy

LOL! Yes, the flat iron (& adapter) worked at every hotel in Italy. No problems. But, a hat would be easier and cheaper ;)

This was so helpful. I travel to Italy once a year and have blown up endless Chis. I researched and found the GHD brand of flight iron with dual voltage @185.00. Hoping it works. I have extremely curly think frizzy hair so I have to have the bestter brand!! Thanks for the helpful tips!!

Happy to hear it was helpful! My dual voltage hasn’t failed me yet :)

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Italy Travel Tips , Packing Lists

What adapter do i need for italy.

If you’re planning a trip to Italy and ready to pack your bags, you’ll need to remember to bring a power adapter for Italy to enable you to use your usual devices that require power or charging.

So you’re about to travel to Italy and have packed everything . You’ve got a couple of clothes, a few pairs of shoes, your makeup and toiletries, a camera, a portable charger, and travel documents, and you finally feel ready to embark on this exciting trip. I’m sure you’re wondering, “what adapter do I need for Italy?”

But don’t forget to pack plug adapters for Italy! Because you’ll definitely need them on your trip. And so, you want to keep a few plug adapters handy instead of spending precious time searching for them in stores in Italy.

What we'll be talking about

Want to know what my favorite travel adapter for Italy is?

What is a power adapter, type l plug, type c plug, type f plug, understanding the electrical system in italy, what about devices with dual voltage, dual voltage hair dryer, dual voltage straightener, dual voltage curling wand, what happens if i don’t use a power converter in italy, tips for choosing the suitable plug adapter for italy, what adapter do i need from the us to italy, do i need a 2 or 3-prong adapter for italy, do i need a converter in italy, will my phone charger work in italy, where to buy a plug adapter in italy, final thoughts, tl,dr what adapter do i need for italy.

Some people overlook the matter of power adapters during their trips but trust me, it’s one of the essential things to bring to ensure you can use your devices properly to fit the electrical outlet in a foreign country. An Italy travel adapter may be a simple and small device, but having it handy makes a huge difference!

This is my absolute favorite travel adapter . I like it because it is universal, so it will work for many destinations. It also has 2 USB ports and 3 USBC outlets as well as a regular AC outlet, so you can use this for just about all the things you need to charge or power! I’ve had this Italy travel adapter for several years now, and I’ve never had any issues.

A power adapter, also known as a plug adapter, electrical adapter, and travel adapter, is a tiny and simple device that allows you to connect your electronic device by adapting the shape of the plug to the power supply outlet in the country that you are visiting. Since you are visiting Italy, then you need an Italian plug adapter.

An American plug will not work in Italy, so you must use adapters during your stay. Depending on your device or your appliance, you may also need to bring a voltage transformer or voltage converter.

What are the plug types in Italy?

Before buying a travel adapter for Italy, you must first know the plug types in Italy. There are three plug types in Italy: type C, type F, and type L.

In Italy, the most common is the type L . It comes with three pins and is rated at 230 voltage and 50 Hz frequency. Apart from Italy, plug type L adapter is used in multiple countries, including Uruguay, Maldives, and Chile.

There’s also the type C plug, known as the Europlug. Although the type L plug is the most common, you’d still find some hotels and accommodations using the type C plug. This plug type is rated to work at 220-240 volts and has a frequency of 50 Hz. The type C plug is commonly used in many parts of Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa.

The type F plug , or the Schuko plug, on the other hand, comes with two round pins and a grounding clip. It is commonly used in other European countries, such as Sweden and the Netherlands. If your devices come with a type F plug, you can use power adapters to convert them into type L adapter. However, it is essential to check the voltage of all your devices as they may also need to use a power converter to be used properly and safely.

The electrical system in Italy operates at a standard voltage of 230 volts, with a frequency of 50 Hz. This voltage and frequency are consistent throughout Europe, but they differ from the electrical systems utilized in other parts of the world.

For example, the United States operates on a voltage of 120 volts and a frequency of 60 Hz. You cannot use US plug adaptors in Italy because the shape and configuration of American plugs are very different from Italian plugs. And even if you attempt to insert American plug adaptors into an Italian sockets, you risk damaging your electric devices or the electrical outlets in Italy.

It’s also important to note that Italy’s electric voltage and frequency differ greatly from the US. Since the US uses 120 volts and 60 Hz frequencies, you would still need power converters to convert voltage. This way, you can safely plug your devices into an Italian sockets.

Are you bringing a dual-voltage appliance to Italy? Then good! Dual voltage devices work in your home country and Italy without a converter.

Check whether a device is a dual voltage, check its sticker or power adapter. For example, if it indicates 110-240 volts, that means the device can be used in the US and Italy without the need for a power converter. In this case, you need a plug adapter to connect your electronic device to the power supply in Italy.

Unlike plug adapters, voltage converters are often bulky and expensive. While you can bring converters during your trip, it may be better to leave behind devices and appliances that are not suitable to use in Italy. For example, you could forego bringing a hair dryer as you’ll probably find one in your hotel room.

Okay, you’re adamant about bringing your hair dryer and curling iron to Italy. You want to have the perfect hair when taking photos against the Trevi Fountain or the Leaning Tower of Pisa. I mean, who doesn’t want to look picture-perfect when you’re in such a beautiful country, right?

But here’s the critical thing to remember: curling irons and hair dryers are typically not dual voltage. They are high voltage and current, making them risky to use without a transformer or converter.

Using a device not designed for Italy’s voltage can lead to overheating, short-circuiting, and even fire. It may also not function properly. The best way to prevent this scenario is to call your hotel or accommodation and ask if they provide hair dryers and hair irons for guests to use (chances are, they do!). Otherwise, you could buy them when you get to Italy, and you won’t need to lug around a converter at all!

It is essential to use a plug adapter in Italy for safety reasons. The adapter will ensure that you can use your devices without any issues. But how do you choose a suitable plug adapter for Italy? Here are the top tips to keep in mind:

• Check the voltage and frequency of your devices

First, you need to know the voltage and frequency of your devices. Remember that electricity in Italy is rated at 230 volts and 50Hz frequency. If you’re bringing an electronic device to Italy that doesn’t match these, you’d need to use a power converter.

A power converter allows you to plug in your device with a different voltage and/or frequency than an Italian electrical plug. On the other hand, you won’t need voltage converters if you’re using dual-voltage appliances or devices.

• Determine the type of plug used by your devices

Before buying a plug adapter, you first need to know the adapter type required by your electronics. Consult the device’s manual to determine the adapter type you need, and inspect the shape and configuration of the plug. In Italy, you will mostly use type C and type L adapter, so look into that as well.

• Choose the right adapter based on your needs

After determining what plugs in Italy you will use, let’s figure out the right travel adapters based on your needs.

First, determine how many devices you are bringing along. You may use a single travel adapter during your entire trip or a multi-plug adapter to charge a few devices simultaneously.

Second, keep the quality of your travel adapter and voltage transformer high. You’re using them to safely plug your devices into an Italy power outlet. You risk damage and injury if you pick a random adapter or converter. I encourage you to precisely choose travel adapters and converters with surge protection.

Finally, determine if you need a universal adapter. This may be more convenient and cost-effective if you travel to multiple countries.

Plug adapters for Italy Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

American plugs do not work in Italy, so you’ll need to use a travel adapter to use your devices and appliances. The most common plug adapter you’d need on your Italy travel are C and L plugs, but I recommend getting this universal adapter.

It depends on the configuration of the plug on your device. If your device comes with a two-pronged plug, then you’ll need the type C plug adapter for Italy. You’ll need the type L adapter if your device has three prongs.

The best way to determine if you need a converter in Italy is to check the small print of your devices and appliances. Remember that Italy’s electricity is rated at 230 volts and 50 Hz frequency. So if you’re using a device rated at 110-120 volts and 60 Hz, you’ll definitely need to use a voltage converter or transformer.

If you plan on traveling to Italy and need to charge your smartphone, most modern smartphone chargers should work without needing a converter. These chargers have a voltage rating of 100-240V and are designed to work with different voltages. However, you will need a plug adapter to plug your charger into the Italian power outlet.

iPhones are designed to work with both 120V, typically used in the US, and 230V, used in many other countries, such as Italy. This means that they are capable of functioning as dual-voltage devices.

To ensure compatibility, it’s advisable to check the label on your phone charger or the specifications in the user manual to see if it is compatible with 230V, which is the voltage used in Italy. If your phone charger is only rated for 120V, then you will need a voltage converter in Italy.

Buying an Italy travel adapter is a good idea even before you get to the country. You can purchase them on Amazon and major retail stores like Walmart. Buy the type C or type L adapter, as they’re the two best adapter types that would work in Italy.

But if you happen to forget them while packing, don’t worry. You can purchase them from various establishments, such as travel stores, hardware stores, electrical supply stores, and supermarkets.

Indeed, Italy is one of the most beautiful countries. It is picturesque and romantic, so it continues to draw tons of tourists year-round!

Remember to bring a travel adapter when packing for your Italy travel. These are simple devices that allow you to plug in your electronics by adapting the configuration of the plug to fit the wall sockets in Italy. With these, you can charge your smartphone, laptop, or camera in Italy.

Apart from the travel adapter, consider if you’d need to use converters in Italy. Check your devices beforehand to see if they are dual voltage. If not, then you need a converter to use them. Otherwise, consider leaving them at home if you can make do without them. 

You must bring a type L, type C, or Universal adapter for Italy. This can be used for most things, like charging your phone or camera batteries. If you’re bringing something with higher voltage, like a hair dryer, you must bring a converter instead.

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8 Best Travel Adapters for Italy

Discover the best travel adapter for Italy in our review! Reliable, safe, and expert-approved for your Italian journey.

Do I Need a Voltage Converter for Italy? 

Yes, you might need a voltage converter for Italy if your devices aren’t rated for 220V. However, the best travel plug adapter for Italy often includes built-in voltage conversion. Always check your device specifications before use.

What Plugs Are Used in Italy?

In Italy, power adapters in the form of type L plugs are standard. They’re unique, with three prongs in a distinctive layout, and are used to connect your devices. It’s the natural solution for powering your devices during your Italian travels .

Top Picks at a Glance

Ceptics world travel adapter kit 2 usb-a, usb-c us outlets, zendure universal travel adapter 65w pd fast charger 4 usb-c,1 usb-a, ceptics adapter plug set for world wide international travel use, 2 phone pods + 30w adapter - modula5 wireless charging system, foval power step down 220v to 110v voltage converter international travel adapter, haozi universal travel adapter, all-in-one international power adapter, ceptics world international travel plug adapter, epicka universal travel adapter one international wall charger, reviewing travel adapters for italy, amazon’s choice in power converters by ceptics.

Brand: Ceptics

Connectivity technology:

Connector type:

Color: White

Input voltage: 240 Volts

Traveling globally? The Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit is your go-to accessory. It’s designed for convenience, allowing you to power your devices in numerous countries. The kit features a master module with two USA outlets, two USB-A ports with Quick Charge 3.0, and two USB-C ports with 20W/QC 18W Power Delivery each. 

Plus, it includes six SWADAPT Attachments of international adapters. So, this kit covers you whether you’re plugging into an Italian plug or any other.

• All-in-One Solution: The 7-in-1 design allows you to charge and power up to seven devices at once, making it perfect for travel and eliminating the need for multiple adapters.
• Surge Protection: Built-in surge protection safeguards your valuable electronics from voltage surges and spikes, providing added peace of mind.
• USB-C Compatibility: The inclusion of USB-C ports allows you to charge modern devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets with fast charging capabilities.
• Compact and Lightweight: The adapter kit is compact, making it ideal to carry in your travel bag or backpack.
• Easy to Use: The SWADAPT Attachments are simple to change and provide compatibility with various outlet types in different countries.
• High Customer Ratings: The product has received positive reviews from thousands of customers, indicating its reliability and performance.
• No Voltage Conversion: It’s essential to note that this adapter kit does not convert voltage from 220V to 110V or vice versa, so it is compatible only with dual-voltage devices.
• Micro-USB Cable: Some customers may prefer a USB-C cable instead of the provided micro-USB cable for charging their devices.
• Bulky Design: While the adapter kit is functional, some users may find the primary module slightly plump when plugged into certain outlets.

Brand: Zendure

Connectivity technology: USB

Connector type: Type C

The Zendure Universal Travel Adapter 65W PD Fast Charger is a traveler’s best friend. It’s an all-in-one solution, perfect for charging multiple devices in over 200 countries. Its versatility, with US/EU/AU/UK plugs and a powerful 65W PD GaN charger, makes it a top choice for international travel. 

With four USB-C ports, 1 USB-A port, and 1 AC outlet, it can power up to six devices simultaneously. It’s compatible with various USB devices, from iPhones and Samsung phones to laptops and digital cameras. Safety is paramount, thanks to a patented 10A auto-resetting fuse. 

This ensures protection from overload up to 6,000 times without needing replacement. The Zendure Passport III keeps your devices charged no matter where your travels take you. It’s convenient when dealing with different Italy outlets, ensuring you’re always connected.

• Safety Assurance: Features a patented 10A auto-resetting fuse for worry-free use of high-power devices.
• Compact and Portable: Sleek and lightweight design makes carrying in your travel bag effortless.
• Unique Aesthetic: Comes in a stylish Purple-PPG3 color with a metal gradient finish and a transparent back cover.
• Price: Comparatively higher price point than other travel adapters on the market.

For the global traveler, the Ceptics Adapter Plug Set is a must-have. This versatile set includes five different plug types, ensuring you can connect your devices in many countries. Whether you’re dealing with Type A, B, C, E, F, G, or I plugs in Italy or elsewhere, these adapters have you covered. Each one is grounded, safe, and built to last, providing a reliable power connection wherever your journey takes you.

• Broad Compatibility: The set includes five different plug types, covering numerous countries, so you can travel confidently knowing you can charge your devices anywhere.
• Compact and Lightweight: The adapters are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry in your travel bag without adding extra bulk or weight.
• Sturdy Construction: Made with high-quality materials, these adapters are built to withstand frequent travel, ensuring durability for long-term use.
• Grounded and Safe: Each adapter is designed with safety in mind, featuring grounded three-prong plugs that provide added protection against electrical mishaps.
• Versatile Use: The adapters are suitable for charging cell phones and cameras and can also be used with chargers, batteries, and other electronic devices.
• Limited to Plug Types: While the set covers many popular plug types, it may not be compatible with less common plug configurations in some countries.
• Not a Voltage Converter: These adapters do not convert voltage, so you must ensure your devices are compatible with the local voltage or use a separate voltage converter.
• No Storage Case: The set does not have a dedicated storage case, which may make it slightly inconvenient to keep all the adapters organized while traveling.

Brand: RapidX

Connectivity technology: Wireless

Connector type: USB-C

Color: Black

Input voltage: 20 Volts

USB ports: Two

Wattage: 30 Watts

The RapidX Modula5 Wireless Charging System (RX-MP01B2PK) revolutionizes how you charge your devices. This innovative system includes two Phone Pods, each delivering 10W Qi-certified wireless charging. 

It also comes with a 30W Power Adapter and a USB-C cable. The standout feature? Its modularity. The Pods snap together magnetically, letting you create a custom charging setup. It’s perfect for an iPhone 14 Pro Max, Android phone, or AirPods with a Wireless Charging Case. Plus, you can connect up to five Pods with a single cable. 

This reduces clutter and simplifies your setup, making it one of the best travel adapters for Italy or any other destination.

• Modularity: The magnetic connectors allow you to snap multiple Pods together for a personalized charging setup, accommodating different devices simultaneously.
• Wireless Charging: Qi-certified wireless charging technology ensures convenient and efficient charging for compatible devices, eliminating the need for cables.
• Compact and Portable: The small footprint and lightweight design make it ideal for travel and use in various locations.
• Versatility: Compatible with many devices, including iPhone 8 or newer, most Android phones, AirPods (with Wireless Charging Case), AirPods Pro, and more.
• Fast Charging: With the 30W Power Adapter, the system can charge devices quickly and efficiently.
• Cost: The Modula5 Wireless Charging System’s initial cost may be higher than traditional charging solutions.
• Limited Charging Speed for Some Devices: While the system offers fast charging for supported devices, other devices may charge at standard speeds, depending on their compatibility.
• Charging Indicator Placement: The charging indicator is located on each Pod, which might be less convenient to check than having it on the charging base.
• Limited Placement Options: The wireless charging requires proper alignment of the devices on the Pods, which may take some time for optimal charging performance.
• No Built-in Phone Stand: The Pods lay flat, so there is no built-in stand to support the phone upright for easy viewing while charging.

