Travel adapters, often spelled as travel adaptors, are plugging devices designed to connect various compatible electrical or electronic equipment of a specific country to that of another country while travelling. Since different countries have varied electrical outlet types and voltage systems, a travel adapter is a must-have device for travellers, allowing them to charge or power their devices with distinct and area-specific sockets. Travel adopters are highly durable and reliable that operate on different voltages with different shapes. Depending on specific regions, travel adaptors can be of varied types. For instance, US plugs are Type A, while in Europe, they will be Type C, called Europlugs. Additionally, in case your device is not compatible with the voltage of your intended travelling country, you would need a voltage converter to handle multiple voltages.
Adapter and Converter: The Key Difference
As the name indicates, there is a clear difference between these two devices; however, it is still a dilemma where people need clarification on these two terms. Adapters do not convert the device's voltages–adapt or plug electronics into outlets, whereas converters are designed to convert the outlet voltages to match your devices' voltages.
Types of Travel Adapters: Differentiating Universal vs. Region-specific Power Travel Adapters
Travel power adapters come in two basic types, including:
- Universal Travel Adapters – These power adapters are designed to work with multiple plug types with the capability to adjust to different plug configurations and voltage standards. These multi-regional plug adapters provide robust solutions when travelling abroad.
- Region-Specific Travel Adapters – These adapters are tailored for a particular country or region's plug and voltage configurations. Since power outlets and voltage standards vary from country to country, these adapters ensure your devices are safely and adequately powered while travelling internationally.
What Does a Grounded and Non-Grounded Adapter Mean?
A grounded or earthed adapter is typically used for appliances with a 3-prong electrical plug. These adapters feature three pins, one for grounding and two for power, protecting devices by preventing electric shocks.
On the other hand, non-grounded or two-prong adapters can be used with both 2 and 3-prong type sockets. These adapters do not provide a grounding connection, with no guarantee to protect the appliances from electrical surges.
Typical Applications of Travel Adapters
These devices are widely used outdoors for charging or powering various equipment, including:
- Personal Appliances (Hair Dryers, Straighteners, Electric Razors, etc.)
- Tablets
- Cameras
- PCs
- Medical Devices
- iPads
- Gaming Consoles.
