Arriving in a new country and discovering your charger doesn’t fit the socket is a classic travel mistake. The good news: a cheap adapter usually solves it. This guide explains plug types and voltage by country, the difference between an adapter and a converter, and which adapter to buy for our top destinations.
Plug and voltage data comes from WorldStandards. Hotels sometimes have different sockets (for example USB ports or universal sockets), but always pack an adapter.
Plug types and voltage by country
| Country | Plug types | Voltage / frequency |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | G | 230 V / 50 Hz |
| France | C, E | 230 V / 50 Hz |
| Spain, Portugal | C, F | 230 V / 50 Hz |
| Italy | C, F, L | 230 V / 50 Hz |
| Germany, Netherlands, Greece | C, F | 230 V / 50 Hz |
| Japan | A, B | 100 V / 50 or 60 Hz |
| Australia | I | 230 V / 50 Hz |
| United Arab Emirates (Dubai) | G | 230 V / 50 Hz |
| USA, Canada | A, B | 120 V / 60 Hz |
| Mexico | A, B | 127 V / 60 Hz |
| Morocco | C, E | 230 V / 50 Hz |
| China (mainland) | A, I | 230 V / 50 Hz |
| India | D, M | 230 V / 50 Hz |
| Indonesia (Bali) | C, F | 230 V / 50 Hz |
| South Africa | C, M, N | 230 V / 50 Hz |
| Brazil | C, N | 127 V or 220 V / 60 Hz |
Source: WorldStandards. Hong Kong and Macau use type G.
Adapter vs converter: what’s the difference?
- Plug adapter: changes the shape of the plug so it fits the socket. It does not change the voltage.
- Voltage converter/transformer: changes the voltage — needed only for devices that don’t support the local voltage.
- Check the label on your charger: “INPUT 100–240V ~ 50/60Hz” means it works worldwide with just an adapter. Most phone, laptop and camera chargers are dual-voltage.
Which devices need a converter?
- Hair dryers, straighteners and curling irons that are single-voltage
- Electric shavers and toothbrushes without dual-voltage chargers (many are dual — check)
- Kettles and small kitchen appliances
A 230 V-only device plugged into a 100–120 V socket (USA, Japan) will be weak; a 110 V-only device plugged into 230 V can be destroyed. Many travellers simply buy a cheap dual-voltage hair tool or use the hotel’s hair dryer.
Which adapter do I need for…
| Destination | Adapter type | Our guide |
|---|---|---|
| Paris, Madrid | Type C/E/F (European) | Paris · Madrid |
| London | Type G (UK) | London |
| Dubai | Type G (UK) | Dubai |
| Tokyo | Type A (two flat pins), 100 V | Tokyo |
| Sydney | Type I (angled pins) | Sydney |
| New York | Type A/B, 120 V | New York |
Should I buy a universal travel adapter?
If you travel to several regions, yes. A good universal adapter has sliding pins for the US, UK, EU and Australia, several USB-A and USB-C ports and built-in surge protection. Look for:
- USB-C Power Delivery (at least 30–65 W if you charge a laptop)
- Safety certification and a fuse
- A compact size that fits recessed sockets (common in Europe)
- No voltage conversion claims — adapters don’t convert voltage
Tips for charging abroad
- Pack one adapter and a multi-port USB charger to charge everything from one socket.
- Bring a power bank in your carry-on (never in checked luggage).
- Buy before you go — airport adapters are expensive.
- Don’t forget it in the hotel socket when you leave!
Add an adapter to our packing checklist, and get data on arrival with a travel eSIM.
More travel tips
- How to find cheap flights
- Do you need travel insurance?
- The ultimate packing checklist
- Travel eSIM guide
- How to book a hotel for less
- Renting a car abroad & IDP
FAQ: Travel adapters
What plug does Japan use?
Type A and B (two flat pins, like the US), at 100 V.
What plug does Dubai use?
Type G — the same three-pin plug as the UK — at 230 V.
What plug does Europe use?
Mostly type C and F (two round pins) at 230 V; France and Belgium also use type E, Italy type L.
Do I need a voltage converter?
Only for single-voltage devices. Most phone and laptop chargers accept 100–240 V and only need an adapter.
What adapter do I need for Australia?
Type I, with two angled flat pins (and sometimes a vertical earth pin).
Is a universal travel adapter worth it?
Yes, if you visit different regions — choose one with USB-C ports and safety certification.
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