Brand: FOVAL

Color: Gray

Input voltage: 100 Volts

The FOVAL Power Step Down 220V to 110V Voltage Converter is a traveler’s essential. It’s designed to convert 220/240V to 110/120V, making it perfect for using American electronics in higher-voltage countries. 

Four international adapters and one EU power cable are ready for use in over 150 countries. It’s equipped with two standard US plugs and four USB ports, allowing simultaneous charging of multiple devices. 

Whether you’re powering a laptop, hair straightener, or game console, this converter has you covered. Safety is paramount, with certifications from CE, FCC, and RoHS. It features surge protection and auto shutdown for overheating and over-current, ensuring your devices are safe. Its compact size and long removable power cable make it easy to pack and carry. 

Plus, it has five USB outputs for charging various gadgets. It’s the perfect companion for an Italian electrical outlet or global power source.

• Worldwide Compatibility: Suitable for use in over 150 countries with different power voltages.
• Multiple Device Charging: Equipped with four USB ports and two standard US plugs, you can charge multiple devices simultaneously.
• Safety Features: Certified by industry standards with built-in safety protections for surge, overheating, and over-current.
• Compact and Portable: Small and detachable power cables make them easy to carry during travel.
• Versatile Use: Ideal for charging various electronic devices, including hair straighteners, curling irons, laptops, and more.
• Limited Power Capacity: Not suitable for high-power appliances rated above 230 watts.
• Not Compatible with Hair Dryers: Cannot be used with hair dryers and other high-power household appliances.
• May Require Additional Adapters: You might need additional adapters or converters for specific outlet types in some destinations.

Brand: HAOZI

The HAOZI Universal Travel Adapter is every international traveler’s dream. This all-in-one solution caters to over 150 countries with US/EU/UK/AUS plugs. Whether in Canada, Europe, or Asia, it’s got you covered. Its dual USB ports let you power multiple devices simultaneously, from smartphones to Bluetooth speakers. 

Prioritizing safety, it boasts FCC, CE, and RoHS certifications. The built-in 6.3 Amp fuse and safety shutters ensure protection. It’s an ideal Italy plug adapter for those heading to Europe, providing seamless connectivity.

• Compact Design: The compact size and lightweight design makes it easy to carry.
• Lifetime Promise: The manufacturer offers a full lifetime promise on their products, backed by excellent customer support.
• No Voltage Conversion: The adapter does not convert voltage, so you’ll need to use it with compatible devices or an additional voltage converter when necessary.
• Blue LED Light: The blue LED light on the adapter may not be ideal for use in dark environments, as it can be distracting.

The Ceptics World International Travel Plug Adapter is a top-tier globetrotter charging companion. Prioritizing safety and versatility, it’s an all-in-one solution, especially for those journeying through Europe. 

With three USB ports and two USB-C ports, it can power up to five devices simultaneously, from cell phones to laptops. Its compatibility spans Type A, I, C, and G outputs, making it suitable for destinations from the USA to Asia. 

Key safety features include an 8A fuse, surge protection, and safety shutters. While it supports 100-240V devices globally, it’s not designed for 110V items like hair dryers. If you’re heading to Europe, it’s arguably one of the best travel adapters for Italy and its neighboring countries.

• Compact and Sturdy: The adapter is compact and sturdy, making it easy to carry during your travels without taking up much space.
• High Power Delivery: Power Delivery and Quick Charge 3.0 can deliver fast charging for compatible devices, reducing charging times.
• Safe and Reliable: Designed with safety certifications and features like surge protection, fuse, and plug lock to ensure your and your devices’ safety while charging.
• Bulkier than Basic Adapters: While versatile, the adapter may be slightly bulkier than basic single plug adapters, but the added functionality justifies the size.

Brand: EPICKA

For the avid traveler, the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter is a game-changer. Designed for global compatibility, it’s suitable for over 150 countries, from the USA to Australia. With six charging options, including four USB-A ports, one USB-C port, and an AC socket, it can power up to six devices simultaneously, whether your smartphone, laptop, or camera. 

Safety isn’t compromised; it boasts an 8A fuse, safety shutters, and a plug lock system. With RoHS, CE, and FCC certifications, it’s reliable and might be one of the best travel plug adapters for Italy and other global destinations.

• Ideal for International Trips: Perfect for business or leisure travelers who frequently visit different countries.
• Fast Charging: High-speed charging with 5.6A smart power output.
• Unreliable: Some customers reported that the charger never worked, and on the first usage, it overheated, not charging any devices.
• Not suitable for Asia: There are mixed reviews about whether the product is compatible with plugs in Asia.

Some Reader Questions Answered

What is the difference between electricity in the US vs Italy?

The main difference lies in the voltage and plug type. The US uses 110-120V with type A or B plugs, while Italy operates on 220-240V with type L plugs. To bridge this gap, a European plug adapter is essential. It ensures your US devices can safely and effectively use Italy’s electricity supply.

What are the different electrical outlets in Italy?

Italy’s electrical system features type L and occasionally type F outlets. Each has a unique prong arrangement. To navigate this, an Italian outlet adapter is your key to unlocking compatibility with your devices, providing a smooth, worry-free experience.

Which electronics need adapters or converters in Italy?

Most electronics from outside Europe, including laptops, phone chargers, and hair dryers, will require an Italy plug adapter for compatibility with Italian outlets.

What is the difference between a plug and a power adapter in Italy?

In Italy, a plug is the end of a power cord that fits into an outlet. An adapter, on the other hand, is a device that allows a plug from a foreign country to fit into Italian outlets. Essentially, an adapter doesn’t convert electricity; it simply enables your plug to physically fit into the Italian power outlet.

Why Trust The Proud Italian

Trust in The Proud Italian’s reviews comes from our thorough research, hands-on testing, and deep understanding of our audience’s needs. We’ve tried and tested numerous European plug adapters, providing honest, detailed feedback. Our commitment is to ensure you have the best travel experience in Italy, armed with reliable and practical information.

In conclusion, traveling to Italy requires more than just booking a flight and packing your clothes. Ensuring your devices stay powered and safe is paramount. With the myriad options available, choosing the right power solution for your needs is essential. 

After extensive research and testing, it’s evident that investing in the best travel adapter for Italy can make all the difference in your journey. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about protecting your devices and staying connected throughout your Italian adventure. Safe travels and happy charging!

Community of passionate writers and content creators who share a love for Italian heritage, culture, travel, food, and the Italian-American community. Our mission is to celebrate Italy’s rich history and traditions and connect with others who share the same passion.

Italy Travel Adapters

You will need to consider what to pack, to ensure you can use your personal electrical appliances safely while you are abroad. This normally includes the use of a travel adapter, which is a device that simply allows you to plug any US electrical appliance into a foreign electrical socket. It is important to note that it does not convert the voltage or frequency.

General Information: Italy

For Italy, there are three associated plug types: types C, F and L.

• Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins
• Plug type F is the plug which has two round pins with two earth clips on the side
• Plug type L is the plug type which has three round pins.

Italy operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz.

Power plugs and sockets

In Italy the power sockets used are of type C, F and L.  Use the photos below to help identify the right plug and socket.

Plug adapters are the interfaces between the American flat-pronged plug and Italy’s two (or three) round-prong socket. These allow you to plug your electrical device into the Italian wall socket, but they do not convert the electricity to the American 110 volts . If your appliance is designed to run only on 110-120 volts, you are likely to see smoke, if not fire, from this potent miss-mating. You will need a step-down voltage converter to safely step the voltage down from 220 to 110.

Buy a power plug/travel adapter for Italy

Amazon has an great selection of adapters. We don’t sell directly, just want to make sure you have the right one for your travels!

Shop Amazon: Italy Plug Adapters for Sale

Voltage and frequency

You can use your electric appliances in Italy, if the standard voltage in your country is in between 220 – 240 volts. Manufacturers take these small deviations into account. If the standard voltage in your country is in the range of 100-120 volts, you need a voltage converter in Italy.  (In the US, electricity comes out of the wall socket at 110 volts, alternating at 60 cycles per second.)

If the frequency in Italy (50 Hz) differs from the one in your country, it is not advised to use your appliances. But if there is no voltage difference, you could (at your own risk) try to use the appliance for a short time. Be especially careful with moving, rotating and time related appliances like clocks, shavers and electric fan heaters.

To be sure, check the label on the appliance. Some appliances never need a converter. If the label states ‘INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz’ the appliance can be used in all countries in the world. Devices like this include most laptops and phones, most recently produced battery chargers, and many small, electrical gadgets, especially those designed for world travel.

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Power Outlets and Electricity in Italy – Find the Right Adapter

When traveling to Italy , it’s important that you have the correct electrical adaptors to ensure all your appliances work correctly. 

This isn’t only for efficiency but also for safety. Since European outlets have a much higher voltage than ones you will find in the US as well as some other countries around the world, plugging high-power appliances into the wrong sockets can cause electrical issues and in the worst case, even start fires.

Electric Outlets in Italy

Italy uses the standardized European outlets which are type C, F, and L , consisting of two or three round pins in a row of varying widths. 

Type C and L outlets have the same dimensions when it comes to the pin shape and width, however, type C has just two prongs while type L has a third grounding prong. 

Type F outlets have thicker holes in order to accept the Schuko plug however type C and L also fit in these outlets. 

What Plugs Do They Use in Italy?

At first, all these different plugs can seem a little confusing, but the easiest thing to keep in mind is that type C plugs work in all European socket types . 

If any of the devices you wish to bring have a 3-pronged plug, you will also want to bring along a type L plug which has an additional grounding pin . Many laptop chargers and heating tools will need this extra protection. 

Do You Need a Voltage Converter in Italy?

Italian outlets are 230V which is much higher than the US’s 120V , so as a general rule, Americans will need to be very careful when plugging in any of their electronics from home. 

That being said, many modern appliances have dual voltage ratings which means they can work at any voltage within a range. Make sure to check each appliance’s input voltage to see if you need a voltage converter . 

If the voltage says something along the lines of “INPUT: 110-240V”, you do not need a voltage converter as Italy’s 240V falls within this range.

Alternatively, if your appliance has a single number that is not 240V for input voltage, or the range does not extend to 240V, you will need to get a voltage converter to use in addition to your outlet adapter.

Converters for Italy

Key power 230-watt step down.

If most of your appliances are made for North American outlets, this two-in-one voltage and plug adaptor automatically converts your 110V appliances to 230V . 

With 3 slots for American plugs plus multiple USB and USB-C inputs, you will have plenty of space to charge all your devices, plus it comes with 5 different interchangeable wall plugs so you can use it all around the world.

4 Pack European Travel Plug Adapter

For those appliances that are already in the correct voltage and don’t require a grounding plug, I love these simple travel adaptors that are super small and easy to use. 

They take US and European plugs and being type C adapters, they fit all power sockets in Italy . 

Just be careful if you are using lower-voltage appliances as these adapters are not designed to convert voltage.

EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter

Since the UK has different sockets to Italy and the rest of Europe, this universal travel adaptor is the perfect tool if you plan to t ravel to many different countries . 

It allows you to connect devices with any plug type to any outlet around the world. 

Plus, it also has USB and USB-C sockets so you can plug many chargers in at the same time without having to carry separate wall adaptors. 

FAQ about Italian power outlets:

Should i bring a hairdryer to italy.

Hairdryers are a common appliance that is quite finicky when it comes to using the correct voltage as they require quite a lot of power to work. If the input voltage range of your hair dryer extends up to 240V, it will work as normal in Italy .

With that said, most hotels will offer hair dryers for guest use, so check with your accommodation first to see if it’s worth bringing. 

Can I use any European plug in Italy?

Yes, all standard European plugs will work in Italy . The only exception is UK plugs which have an entirely different shape to those you will find in the rest of Europe and will require an adaptor. 

Note also that if you have a grounded plug with three prongs, you will need to use a 3 pronged outlet. 

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What Travel Plug Do I Need for Italy

Are you planning a trip to Italy and wondering, “ What travel plug do I need for Italy ?” Understanding the electrical outlets and plugs used in Italy is essential for any traveler looking to use their electronic devices. Italian electrical outlets and plugs may differ from what you are used to in your home country, so it’s important to be prepared before you embark on your journey.

Italy uses a unique type of electrical outlet and plug, which may not be compatible with the one used in your home country. This can cause inconvenience and frustration if you are unable to charge your devices or use them during your stay. In this article, we will provide you with all the necessary information about Italian electrical outlets and plugs, as well as how to ensure you have the right travel plug for Italy.

Having the right travel plug for Italy is crucial for ensuring that you can comfortably use your electronic devices while traveling. This includes charging your phone, using a laptop, or even plugging in a hairdryer or other personal grooming devices.

Without the appropriate travel plug, you may find yourself unable to utilize these essential items during your trip. So, let’s dive into understanding the different types of electrical outlets and plugs used in Italy, and why it’s important to have the right one for your travels.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Different Types of Electrical Outlets and Plugs Used in Italy

Italy is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine. But when it comes to electrical outlets and plugs, it’s important to understand the different types used in the country. Italy uses a unique type of electrical outlet that may differ from what you are used to in your home country.

In Italy, the standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. The power plugs and sockets used in Italy are of type F. These plugs have two round pins that fit into the corresponding wall sockets. It’s crucial to have the right travel plug for Italy to ensure that your electronic devices can be safely connected to the power supply without any risk of damage.

When traveling to Italy, it’s essential to purchase a suitable travel plug before your trip. You can find travel plugs specifically designed for use in Italy at electronics stores or online retailers. Make sure to look for a universal travel adapter that includes Type F compatibility and possibly other types if you plan on traveling to multiple countries with different plug standards.

To avoid any inconvenience during your trip, make sure you are prepared with the right travel plug for Italy so that you can use your electronic devices without any hassle. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to powering your devices while traveling abroad.

• Research and purchase a Type F compatible travel plug
• Consider getting a universal travel adapter for versatility
• Check online reviews and recommendations for reliable travel plug brands

Why It’s Important to Have the Right Travel Plug for Italy

When planning a trip to Italy, one of the most important things to consider is the type of travel plug you will need for your electronic devices. Using the wrong plug can lead to frustration and inconvenience during your trip. It’s essential to have an understanding of the Italian electrical outlets and plugs in order to ensure that you have the right equipment for your devices.

Understanding Italian Electrical Outlets and Plugs

In Italy, the standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. The most commonly used plug and outlet type in Italy is Type L, which has three round pins arranged in a row. Understanding this standard is crucial in choosing the right travel plug for your devices.

Why It’s Important

Having the right travel plug for Italy is important for two main reasons: safety and convenience. Safety is paramount when dealing with electricity, and using an incompatible plug can pose risks such as short-circuiting or even damaging your device. Additionally, having the right travel plug ensures convenience during your trip as you won’t have to worry about finding adapters or not being able to charge your devices properly.

Guide to Buying the Right Travel Plug

When purchasing a travel plug for Italy, it’s important to look for one that specifically supports Type L plugs. There are many universal travel adapters available that are compatible with multiple plug types, including Type L. Look for adapters with built-in voltage conversion capabilities if needed, especially if your device does not support 230 V input.

It’s also helpful to check customer reviews and ratings to ensure that you are getting a reliable product that will meet your needs during your trip.

By taking these factors into consideration when purchasing a travel plug, you can avoid potential issues during your travels and ensure that all of your electronic devices are ready to use in Italy.

A Guide to Buying the Right Travel Plug for Italy

Italy, like many other European countries, uses a specific type of electrical outlet and plug. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. The power plugs and sockets used in Italy are of type F, which has two round pins. This raises the question: what travel plug do I need for Italy ?

To ensure that your electronic devices work safely and efficiently during your trip to Italy, it’s important to have the right travel plug. Using the wrong plug can not only damage your devices but also pose a safety hazard. When buying a travel plug for Italy, look for one that is compatible with type F sockets and can handle 230 V voltage.

