The Best European Travel Plug Adapters
By Mia Lopez
Tessan International Power Plug
Tried and true
If you're looking for a travel adapter specifically for Europe, you can't go wrong with the Tessan International Power Plug.
Best Overall
The Tessan Power Plug is a straightforward U.S. to European adapter that makes powering devices from the former country in the latter a cinch. It’s vastly less complicated than other, more multi-functional adapters out there, but rather than being a drawback, that simplicity makes it an ideal solution for anyone who only travels to Europe and doesn’t want to fumble with other plugs and parts. It also means it’s extremely lightweight and compact, so you can take it literally anywhere.
Pros:
- Two USB ports
- CE certified
Cons:
- Doesn’t work in Ireland
Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
When it comes to universal adapter plugs, few are as comprehensive as the Epicka Universal, which features enough outlets in enough variations to keep all your devices going, no matter where you’re traveling. It has four USB ports, one USB-C port, and an adapter face that accommodates three different kinds of plugs, not to mention an interchangeable socket that works in the US, UK, Australia and Europe. On top of all that, it’s surprisingly affordable, so you can keep more money in your travel piggy bank for your next trip abroad.
Pros:
- Surge protection
- Comes with carry case
Cons:
- Does not convert voltage
Regvolt Universal 3-Outlet Power Strip
Sometimes a single travel adapter isn’t enough to accommodate your full arsenal of electronics while on a business or work trip. When that’s the case, you need something like the Regvolt Universal Power Strip, which boasts three multi-use outlets and as many USB ports for keeping all your devices up to speed. Each outlet incorporates intelligent charging technology that automatically detects the connected device, whether it’s a laptop or smartphone, and powers it up accordingly, plus is shielded by surge protection.
Pros:
- Long 5 foot power cable
- Compatible with huge range of devices
Cons:
- Not super portable
Bonazza 2000W Voltage Converter Adapter US to Europe
Converts with ease
More than just an adapter, the Bonazza 2000W Voltage Converter will let you power all of your devices, regardless of voltage requirements.
Best Converter
While most electronic devices, such as cell phones and laptops, are dual voltage, many appliances you might find yourself traveling with are not. Things like hair dryers, automatic razors, and electronic toothbrushes usually only accept one voltage, meaning they won’t work with regular adapters. To charge those devices and others, you’ll need a voltage converter like the Bonazza Adapter, which turns the European-standard 220-240 volt current into the US-standard 110-120 volts. And it’s not just for Europe, either, since the interchangeable socket includes four different plug styles.
Pros:
- Sockets are retractable
- Also has adapter mode
Cons:
- Design is somewhat bulky
Inovat 8 PCS American USA to European Outlet Plug Adapter
Simple and compact
Cheap and effective, the Inovat Plug Adapter is one of the simplest solutions to your charging problems available.
Best On A Budget
Whether you’re a budget traveler or you find more complicated adapters too intimidating, the Inovat Plug Adapter will solve your charging problems without hassle. The basic dual-pin model works with both US and European voltage standards, boasts a lightweight, no frills design, and comes in a pack of eight, so you can store one in each of your bags for full coverage. They’re also extremely cheap, so you don’t have to worry if you accidentally lose one or leave it behind in your hotel.
Pros:
- Great value for price
Cons:
- Only accepts type A plugs
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a European travel plug adapter?
Different countries use different voltage standards to power their electronic devices. In the U.S., outlets generally emit a 110 to 120 volt current, and accept either two or three prongs — called Type A or Type B, respectively. In Europe, the standard is higher, from 220 to 240 volts, and the outlets are designed to accept a different kind of two-pronged plug, called Type C. An adapter, then, allows you to charge your U.S.-made devices in Europe by allowing you to use standard U.S. plugs in European outlets.
Do I need a voltage converter, too?
Voltage converters take one current — in the U.S., 110-120 volts — and change, or convert, it to another — in Europe, 220-240 volts. And while many U.S.-made electronics are dual-voltage, allowing them to accept both the standard 110-120 volts in the U.S. and the higher 220-240 volts in Europe, many are single voltage, which means you may need one of these converters to power your devices. Things like cellphones, laptops, and battery packs are generally dual-voltage, while less common appliances like hair dryers, electric razors, and toothbrushes are single-voltage.
About the Author
Eugene is a certified tech nerd and tinkerer. His favorite devices are the Lenovo X230 computer he built and refurbished himself and his Canon EOS RP camera. This well-travelled New Yorker wants to save people time, energy, and money while shopping for products and make sure they end up with the right product for their needs.
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