plug for europe

Finding the best travel adapter for Europe can be overwhelming. Europe has a wide-variety of outlet types. So knowing the plug for Europe you need to get an adapter for is important. You will also want to take into account if you will need just a travel adapter, or a power converter as well.

Below we will walk you through the best adapter for Europe, and find the ideal one for your next trip.

What are the different types of European outlets?

There are a couple different plugs in Europe that you will need to prepare for. There are the Type-C and E/F which are known to support most of the EU. Plus, Type-G which is used in the UK. And finally, Type-L which is still being used in parts of Italy.

For a complete list of plugs for Europe, checkout this Plug & Socket types list for the world.

Should I get a travel adapter or power converter?

Most American electronics are made to work with 110 volts of electricity. Whereas European electronics are made to work with 220-240 volts. This means that the power outlets in these two locations provide different levels of electricity to power the local electronics.

The majority of modern electronics such as phones, tablets, and laptops have plugs that allow for dual-voltage. This means that they can work with both voltages and will just need an adapter to plug in.

Small appliances, such as hair tools and irons, however are likely not dual-voltage. If you plan on bringing any electronic or small appliance that does not include dual-voltage, you will need an adapter and converter combo to use it. However, even with a converter you will still need to read the instructions carefully to make sure your electronic is listed as being compatible. Keep reading for our favorite travel adapater/converter combo for Europe.

Best Adapter for Frequent European Travelers or Families

This travel adapter plug for Europe is extremely versatile. It includes adapters that are usable for not just Europe, but for much of the world as well. So if your European adventure includes Italy you may want to get an additional one (see below). But for the most part, this will make a convenient and inclusive travel adapter for frequent travelers.

We also love that this Europe outlet adapter acts as a power strip too. This is because it converts the electricity from a single outlet and provides power for up to 3 USA standard AC outlets, 3 USB ports, and a USB-C port. This makes it ideal for families or for longer-term stays where you want to power many items at once.

Includes:

  • 3 outlets
  • 3 USB ports
  • 1 USB-C port
  • 4 foot plug
  • Converts for outlet Type-A, E/F, G, I, and D.

Warnings:

  • Do not use with hair dryers, tools, appliances, or any other items over 230 watts.
  • Not fully compatible with all Italian sockets

Best Europe Outlet Adapter for Solo Travelers

We love this adapter for Europe travel. It’s small size (2.05″ x 1.97″ x 2.80″) makes it perfect for packing. Also, you can retract all of the prongs into the adapter, which helps protect the plug from getting bent or broken during transit.

The all-in-one design also allows you to change the adapter to fit the US, UK, EU, and AU standard outlets. You do this simply by pressing the sliding buttons on the side to hide or enable the required prongs.

Includes:

  • 1 outlet
  • 4 USB ports
  • 1 USB-C port
  • Converts to fit US, UK, EU, and AU standard plugs
  • Converts for outlet Type-A, B, C, C2, E, E/F, G, J, L, I.

Warnings:

  • Do not use with hair dryers, tools, appliances, or any other items over 240 watts
  • May not work with some outlet types in Italy

Best Travel Adapter and Converter for Hair Dryers/Curlers/Straighteners and Steamers

If you plan on traveling with your hair tools or other small appliances, this is the best adapter/converter combo for you. The converter portion is designed to work with popular hair styling tools from Conair, Babylisspro, and Revlon. The converter allows these US tools to step down foreign electricity from 220-240v to 110-120v. Plus, other tools like steamers, irons and electric kettles are also supported by the converter, but be sure to look at the products details for compatibility.

Also, most converters are also known for making a loud humming noise, however this adapter is on the quieter side.

Includes:

  • 1 outlet that works as an adapter (3-prong)
  • 1 outlet that works as a converter (2-prong)
  • 2 USB ports
  • Converts for outlet Type-A, C, G, I.

Warnings:

  • Can’t be used with low-wattage products (0-25W), such as hair clipper, electric shaver, electric toothbrush and dental flossing machine
  • May not work with some outlet types in Italy

Best Adapter for Europe with Apple Products

If you will be traveling to Europe with your Apple devices, this travel adapter is best for you. Basically, this kit of plug adapters work directly with your Apple block power adapter. These are the USB power adapters that typically come with Macbooks. And being able to use my Apple outlet in other countries is so convenient, and provides the fast charging capabilities I’m used to. Plus, it can still charge non-Apple products too.

When you invest so much money into your apple devices, it is worth spending a few extra dollars for this adapter kit. Especially to ensure the best performance and safety of the Apple devices while charging them internationally.

Includes:

  • 7 plug adapters for your Apple power adapter
  • Support outlets in North America, Japan, China, UK, Continental Europe, Korea, Australia, and Hong Kong

Warnings:

  • May not work with some outlet types in Italy

Best Adapter for Italy Travelers

If your travel plans include Italy, it is always best to make sure that your adapter includes Type-L. Because most EU and UK travel adapters do not support this type of outlet that is still popular in Italy, you should pack an additional adapter in case. Basically, this adapter is solely used for type-L outlets, so you will not need this type of plug for Europe outside of Italy.

This adapter is small and easy to pack. Which makes it an ideal additional to my electronic bag when traveling to Europe. It also includes a good number of outlets and protects devices from any power surges.

Includes:

  • 3 outlets
  • 2 USB outlets
  • Supports outlets with Type-L

Warnings:

  • Will not work with countries outside of Italy.
  • May not work with some outlet types in Italy

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