It’s also advisable to opt for a universal travel adapter that not only works in Italy but also in other countries around the world. This way, you can use the same adapter for multiple trips without having to buy a new one each time.

When purchasing a travel plug for Italy or any other destination, be sure to check the specifications of your electronic devices as well. Some devices may require additional wattage or special adapters to convert the voltage, so it’s important to take this into consideration when buying a travel plug. By having the right travel plug for Italy, you can enjoy using your electronic devices without any worries during your trip.

Tips for Using Electronic Devices in Italy With the Right Travel Plug

When traveling to Italy, it’s essential to have the right travel plug to use electronic devices without any hassle. Many travelers wonder, “ What travel plug do I need for Italy ?” The answer lies in understanding the different types of electrical outlets and plugs used in the country. Once you have the correct travel plug, there are a few tips that can help ensure you make the most of your electronic devices during your trip.

Italy uses type F electrical outlets and plugs, which are also known as “Schuko” plugs. These outlets are designed for appliances with two round pins and often include a socket for a grounding pin. It’s important to note that voltage in Italy is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz.

Using Electronic Devices Safely

Once you have purchased the right travel plug for Italy, it’s important to use electronic devices safely. Make sure to check if your device is compatible with 230V input. If not, you may need a voltage converter or transformer to avoid damaging your devices.

Tips for Using Electronic Devices

When using electronic devices in Italy with the right travel plug, always check the wattage of your device to ensure it matches the capacity of Italian electrical outlets. Avoid overloading sockets by plugging too many devices into one outlet. Carry multiple adapters if you plan on bringing several devices with you on your trip to ensure all your electronics can be charged at once.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Travel Plugs in Italy

When traveling to Italy, it’s essential to have the right travel plug to avoid any inconvenience when using your electronic devices. One common mistake that travelers make is assuming that all of Europe uses the same type of electrical outlet and plug, which is not the case. Italy has its own unique electrical outlets and plugs, so it’s crucial to do your research and ensure that you have the correct adapter for your trip.

Another mistake to avoid is purchasing a low-quality or cheap travel plug. While it may be tempting to opt for a budget-friendly option, investing in a high-quality universal travel adapter will ensure that your devices are properly protected from power surges and fluctuations. It’s important to choose an adapter that is compatible with Italian electrical systems and meets safety standards.

Additionally, some travelers forget to check the voltage requirements of their electronic devices before plugging them in using a travel adapter. Italy operates on a 230-volt system, so if your device only supports 110 volts, you will need a voltage converter in addition to a travel plug. Failing to check this requirement can result in damage to your devices.

It’s important to be aware of these common mistakes when using travel plugs in Italy to ensure that you have a hassle-free experience during your trip. By taking the time to research and invest in the right travel plug, you can avoid potential issues with using electronic devices and enjoy your time in Italy without any disruptions.

Recommendations for Universal Travel Adapters for Italy

When traveling to Italy, it is essential to have the right travel plug to ensure that electronic devices can be used without any issues. Italian electrical outlets and plugs are different from those in other countries, so having the correct adapter is crucial. Here are some recommendations for universal travel adapters that are suitable for Italy:

• Universal Adapter Type C: This type of adapter is commonly used in Italy and has two round pins. It is compatible with most devices, making it a convenient option for travelers.
• Universal Adapter Type L: Another option for Italy is the type L adapter, which has three round pins in a row. This adapter is suitable for grounded devices and provides a secure connection.
• Universal Travel Adapter with USB Ports: For added convenience, consider purchasing a universal travel adapter that also includes USB ports. This allows you to charge multiple devices simultaneously without the need for separate chargers.

It’s important to choose a high-quality universal travel adapter to ensure safety and reliability when using electronic devices in Italy. Look for adapters that are CE certified and have built-in surge protection to prevent damage to your devices.

When deciding on the right travel plug for Italy, consider the type of devices you will be using and how many outlets you will need access to. It’s also a good idea to purchase an adapter before your trip to avoid any last-minute stress or inconvenience. Taking the time to research and invest in the right travel plug will make your travels in Italy much more enjoyable.

In conclusion, it is essential to have the right travel plug for Italy in order to ensure a hassle-free trip. With the different types of electrical outlets and plugs used in Italy, it’s important to be prepared and equipped with the appropriate adapter for your electronic devices.

Not having the correct travel plug can result in inconvenience and even damage to your devices, so taking the time to purchase the right adapter is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

When buying a travel plug for Italy, it’s important to understand the different types of plugs used in the country and choose a universal adapter that can accommodate various devices. It’s also crucial to pay attention to safety features and quality when selecting an adapter, as this will help prevent any potential risks associated with using electronic devices in a foreign country.

Overall, with the right travel plug for Italy, you can confidently use your electronic devices without any worries or setbacks during your trip. By following our guide and recommendations for universal travel adapters, you can ensure that you are well-prepared for all your electronic needs while traveling in Italy.

So next time you ask yourself “ what travel plug do I need for Italy ? “, make sure to take the necessary steps to acquire the right adapter and enjoy a stress-free experience during your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a 2 or 3 prong adapter for italy.

When traveling to Italy, you will need a 2 prong adapter, also known as a Type C plug. The electrical sockets in Italy are designed for this specific type of plug, so it’s important to have the right adapter to charge your devices.

What Plug Adaptor Do I Need for Italy?

To use your electronic devices in Italy, you’ll need a Type C plug adaptor. This is a two-pronged plug that fits into the electrical sockets commonly found throughout the country. Make sure to bring the appropriate adaptor to avoid any charging issues during your trip.

What Plug Ins Are Used in Italy?

In Italy, the standard electrical outlets are type L, which accommodate both type C and type F plugs. These plugs are characterized by round pins and are used for various appliances and electronic devices. It’s essential to have the correct plug adaptor for your specific device when visiting Italy.

I’m a passionate traveler, writer, and Italophile. My fascination with Italy’s history, art, and culture has led me on countless adventures across the Italian landscape. Through “I Live Italy,” I share my love for this extraordinary country and aims to inspire others to explore its boundless beauty.

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Too Many Adapters

Too many.

The Not-So-Wonderful World of Travel, Power, and Choosing the Right Adapter

If you’ve ever felt like half your suitcase was taken up by electronics when you travel, you’re not alone. More and more of us are taking our laptops and phones, our Kindles and cameras, our hair straighteners and shavers… and a bag full of chargers to power them all.

As the old saying goes, however, you can’t put a square peg in a round hole, and that’s as true for power sockets as anything else.

With around 15 different plugs and sockets in use around the world, there’s a good chance that if you’re packing for an overseas trip, you’ll need to include a  travel adapter .

How on earth did we get here? When you buy a gadget in Spain, why can you plug it into the wall in Austria, but not a few miles down the road in Switzerland? Most importantly, how do you make sure you can power your gear in whatever country you’re traveling to?

Why so Many Plugs and Sockets?

When electricity was first introduced to homes at the end of the 19th century, devices had to be cabled directly into the house wiring. As more domestic appliances came along in the 20th century, however, manufacturers realized there needed to be an easier way to connect them.

Here’s when things got messy. Each country looked for their own solution to the problem, and because few people traveled internationally, nobody much cared whether those solutions were compatible with each other. The end result was the disorganized mess of plugs and sockets we’ve ended up with today.

By the time organizations like the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) tried to standardize the plugs, it was too late. World War II stopped the effort in its tracks, and the issue was abandoned until the 1950s.

Countries had most of their electrical infrastructure set up by that point, which made replacing their plugs and sockets very difficult. Manufacturers weren’t bothered either, as most were focused only on serving their local markets.

That kind of inertia also helps why wobbly plugs with uninsulated prongs are still used in North America and Japan. They’re ancient in terms of design, not to mention notoriously unsafe, but it’s nobody’s priority to try to replace them.

Things are unlikely to change any time soon, either. Gabriela Ehrlich, head of communications for the IEC, told Gizmodo  the outlook isn’t great. “There are standards, and there is a plug that has been designed. The problem is, really, everyone’s invested in their own system. It’s difficult to get away from that.”

It’s difficult indeed. While those internationally-agreed standards for domestic plugs and sockets have existed since the 1980s, South Africa is the only country to fully adopt them. Even then, it’s going to take 10-20 years to finish switching over.

Since plugs and sockets around the world are unlikely to change any time soon, the only way to plug in your charger while abroad is by using an adapter. But what kind do you need?

Main Plug and Socket Types

To know what kind of adapter you’ll need, you need to figure out what kind of socket is used in the places you’re traveling to.

Below are the main types of plug and wall sockets found around the world, used with permission from WorldStandards.eu . Each combination has an arbitrarily-assigned letter. We’ve listed where they’re most commonly used, but you can find a country-by-country list here.

We’ve included the voltage(s) most frequently used with each socket as well. There’s further discussion of voltage, and why it matters for travelers, at the end of this article.

• USA, Canada, Mexico and Japan
• Typically 100–127v
• Socket compatible with plug type A

• Socket compatible with plug type A and B

• Europe, parts of South America and Asia
• Typically 220–240v
• Socket compatible with plug type C

• Mainly India
• Socket compatible with plug type D (safe), C, E, and F (partial, unsafe )

• France, Belgium, Poland, Slovakia, and Czechia
• Socket compatible with plug types C, E, and F

• Almost everywhere in Europe and Russia, except for the UK and Ireland

• United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta, Malaysia, and Singapore
• Socket compatible with plug type G

• Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip
• Socket compatible with plug types C and H (safe), E and F (unsafe)

• Australia, New Zealand, China, and Argentina
• Socket compatible with plug type I

• Switzerland and Liechtenstein
• Socket compatible with plug types C and J

• Denmark and Greenland
• Socket compatible with plug types C and K (safe), E and F (unsafe)

• Italy and Chile
• 10A socket compatible with plug types C and L (10A version), 16A socket compatible with plug type L (16A version)

• South Africa
• Socket compatible with plug type M

• Brazil and South Africa
• Socket compatible with plug type C and N

• Socket compatible with plug types C and O (safe), E and F (unsafe)

As if all that wasn’t complicated enough, bear in mind that some countries use multiple types of power plugs and sockets at once. South Africa is a good example, with two socket types in common use, and a third being rolled out to replace them.

So Which Travel Adapter Do I Need?

Travel adapters come in a ridiculous range of sizes, styles, and weights, with all kinds of extra features. It’s not easy to separate what works from what doesn’t, or even what kind you actually need for the trip you’re taking.

We’ve been using travel adapters for decades, and have thrown out almost as many as we’ve bought. There’s a lot of garbage out there. That said, we’ve occasionally found a rare model that actually does what it’s supposed to, reliably and affordably. You can find our favorites here .

To figure out which one to buy, start by asking yourself two simple questions: where am I going, and what do I need to charge?

Universal vs Single Adapters

If your entire trip is to a country or region that uses one type of power socket, you can probably get away with just buying a simple adapter for that socket. A word of advice: Buy it before you leave rather than waiting until you get to the airport, as it’ll be much cheaper.

When your travels will take you to places with different kinds of wall sockets, however, you’ll likely be better off with a universal travel adapter. Because they tend to be larger than the single adapters, they often have extra features like USB sockets or fuses as well.

Our current universal travel adapter pick is this Unidapt model , but no matter which model you go for, don’t get too excited just yet. Despite being called “universal”, there’s no such thing as an adapter that truly covers every country.

They’ll generally cover you for some combination of the ~150 countries that use North American (A/B), UK (G), European (C/F), Swiss (J), or Australasian (I) sockets. That’s great, as long as you’re going to those destinations.

If your travels take you to places like South Africa, Brazil ,  or other countries with less-common power sockets, you’ll need to buy separate adapters that specifically cover you there.

Some of the better universal adapters have surge protection or fuses built-in. While their effectiveness varies, they can help keep your devices safe in countries where the electricity supply isn’t very reliable. Power spikes, sags, and surges can easily destroy your electronics.

What About USB?

Once you’ve figured out where you’re going, think about what you’ll be charging while you’re there. It’s increasingly common for travel gadgets to charge via a USB cable, whether that’s a phone or tablet, camera, Kindle, or Bluetooth headphones.

If everything you’re taking can charge from a micro-USB, USB C, or Lightning cable, you’re in luck. Grab a dedicated USB travel adapter like this LENCENT model , which can charge up to four portable devices at once. It has little clip-on connectors for use in 150+ countries.

Some devices require more juice than others to charge at normal speed, so make sure your adapter has enough total and per-port output to handle your needs. For USB-A ports, 12W per port and at least 20W overall is a good place to start, but everyone’s mix of gadgets will be different.

If you’re planning to charge USB C-powered devices at full speed, especially laptops, you’ll need something even better. Check out this Anker USB C travel adapter instead, which has a far higher output, albeit with a higher cost to go with it.

What’s the Story With Voltage?

In case you didn’t have enough to think about, it’s time for a quick chat about voltage. In the simplest of terms, voltage can be compared to water pressure: the higher it is, the faster electricity will move through the wires.

And you guessed it, different countries have incompatible voltages. Because of course they do. At least we don’t have anywhere near as many variations as with plugs and sockets.

In fact, they can be put into just three general groupings: 100 volts (Japan), 110-120 volts (primarily North America and parts of Central and South America,) and 220-240 volts (pretty much everywhere else.)

There are always exceptions and variations, of course. A few countries (like Brazil) even use different voltages in different parts of the country. It pays to do your research!

Is this something to be concerned about? Unfortunately, yes. Plug your 120v hairdryer from the United States into a 230v wall socket in France, and there’s a good chance you’ll blow a fuse, fry the hairdryer, or both.

Voltages don’t directly have anything to do with the type of wall socket. Just because the plug on your appliance fits into a socket overseas doesn’t automatically mean the voltage is the same. Likewise, converting the plug type with a normal travel adapter doesn’t convert the voltage.

All that said, the voltage situation is much better these days than it was in the past, for two reasons.

First, many portable appliances are now designed to handle any common voltage. Check the fine print on your appliance or its charger, and look for a voltage range.

If it says something like 100-240 volts, you’re safe to plug it in wherever your travels take you. Most cameras, laptops, phone chargers, and similar types of device fall into this category.

Things like hairdryers and curling irons often don’t, but if you’re lucky, they may have a small slider that lets you switch between 110-120v and 220-240. That’s great if they do, although make sure you switch it back again before plugging it in when you get home–you won’t get a second chance if you forget

Secondly, the growth of USB-powered devices has helped a lot. Anything like a smartphone, tablet, or Kindle that charges via USB is fine, although you’ll still need to check the details for your USB wall charger itself if you’re using one.

If you discover you’ll have to convert the voltage of something you’re traveling with, you’ve got three choices: leave it behind, find an alternative that can handle a range of voltages, or buy a dedicated voltage converter.

Note that travel-sized voltage converters can handle smaller gadgets like electric toothbrushes, but typically aren’t designed for high-draw appliances like hair dryers.

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News, reviews, recommendations and more, from here and around the web

Having so many different plugs and socket types is inconvenient and costly, according to the IEC. So is replacing sockets and plugs in an entire nation, however, and it’s also  a lot of work that most countries really aren’t interested in doing. It’s much easier to just make you buy an adapter instead.

While most countries won’t change their plugs and sockets any time soon, there is some hope on the horizon. USB power and hybrid sockets that can accommodate multiple types of plug are becoming more common, especially in hotels, and wireless charging also helps make things a little easier for travelers.

Even so, given how little consistency there is within many regions (or even within countries), you’ll need to do your research when traveling abroad. Make sure you know the voltage and types of sockets used everywhere you’re going.

And don’t forget your adapter.

Images via  blickpixel (power lines), Claudio Schwarz (main image). Special thanks to WorldStandards.eu .

Tanit Parada Tur graduated in Law and Political Sciences, specialising in International Relations, and holds a Masters in Journalism.

Working as a reporter for TV, print, and online magazines, and in digital communications for various international organizations, she likes to write about tech and travel and talk about food.

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Some additional info (and a bit of a warning):

Here in the Philippines, we use Type A and Type B plugs and sockets, BUT the voltage we use is 220-240V.

