When you're traveling abroad, the last thing you want is a dead phone or laptop battery. To keep your devices charged properly and safely, you will need to make sure you have the right equipment. Different countries have different outlets (different plug shapes, voltages, and/or frequencies), and that may prevent you from charging as you do normally in your country.
First, you will need to make sure you have the right plug shape or prong type to fit in the outlets of the countries you are traveling to. You can take a look at the different plug types here:https://www.worldstandards.eu/electricity/plugs-and-sockets/. You might need to purchase a prong adapter so you can plug your usual wall charger/power adapter into the wall outlet of the country you're visiting.
Your wall charger or power adapter is what you usually use to charge your phone or laptop. It may also be used to recharge your portable charger. An easy way to make sure your wall charger or power adapter is ok to use overseas is to look at the print by the prongs or on the bottom. For example, an iPhone charger will have some text like this:
https://www.apple.com/power-adapters/
This plug has input of 100-240V and 50/60 Hz.
Another example is the ZMI PowerPlug USB-C adapter:
This plug's input is also 100-240V and 50-60 Hz.
These two plugs are acceptable in China (220V, 50Hz), Japan (100V, 50-60Hz), and the US (120V, 60Hz). Take a look at this list of other countries to see if your power adapter will work where you're going: List
To summarize, when you're traveling to a different country, make sure you have the right prong adapter that will fit that country's outlets. And make sure you have a wall charger/power adapter that will accept that country's voltage and frequency. Only when you have the compatible equipment can you begin charging your devices and portable chargers safely without risk of injury to yourself or damage to your devices.
Although we currently do not sell prong adapters, we do provide customers with a variety of travel-friendly wall chargers and portable chargers/battery packs. Please take a look at our store to find a product that will make your next overseas trip a lot easier and smoother.
FAQs
You might need to purchase a prong adapter so you can plug your usual wall charger/power adapter into the wall outlet of the country you're visiting. This plug has input of 100-240V and 50/60 Hz. Another example is the ZMI PowerPlug USB-C adapter: This plug's input is also 100-240V and 50-60 Hz.
How do I charge my phone when traveling internationally? ›
Voltage converters and transformers are used to convert a foreign voltage to the native voltage of your device. Most portable electronics will simply need a plug adapter, but non-portable devices, such as televisions and kitchen appliances, only support the voltage used in the country they're sold in.
Do I need a converter to charge my portable charger? ›
If it says 110-240 volts, it is dual voltage and a converter isn't necessary. If the plug lists just one voltage or the other (110 volts or 220 volts), a converter/transformer will be needed for countries with incompatible electricity.
How do I get my portable charger to charge my phone? ›
Most power banks (aka portable chargers) charge via a USB port, simply connect your device to the USB port and begin charging. Some power banks come with a cable, or a variety of cables, that are detachable. This makes it easy to switch between cables for your iPad, your Samsung phone, or other device.
Do I need a voltage converter for a phone charger? ›
Most common travel electronics are typically rated for worldwide voltage (input AC voltage range: 100-240V), so they should only require the use of an adapter. These items include cell phone chargers, tablet chargers, and laptop chargers.
How do I prepare my cell phone for international travel? ›
If you plan to take your cellphone on your next trip abroad, here are tips to avoid racking up exorbitant international roaming charges:
- Buy a Local SIM Card. ...
- Unlock Your Phone. ...
- Buy or Rent a Mobile Phone. ...
- Add an International Travel Plan. ...
- Use Wi-Fi Only. ...
- Use Communication Apps Over Wi-Fi. ...
- Turn Off Cellular Data.
With Airplane Mode turned on, your device will not be able to connect to cellular service, meaning you will definitely not incur any international roaming charges. But, if you have airplane mode turned on, it also means that you cannot make any calls or send/receive any messages.
What is the difference between a power bank and a portable charger? ›
Power banks are made to be portable, with tiny sizes that fit easily in your pocket, bag, or handbag. They let you charge your electronics wherever you go without a power outlet. While portable chargers are still portable, they may require an external power source, limiting their use in some scenarios.
What are the disadvantages of portable chargers? ›
Cons:
- Slower Charging Speeds: Portable chargers typically offer lower power output compared to wallbox chargers, resulting in longer charging times. ...
- Energy Loss: Charging efficiency can be lower in portable chargers due to energy conversion losses, especially when using lower voltage household outlets.
Use a USB Port to Charge Your Phone
When you have the cord you need, plug the USB end of the charging cable into the USB port. Then plug the other end into your phone. Most USB ports found in airports and some coffee shops provide enough power to charge a standard smartphone.
Power your portable battery charger before use by plugging it into a wall outlet or some other power source until it's fully charged. Then unplug it from the wall outlet. Attach the charging cable to the appropriate port on the portable battery charger, then connect it to the charging port on your mobile device.
Why is my phone not charging on a portable charger? ›
If your power bank doesn't seem to charge your devices properly, there could be several reasons for this. It could be due to a faulty charging cable, a loose connection, or an issue with the power bank's circuitry.
How do you turn on the my charge portable charger? ›
First, recharge your myCharge until at least 1 or more of the LEDs is solid. Then connect your myCharge to your phone or tablet. Next, press (shake for the Razor & Energy Shot) the power button to initiate charging.
What is the difference between a travel adapter and a travel converter? ›
The big difference between an adapter and a converter is electricity. While the purpose of an adapter is to simply help the plugs on your electronics fit into (or more aptly, adapt to the shape of) foreign outlets, a converter's job is to change the voltage found in an outlet to match that of your devices.
What happens if you don't use a voltage converter? ›
If your 110V device is plugged into a 220V power supply, it will be forced to operate at power levels higher than it can tolerate. You might see smoke or a flash, or the fuse could melt and your appliance will be damaged and become inoperable.
How do I know if I need a converter or adapter? ›
If your appliance can only run on 110 – 130 volts, you will need to use a converter. If, however, your appliance is dual voltage you will not need to use a converter. Dual voltage appliances require only a plug adapter and can then be plugged directly into any foreign outlet.
How do I avoid roaming charges when traveling internationally? ›
How to avoid international phone charges. GoAbroad's top tip on how to avoid international phone charges is just to not use data if possible. Turn off roaming, pop your phone on airplane mode, and connect to Wi-Fi instead.
Can I plug my phone into a 220V outlet? ›
It depends on the design of the charger. More sophisticated chargers have an input range from say 100 V to 240 V AC. They can be plugged into either 120V or 220V sockets. On the other hand chargers only designed for say 110 V or 120V AC will be damaged if plugged into a 220V socket.
Do I need to do anything with my cell phone when traveling internationally? ›
Before traveling, consider your available options, including:
- Unlock your phone so you can use a local SIM card. If your mobile phone is compatible with the networks in the other country, contact your carrier and ask to have your phone unlocked. ...
- Rent or purchase a handset. ...
- Use a calling card.
Bringing a portable battery or connecting your charger directly to a provided power outlet is the best way to charge devices on a plane. Make sure your portable battery is allowed on a plane: Lithium-ion batteries can have a max of 100 watt-hours on planes, as per the TSA.
