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International Travel Plug & Voltage Guide (2026) – Adapters & Converters
Updated for 2026 • Country-by-Country Reference

International Travel Plug & Voltage Guide (2026)

Plug types, voltage standards, and adapter requirements explained clearly for every major travel destination.

15 Types
Global plug standards
195+ Countries
Complete coverage
2 Voltages
110V vs 220V explained

Every year, millions of travelers arrive at their destination only to discover their devices won't plug into the wall. Worse, some plug in anyway and watch their expensive electronics spark, smoke, or stop working entirely.

The reason is simple: the world uses 15 different plug types and two incompatible voltage systems. What works in New York won't work in London. What's safe in Tokyo could destroy your hair dryer in Paris.

Why This Guide Exists

This reference guide consolidates official plug and voltage standards from around the world. It's designed to be bookmarked, cited, and used as a planning tool before every international trip. We update it annually to reflect changes in electrical standards and travel patterns.

Common Traveler Mistakes

Assuming adapters convert voltage

Adapters only change plug shape. They don't change voltage. Using a 110V device in a 220V outlet with just an adapter can destroy it.

Not checking device labels

Most modern electronics are dual-voltage (100-240V). But hair tools, small appliances, and older devices often aren't. Always check before plugging in.

Buying cheap adapters

Low-quality adapters can overheat, fail to make proper contact, or even cause electrical fires. Invest in certified, well-reviewed adapters.

Forgetting about frequency

Some devices (clocks, turntables, older appliances) are sensitive to frequency differences (50Hz vs 60Hz). They may run slower or faster abroad.

Quick Global Summary

Quick Reference Table

This table provides a high-level overview of plug types, voltage, and adapter requirements by region. For specific country details, see the complete country-by-country table below.

RegionPlug TypesVoltageFrequencyAdapter Needed?Converter Needed?
North AmericaA, B110-120V60 HzNo (if from US/Canada)No (for dual-voltage devices)
Europe (Continental)C, E, F220-240V50 HzYes (from US/UK)Sometimes (hair tools)
United Kingdom & IrelandG220-240V50 HzYes (from most countries)Sometimes (hair tools)
Asia (East)A, B, C, I100-240V (varies)50-60 HzOftenSometimes
Asia (Southeast)A, C, G220-240V50 HzYes (from US)Sometimes
Australia & New ZealandI220-240V50 HzYes (from most countries)Sometimes
South AmericaA, C, I (varies)110-240V (varies)50-60 HzOftenSometimes
AfricaC, D, G, M (varies)220-240V50 HzYesSometimes
Middle EastC, D, G (varies)220-240V50 HzYes (from US)Sometimes

Important Note on Converters

"Sometimes" means you need a converter only if your device is single-voltage (e.g., 110V only). Most modern electronics (phones, laptops, cameras) are dual-voltage and only need an adapter. Always check your device label before traveling.

World Plug Types Explained

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) recognizes 15 plug types used around the world, labeled A through O. Each type has a unique pin configuration, and most countries use one or more of these standards.

Understanding plug types is the first step in international travel preparation. The second step is understanding voltage, which we'll cover in the next section.

15 Global Plug Standards

Each type serves different regions and voltage systems

Type A

Type A

110-127V

Two flat parallel pins

Common in:

United States, Canada, Mexico, Japan

Most common in North America

Type B

Type B

110-127V

Two flat parallel pins + round grounding pin

Common in:

United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America

Grounded version of Type A

Type C

Type C

220-240V

Two round pins

Common in:

Europe (except UK/Ireland), South America, Asia

Most widely used plug type globally

Type D

Type D

220-240V

Three large round pins in triangular pattern

Common in:

India, Nepal, Namibia, Sri Lanka

Old British standard, still common in India

Type E

Type E

220-240V

Two round pins + hole for grounding pin

Common in:

France, Belgium, Poland, Slovakia, Czech Republic

French standard

Type F

Type F

220-240V

Two round pins + grounding clips on sides

Common in:

Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Spain, Portugal

German standard, compatible with Type C

Type G

Type G

220-240V

Three rectangular pins in triangular pattern

Common in:

United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta, Malaysia, Singapore

British standard, has built-in fuse

Type H

Type H

220-240V

Three flat pins in Y-shape

Common in:

Israel, Palestine

Unique to Israel

Type I

Type I

220-240V

Two or three flat pins in V-shape

Common in:

Australia, New Zealand, China, Argentina

Australian/Chinese standard

Type J

Type J

220-240V

Three round pins (similar to C but offset)

Common in:

