There is no question that the travel adapter is one of the most reliable items any traveler could have. It is especially essential if you travel outside of the country on a regular basis. So, what is a travel adapter and why do you need one?
The Need to Convert
The main reason you need to bring a travel adapter when going abroad is that the amount of volts supplied from main power sources differ from one country to another. In the US, the voltage ranges from 110 to 120 volts. In many other countries, however, the range is from 220 to 240 volts, which means they are built for devices with higher voltage range. In order for you to be able to use your gadgets safely abroad, you need to have a voltage converter.
What Kind of Adapter Should You Choose?
When looking for a travel adapter, you first need to check whether your devices are mostly two or three-pronged. Three-pronged devices are grounded, while two-pronged ones are not. Knowing whether your device has a two or three-pronged plug is crucial when shopping for an adapter because it will let you choose the right model that can accommodate your gadgets.
Another thing you would want to consider is whether you are traveling to just a single country or to several different countries. If you are travelling to more than one country, your best move would be to get a universal adapter. This model can accommodate any type of gadget, whether they have two-pronged plugs, or three-pronged ones.
The size of your adapter is also an important factor to consider. If you have multiple gadgets that need to be constantly charged, you will need a big adapter. The problem with big is that it is also bulky. The good news is that there are travel adapters now that are designed so that they are easy to bring on a trip.
Also keep in mind that regular travel adapters do not convert electricity. In most cases, you will need to have to buy a separate converter. Keep this in mind as some travelers confuse the two to be a single item.
Getting Familiar with Voltage by Region
As mentioned earlier, different countries supply different amounts of voltages to power electronic devices. The best way to avoid accidents is by learning which country supplies which amount of voltage. There are many websites that provide you with a guide that you can print and carry along with you on your trips.
Whether you’re traveling for business or are traveling for pleasure, there is no way you can’t enjoy total convenience without a reliable travel adapter. Invest in a high-quality adapter and converter and spare yourself of being surrounded by a cloud of smoke as a result of using incorrect and incompatible devices together.