Living in the UK, we use Type G plugs – bulky and a pain to carry. I reduced the problem with a RAV Power 4 port USB charger, which charges our Kindles, phones (iPhone & Huawei), iPad and my compact camera, and a couple of EU type C “figure of eight” cables. One figure of eight connects the RAV device, and the other my DSLR charger.

The figure of eight is very commonly used for laptop and other power supplies and fits the RAV charger, so it can be purchased for most countries relatively cheaply. All of the chargers are 110-250 V devices.

As of 2017 the South African type N does not seem to be common. In SA most electronic devices are bought with type C fittings, so type N adapters with a type N socket and a couple of type Cs are common.

Of course you still need an array of USB cables!

Here in Thailand we’ve only ever used type A and B plugs at 220-240v.

(In 5 years I have yet to see a type O…).

Yep, it’s definitely much more common in Thailand to find either Type C sockets, or hybrid sockets that will take Type A, B, and C plugs. Even though it’s an official standard for Thailand, Type O seems to be thankfully rare.

I’ve found most appliances and chargers I’ve bought or seen for sale within the country use a Type C plug rather than Type A or B, but have definitely come across both.

Many hair dryers can be manually switched between 110V and 220V. Often the switch will be recessed so it doesn’t get flipped accidentally.

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In Italy, power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type F and type L are used. The standard voltage is 230 V at a frequency of 50 Hz.

• Yes, you need a power plug travel adapter for sockets type F and L in Italy.

Do your power plugs fit in Italy?

In Italy, they use power sockets (outlets) of type F and L. In the United Kingdom, you have plugs G. You need a power plug adapter in Italy for sockets type F and L. The plugs of your electric devices don't fit without.

Buy a power plug (travel) adapter

We don't sell power plug adapters. We refer you to Amazon, where you will find a great selection of travel adapters.

• Find travel adapters at AMAZON.CO.UK

You need to look for a power plug adapter for sockets type F and type L. Alternatively, choose a world travel adapter that fits multiple sockets, in case you travel more often.

Voltage converter needed in Italy?

The standard voltage in Italy (230 V) matches the voltage level your devices typically operate at in the United Kingdom.

• You don't need a voltage converter in Italy.

To be sure, check the label on your devices. Some devices never need a converter. If the label states 'INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz' the device can be used in every country in the world. This is common for devices with chargers like tablets/laptops, photo cameras, cell phones, toothbrushes, etc. For these devices you will only need a power plug adapter.

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Adapter Travel plug for Italy

Everything you need to know about adapter plugs for italy.

When you travel to a foreign country, it’s important to be prepared for anything. One thing you might not think about ahead of time is the voltage difference between countries. If you’re planning a trip to Italy, you’ll need to make sure you have the right adapter plugs for your electronics . In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about using adapter plugs in Italy, from the standard voltage to tips for using appliances while you’re there.

• LENCENT 2X UK to Italy Plug Adapter, Grounded Italian Travel Adapter for Italy
• Standard Voltage in Italy

The standard voltage in Italy is 230 volts (V). This is different from the United States, which has a standard voltage of 120 V. Because of this difference, you’ll need adapter plugs any time you want to use an appliance that wasn’t made for use in Italy

Adapter plugs are small devices that change the shape of an appliance’s plug so that it can be used in a different type of outlet. They don’t convert the electricity, so you’ll still need to be careful about using appliances that weren’t made for use with 230 V. In general, it’s best to bring appliances that can be used with both 120 V and 230 V so that you can use them no matter where you travel.

Tips for Using Appliances in Italy

If you do bring appliances that can be used with both 120 V and 230 V, they’ll probably have a switch on them so that you can change the setting depending on the voltage in the country where you’re using them. When you’re in Italy, make sure this switch is set to “230V” before plugging in your appliance

Another thing to keep in mind is that the sockets in Italy are different from the ones in the United States. The sockets have two round prongs instead of three flat prongs. If your appliance’s plug doesn’t fit into an Italian socket, you can use an adapter plug to change its shape so that it does fit.

Adapter plugs are a necessity when travelling to Italy since the standard voltage there is different from other countries. Be sure to pack adapter plugs if you’re bringing any appliances with you on your trip, and remember to check the Voltage settings on your appliances before using them. With these tips in mind, enjoy your travels and all the delicious food Italy has to offer! Buon appetito!

• An adapter plug is needed in order to use appliances in Italy.

Most visitors to Italy know that they need to pack a few essentials, including a good pair of walking shoes and a sense of adventure. However, one item that is often overlooked is an adapter plug. While the country uses the same voltage as many other European nations, the plugs themselves are distinctly different. As a result, without an adapter plug, it can be impossible to use appliances such as hair dryers or laptops. Fortunately, these plugs are readily available at most electronics stores, and they are not overly expensive. So before packing your bags for Italy, be sure to pick up an adapter plug – it may just come in handy during your stay.

• The standard voltage in Italy is 220 volts, which is different from what is used in the United States.

Italy is a renowned tourist destination, known for its picturesque villages, stunning architecture, and delicious food. But there’s one aspect of Italy that travelers often overlook: the electrical system. The standard voltage in Italy is 220 volts, which is significantly higher than the 110 volts used in the United States. As a result, travelers from the US will need to use a voltage converter if they want to use their electronic devices in Italy. What’s more, the plugs and outlets in Italy are also different from those used in the US. So before you pack your bags for your next trip to Italy, be sure to do your research and plan ahead so you can avoid any stressful surprises.

• Adapter plugs help to change the voltage so that appliances can be used safely.

While vacationing in Europe, the last thing you want to worry about is whether your hair dryer will work. But if you don’t have the right adapter plug, you could be in for a rude awakening. Adapter plugs help to change the voltage so that appliances can be used safely. Without an adapter, you run the risk of damaging your appliances or even causing a fire. So before you pack your bags, make sure you have the right adapters on hand. With a little advance planning, you can enjoy your trip without any worries about your electrical devices.

• What plug Adaptor do I need for Italy?

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, you’ll need to make sure you have the right plug adaptor for your electronic devices. In Italy, the standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. The most common type of socket is the two-pin round plug, so you’ll need an adaptor that will allow you to plug in devices with a three-pin UK plug. You can purchase adaptors from most travel retailers or online before you go. Remember, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and pack a few spare adaptors, just in case you lose one or your electronic needs change while you’re away. With a bit of planning, you can stay connected while enjoying all that Italy has to offer.

• Do I need a 2 or 3 prong adapter for Italy?

When it comes to electrical adapters, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you’ll need to check what type of sockets are used in the country you’re visiting. In Italy, the standard is Type L, which has two round prongs. You’ll also need to make sure that the voltage and frequency match up with what your devices are rated for. In Italy, the standard is 220 volts at 50 Hz. Once you’ve checked those factors, you can choose an adapter that will work with the devices you’re bringing. If you’re only bringing a few small devices, such as a phone charger or a laptop, a 2-prong adapter should suffice. However, if you’re bringing larger devices, such as a hair dryer or curling iron, you’ll need a 3-prong adapter. With a little bit of research, it’s easy to find the right electrical adapter for your needs.

• UK to Italy plug adapter

When traveling from the United Kingdom to Italy, it is important to remember to bring the proper adapter for your electrical devices. The standard voltage in Italy is 220 volts, while in the UK it is 240 volts. This means that you will need an adapter in order to use your UK devices in Italy. Fortunately, adapters are relatively inexpensive and can be easily found at most travel stores. With the proper adapter, you’ll be able to stay connected and charge your devices while enjoying your time in Italy.

• Does Italy use the same plug as UK?

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, you may be wondering about the country’s electrical outlets. Will you be able to use your same devices, or do you need to bring adapters? The good news is that Italy uses the same type of plug as the United Kingdom. This means that you’ll be able to use your electronic devices without any problems. Just be sure to pack a few extra cables and plugs, just in case. With a little preparation, you’ll be able to enjoy all the sights and sounds of Italy without any electrical worries.

• Best travel adapter for Italy?

Italy is a renowned tourist destination for its food, wine, art, and culture. However, it can be easy to overlook the fact that Italy is also home to a variety of different electrical outlets. In order to ensure that you can use your electronic devices while traveling in Italy, it is important to invest in a good travel adapter. The best travel adapter for Italy is one that supports both Type C and Type L outlets. Type C outlets are the most common in Europe, while Type L outlets are specific to Italy. With a dual-voltage adapter, you will also be able to use your devices safely in both 220-volt and 110-volt areas. By investing in a quality travel adapter, you can make sure that your next trip to Italy is smooth and hassle-free.

• Can I use European plug in Italy?

You can use a European plug in Italy, as the two countries have compatible electrical systems. In fact, much of Europe uses a similar voltages and frequencies, so travelers from other countries should have no problem using their devices in Italy. However, it’s always a good idea to check the voltage requirements of your electronics before you travel, as some devices may require a converter. Additionally, Italy uses the standard EU plugs, which have two round prongs. If you’re coming from a country that uses a different type of plug, you’ll need to bring an adapter. With a few simple preparations, you can easily use your devices in Italy without any problems.

•You can use a European plug in Italy, as the two countries have compatible electrical systems.

• In fact, much of Europe uses a similar voltages and frequencies, so travelers from other countries should have no problem using their devices in Italy.

• However, it’s always a good idea to check the voltage requirements of your electronics before you travel, as some devices may require a converter.

• Additionally, Italy uses the standard EU plugs, which have two round prongs. If you’re coming from a country that uses a different type of plug ,you’ll need to bring an adapter.

• Using European Plugs in Italy

When traveling to Italy, you may be wondering if you can use your European plugs or if you need to bring an adapter. The good news is that the two countries have compatible electrical systems. Much of Europe uses similar voltages and frequencies, so travelers from other countries should have no problem using their devices in Italy. However, it’s always a good idea to check the voltage requirements of your electronics before you travel.

• Voltage in Italy

The standard voltage in Italy is 230 volts (50 Hertz). This is the same as most other European countries, with the exception of Switzerland, which has 230 volts but 60 Hertz. The voltage in Italy is also compatible with devices from the United Kingdom, which uses 240 volts (50 Hertz).

If you’re coming from a country with a lower voltage, such as the United States (110-120 volts), you will need to use a voltage converter for any electronics that can’t handle the higher voltage. For devices that can handle the higher voltage but not the higher frequency, such as some hair dryers and curling irons, you’ll need a frequency converter. These can usually be found at electronic stores or online.

• Types of Plugs in Italy

The standard plug type in Italy is Type C or Type E, which have two round prongs. If you’re coming from a country that uses a different type of plug—such as Type A (two flat prongs) or Type B (three flat prongs)—you’ll need to bring an adapter so you can plug into the outlets. Adapters can be bought online or at electronic stores. They’re relatively small and easy to pack, so there’s no excuse not to bring one!

As long as you have the proper adapters for your plugs and electronics, using them in Italy won’t be a problem. The electrical system in Italy is compatible with most other European countries, so travelers shouldn’t have any trouble using their devices. Just remember to check the voltage requirements of your electronics before packing them in your suitcase!

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, you may be wondering about the electrical system and whether or not you’ll need to bring a adapter for your electronics. The good news is that Italy uses the same voltage as most of Europe, so you can use a European plug in Italy. However, keep in mind that the plugs themselves may be different, so you may need to purchase an adapter. With that said, it’s always best to check with your hotel in advance to see if they have adapters available for guests. That way, you can be sure that you’ll be able to use all of your electronics while you’re in Italy.

It’s always frustrating when you get to your hotel only to realize that your phone charger won’t work. Even though cell phones have gotten a lot more sophisticated, they still need to be plugged in from time to time. If you’re planning a trip to Italy, you might be wondering what the story is with electrical outlets. Luckily, Italy uses the same voltages and frequencies as much of Europe, so travelers from other countries should have no problem using their devices. In fact, you might even be able to use the same charger that you use at home. However, it’s always a good idea to pack a backup just in case. With a little bit of planning, you can avoid any headaches and make sure that your devices stay charged while you’re on vacation.

Nestled in the heart of Europe, Italy is a destination for travelers from around the world. With its romantic coastlines, captivating cities and delicious cuisine, it’s easy to see why. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the iconic canals of Venice, Italy’s unique culture and attractions make it a must-see destination.

When planning a trip to Italy, it’s important to consider the type of plug adapter you’ll need to power your electronic devices. From flat plug adapters to round plug converters, Italy has a variety of different plug types that may require a specialized adapter. To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience, it’s best to understand the different plug types and what adapter is needed to power your devices.

Overview of Electrical Outlets in Italy

The Type C plug, standard in Italy, has two round prongs that are 4.8 millimeters in diameter. Voltage requirements are 220 to 230 volts and 50 hertz, and the outlets accept both polarized and non-polarized plugs. Outlet types vary from the two-prong type C to the larger three-prong type F.

• The Type C Plug

Building on the electrical requirements of Italy, the Type C plug is the plug of choice for travelers to this country. This two-pronged plug is also known as the Europlug and is the standard electrical plug for most of Europe. It is rated for two round pins measuring 4.0 mm in diameter and 19 mm in length. This plug is also rated for a maximum of 2.5 amps and 250 volts.

The Type C plug is easily identified by its unique shape. Its two round pins are connected by a plastic insulator at the base, and the top of the plug is shaped in a V-cut pattern. This plug is designed to fit into the standard Italian electrical outlet, which is two round holes, one slightly larger than the other.

In addition to the Type C plug, Italian outlets are often two round holes with three pins. This is the Type L plug, which is rated for 10 amps at 250 volts. This plug is more common in larger appliances such as washing machines, stoves, and dryers. It is not recommended to use the Type L plug with a Type C plug adapter as this could cause an overload and lead to a fire hazard.

• Voltage Requirements

Moving on, the voltage requirements in Italy are an important factor to consider before travelling. In Italy, the voltage used in outlets is 230 volts at a frequency of 50 Hertz. This voltage is suitable for most European electronics, making it easy for visitors to use their devices without the need for an adapter. Additionally, most appliances from North America will require an adapter or transformer to ensure compatibility with the voltage and frequency in Italy. Therefore, individuals travelling to Italy should plan ahead and ensure that their appliances are compatible with the voltage.

• Outlet Types

Moving on to the topic of outlet types, it is important to note that Italy primarily uses Type C (CEE 7/16) plugs, which are two-pronged and have a voltage of 230V. However, there are a few different outlet types that one may find when traveling through Italy.

The most common outlet in Italy has two round pins and is often referred to as a “Schuko” outlet. These outlets are grounded, and they are compatible with both Type C (CEE 7/16) plugs and Type F (CEE 7/4) plugs. Type F (CEE 7/4) plugs have two round pins and a protective earthing for added safety.

In addition to Schuko outlets, travelers may find “Italian” outlets, which are ungrounded plugs that are only compatible with Type L (CEE 7/17) plugs. Type L (CEE 7/17) plugs have three round pins and a grounding pin. Finally, travelers may also find outlets with three rectangular pins, which are compatible with Type E (CEE 7/5) plugs. Type E (CEE 7/5) plugs have two round pins and a grounding pin.

In conclusion, when traveling in Italy, one should be aware that the most common outlet is a Schuko outlet, which is grounded and compatible with both Type C and Type F plugs. However, travelers may also find Italian outlets that are ungrounded and compatible with Type L plugs, as well as outlets with three rectangular pins that are compatible with Type E plugs.

Types of Adapter Plugs

A myriad of different adapter plugs are available, each designed for a specific purpose. Universal adapters are the most versatile, designed to fit a variety of sockets from around the world. Travel adapters, on the other hand, are best for short-term trips as they are limited to a few types of plugs. Lastly, convertible adapters feature multiple plug configurations and can be used in many parts of the world.

• Universal Adapters

Transitioning from the overview of electrical outlets in Italy, it’s important to understand the different types of adapter plugs that are available. Specifically, this section will focus on the type of adapter plug commonly known as the universal adapter .

Universal adapters are a great choice for travelers, as they are designed to fit into almost any socket in the world. This makes them a great option for those who do a lot of traveling, as they don’t need to worry about buying a new adapter for each destination. They also come with a variety of different features, including surge protection, USB ports, and a built-in fuse. This makes them a great option for those who want a reliable and safe connection.

In terms of physical appearance, universal adapters are generally small and rectangular, with two or more prongs. They are often color coded to make it easy to identify the appropriate outlet. The size also makes them highly portable, and they can easily fit into a pocket or purse. This makes them one of the most popular types of adapters in the world.