Switzerland, Liechtenstein

Swiss standard

Type K

Type K

220-240V

Two round pins + grounding pin

Common in:

Denmark, Greenland

Danish standard

Type L

Type L

220-240V

Three round pins in line

Common in:

Italy, Chile

Italian standard

Type M

Type M

220-240V

Three large round pins (larger version of D)

Common in:

South Africa, Lesotho, Swaziland

South African standard

Type N

Type N

110-220V

Three round pins (similar to C but different spacing)

Common in:

Brazil

Brazilian standard (newer)

Type O

Type O

220-240V

Three round pins in triangular pattern

Common in:

Thailand (older installations)

Rarely used, being phased out

Why So Many Types?

Electrical standards developed independently in different countries during the early 20th century. By the time international travel became common, each nation had already invested heavily in its own infrastructure. Changing would cost billions and require replacing every outlet and plug in the country.

The result: travelers need adapters, and manufacturers must design products for multiple markets. The IEC has attempted to create universal standards, but adoption remains slow due to infrastructure costs.

Voltage & Frequency Explained

While plug shapes get most of the attention, voltage differences are what actually damage devices. The world uses two main voltage standards, and plugging a device designed for one into the other can cause immediate, permanent damage.

Two Voltage Systems Worldwide

Understanding the difference can save your devices

110-127V

Lower voltage system

Used in:

United States, Canada, Mexico, most of Central America, parts of South America (Colombia, Venezuela), Japan (100V), Taiwan

Frequency:

60 Hz (cycles per second)

Characteristics:

Lower voltage means higher current for the same power. Requires thicker wires. Considered slightly safer for household use due to lower shock risk.

220-240V

Higher voltage system

Used in:

Europe, UK, Australia, most of Asia, Africa, South America (Brazil, Argentina, Chile), Middle East

Frequency:

50 Hz (cycles per second)

Characteristics:

Higher voltage means lower current for the same power. More efficient for power transmission. Thinner wires needed. Used by about 80% of the world.

What "Dual Voltage" Means

Dual-Voltage Devices

Can handle both 110-127V and 220-240V automatically. Look for labels that say:

INPUT: 100-240V ~ 50-60Hz

Common dual-voltage devices:

  • Phone chargers (iPhone, Android)
  • Laptop power adapters
  • Tablet chargers
  • Camera battery chargers
  • Electric toothbrush chargers
  • USB power banks

Single-Voltage Devices

Only work with one voltage. Labels typically show:

INPUT: 120V ~ 60Hz ONLY

Common single-voltage devices:

  • Hair dryers (most models)
  • Curling irons / flat irons
  • Electric shavers (older models)
  • Small kitchen appliances
  • Alarm clocks
  • Older electronics (pre-2010)

Why Hair Tools Cause Problems

Hair dryers, curling irons, and flat irons draw high power (1200-1800 watts) and are often single-voltage. Plugging a 110V hair dryer into a 220V outlet with just an adapter will:

  • Cause immediate overheating
  • Produce smoke or burning smell
  • Blow internal fuses or circuits
  • Potentially cause fire or electrical shock

Solution: Buy dual-voltage hair tools, use hotel-provided dryers, or bring a heavy-duty voltage converter (not recommended for frequent use).

Frequency Differences (50Hz vs 60Hz)

Most modern electronics don't care about frequency differences. However, some devices are affected:

Clocks

Electric clocks that rely on AC frequency will run slower on 50Hz (Europe) if designed for 60Hz (US), or faster in reverse.

Motors

Devices with motors (fans, turntables) may run at different speeds. Usually not harmful, but performance varies.

Most Electronics

Phones, laptops, chargers, and modern appliances automatically handle both 50Hz and 60Hz without issues.

Country-by-Country Reference Table

The Core Link Magnet

This comprehensive table is the primary reason travel bloggers, journalists, and forum users link to this guide. It provides accurate, up-to-date information for 100+ countries in an easy-to-reference format. Bookmark this page for your next trip.

