What Is a Travel Adapter and Why Do You Need One?
For anyone preparing for a trip, especially when considering international travel electronics, understanding the basics of an adapter is key. Pretty much all travelers’ electronic charging needs can be covered with one. These handy devices are small, safe to use, and simply help American devices abroad to fit into the outlets of countries with different plug types, such as those in Europe and Asia. This essential component works for all day-to-day gadgets, including cell phones, laptops, and battery chargers for cameras and GoPros. You can find them easily online on eBay and Amazon, and they are also sold in travel stores and airports (though will probably cost a bit more than those sold online).
Where American Travelers Need Plug Adapters
Knowing the correct plug types by country is crucial for seamless charging. If your travels are taking you throughout North America, Central America, and parts of South America, then you do not need to worry about bringing an adapter since the plugs are just like the ones in the US. Pretty much the whole of Europe uses the same type of plug (this also includes Morocco), while the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland use a different plug type. South Africa has its own type of plug, but European converters will also work there, while Tanzania uses a mix of British and European plugs. When thinking about packing tips for teen travelers, remembering to check these details in advance for their gadgets is important. Depending on where you are going in Asia, you will want to be sure to check the plug types in advance as they vary from China and Japan to South Korea and Southeast Asia. Last, but not least, the plugs in Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji are different to the rest of the world, so be sure to bring the right type of adapter when you journey Down Under.
What Is a Converter and When Should You Use One?
Don’t get tricked into thinking that you need a converter. A converter is much larger and is used to change the current levels in an electronic device, which you don’t need because today’s devices are usually made to be able to take different currents.
Understanding the distinction between an adapter vs converter is vital to protect your devices. A converter is a much larger device designed to change the electrical current level. This is generally unnecessary because today’s modern electronics are typically built to handle varying global currents without requiring a converter.