Why a Travel Plug Adapter Should Be in Every Suitcase
May 6th 2025
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, it’s very exciting to see the world and explore new places. But in the modern world, nothing can unravel a trip abroad quite like being unable to charge your devices. This is a fairly common, but entirely avoidable problem when it comes to international travel. Because there is no universal electric outlet, travelers must often bring a travel plug adapter with them to keep their devices charged around the world.
You can avoid ever having to worry about this again by simply adding a universal travel plug adapter to your luggage. So, here is some more information about travel plug adapters, and why they are an essential item.
When Do You Need a Travel Plug Adapter?
If you live in the U.S., you’re accustomed to both Type A (two pin) and Type B (three pin) outlets. While these outlets are not standard across the globe, they are not exclusive to the U.S. either. Most notably, you will not need a travel plug adapter when traveling to Mexico or Canada, as our North American neighbors use the same plug types. Some South American and Caribbean nations, and other countries, like Japan, also use Type A outlets.
However, if you’re traveling to Europe you will almost certainly need a travel plug adapter. A universal travel plug adapter will be necessary if you plan to visit multiple countries across Europe, or travel the globe regularly. For instance, the UK and Ireland use a Type G plug, while France uses Types C and E, and Germany uses Types C and F.
Keeping track of which type of travel plug is needed in which country is too much for most travelers. So simply adding a universal travel plug adapter to your suitcase is the simplest way to avoid a major headache.
Understanding Different Outlets Around the World
So why do different countries use different styles of electrical outlets? The answer to that is a combination of several different factors. First, some countries simply have different standards when it comes to safety and outlet voltage. Another reason is that there simply was no universal standard when electric outlets were first being used around the world.
Additionally, not all countries adopted the widespread use of electricity at the same time. That means many regions around the world developed their own outlets and plugs independently at different times. Today, it would be extremely costly and time-consuming for every nation to convert their entire electrical grid to a universal standard. Thus universal travel plug adapters remain a necessity.
What to Know Before Traveling
If you are going to be traveling internationally, you should always research what types of plugs are used in each region you’ll be visiting. This allows you to plan ahead and be sure that your devices can be charged safely no matter where you are.
While some hotels might provide universal adapters in their rooms, travelers should never rely on this. Having a universal travel plug adapter also allows you to charge your devices anywhere, not just in your hotel room.
Belkin Travel Plug Adapter from Rackfinity
Rather than purchasing different adapters for each plug type, a Belkin travel plug adapter allows you to connect any device anywhere. The Belikin universal travel plug adapter provides interchangeable connectors to fit many of the most commonly used plug types around the world, including Types A, B, C, and G.
Want to learn more? Contact Rackfinity with any questions about which products are right for you, whether you need a Belkin universal travel plug adapter or any other special equipment.