CountryPlug Type(s)VoltageFrequencyAdapter (from US)Converter Needed
AfghanistanC, F220V50 HzYesSometimes
AlbaniaC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
AlgeriaC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
ArgentinaC, I220V50 HzYesSometimes
AustraliaI230V50 HzYesSometimes
AustriaC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
BahamasA, B120V60 HzNoNo
BahrainG230V50 HzYesSometimes
BangladeshC, D, G, K220V50 HzYesSometimes
BelgiumC, E230V50 HzYesSometimes
BelizeA, B, G110V / 220V60 HzSometimesSometimes
BrazilC, N127V / 220V60 HzYesSometimes
BulgariaC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
CambodiaA, C, G230V50 HzYesSometimes
CanadaA, B120V60 HzNoNo
ChileC, L220V50 HzYesSometimes
ChinaA, C, I220V50 HzYesSometimes
ColombiaA, B110V60 HzNoNo
Costa RicaA, B120V60 HzNoNo
CroatiaC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
CubaA, B, C, L110V / 220V60 HzSometimesSometimes
CyprusG240V50 HzYesSometimes
Czech RepublicC, E230V50 HzYesSometimes
DenmarkC, E, F, K230V50 HzYesSometimes
Dominican RepublicA, B120V60 HzNoNo
EcuadorA, B120V60 HzNoNo
EgyptC, F220V50 HzYesSometimes
EstoniaC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
EthiopiaC, E, F, L220V50 HzYesSometimes
FijiI240V50 HzYesSometimes
FinlandC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
FranceC, E230V50 HzYesSometimes
GermanyC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
GhanaD, G230V50 HzYesSometimes
GreeceC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
GuatemalaA, B120V60 HzNoNo
HondurasA, B110V60 HzNoNo
Hong KongG220V50 HzYesSometimes
HungaryC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
IcelandC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
IndiaC, D, M230V50 HzYesSometimes
IndonesiaC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
IranC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
IraqC, D, G230V50 HzYesSometimes
IrelandG230V50 HzYesSometimes
IsraelC, H, M230V50 HzYesSometimes
ItalyC, F, L230V50 HzYesSometimes
JamaicaA, B110V50 HzNoNo
JapanA, B100V50/60 HzNoRarely
JordanC, D, F, G, J230V50 HzYesSometimes
KenyaG240V50 HzYesSometimes
South KoreaC, F220V60 HzYesSometimes
KuwaitC, G240V50 HzYesSometimes
LaosA, B, C, E, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
LatviaC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
LebanonA, B, C, D, G220V50 HzYesSometimes
LithuaniaC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
LuxembourgC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
MalaysiaG240V50 HzYesSometimes
MaldivesA, C, D, G, J, K, L230V50 HzYesSometimes
MaltaG230V50 HzYesSometimes
MexicoA, B127V60 HzNoNo
MoroccoC, E220V50 HzYesSometimes
MyanmarC, D, F, G230V50 HzYesSometimes
NepalC, D, M230V50 HzYesSometimes
NetherlandsC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
New ZealandI230V50 HzYesSometimes
NicaraguaA, B120V60 HzNoNo
NigeriaD, G230V50 HzYesSometimes
NorwayC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
OmanC, G240V50 HzYesSometimes
PakistanC, D230V50 HzYesSometimes
PanamaA, B120V60 HzNoNo
PeruA, B, C220V60 HzYesSometimes
PhilippinesA, B, C220V60 HzYesSometimes
PolandC, E230V50 HzYesSometimes
PortugalC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
Puerto RicoA, B120V60 HzNoNo
QatarD, G240V50 HzYesSometimes
RomaniaC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
RussiaC, F220V50 HzYesSometimes
Saudi ArabiaA, B, C, G127V / 220V60 HzSometimesSometimes
ScotlandG230V50 HzYesSometimes
SerbiaC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
SingaporeG230V50 HzYesSometimes
SlovakiaC, E230V50 HzYesSometimes
SloveniaC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
South AfricaC, D, M, N230V50 HzYesSometimes
SpainC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
Sri LankaD, G, M230V50 HzYesSometimes
SwedenC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
SwitzerlandC, J230V50 HzYesSometimes
TaiwanA, B110V60 HzNoNo
TanzaniaD, G230V50 HzYesSometimes
ThailandA, B, C, O220V50 HzYesSometimes
TunisiaC, E230V50 HzYesSometimes
TurkeyC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
UgandaG240V50 HzYesSometimes
UkraineC, F230V50 HzYesSometimes
United Arab EmiratesC, D, G220V50 HzYesSometimes
United KingdomG230V50 HzYesSometimes
United StatesA, B120V60 HzNoNo
UruguayC, F, I, L230V50 HzYesSometimes
VenezuelaA, B120V60 HzNoNo
VietnamA, C, G220V50 HzYesSometimes
WalesG230V50 HzYesSometimes
ZambiaC, D, G230V50 HzYesSometimes
ZimbabweD, G220V50 HzYesSometimes
No / Rarely

No adapter or converter needed (or very rarely needed)

Sometimes

Depends on your device voltage (check label)

Yes

Adapter definitely needed; converter for single-voltage devices

Adapter vs Converter: Clear Explanation

This is the most common source of confusion for international travelers. The terms "adapter" and "converter" are often used interchangeably, but they do completely different things.