• Travel Adapters

Faced with the prospect of navigating the complexities of Italy’s electrical outlets, many travelers opt for travel adapters to ensure their devices stay fully charged. Travel adapters are incredibly helpful for mobile devices like phones, tablets, and even laptops while traveling in Italy.

These adapters are small and lightweight, making them easy to pack and carry. They come with multiple prongs to fit a variety of outlets, and some even come with a USB port for charging mobile devices. Travel adapters also have surge protection built-in to help protect devices from power fluctuations.

Additionally, many travel adapters come with a universal plug, which makes them ideal for travelers who are visiting multiple countries on their trip. This plug allows travelers to switch from outlet to outlet without having to constantly switch adapters. This type of adapter is also helpful for travelers who want to bring their devices to different countries.

• Convertible Adapters

Having discussed the various electrical outlets found in Italy, it is important to know the different types of adapter plugs available in order to utilize the outlets. Among these types, convertible adapters are a versatile and useful option for travelers.

Convertible adapters come in a range of shapes and sizes, allowing travelers to conveniently use different types of outlets. Unlike universal adapters, convertible adapters support multiple types of outlets and can be adjusted to fit the outlet’s shape. These adapters are also usually compatible with several different countries’ outlets, such as those found in Europe, Australia, India, and China, allowing travelers to easily use outlets in a variety of locations.

Convertible adapters typically have a twistable design, allowing them to be easily adjusted to fit the outlet shape. They are also often color-coded, making it easy to identify the right setting for different outlets. Additionally, many convertible adapters are designed with built-in surge protection, making them a safe and reliable choice for travelers.

Considerations When Purchasing an Adapter

When shopping for an adapter, it is important to consider the quality of the product. Ensure that the adapter is made from reliable materials that ensure its compatibility with your device. Look for a product with long-term durability that will stand the test of time and its intended use.

When making an adapter plug purchase, quality should be a key factor in the decision process. Many manufacturers of adapter plugs make use of low-grade materials that can be hazardous to use. To ensure safety and to maximize the lifespan of the adapter, shoppers should look for products that use high-quality materials such as brass or copper. These metals are durable, long-lasting, and also provide optimal conductivity.

When evaluating the quality of an adapter plug, shoppers should check for certifications from top safety organizations. This will provide an assurance that the adapter plug is safe to use and up to the highest standards of quality. Additionally, the product should come with a manufacturer’s warranty in case of any defects or malfunctions.

Finally, shoppers should read online reviews from other individuals who have purchased the adapter plug. This can provide insight into the quality of the product and can help shoppers make an informed decision about the purchase. Ultimately, when selecting an adapter plug, shoppers should consider the quality of the product to ensure the safest and most reliable use.

• Compatibility

Making sure you get the right adapter plug for your device is of utmost importance. When considering which adapter plug to purchase, compatibility is a key factor. To ensure that the plug you purchase is compatible with your device, it is important to take note of the voltage and frequency of the device and the adapter plug. Additionally, the number of pins for the plug should coincide with the number of prongs for the device.

When selecting an adapter plug, be sure to confirm the plug is rated for your device’s voltage and frequency. An adapter plug that is not properly rated can damage your device or create a dangerous situation. For instance, a laptop charger rated for 120V may cause damage to a device that requires 220V. If unsure, you may consult the device manual or contact the manufacturer.

It is also important to make sure the adapter plug has the right number of prongs or pins for your device. The number of prongs or pins can vary by device, even within the same type of device. Some devices may have two prongs, while others may have three. Additionally, some adapter plugs may come with interchangeable plugs or pins. Interchangeable plugs can help to make sure the adapter plug fits the device.

In conclusion, making sure the adapter plug you purchase is compatible with your device is essential. It is important to confirm the voltage and frequency rating as well as the number of prongs and pins to make sure the adapter plug is compatible with the device. Taking these considerations into account can help to ensure that you purchase the right adapter plug for your device.

Having the right adapter plug can make a world of difference when it comes to your travel experience. As such, it is important to consider the durability of the adapter you choose. Durability is particularly important when dealing with electrical items; after all, you don’t want to risk frying your devices overnight due to a faulty adapter.

When shopping for an adapter, be sure to look for one made from high-quality materials. The plug should be made of a strong, durable material, such as hard plastic or metal. Avoid flimsy or lightweight adapters if possible, as they are more likely to break after a couple of uses. Additionally, check that the pins are firmly secured to the plug, and that the plug itself is securely attached to the cord.

Also, check the warranty that comes with the adapter. Many companies offer a one-year warranty, which can be helpful in the event that the adapter breaks or malfunctions. If the adapter you are looking at does not come with a warranty, it might be a sign that it is not very durable.

By taking into account the durability of the adapter you choose, you can ensure that you are investing in a safe and reliable product.

Where to Buy an Adapter Plug

Shopping for an adapter plug can be an easy and convenient experience, with a wealth of options available. Online retailers provide a broad selection, with the ease of having the item delivered to your door, while airport shops offer the convenience of picking up the item on the way to your destination. Local stores provide the opportunity to physically inspect the product before making a purchase.

• Online Retailers

With these considerations in mind, the next step is to find a reliable and cost-effective place to purchase an adapter plug. One of the most convenient options is an online retailer. Shopping online offers the flexibility of ordering from the comfort of one’s home, without having to worry about store business hours or traveling. In addition, online retailers typically offer a large selection of products, so customers can be sure to find exactly what they need.

When shopping online, customers should be sure to check the return policy, as certain items may not be eligible for returns, exchanges, or refunds. Additionally, they should be sure to check the reviews for the specific product they are interested in, to get an idea of the quality and performance of the adapter plug. Customer reviews can be a valuable resource in helping to make an informed decision.

Lastly, customers should make sure to compare prices across multiple websites to ensure they are getting the best deal. As with any purchase, price is a major factor and customers should take the time to do a little research. With the right knowledge and careful consideration, customers can be sure to find the perfect adapter plug for their needs.

• Airport Shops

With the right preparation, you can rest assured that you will be able to plug in your devices wherever you go. Airport shops are great places to look for adapters, as the staff are usually knowledgeable about the different types of plugs and the destination countries they are used in.

The airport shops usually have a huge variety of adapters to choose from, as well as a range of power boards and USB chargers. The staff are friendly and helpful, and can usually provide advice on the best type of adapter for your needs. They will also be able to explain the differences between the different types of plugs, so you can make an informed decision.

When shopping at the airport, it is important to remember that they usually charge a premium for their products, so it is definitely worthwhile doing some research beforehand to compare prices. This will help you to make sure you get the best deal.

• Local Stores

Finding the perfect adapter plug for your travels does not have to be a daunting task. Local stores can often provide an array of adapters to choose from. Visiting a local electronics store can prove to be a great way to familiarize yourself with the various types of adapters available.

Upon entering the store, you will be greeted with a wide variety of adapters in all shapes and sizes. You can take your time to examine each adapter and ask questions about compatibility and wattage. Additionally, the staff in the store are incredibly knowledgeable about the adapters and can provide useful tips and advice for purchasing the right one for your needs.

What’s more, local stores can sometimes offer adapters at discounted prices. With a bit of research, you may be able to find a great deal on a high quality adapter. It is always a good idea to compare prices at a local store before making a purchase. Doing this can help you save money and get the best deal possible.

Safety Tips for Using an Adapter Plug

Examining the adapter plug carefully can be essential for safety. Ensuring the device is running on the correct voltage is paramount, as too much power can cause a fire. Finally, overloading outlets should always be avoided for the safety of everyone in the area.

• Inspect the Plug

Now that you have an adapter plug, it is important to inspect it before using it. A thorough inspection could be the difference between a safe experience and a hazardous one.

First, take a close look at the plug and check for any signs of wear and tear. Check if the plastic casing is cracked or the cords are frayed. If so, it is best to avoid using it, as it could potentially cause an electric shock.

Next, examine the plug closely and make sure all the prongs are securely in place. If any of the prongs are bent or loose, the power may not be distributed properly and could cause an electric shock.

Another important thing to look for is the voltage rating of the plug. Make sure the voltage rating of the plug matches the voltage of the outlet. If not, it could cause a power surge and potentially cause an electrical fire.

Inspecting an adapter plug is a simple step that can help ensure a safe experience. By taking the time to look it over, you can be sure that it is working properly and will not cause any harm.

• Use the Right Voltage

Having purchased the right adapter plug, it is essential to ensure that it is used correctly to avoid danger. One of the most important safety tips for using adapter plugs is to ensure that the voltage is used appropriately.

It is important to make sure that the wattage of the device being used does not exceed the wattage the adapter plug can handle. This is because if it does, then the adapter plug will overheat, which can cause significant damage to the device and can even be a fire hazard. To avoid this, it is important to check the wattage of the device being used and ensure that it is compatible with the adapter plug.

The voltage of the adapter plug is also important to consider. If the adapter plug is not suitable for the voltage of the device being used, it can cause the device to break down and become damaged. For example, if a 110 volt appliance is connected to a 220 volt adapter plug, the appliance will become damaged due to the difference in voltage. Therefore, it is essential to check both the wattage and voltage of the device being used and the adapter plug to avoid any potential damage.

• Don’t Overload Outlets

Now that you’ve purchased the right adapter plug for your needs, it’s time to consider some safety tips when using it. One of the most important factors to consider is to not overload outlets. Overloading outlets can be dangerous and could potentially cause a fire.

When using a plug adapter, it’s important to make sure that the wattage that you are drawing does not exceed the outlet’s rating. The wattage rating for a typical outlet is 1,500 watts, so you should make sure that the wattage of the items plugged into the adapter does not exceed that. To do this, you’ll need to add up the wattage of all the items that you have in the adapter and make sure that it doesn’t exceed 1,500 watts.

It is also important to make sure that you don’t plug too many items into the adapter at once. This can lead to an overload of the outlet, even if the wattage of the items plugged in is below the outlet’s rating. When using an adapter, it’s best to have no more than two items plugged in at once.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you stay safe when using your adapter plug. Be sure to check the wattage of all the items plugged in and don’t overload the outlet with too many items at once. Doing this will help keep you and your home safe when using an adapter plug.

Tips for Using Electrical Devices in Italy

Electricity in Italy has varying voltage requirements; it is essential to be aware of what voltage is required for the device being used. Additionally, when electronics are not in use, it is best to unplug them to conserve energy. For more information, travelers should check with their hotel to see if they can provide any additional tips on safely using electrical devices.

• Be Aware of Voltage Requirements

Traveling to a new country can be an exciting and thrilling experience, but it’s important to keep electrical safety top of mind. When it comes to using electrical devices in Italy, one of the most important things to be aware of is voltage requirements.

Italian outlets provide a voltage of 220-240, so if you’re traveling with devices that require a 110-volt outlet, you’ll need to use an adapter plug to convert the voltage. Without the adapter plug, your devices may be at risk of being destroyed or having their performance compromised.

When you’re looking for an adapter plug, make sure to choose one that’s compatible with your device and has the appropriate safety certification. This is especially important if you’re bringing products with sensitive electronics, such as a laptop, camera, or phone. By doing this, you can ensure that your device won’t be damaged by a mismatched voltage.

It’s also important to remember to unplug any devices when they’re not in use. This will help you avoid any unnecessary risks and help keep your devices safe and functioning properly. If you have any questions or concerns about safety or voltage requirements, it’s best to check with your hotel before using any of your electrical items.

• Unplug Devices When Not in Use

As travelers to Italy, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with using electrical devices in the country. One of the most important safety tips when using electrical devices in Italy is to make sure to unplug them when they’re not in use. This is especially important in areas where there is a higher risk of electrical surges or power outages.

In some parts of Italy, there are still buildings with outdated wiring and plugs, so it’s important to be careful when using devices. Additionally, remember that a surge protector or power strip is not a substitute for unplugging devices when not in use. Make sure to unplug all electrical devices before leaving a room. If the device is not intended for use with Italian voltage, then it’s even more important not to leave it plugged in.

It’s also important to make sure that the hotel or accommodations you’re staying in are equipped with surge protectors and power strips. Talk to the staff to ensure they have the necessary equipment to protect your devices from power surges or outages. Use surge protectors and power strips as a way to store your electrical devices when not in use. By taking the time to unplug devices and use surge protectors or power strips when necessary, travelers can ensure the safety and longevity of their electrical devices when in Italy.

• Check with Your Hotel

As you prepare for your trip to Italy, the final important safety tip to consider is checking with your hotel. Before plugging any of your devices into the wall outlets, it is crucial to ask the hotel staff if they have different voltage requirements. Different countries often have different power standards, so it is important to confirm that the plug you are using is compatible with the outlets in the hotel.

The staff at the hotel will be able to provide you with all the necessary information about the outlets and what type of plug you should use to safely power your device. Additionally, they may also be able to provide you with an adapter plug if you need one. They can also provide other important safety tips such as how to unplug your devices when you are done using them.

Not all devices are compatible with all outlets, so it is important to check with the hotel staff before plugging in your device. This can help to ensure that you are able to safely use the device in Italy without having to worry about any safety risks. With proper care and the right precautions, you can safely power your device in Italy.

Alternatives to Purchasing an Adapter

When seeking alternatives to purchasing an adapter, one could consider borrowing from a friend, renting from a store, or using a power bank. Borrowing from a friend provides a convenient and cost-effective solution, while renting from a store allows for the widest range of options. Additionally, power banks provide an extra layer of convenience as they are easily portable and can be used for multiple devices.

• Borrowing from a Friend

Moving away from the idea of purchasing an adapter, there is the option of borrowing one from a friend. This solution may be the most convenient and economical, as borrowing an adapter does not cost any money. However, it does require some planning, as you will need to know someone who already owns an adapter. This person will likely be a visitor or a resident of Italy, as adapters are widely available and used throughout the country.

The type of adapter that you need will depend on the type of device that you are using. If you are using devices from the United States, then you will need an adapter with two flat prongs. If you are using devices from the United Kingdom, then you will need an adapter with three rectangular prongs. To ensure that the adapter fits, it is best to take a picture of your device’s plug and show it to the person from whom you are borrowing.

Upon receiving the adapter, it is important to test it on a low-voltage device, such as a laptop, phone charger, or radio. This will ensure that the adapter is working properly and that it is the correct type for your device. Additionally, it is critical to check the adapter for any visible signs of damage, such as fraying or exposed wires. After testing the adapter, it should be carefully disconnected and returned to the owner with full appreciation for their kindness.

• Renting from a Store

Fortunately, there is an alternative to purchasing an adapter for your electrical devices when traveling to Italy. One option is to rent from a store. Many stores located in tourist areas have a variety of electrical adapters available for rent, offering a convenient and cost-effective solution for travelers.

The process of renting an adapter is simple and straightforward. Most stores will require you to provide a valid form of identification, such as a passport or driver’s license, so they may make a copy for their records. Once the identification has been provided, you may select the adapter that fits your device’s needs. Prices for renting an adapter vary and can range from a few euros to a few dozen. The rental period is commonly one week, and the store may require a deposit for the adapter.

The store will provide you with instructions for the proper use of the adapter. You should ensure that you understand the instructions and follow them to avoid any damages to either the adapter or your device. Once the rental period is up, make sure to return the adapter to the store, as any fees for a late return can be hefty. By renting an adapter from a store, you’ll be able to enjoy the convenience of travel with your electrical devices in Italy without having to purchase an adapter.

• Using a Power Bank

Rather than spending money on an adapter, another option is to invest in a power bank. A power bank is a portable, rechargeable battery that can be used to power up phones, tablets, and other devices. It’s convenient and easy to use, making it a great solution for travelers.

Power banks come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s important to consider the size and weight of the device when making a purchase. Buyers should also consider the amount of storage capacity they need. Most models range from a few hundred milliamp hours (mAh) to thousands of mAh. The higher the mAh, the longer the battery will last.

Once the power bank is charged, travelers can plug their device into one of the ports and enjoy unlimited power. It’s important to note that many power banks come with multiple ports, allowing users to charge multiple devices at the same time. This is especially useful for those traveling with friends or family who need to charge their devices simultaneously. With a power bank, travelers can enjoy their time abroad without worrying about their devices running out of power.

