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Whether this is your first trip out of the country or you are a seasoned traveler, one thing remains true: you need to know what plugs are used in the countries you’re traveling to.
Different countries use different electric plugs for a variety of reasons, but if you’re ill-prepared, you may be left without a way to charge your devices while abroad.
If you’re planning an out-of-country expedition, here’s what you need to know about the plugs used in different countries and what you can bring along for a successful adventure in a new country. Adventure waits for no one. Let’s dive in.
Why Do Electrical Outlets Differ From One Country to Another?
Have you ever wondered why you need to bring a travel outlet adapter while traveling abroad? While having an additional adapter to lug around with you may seem like a hassle, there’s a good reason why different countries use different outlets.
The history of this development is fascinating. When electricity became popular in the early 20th century, countries independently developed unique ways to harness its power. This ultimately resulted in numerous plug and outlet options that varied from place to place.
As time passed, the production of these unique plugs continued in each respective country, and in an effort to not have to rely on an outside source to supply their market, this has carried through to present times.
This independence allows each country to support local industries and ensure that they don’t have to worry about importing any important electric components that continue to be a huge part of modern life.
So, when traveling to a different country, you can see a deep-rooted reason why these plugs vary and may have some voltage and frequency differences.
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What Plugs Does Each Country Use?
Now that you have a better understanding of why different plugs are used, it’s time to explore the location-specific plugs you may encounter in your travels. Doing your research and ensuring you have everything you need before you leave will save you a headache once you arrive at your destination.
Type A & B
These two plug types are most commonly used in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Each has two flattened prongs; the only notable difference between the two is that Type A is ungrounded, and B is grounded.
Type C, E & F
These three plugs are most commonly used throughout Europe, though Type C is more universal than the latter two. Type E and F plugs boast grounding pin features, whereas C plugs do not.
Type D
This plug has three rounded prongs in the shape of a triangle. Type D plugs are most often used in older electrical systems in India, South Africa, and Nepal.
Type G
Similar to Type D plugs, Type G plugs also have three rounded prongs shaped like a triangle. These are used in Ireland, Hong Kong, and Singapore and are designed with high safety in mind. Unlike D plugs, this model is often used in more modernized electric systems.
Type H
You may encounter numerous variations of Type H plugs. The newer versions have three rounded prongs, while the older versions have three flat prongs. While these are most commonly used in Israel and Palestine, it’s important to note that these destinations have also started using C plugs.
Type I
If traveling to Australia, New Zealand, China, or Argentina, you should invest in a Type I plug. These have two flat, slanted prongs in the most basic models, and there may be an option for an additional grounding prong in the more advanced models.
Type J & Type K
These plugs, similar in design to Type C models, have two rounded prongs and offer grounding prongs. They’re used in Switzerland, Denmark, and Greenland.
Type L
Italy and San Marino use Type L plugs, which have three flat prongs in a row. There are variations of this plug, so be sure to know which one you need for your destination.
Type M
Similar to Type D plugs, Type M plugs are used in India, South Africa, and Botswana. These plugs also have three prongs but differ in that the prongs are larger than Type D.
Type N
Type N prongs have two rounded prongs and a grounding prong and are most frequently used in Brazil and South Africa.
Type O
This final type also has three rounded prongs in the shape of a triangle, similar to the Type D and G plugs, but is more often used in Thailand.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Most European countries use the same plugs, which is excellent for travelers planning to stay within the EU. These plugs are typically categorized as Type C, E, or F. While each of these plugs varies in looks, each has two rounded prongs. Type E and F plugs are more advanced versions, though Type C plugs are considered more versatile.
It may be surprising to hear, but no one-size-fits-all plug can be used internationally. That being said, there are tons of universal adapters on the market that you can buy to bring wherever you travel. It’s still in your best interest to research to ensure you have what you need before you arrive.
Type C, Type E, and Type F plugs are used in Europe, though Type C is the most common. Type C, also known as the Europlug, is used in almost every European country, excluding the UK, Ireland, and Malta. This plug is great for traveling through Europe, as it also fits into Type E and F plugs.
Final Thoughts
We hope this guide has helped you better understand why universal travel adapters are so important when traveling abroad. The last thing you want to worry about on your trip is not having access to your phone or mobile device, so be sure to pack what you need and know what plugs you can expect when arriving at each destination. While traveling, make sure to have a backup power plan. The EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus is great in a pinch and can quickly supply you with all the electric power you need.