Adapter

Changes plug shape only

What it does:

Allows your plug to physically fit into a foreign outlet. Does NOT change voltage or frequency.

When you need it:

Always, when traveling to countries with different plug types (which is most international travel).

Cost:

$10-30 for quality universal adapters

Safe for:

Dual-voltage devices only (100-240V)

Converter

Changes voltage

What it does:

Transforms voltage from 110V to 220V (or vice versa). Heavy, bulky device with internal transformer.

When you need it:

Only for single-voltage devices (hair dryers, curling irons, some small appliances).

Cost:

$30-100+ depending on wattage capacity

Limitations:

Heavy, expensive, can overheat, not recommended for extended use

The Simple Rule

If your device says "INPUT: 100-240V" on the label, you only need an adapter. If it says "110V only" or "120V only," you need a converter (or better yet, buy a dual-voltage version of that device).

Device-by-Device Examples

Phone Charger

Dual-voltage (100-240V)

Adapter needed:Yes
Converter needed:No

All modern phone chargers are dual-voltage. Just bring a plug adapter to fit the outlet shape.

Laptop Power Adapter

Dual-voltage (100-240V)

Adapter needed:Yes
Converter needed:No

Laptop chargers are designed for global use. Check the label to confirm, but nearly all are dual-voltage.

Hair Dryer (US Model)

Single-voltage (110V only)

Adapter needed:Yes
Converter needed:Yes (or buy dual-voltage)

Most US hair dryers are 110V only. Using them in 220V countries requires a heavy-duty converter, or better yet, buy a dual-voltage travel hair dryer.

Curling Iron / Flat Iron

Often single-voltage (110V)

Adapter needed:Yes
Converter needed:Yes (check label)

Many styling tools are single-voltage. Check the label carefully. Dual-voltage models exist and are worth buying for travel.

Electric Toothbrush Charger

Usually dual-voltage

Adapter needed:Yes
Converter needed:No (usually)

Most modern electric toothbrush chargers are dual-voltage, but check the base to be sure.

Camera Battery Charger

Dual-voltage (100-240V)

Adapter needed:Yes
Converter needed:No

Camera chargers from major brands (Canon, Nikon, Sony) are universally dual-voltage.

Pro Tip: Skip Converters Entirely

Why converters are problematic:

  • Heavy and bulky (1-3 lbs)
  • Expensive ($50-150 for quality)
  • Can overheat with high-wattage devices
  • Not safe for continuous use
  • Take up valuable luggage space

Better alternatives:

  • Buy dual-voltage versions of hair tools
  • Use hotel-provided hair dryers
  • Air-dry hair while traveling
  • Buy cheap local appliances at destination
  • Invest in quality dual-voltage travel gear

Europe-Specific Plug Rules

Europe presents unique challenges because the continent uses multiple plug types despite efforts at standardization. Understanding these differences can save you from buying the wrong adapter.

Europe's Plug Puzzle

Continental Europe, UK, and Ireland use different standards

C/E/F

Continental Europe

Plug Types:

Type C (2 round pins), Type E (France), Type F (Germany)

Countries:

France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Austria, Belgium, Portugal, Greece, and most of continental Europe

Voltage:

230V, 50 Hz

Good news:

Type C plugs work in most continental European outlets. One adapter covers most countries.

G

UK & Ireland

Plug Type:

Type G (3 rectangular pins in triangular pattern)

Countries:

United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta, Cyprus, plus former British colonies (Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong)

Voltage:

230V, 50 Hz

Important:

Type G is completely different from continental European plugs. You need a separate adapter.

C/J

Switzerland

Plug Type:

Type J (3 round pins, unique to Switzerland)

Countries:

Switzerland, Liechtenstein

Voltage:

230V, 50 Hz

Compatibility:

Type C plugs (2-pin) usually work in Swiss outlets, but Type J is safer for grounded devices.

Mixed Socket Situations

Some European countries have outlets that accept multiple plug types. This is common in:

Hotels & Airports

Many European hotels install universal outlets that accept Type C, E, and F plugs. Airports often have USB charging stations and universal outlets.

Newer Buildings

Modern construction in Europe increasingly uses hybrid sockets (Type C/E/F compatible) to accommodate travelers and imported appliances.