The article provided an overview of the different types of adapter plugs available in the market, their benefits, and the importance of researching before traveling. An adapter plug can be a lifesaver when traveling, allowing for a seamless and uninterrupted experience. Researching the type of plug needed for a destination should be a priority, as it can prevent a great deal of hassle and time wasted. All in all, having an adapter plug can make a world of difference.

• Summary of the Article

Having considered the alternatives to purchasing an adapter plug, it’s time to summarize the main points of the article. When traveling abroad, planning ahead is essential. Before leaving, it’s a great idea to research the type of outlets used in the country of destination, and consider the options for an adapter plug, if needed. If necessary, it may be beneficial to purchase an adapter plug in advance from a reliable source, especially if the destination is not a popular tourist spot. If an adapter plug is not available for purchase, it’s possible to improvise with a few household items, or to rely on a hotel or airport to provide one.

No matter the solution, it’s important to ensure that the adapter plug is compatible with the device or appliance that needs to be plugged in. It’s also important to check the safety ratings for adapter plugs, as many are not designed to handle the full power of a device or appliance. In some cases, it may be necessary to purchase a voltage converter, in addition to an adapter plug.

In conclusion, there are many options available for powering devices or appliances while traveling. Before leaving, research the type of outlets used in the destination country, and consider the various options for powering up. Doing so will ensure a much smoother and more enjoyable trip.

• Benefits of Having an Adapter Plug

In conclusion, having an adapter plug when traveling abroad provides a number of advantages. Not only does it give travelers the freedom to use their electronics in a variety of countries, but also the assurance that their device will be protected from potential harm. Furthermore, it eliminates the need to purchase a new plug every time a traveler moves to a different country.

Having the right adapter plug can be a lifesaver. Not only can travelers be able to charge their devices, but they can also use a variety of devices that they may not have been able to use in other countries. For instance, they may be able to use an electric razor or a hair dryer without having to find an alternative. Furthermore, they can use their laptop or phone charger without worrying about finding an outlet that fits. With the right adapter plug, travelers can be ready to go on any adventure.

Another benefit of having an adapter plug is that it helps to protect the device from any potential damage. Many countries have different voltage ratings, which can cause a device to malfunction if it is not compatible. With the right adapter plug, travelers can ensure that their device is properly protected and will be able to operate at the correct voltage. This will help to keep their device safe and working properly for a longer period of time.

In conclusion, having an adapter plug is essential for travelers who want to take their devices abroad. Not only does it provide a number of benefits, but it also helps to protect their devices from potential damage. With the right adapter plug, travelers can be ready for any adventure.

• Importance of Researching Before Travel

To sum up, it is important to research the appropriate adapter plugs and other electrical requirements for the destination country prior to traveling. Before traveling, it is essential to ensure that travelers have all the necessary supplies and information needed to safely and conveniently use electronic devices. This research can help travelers save time, money, and avoid unnecessary hassles.

Doing research before a trip can provide travelers with the peace of mind in knowing that they have the right tools and the right knowledge to ensure a smooth trip. It is also important to understand the voltage regulations in the destination country. Using the wrong voltage can cause permanent damage to electronic devices or even cause physical harm.

In addition, research on different outlets and voltage requirements helps travelers to determine the best adapter plugs for their needs. Knowing in advance which type of adapter plug to bring can save travelers from having to purchase multiple adaptors on their trip. It is also beneficial to read reviews online to find the best quality and most reliable brands of adapter plugs.

Whether visiting Italy for business or pleasure, travelers must be prepared for the country’s different electrical outlets. Purchasing an adapter plug is the easiest way to ensure all of your devices work properly. When buying an adapter plug, it is important to consider the types available and the safety tips for using one. Additionally, there are alternatives to buying a plug, such as using a universal travel adapter or simply packing items that work with the outlets in Italy. Whatever method you choose, you can rest easy knowing that your devices will be powered and ready for use while you explore this beautiful country.

Originally posted 2022-11-20 19:41:15.

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The 6 Best Travel Adapters and Converters of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Whether you prefer a set of specific adapters or something universal, these are the best options on the market.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Other Options We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Travelers these days have all types of gear and gadgets that require power: cellphones, headphones, cameras, laptops, and even their toothbrushes. And, when venturing abroad, you’ll often find that not every hotel, airport lounge, or even public mode of transportation accommodates the U.S. plug, which means you likely need an adapter and/or converter for international trips. 

Our favorite adapters and converters are compact, work in multiple countries, have several ports including both USB and AC sockets, and, of course, power your essentials without frying them. As avid travelers, we tested an array of products on actual trips across the world and ranked them based on ease of use, effectiveness, and value to bring you the best picks for every scenario. Below, find our favorite easy-to-use adapters and converters for your next international journey.

Best Overall

Epicka universal travel adapter.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Effectiveness 4 /5

It’s able to charge six devices at once. 

This is not a converter, so you shouldn’t use it with high-power appliances like curling irons and hair dryers. 

Ready to use in more than 150 countries, this adapter from Epicka can charge six devices at the same time, as it comes with four USB-A ports, 1 USB-C port, and 1 AC socket. It works with all USB-enabled devices including iPhones and Androids, and can charge laptops, cameras, tablets, and power banks, too. It eliminates the need to purchase individual adapters for each trip, which makes it a great money-saving travel product . The adapter also has a built-in, double 8A fuse and safety shutters that keep children from trying to plug other items into the socket. The adapter comes in four different colors, and has a 1-year limited warranty. 

We love that it’s small and easy to pack, plus it’s simple to switch over to different prongs from country to country. The multiple USB ports are great for charging everything at once, and the adapter is super lightweight, so it isn’t adding much weight to your suitcase or carry-on either. We did find that the adapter was hard to fit in tight spots or use with older outlet styles in the UK and Hong Kong, but this didn’t happen often. 

The Details: 2.8 x 1.97 x 2.05 inches | 5.1 ounces | No converter | 6 ports | 1 AC, 4 USB-A, 1 USB-C | 240 volts

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best for Apple Users

Apple travel adapter kit.

• Effectiveness 5 /5

It’s exclusively for Apple products so you can trust it with those devices.

It only works with Apple's block-type power adapters.

This kit made by Apple, for Apple products, includes seven AC plugs that work for iPhones, iPods, iPads, and Mac laptops in North America, Japan, China, the UK, Europe, Korea, Australia, Hong Kong, and Brazil. Each one lists the regions the plug is compatible with, making it easy to grab what you need quickly. However, you will need Apple's power adapter brick to serve as a base; these tips work with Apple’s USB-C power adapters, MagSafe and MagSafe 2 power adapters, and 10-watt and 12-watt USB power adapters that come with devices (or can be purchased separately in a range of wattages including 12 watts , 35 watts, and 67 watts ).

We love this set because it’s an Apple-certified product, so we know our devices are safe. The adapters are also built to last, as one of our testers used the adapters for 10 years before having to replace some of them. The only thing we wish they added onto this set is a carrying case to hold all the pieces for traveling. 

The Details: 5.3 x 5.3 x 1.9 inches | 11.2 ounces | No converter | 1 port | 100-240 volts (10W, 12W, 30W, and 35W)

Most Compact

Ceptics travel adapter plug for south africa & botswana.

It comes with USB and AC outlet charging abilities in a compact plug. 

USB ports are on the bottom, instead of the top of the adapter. 

If you’re traveling through South Africa, Botswana, or Namibia, this compact adapter will allow you to charge up to three devices at once. The AC outlet allows you to plug your U.S. device into a Type M socket for South Africa, allowing you to charge up for safari adventures and more.  It works with cell phones, laptops, smart watches, tablets, and more, and we especially like that it has the ability for two- and three-prong AC input, as well as USB ports for added versatility. The style of adapter is a block shape, so you can tuck it into your backpack, purse, or carry-on without compromising on much space, and you can also buy similar adapters for Europe , India, Germany, Hong Kong, Switzerland, Brazil, and more. 

The Details: 1 x 1 x 1 inches | 2.5 ounces | No Converter | 3 ports | 2 USB-A , 1 AC | 250 volts

Best for Families

Bestek travel adapter and voltage converter.

• Value 4.5 /5

You can power seven devices at one time. 

It’s bulkier than a lot of other adapters. 

With three AC outlets and four USB ports, you can charge up to seven devices at once on this charger, making it easy for the whole family to charge their phones, laptops, tables, and camera batteries. Three plug adapters are also included and work in more than 150 countries, meaning you can travel far and wide and, most likely, have the right adapter for what you need. We also love that this one is a converter, too, converting 220 volts to 110 volts for U.S. electronics but it’s still not recommended to use this device to power your hair dryer, curling iron, or straightener.

The adapter comes with overcurrent, overload, overheat, and short-circuit protections. We tested the adapter by charging a phone, battery pack, Apple watch, and Kindle all at once and found that all devices were nicely charged overnight with no issues. 

The Details: 7.4 x 6.8 x 1.8 inches | 1.15 pounds | Converter | 3 AC, 4 USB-A | 110-220 volts

Best Multipack

Ceptics european travel plug adapter.

• Ease of Use 3 /5

It’s easy to use.

You'll need to use a separate plug for each item you're charging.

For a super affordable multipack for one destination, this one from Ceptics is a great choice, as it comes with three identical Type C adapters that will work across Europe, the Middle East, and South America. It accepts North American two- and three-prong plugs, and has a simple straightforward design. It’s worth noting though that this set won’t work in England, Ireland, or Scotland, but there are other three packs available that will work in those countries, plus India, China, Hong Kong, Australia, and more. 

The Details: 3 x 2 x 1 inches | 3.2 ounces | No Converter | 3 AC outlets | 100-240 volts

Best for Europe

Jarvania european travel plug adapter.

It works in both the EU and the UK. 

It’s a bit bulky as the UK adapter is separate. 

American travelers to Europe will most likely need an adapter that can handle numerous countries, and this one from Jarvania is great because it can be used with EU and UK outlets. It’s compatible with Type C (which also fits into Type E, F, H, J, K, L, and N outlets) to work in Italy, Denmark, Switzerland, Spain, and France and more. It also comes with a separate Type G plug adapter that will also work in the UK, so you’re getting an extra adapter, too. The main adapter has three ports (one AC, two USB), so you can charge up to three devices at once — a perk for the modern traveler carrying a phone, laptop, camera, and more. 

The Details: 2.7 x 2.1 x 2.2 inches | 3.8 ounces | No Converter | 3 ports | 1 AC, 2 USB-A | 110-250 volts

Other Travel Adapters We Liked

Two adapters we tested couldn’t quite earn a spot on our list but had standout features that may meet the needs of some travelers. 

Tessan Type G Adapter : This adapter with two AC outlets plus two USB ports works in countries such as Scotland, Ireland, the UK, Hong Kong, UAE, Singapore, and various African countries. However, we found the AC outlets are too close together on the adapter to always be useful. 

Tessan Type E F Adapter : With five total ports (USB and AC) that work in numerous countries, this is a great adapter, but we think the two pack is a bit much, as one adapter already has five ports, meaning lots of travelers wouldn’t need a second adapter. This adapter is also wider than other adapters so it can take up more unnecessary space. 

The T+L team tested 12 different adapters and converters in various countries across the world. We noted what countries we were in while using the adapters or converters, and how easy it was to use each one. We also ranked them based on effectiveness, meaning how well they charged our devices, and value in terms of price versus performance. 

Tips for Buying Adapters and Converters

Research your destination.

Before leaving on your trip, be sure to check out what types of outlets are used in the countries you’re visiting, and buy adapters and converters accordingly. The last thing you’ll want is to accidentally fry your device while abroad. Some hotels provide USB ports inside hotel rooms, but it’s best to make sure they’re available before arriving empty-handed.

Consider a kit

If you’re visiting numerous countries and are in a rush, it’s sometimes easier to simply buy a kit with several adapters for multiple different destinations, which can save you money instead of buying numerous adapters. Lots of kits are small enough to tuck away in your bag or carry-on, so just be sure that you take along the ones you need.

Read the fine print

Always be sure to read the instructions that come with your adapter or converter, and be sure to pay attention to the power details. You may think a converter is safe for your styling tools or appliances when it's actually not, and you could fry your device, or blow a fuse, if the adapter doesn’t convert voltage.

An adapter is used when you need to plug a specific type of prong into a different socket. It allows you to plug your U.S.-style prong into an outlet in another country that uses a different type of plug. A converter is different in that it changes the voltage of an outlet to match the voltage of the item being plugged in. Some countries use 110/120 volts, while others use 220/240 volts. If you don’t use a converter, you could ruin your device, or even risk a fire.

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. Some products have dual voltage, which means the device can handle voltages from all over the world.

Most of Europe uses Type C plugs, which also fit into Type E, F, H, J, K, L, and N sockets that may replace Type C in places such as Denmark, Switzerland, and Italy. (England and the rest of the U.K. uses Type G.) Always double check exactly which one you’ll need before your departure.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, the T+L team tested and reviewed numerous adapters and converters to find the best of the best for countries across the world. Freelance writer and world traveler Amanda Ogle further researched travel adapters to add additional insights to this list. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

International Power Adapter: What Plug Do I Need? (2024)

Whether you’re island hopping or heading on a quick business trip, we recommend educating yourself briefly on the standard electricity of your destination, ensuring you are prepared with the right equipment.

There are 15 types of outlets worldwide, and a power adapter is a small but necessary investment that will support you in all future travels for years to come. You don’t want to risk fried electronics, damaged devices, or a blown fuse!

Use this quick guide to learn the basics of international electricity, which power adapter is the best, packing items that will serve you in any global travel, and useful FAQS.

What type of adapter will you need for International outlets?

It can be overwhelming to determine the necessary components when traveling the world. You’ll find options for wireless adapters, universal adapters, dual adapters, voltage converters, and more!

Most areas have a general outlet or plug type for that region. For example, the US generally uses Type A and Europe will often have Type C. But when you visit certain continents, like Asia, there are various types of plugs used so it can get a bit more complicated.

Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect:

What kind of power adapter do I need for International Travel?

Instead of buying a different adapter for each of these countries, we’ve found the perfect solution – a universal adapter that works in 100+ popular countries! It works in Australia, China, France, Greece, Ireland, New Zealand, Portugal, Spain, Thailand, the UK, the USA, and more.

This option by HERO is made with quality craftsmanship and is backed by a lifetime replacement guarantee. We love that our devices are safeguarded by the built-in fuse protector and it can basically be reconfigured for every location you’re visiting.

• Cayman Islands
• Cook Islands
• Czech Republic
• Isle of Man 
• Netherlands
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• Soloman Islands
• South Korea
• St. Vincent
• Switzerland

View on Amazon.com ➜

Other International Packing List Items

In addition to your universal power adapter, these items will help you make the most of your travels for nearly any location:

1. Neck Wallet & Passport Pouch

One of the best items you can bring on any trip is an RFID-blocking neck wallet. The material stops any digital thieves from scanning your credit card numbers as they walk by, and the size is perfect for organizing your credit cards, cash, phones, passports, and travel documents. This is important for staying organized on long travel days when the jet lag sets in. It’s also wise to wear this concealed underneath your shirt when exploring busy attractions that are prone to petty theft since no one will notice your essentials hidden in a discreet way.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Jet Lag Relief

I traveled internationally with these and then without – the difference was stark! They made such a difference in helping me to feel rested on a 15+ hour flight overseas along with a 7-hour time change. When I flew without them on the way home because I ran out, I instantly regretted it and felt the exhaustion set in. They are very gentle, using chamomile and no caffeine to beat the jet lag. I won’t forget them in the future.

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

After having my credit card number stolen from a location I thought was safe, I won’t risk global travel without a VPN to protect my private data like passwords, credit card numbers, social security info, and more.

You may think a VPN is for expansive internet access and overcoming regional censorship, but it also adds a layer of encryption around your sensitive information. Still, as you move further East, you will notice more geo-blocked content and restricted websites. NordVPN will help you overcome this along with paywalls and geo-targeted pricing (which means cheaper airfare if you change your server location outside of the U.S.! You’re welcome!)

View options at NordVPN.com ➜

4. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

Your phone is sure to die quicker while you’re snapping photos, using the GPS to navigate, and searching for local information. Having a backup charger is a sure way to stay ahead of any catastrophes like not being able to call for a ride or look up your hotel’s easily forgettable (possibly foreign-sounding) name.

