Whether you’re headed to a historic boutique hotel, a centuries-old B&B, or a modern resort, knowing what to pack (and what not to overload) will save you stress—and having international power adapters will keep your devices powered.
I love an old building as much as anyone—but let’s be honest, the charm can fade quickly when that historic hotel or converted convent doesn’t have outlets where (or as many as) you need them. I’ve been there, and trust me, it’s not fun. That’s why I never travel without a universal international power adapter.
👉 Before you travel, double-check outlet types and voltage requirements for your destination here:Power Plugs & Sockets Worldwide.
Why You Need an International Power Adapter When Traveling Abroad
Old-world charm doesn’t always come with modern convenience. Many older hotels and guesthouses have:
- Only one (!?) or two outlets per room.
- Outlets located behind furniture or in odd corners.
- No outlets by the bed (a dealbreaker for me and my phone charger).
A multi-plug universal adapter / converter (especially one with a bit of a cord) solves all of this. It gives you extra outlets where you need them and ensures your plugs fit in whatever country you’re visiting. This product is my hero piece for power when traveling abroad.
⚠️ Important: Don’t plug high-powered items (like a hairdryer or shaver) into an adapter. Only plan to travel with your smaller electronics such as phones, tablets, and watches. Leave your large electronics at home. They WILL fry and die if you take them abroad (unless they’re specifically labeled as ‘dual-voltage’… but more on that in another post).
Understanding the Difference: Adapter vs. Converter
International Power Adapter (change the plug shape only)
- Lets you plug a device from one country into another country’s outlet.
- Does not change the voltage for multi-country use.
- Best for small items like phones and tablets.
- Travel tip: choose a universal adapter that works in most countries—it saves space and clutter.
- Adapts the plug shape and converts voltage. (but can just act as an adapter… doesn’t HAVE to be for large electronics!)
- Useful for bigger, power-heavy items like curling irons or electric toothbrushes you’ll use in short bursts (not for several hours)
- Still limited—always check your device’s compatibility. Typically only able to handle appliances up to 230 watts. (Which rarely ever includes hair dryers!)
What I Recommend Packing
- 1 Multi-Plug Universal Adapter/Converter – stays in my hotel room for charging overnight and powering bigger devices. (This particular one can handle conversion for devices up to 230 watts)
- Basic Single-Country Adapter (minimum 1) – lightweight and small, for plugging in one item at a time in a single country. Goes in my day bag for quick phone charges while I’m out and about or as a secondary outlet to use away from my larger multi-plug adapter/converter.
- Universal Adapter (minimum 1) – a block that can handle multiple items plugged in at once. A single block version is handy for charging a few devices while in-transit or if you’re moving through multiple countries on one trip. Can adjust to plugs in multiple countries.
Hard-Earned Travel Lesson:
When flying internationally, always keep a universal power adapter in your carry-on bag.
A few years ago, a historic snowstorm rerouted me through three countries in two days. I only had my carry-on—and thank goodness I had packed an adapter with the ability to plug in multiple countries. Without it, I wouldn’t have been able to charge my phone or laptop during those unexpected layovers across a variety of nations! I didn’t see my checked luggage for a week!
I also recommend carrying a portable battery pack for busy airports, long taxi lines, or other situations where outlets aren’t available. (Don’t forget the cord!)
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