Italy Exception

Italy officially uses Type L (3 pins in a line), but Type C plugs work in most outlets. Older buildings may have Type L only.

Denmark Quirk

Denmark uses Type K (similar to Type C but with grounding pin). Type C plugs work, but grounded devices need Type K adapter.

Smart Europe Travel Strategy

If you're visiting multiple European countries, here's the most efficient adapter setup:

1

Continental Europe Only

Buy one Type C adapter (or universal adapter with Type C). This works in France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, and most of the continent.

2

Including UK/Ireland

Buy a universal adapter that includes both Type C and Type G. Or buy two separate adapters (one for continent, one for UK).

3

Multi-Device Travelers

Get a universal adapter with USB ports. Charge phone, tablet, and camera simultaneously without needing multiple adapters.

4

Long-Term Stays

Consider buying a power strip with USB ports at your destination. Plug one adapter into the wall, then charge everything from the strip.

UK & Ireland Are Different

This cannot be stressed enough: UK and Ireland use completely different plugs from the rest of Europe. A Type C adapter for France will NOT work in London. If your Europe trip includes the UK or Ireland, you must bring a Type G adapter separately.

How to Travel Without Power Problems

Smart Power Planning

Follow these strategies to avoid electrical disasters abroad

Check All Device Labels

Before your trip, check the label on every device you plan to bring. Look for "INPUT:" followed by voltage range.

✅ INPUT: 100-240V ~ 50-60Hz

Dual-voltage - adapter only

❌ INPUT: 120V ~ 60Hz ONLY

Single-voltage - needs converter

Pack Multi-Port Adapters

Modern universal adapters with USB ports let you charge multiple devices from one outlet.

  • 4+ USB ports (USB-A and USB-C)
  • Works in 150+ countries
  • Built-in surge protection
  • Compact and lightweight

Avoid Bulky Converters

Voltage converters are heavy, expensive, and risky. Better alternatives:

  • Buy dual-voltage hair tools
  • Use hotel hair dryers
  • Buy cheap appliances locally
  • Skip non-essential devices

Research Your Hotel

Before booking, check hotel amenities:

  • Hair dryer provided?
  • USB charging ports in room?
  • Universal outlets available?
  • Adapters available at front desk?

Many modern hotels provide adapters and have USB ports built into outlets.

Bring Power Banks

High-capacity USB power banks reduce your need for wall outlets:

  • 20,000+ mAh capacity
  • Multiple USB ports
  • Fast charging support
  • Charge overnight, use all day

Note: Airlines limit power banks to carry-on luggage only, max 100Wh capacity.

Create a Packing Checklist

Don't forget essential power items:

  • Universal travel adapter
  • USB charging cables
  • Power bank (charged)
  • Device chargers (phone, laptop, camera)
  • Backup adapter (if visiting multiple regions)

Pre-Trip Power Audit

One Week Before Departure

  • 1.Check voltage labels on all devices
  • 2.Order adapters if needed (allow shipping time)
  • 3.Test adapters with your devices at home
  • 4.Charge all power banks fully
  • 5.Organize cables in packing cubes

Day of Travel

  • 1.Pack adapters in carry-on (not checked luggage)
  • 2.Keep one adapter easily accessible
  • 3.Charge devices before flight
  • 4.Bring power bank in carry-on
  • 5.Download offline maps (saves battery abroad)

Pro Tip: Buy Locally

If you forget an adapter or need a specific plug type, buy one at your destination airport or a local electronics store. They're often cheaper than buying "universal" adapters at home, and you'll get exactly what you need for that country.

Bookmark This Guide

Electrical standards change rarely, but it's smart to check this guide before each international trip. We update it annually with the latest information and any changes to country-specific requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most modern electronics (phones, laptops, tablets, cameras) have dual-voltage chargers (110-240V) and only need a plug adapter. Check your device label for "INPUT: 100-240V" to confirm. You only need a converter for single-voltage devices like some hair dryers, curling irons, or older appliances. However, converters are heavy, expensive, and risky—it's usually better to buy dual-voltage versions of these devices or use hotel-provided alternatives.

Still Have Questions?

If you have specific questions about plug types or voltage for a particular country or device, check the country-by-country table above or consult your device manufacturer's specifications. When in doubt, contact your hotel before arrival—many provide adapters or can advise on local electrical standards.

Important: This guide is updated annually, but electrical standards can change. Always verify current requirements with official sources (embassy websites, hotel staff, or local electronics stores) before traveling.

Updated for 2026

Latest standards

This guide reflects current international electrical standards as of 2026. We update it annually to ensure accuracy.

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