5. Extra Phone Charging Cables

While we’re talking tech, it’s easy to overlook these charging cables, but you’ll want to bring a few spares. Especially since they’re often left behind on trains, at airports, or wherever you may roam.

6. Travel Insurance for Global Travel

Your domestic health insurance plan generally does not follow you overseas , and you’ll certainly want coverage to protect your travel investment. It will cover you for common encounters like flight delays, theft, baggage loss, natural disasters, rental concerns, and most importantly, medical expenses. Our friend had an incident in Iceland, luckily they had travel insurance to avoid paying out-of-pocket for the $3K medical bill and $8K emergency transit.

Faye is our preferred provider since their platform is 100% digital and makes the process pain-free. Their customer service is top-notch and they helped us to get easily reimbursed. They also facilitated a telehealth call with our doctor, really going above and beyond. Since they cover entire trip cancellation, it’s a must-have.

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

7. Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a game-changer! You can get a different color for each family member and there are 5 cubes per set that you can label as you see fit (pants, shirts, pajamas, socks, underwear, essentials, etc.) I can promise you, it’s a revolutionary alternative to digging for that one tiny chapstick or looking for your favorite band shirt. It even comes with 2 bonus laundry bags to separate your clean items from dirty ones.

8. Activated Charcoal

You shouldn’t leave food poisoning to chance, particularly since anything from street food to gourmet meals to tap water can make you sick. We always pack this preventative measure that will absorb harmful toxins at the first sign of a painful tummy ache. They will stop pathogens from absorbing into your stomach and overall, minimize your downtime.

9. Hanging Toiletry Bag

This delightful contraption is a non-negotiable to me, whether it’s a long trip or a simple weekend getaway. In many countries, there is minimal bathroom storage, and you don’t want to be left juggling bottles on the edge of your sink! That’s why I consolidate all liquid items into this hanging toiletry bag.

It has tons of pocket space, internally and externally. It also has elastic bands to hold the bottles in place so they don’t slip and slide. We haven’t had any shampoo spills in the suitcase since converting to this. We’ll never go back.

10. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

Luggage locks are great for securing your suitcases while they’re out of sight for long durations. Whether it’s a checked bag that you can’t keep an eye on or if you’re cruising and leave your bags outside of your suite door, then picking them up from a baggage retrieval warehouse. You’ll feel comfort knowing that sticky fingers won’t be rummaging through your things, and these are 10 times more secure than 3-digit locks.

11. International eSIM Data Service (Avoid Roaming Fees!)

We’ve all been subjected to the frustrations of a physical SIM card or high roaming rates from your provider, but now there is a better solution. We use Saily for eSIM, a digital product that simplifies the entire process of mobile data.

You can activate it before you go and it works in 150+ countries, so it’s ideal for country hopping if you’re heading to more than one place. It’s better than dealing with a new card for each country since these can get lost or damaged. And Saily allows you to only pay for the amount of data you need, and not a cent more.

Pick a data plan at Saily.com ➜

12. High-Quality Filtered Water Bottle

I always bring a filtered water bottle on vacation and this one is top-notch. You can get one like the Brita if you’re going to a place with decent tap water quality, but in general, I’d opt for this Grayl that protects your health. It removes bacteria, viruses, microplastics, pesticides, sediments, and more. It’s a little pricey, but better than risking Hepatitis A., or e. Coli, am I right?

13. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

We love this travel towel because it’s 10 times more absorbent than cotton and a much more functional option than a big, fluffy hotel towel. You never know if your accommodation will even provide them (or if they’ll be up to your cleanliness standards). This one is light as a feather and you’ll find tons of uses for it, from a beach towel, seat cover, packing cushion, and more.

14. Windproof Travel Umbrella

You’re likely to see some rainy days on your trip. Prepare for them with with this windproof travel umbrella. It weighs only 1-pound and comes with a compact carrying case to prevent your other items from getting wet in a downpour. It’s higher quality than any cheap product you’ll pick up at a souvenir shop and is backed by a lifetime replacement guarantee.

15. Luggage Straps

Many people underestimate luggage straps, but these adjustable attachments can withstand up to 700-pounds of force tension, making your bags exponentially more resilient against the rough journey ahead. Zippers aren’t made to withstand overpacking, and baggage handlers grow more merciless with your bags by the day.

You can attach these to your checked bags to reinforce them against hard tosses and the brutal conveyor belt system that literally punches them from carousel to carousel. And they can be used on carry-on bags to cinch them in at the center. Since there were more than 27-million bags damaged or lost last year alone (with the rates being higher for international flights), I wouldn’t risk it. There’s also a built-in contact tag so you can easily identify your belongings.

What’s the electricity and power supply like Internationally?

This will vary from place to place, but the two main voltages in the world are 110V and 220V. You will want to check your applicances and confirm if they are multi-voltage. Certain items like laptops and phone chargers will work on a variety of voltages and frequencies, but you may require a voltage converter. Things like hair dryers and shavers can be pretty iffy, so I would avoid trying to pack these items which can risk a blown fuse or broken device.

Regardless, you will typically need a universal adapter to reconfigure the shape of your plug to the local socket.

Other FAQs about traveling Internationally

1. do i need a passport or visa to travel internationally.

For American travelers leaving the country, yes, you will need an updated passport. Sometimes, you will be required to have a passport that is valid for more than 6 months beyond the date of your travels. You can renew your passport through Travel.state.gov , and keep in mind that this can take 7-10 weeks of turnaround time, so plan ahead.

Note that there are no substitutions for this and you cannot use a birth certificate, affidavits, or other documents as an alternative for a passport. The only exception to this is if you are not a U.S. citizen, you may use a Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization Certificate.

In most cases, you will not need a visa for short-term travel. Still, be sure to check the visa requirements for your specific destination and confirm if you are required to obtain a visa.

2. Where can you book the best international excursions and tours?

There are many options to choose from, but our preferred platform is Get Your Guide . It’s the perfect intermediary between local experiences and an American business. They find the most popular tours around the world and offer discounted rates (for example, Disneyland tickets are cheaper here than on Disney’s website!) There’s a range of activities from climbing the Eiffel Tower with a historic guide – to taking an authentic cooking class with a nona in Italy.

We also love the flexible cancelation policy, the ability to read reviews and compare experiences, and skip-the-line options for busy tours.

See all Global attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

3. Where can you get the best deals on international flights?

We typically set up a Google Flight alert for destinations we are interested in. This will send you emails when the price drops below an average rate so you can snag deals while they are temporarily available (prices typically change daily). Other good options to look into are Skyscanner, Expedia, Momondo, Hopper, Kiwi, and Kayak.

4. How do I learn about the safety and health requirements for traveling internationally?

You can check Travel.State.Gov for U.S. citizen information on your specific location, such as a traveler’s checklist, required documents, and health mandates. They will often link externally to the CDC’s website , where you can learn about vaccine mandates and enroll in STEP (the Smart Traveler’s Enrollment Program). This allows the government to keep tabs on your travel destinations and support you in any potential emergencies.

5. Will my health insurance cover me outside of the country?

In most cases, no. This includes Medicare and Medicaid. And providers that do offer global coverage typically come with tons of stipulations, so be sure to read your policy closely if you believe you’re covered.

We always recommend travel insurance since it will cover you for specific and common travel issues like flight delays, cancellations, baggage loss, theft, evacuations, the death of a family member, and entire trip cancellations. Faye is an all-digital provider that makes the process seamless, including being wired reimbursements if anything comes up. It can basically make a non-refundable trip – refundable!

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

Asher Fergusson

WhatPlug.info

Guide for the traveller with plugs

How to use plugs from United Kingdom in Italy

Plugs, sockets, adapters and other information needed for travelling from United Kingdom to Italy in this page. If you want a report for other countries, re-start the wizard to find to electric adapters for your trip here .

Quick Chart at-a-glance

If you are electrical savvy, perhaps the previous chart is all you need. If this is not the case, you can continue reading and discover what the chart is saying!

Plugs and Sockets at each country

In United Kingdom the following plugs are used: (includes London, Bath, Oxford, Cambridge, Brighton.)

Considerations for the United Kingdom

It is likely you will only find plugs-type "G" in the UK. Plugs type "D" and "M" are considered "old" and not common. They are are still used nowadays to differentiate low-power lighting circuits. So please don't try to use an adapter on them for high-power equipments like hair-dryer or even battery chargers. We keep "D" and "M" plugs in our database as we don't know your exact destination and you might find one next to a bed table. As a rule of thumb , you will probably be fine with the type "G" in hotels and big cities.

... and in Italy you will use: (includes Rome, Venice, Florence, Milan, Naples, Palermo, Turin.)

Cinque Terre

We have a post " Plugs & Travel Adapters for your next trip to Europe ", maybe you want to read it.

Exact voltage

Perfect! This is very good! You will not need any sort of voltage adapter (they are always big, heavy and they can't handle too much energy. i.e. might have problems with hairdryers). You can plug your devices to the electric network grid in Italy without requiring a voltage adapter.

Different plug systems

Sorry, none of the plugs used in both countries are common. You will definitelly need plug adapters, please continue reading for more information.

Lists of adapters you can use in your travel:

Adapter: generic

This adapter allows you to use plugs type: A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N into outlets type: E, F.

This adapter allows you to use plugs type: A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N into outlets type: L.

This adapter allows you to use plugs type: A, B, D, G, I, M into outlets type: C, E, F, L.

This adapter has a safety protection so you don't plug only one terminal into the adapter while touching the other with your finger, because it is generic, when you buy it pay attention to this safety mechanism. Overall a good adapter that has the earth connection pass-though (notice the metallic connector on the side.)

Adapters you can buy

You can buy the following multi-purpose adapters from Amazon. Please also take a look at the recommended gadgets for your trip.

Equal Hertz

This is the perfect situation. You will not have any clock shift issue with the same Hertz.

Which plug adaptor do I need when travelling from France to Italy?

Search again

The table below summarises the plug types, voltage and frequency of electrical current in both France and Italy.

Plug Adaptors

France uses Plug Type E.

Your Appliance has Plug Type E

In Italy there's more than one socket type in use. You may require more than one adaptor.

Adaptor 1 of 2

Socket Type E (France) to Plug Type F (Italy)

Adaptor 2 of 2

Socket Type E (France) to Plug Type L (Italy)

Good to know

The voltage found in France and Italy is exactly the same (230 V ). You will not need a transformer.

Frequency of Electrical Current

The frequency found in France and Italy is exactly the same (50 Hz ). Timing devices and appliances that use motors will function as expected under this frequency.

Report an error

A first-time guide to Italy

Feb 28, 2024 • 8 min read

One of the best things to do in Italy? Spend time on the water (coast, lake or canal) © Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images

With its iconic monuments, timeless landscapes and irresistible food,  Italy is one of Europe’s most alluring destinations. Its historic cities promise thrilling art and architecture at every turn while its varied coastlines and Alpine heights provide a stunning outdoor playground.

In fact, the country is so packed with possibilities that it can seem almost overwhelming. Where should I go? How do I get there? How much will it cost? This planning guide tackles these questions and provides clear practical advice on how to get the most out of your first Italian trip.

When should I go to Italy?

The short answer is anytime. Spring and fall are best for sightseeing , touring and seasonal food. It’s warm without being stifling and nature is in full color. But with the glorious blue-sky weather come crowds and high-season prices in the main cities.

Summer sees cities empty as holidaymakers head to the coast. Prices skyrocket in popular areas, peaking in mid-August when beaches are packed and resorts full. Meanwhile, the festival season swings into gear with high-profile events such as Il Palio di Siena, featuring a wild bareback horse race around Siena 's Piazza del Campo , and Spoleto’s Festival dei Due Mondi , with musicians, artists and actors performing to passionate throngs.

Winter is generally quiet – except in ski resorts – and it can be wet and cold. But low season rates and empty museums make it a decent option for a city break.

How much time do I need to visit Italy?

Realistically, you’ll need at least two or three days in top cities such as Rome , Florence and Venice . That won’t give you enough time to cover everything, but it will allow you to get a feel for the place and explore some of the headline attractions.

If you’re happy to move fast, you could cover Italy’s highlights on a whistle-stop 10-day tour. That would give you a couple of days each in Venice and Florence, a day in Bologna , Pisa and Naples , and three days in Rome. Alternatively, you could focus on a particular area. For example, with a week you could explore southern Tuscany and parts of neighboring Umbria , or cut a swathe through Sicily’s baroque southeast .

Is it easy to get in and around Italy?

Italy is well served by air with flights from across the world. Major airports include Rome Fiumicino (officially Leonardo da Vinci) and Milan Malpensa , the two main intercontinental gateways, Venice Marco Polo , Pisa International (for Florence and Tuscany), Naples International  and Catania (Sicily’s busiest airport). There are also excellent rail and bus links, especially to northern Italy, and ferries to Italian ports from across the Mediterranean.

Once in Italy, you've got transport options . Trains are best between major cities and along the coasts, while buses are better for the mountains and hilly inland areas. For more remote parts you’ll really need your own wheels. Most major cities have decent public transport, though you can often cover their historic centers on foot.

Top things to do in Italy

Tour rome’s greatest hits.

First port of call for many travelers is Rome, Italy’s charismatic capital. You’ll never be able to cover all of its monuments and masterpieces, but there are some you won’t want to miss. The Colosseum and Pantheon are obvious highlights, along with the Roman Forum and Palatino . Then there’s the Vatican where you’ll find St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel (in the Vatican Museums ). And, of course, you’ll want to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure you return to the Eternal City.

For a taste of authentic Roman cuisine, try a slice of pizza from Forno Roscioli or a pasta carbonara at Flavio al Velavevodetto in the Testaccio neighborhood.

Marvel at masterpieces in Florence

One and a half hours north of Rome by train, Florence is the second of Italy’s ‘big three’ (Venice completes the trio). Visitors have been rhapsodizing about the city for centuries and still today it thrills with its Renaissance palazzi (palaces), frescoed churches and artworks such as Michelangelo's David at the Galleria dell'Accademia , Botticelli’s Birth of Venus at the Galleria degli Uffizi , and Brunelleschi’s red dome atop the landmark Duomo . Art apart, there are markets and boutiques to explore and Negroni cocktails to be sampled, including at the historic Caffè Rivoire .

With more time, you could add a day-trip to Siena or a tour of the Chianti wine country .

Get lost in Venice’s backstreets

As soon as you set foot in Venice you know it’s special. And confusing. To get your bearings take vaporetto (water bus) No 1 along the Grand Canal to Piazza San Marco where you’ll find several landmark sights. Chief among these are the Basilica di San Marco and the Gothic Palazzo Ducale , former residence of the ruling Doge. Elsewhere, you can catch modern art at the world-class Peggy Guggenheim Collection and browse colorful produce at the centuries-old Rialto Market .

To fuel your wanderings, Venice is famous for its cicchetti (bar snacks). A top spot for these is the canal-side Bracaro ae Bricoe bar in the Cannaregio sestiere (neighborhood).

Feast on pizza, art and street life in Naples

With Mt Vesuvius brooding on the horizon, Naples is sprawling, loud, sometimes edgy and often magnificent. Its Dickensian backstreets are a joy to explore and its regal palaces showcase world-class collections of Greco-Roman antiquities and baroque art – check out the Museo Nazionale Archeologico and Cappella Sansevero for a glimpse. Then, of course, there’s the city’s revered pizza, served at historic pizzerias such as Da Michele .

Beyond the city, Pompeii is an easy day trip and the Amalfi Coast is within striking distance via the sunny resort town of Sorrento .

Cruise the Italian Lakes

Ringed by brooding Alpine summits and steep wooded slopes, the Italian Lakes have been a popular holiday spot since ancient times. At Lake Maggiore , you can explore the Isole Borromee with their ornate palaces and lavish gardens, while further east you can go celeb-spotting on Lake Como , cruising around its exquisite villas and villages.

To reach the lakes you’ll often have to pass through Milan , Italy’s northern powerhouse. A day here would be enough to take in some of its signature sights: Leonardo Da Vinci's Last Supper , the fairy-tale Duomo , the Quadrilatero d’Oro shopping district.

My favorite thing to do in Italy

Italy’s obvious beauty and blockbuster sights abound, but what I love are its simple pleasures: a leisurely lunch in a favorite trattoria, the sight of pine trees towering over Roman ruins, a glass of prosecco on a Venetian canal-side.

I also love wandering around Rome and seeing how its life plays out against a backdrop of ancient monuments and historic palazzi . There’s always something going on and even without trying I usually come across something special, an amazing baroque fountain or a teeming market in a medieval square. The city’s streets really are an experience in themselves. I mean where else can you wait for a tram just yards from where Julius Caesar was stabbed?

How much money do I need for Italy?

Italy isn’t cheap. Accommodation rates vary enormously between places and seasons but prices are universally high in popular destinations. That said, you can still find deals if you book early and avoid peak periods. Sightseeing can also add up with top sites charging top dollar. On the plus side, eating out doesn’t have to cost the earth, especially if you stick to pizza and gelato.

Some average daily costs:

• Double room in an agriturismo (farm stay) €40-80
• B&B room €60-140
• Coffee (standing at a bar) €1.10
• Midrange meal €25-35
• Glass of wine €5-8
• Museum admission €10-20
• Public transport ticket (Rome) €1.50 for 100 minutes unlimited travel (but only one metro ride)
• High-speed train ticket Rome to Florence €55

Frequently asked questions

This is italy, so do i have to dress up all the time.

In a word, no. When sightseeing go for comfort, especially when it comes to shoes – you’ll be walking a lot and cobbled streets can be murder on the feet. Note also that major religious sights often enforce dress codes, so make sure you can cover your shoulders, torso and thighs. For going out in the evening, smart casual is the way to go.

What’s the score with tipping?

Tipping is not strictly necessary in restaurants as most places add servizio (service) to the bill. If they don’t or if you want to leave something, a few euros is fine in pizzerias and trattorias; 5% to 10% in smarter restaurants.

What’s this about not drinking a cappuccino after 11am?

Italy has a whole (unwritten) rule book on the dos and don’ts of drinking. As a foreign visitor you’ll get a pass if you order the wrong drink at the wrong time, but it helps to know that Italians regard cappuccinos as breakfast drinks, call an espresso un caffè , and drink beer with pizza.

What’s the card vs cash situation?

Businesses are legally obliged to accept digital payments but it’s always best to have some cash on you. You probably won’t have any problems but it’s not unheard of for payment machines to be mysteriously broken in smaller bars, shops, museums or restaurants. Major credit cards are widely accepted (Amex less so).

This article was first published May 24, 2019 and updated Feb 28, 2024.

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Don’t let a square plug and a round outlet ruin your next vacation

Select independently determines what we cover and recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more. 

A travel adapter is crucial for international travel — without it, you won’t be able to charge most of your electronics. Put simply, travel adapters let you plug your electronics into wall sockets in other countries, says Carl Prouty, a product specialist with over 20 years of sales experience at Abt , an electronics and appliance retailer. (Since Abt sells travel adapters, we only spoke with Prouty about technical shopping guidance, and did not ask for specific product recommendations.)

Travel adapters come in small individual plugs or a single universal adapter, which have multiple plugs built-in. We consulted electronics experts to better understand how they work, and based our recommendations on expert advice, highlighting Select staff favorites as well as top-rated options on the market.

SKIP AHEAD Select staff favorite travel adapters | What is a travel adapter? | What is voltage? | What is a travel voltage converter? | How to shop for travel adapters

Our top picks

• Editor’s pick : Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
• Most portable: Ceptics Travel Plug Adapter

Voltage converter: Foval Travel Voltage Converter

How we picked our favorite travel adapters.

We spoke with electronics experts and asked Select staffers for their favorite travel adapters. We selected products that met the following criteria:

• Compatibility : We picked products designed for multiple regions, focusing on the EU, U.K., and the U.S. in particular.
• Price : We highlighted products across different price points, including small adapters that cost less than $15 and larger converters costing less than $50.
• Top-rated : We considered top-rated products with at least a four-star average rating from over 1,000 reviews on Amazon.

Select-staff favorite travel adapters in 2023

We rounded up the following highly rated travel adapters, universal adapters and voltage converters based on expert advice and Select staff picks that are in line with that advice.

Editor’s pick: Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

I have used this universal travel adapter for over a year to charge small electronics like phones, earbuds , fitness trackers and tablets in the U.S., U.K., France and Italy. This adapter has both USB-A and USB-C ports, so I can charge multiple devices at the same time. Even though this is a travel adapter, I sometimes use it at home in the U.S. when I need to charge my smartphone, earbuds and smartwatch at the same time.

Compatible regions : EU, U.K., U.S., AUS | Ports : 3-prong power plug, USB-A (4), USB-C (1) | Voltage range : N/A, does not convert voltage | Dimensions: 2.8 x 1.97 x 2.05 in.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter $ at Amazon

Budget pick: Mingtong Universal Travel Adapter

CNBC Select associate reporter Andreina Rodriguez uses this adapter when she travels to  Italy, France, Ireland, Greece, Spain, Belgium and the Netherlands. She mostly used it to charge her smartphone or laptop — it charges each one just as quickly as chargers in the U.S. do. Like our editor’s pick, it has multiple USB ports for charging different devices at once.

Rodriguez uses the original version of this product, but there are other versions that offer USB-C charging and extra USB ports if you’re looking to charge other devices.

Compatible regions: EU, U.K., U.S., AU | Ports : 3-prong power plug, USB-A (2) | Voltage range : N/A, does not convert voltage | Dimensions: 3 x 1.5 x 1.9 in.

Mingtong Universal Travel Adapter

Mingtong Universal Travel Adapter $ at Amazon

Most portable: Ceptics Travel Plug Adapter Set

Individual plug adapters are especially useful if you are traveling light. This top-rated set includes five different plugs for countries like the U.S., the U.K., and Australia. Each plug is labeled with the countries and continents you can use it in. It also comes in a slightly larger white version , where each plug has a third metal prong, called a ground port, to protect your device from power surges, according to the brand.

Compatible regions: EU, U.K., U.S., AU | Ports : N/A | Voltage range : N/A, does not convert voltage | Dimensions: Individual plugs

Ceptics Travel Plug Adapter Set

Ceptics Travel Plug Adapter Set $ at Amazon

Consider this converter If you are bringing devices like hair straighteners or curling irons that will need their voltage adjusted while abroad. This voltage converter adjusts incoming electricity to fit the 110 to 120-volt requirement for U.S. electronics to work properly. It can power devices with up to 230 watts of energy — check your device to make sure it uses less than 230 watts.

The converter has fans built in that prevent overheating and short-circuiting, according to the brand. It has four USB ports and two power outlets, making it a good option if you need to charge multiple devices at the same time. It comes with four different plug types and a detachable power cable.

Compatible regions: EU, U.K., U.S., AU, IT | Ports : 3-prong power plug (2), USB-A (4) | Voltage range : 110V — 220V, converts voltage down | Dimensions : 4.82 x 3.13  x 1.47 in.

Foval Travel Voltage Converter

• Foval Travel Voltage Converter $ at Amazon
• Foval Travel Voltage Converter $ at Walmart

What is a travel adapter?

Travel adapters typically come in two shapes: plug adapters and universal adapters.

In America, plug adapters have electrical prongs on one side and two or three pronged U.S. slots on the other. If you are traveling to the U.K., for example, your adapter will plug into rectangular-shaped U.K. outlets, and have slots where you can plug your two or three pronged U.S. devices into the adapter.

Universal adapters contain multiple plug adapters in one base. Typically, different electrical prongs slide in and out of the base via levers or buttons.

Travel adapters are typically intended to charge electronics like smartphones, laptops, headphones and portable batteries , says Sandra Miller, product manager at Ceptics, a travel adapter manufacturer. (Because Ceptics sells travel adapters, we only spoke with Miller about technical shopping guidance, not specific product recommendations).

What is voltage?

“Voltage is essentially the pressure required to push the electrons coming out of the wall socket through the power cord that goes into your device, allowing that device to operate,” says Prouty.

Countries around the world have different voltage ratings for their electricity. North American power outlets use 110 to 120-volts so most electronics made there are designed to operate in that voltage range. Countries outside of North America typically have 220 to 240-volt outlets, and design their electronics to function in that range. 

Products like smartphones, laptops and tablets are exceptions: they operate on a worldwide voltage range — as long as you have the right adapter, you can charge them in most places, according to our experts.

When traveling abroad with other types of devices, you need to match your destination’s plug type as well as its voltage rating in order to safely use your electronics. If you connect a device to an outlet with mismatched voltage ratings, you risk damaging the device, burning it out or causing an electrical fire, says Miller.

All electronics have a voltage rating printed on either the charger or the device itself, says Miller. Larger electronic devices like curling irons, hair straighteners and hair trimmers typically operate at a specific, limited voltage range. If you plan to travel with one of those devices, you will need a travel voltage converter to safely use them.

What is a travel voltage converter?

Voltage converters change the voltage of the outlet at your destination. This is crucial if you want to use single-voltage electronics like hair and curling irons abroad.

Hair and curling irons need a lot more power than small devices like smartphones and earbuds. That’s why travel voltage converters will typically have a power rating, measured in watts (W), that tells you how much power they can deliver to a plugged-in device, says Miller. “For example, a 200W voltage converter is limited to devices that require 200W or less, so you can’t use a 15,000W hair dryer with it,” says Miller. Connecting a device outside the supported wattage range can damage both the device and the voltage converter.

How to shop for travel adapters

To make sure you buy the right adapter for your trip, it’s important to check what kind of electrical plug your destination uses. It’s also a good idea to contact the place you’ll be staying, to ask what kind of outlets they use, says Prouty.

What kind of travel adapter do I need?

There are over a dozen types of common plugs used across the world according to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), a global not-for-profit organization that works to improve international electrical trade and innovations. Each plug type is given a letter, depending on which regions they’re compatible in. 

Many countries share the same plug type — type C plugs, for example, are used across most of Europe. Some countries use different plug types depending on where you are in the country and when the electrical outlets were last updated— Italy uses three types (C, L and F).

Travel adapters, including our recommendations, list the regions they support by name or by plug type letter. Below is a world plugs list from the IEC :

• Type A (two prong) : North America, Central America, Japan
• Type B (three prong) : North America, Central America, Japan
• Type C : Europe (except UK, Ireland, Cyprus and Malta) 
• Type D : India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Namibia
• Type E : France, Belgium, Slovakia and Tunisia among others
• Type F : Germany, Austria, the Netherlands and Spain among others
• Type G : UK, Ireland, Cyprus, Malta, Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong
• Type H : Israel
• Type I : China, Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Argentina
• Type J : Switzerland and Lichtenstein
• Type K : Denmark and Greenland
• Type L : Italy
• Type M : South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho
• Type N : Brazil
• Type O : Thailand

Do I need a voltage converter?

Miller recommends checking the voltage rating of all the electronics you plan to travel with to see if any require conversion. Essential electronics like cell phones, tablets and laptops are typically rated for worldwide (100 to 240) voltage use and do not require conversion. 

The most common travel electronics that require voltage conversion are hair straighteners and curling irons, says Miller. If you plan on using one, pack one with a worldwide voltage rating to eliminate the need for a voltage converter.

If you are traveling with an item that requires voltage conversion, look up the power rating (in watts) of the device, and make sure your voltage converter supports at least that much power output (in watts). For example, an expert-recommended curling iron like the Babyliss Pro Nano is rated for 120 volts and needs 140 watts to operate. 

Meet our experts

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Carl Prouty is a product specialist with over 20 years of experience in consumer electronics sales at Abt . Since Abt sells travel adapters, we only spoke with him about technical shopping guidance, and did not ask for specific product recommendations.
• Sandra Miller is a product manager at Ceptics , a travel adapter manufacturer. Since Ceptics sells travel adapters, we only spoke with her about technical shopping guidance, and did not ask her for specific product recommendations.

Why trust Select?

Harry Rabinowitz is a reporter at Select, and has covered consumer tech for over three years. To better understand travel adapters, he combined his own experience with Select staff recommendations and the advice of electronics experts. He also looked for top-rated models that were versatile and reliable and in line with our experts’ guidance.

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com

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In Europe's Schengen area , your passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of your entry. At present, the Schengen area includes most European Union (EU) countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland.

If you are transiting through Canada or the United Kingdom (UK) enroute to the Schengen area : your passport must be valid for at least six months, even though Canada and the UK do not themselves have the six-month rule. If your passport will expire within six months, airlines may not let you board your onward flight to Europe.

Traveling in Europe

If you plan to travel in Europe, you need to know about the Schengen Borders Agreement, which allows you to move freely within a number of countries without border checks. Tourists, exchange students, and people visiting for business from certain countries, like the United States, can travel in the Schengen area for up to 90 days. The Schengen area includes most EU countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland. It also includes four non-EU countries: Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

Before you travel to the Schengen area, we recommend you do the following:

• Check the expiration date on your passport book carefully before traveling to Europe. Ensure your passport book is valid for at least six months when you enter the Schengen area. This is especially important for minors under age 16 as their passports are only valid for five years. In contrast, U.S. citizen adults aged 16 and older receive passports that are valid for 10 years.
• Always carry your passport book with you when traveling to another country in the Schengen area. Even if there is no border check at that time, officials may reinstate border controls without notice.
• Be prepared to explain your purpose of travel.
• Be prepared to provide proof of sufficient financial resources for the visit.
• Comply with other entry requirements for each country you will visit or transit.

On our Country Information pages , you can find passport validity requirements and other important information for your destination country. If your passport does not meet the Schengen requirements, you may be:

• Refused boarding by the airline at your point of origin or while transferring planes.
• Denied entry when you arrive in the Schengen area, regardless of how long you will stay.

An immigration official will determine if you qualify for visa-free entry to the Schengen area when you first cross any external Schengen border. You will have to present your passport at that time. The officer may deny your entry if you do not qualify.

You should also check passport validity requirements if traveling onward from the Schengen area to a country outside the Schengen area. You can find this information in our Country Information pages.

HOW LONG CAN I REMAIN?

• With a valid U.S. passport book, you can stay up to 90 days in the Schengen area for tourism or business during any 180-day period. You must wait an additional 90 days before applying to re-enter the Schengen area.
• If you plan to stay in the Schengen area longer than three months, contact the embassy of the country where you plan to spend the majority of your time and apply for a visa.

Countries in the Schengen area may reinstate temporary internal or external border control without notice. U.S. citizens should carry their U.S. passport book at all times when entering or leaving the Schengen area. They should also bring it when traveling between Schengen countries.

How can the U.S. government help me if border officials do not let me enter?

• We can give you the contact information of foreign embassies of the countries you wish to visit.
• We can provide information about hiring an English-speaking foreign attorney overseas if you choose to do so.
• Note: We cannot influence a foreign government’s decision about allowing you to enter. We cannot intervene in another country’s criminal or administrative procedures.

What countries are members of the Schengen Borders Agreement?

Click on the country name for more information.

Bulgaria (entering in March 2024)

Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

Netherlands

Romania (entering in March 2024)

Switzerland

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International travel documents for children

See what documents a child needs to travel to or from the U.S. alone or with a parent or relative.

Children traveling to the U.S.

All children, including infants, must have their own travel documents such as a passport or document from a Trusted Traveler Program to enter the U.S. If you travel or are going to travel with a child, consider taking the following documents:

• If the child is traveling with only one of their custodial parents, they must have a letter of consent, preferably in English and notarized, from the other parent or signed by both parents. The letter should say "I acknowledge that my son/daughter is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission."
• If one parent has sole custody of the child, a copy of the custody document can take the place of the other parent's letter.
• Parents who frequently cross the border by land with a minor must always carry a letter of permission from the other parent.

U.S. citizen children traveling abroad

Ports of entry in many countries have security measures to prevent international child abduction . If you are traveling alone with your child, you may be required to present documentation proving you are the parent or legal guardian. You may also need a letter of permission from the other parent for your child to travel. 

If your child travels alone, depending on the country, they may be required to present a notarized letter from both parents or their legal guardian. If a minor is traveling abroad and is not accompanied by both parents or a legal guardian, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you will be visiting and ask about entry and exit requirements for that country.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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