USA travel adaptors
The United States of America entices thousands of tourists every year, who are all looking to discover and explore the country. To make sure you see all the USA has to offer, it’s important to plan your trip, before you set off on your adventure.
USAtravel adaptors: which type do I need?
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Type A - Type B
You will need to consider what to pack, to ensure you can use your personal electrical appliances safely whilst abroad. This normally includes the use of a travel adaptor, which is a device that simply allows you to plug any UK electrical appliance into a foreign electrical socket. It is important to note that it does not convert the voltage or frequency.
For USA there are two associated plug types, types A and B. Plug type A is the plug which has two flat parallel pins and plug type B is the plug which has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. USA operates on a 120V supply voltage and 60Hz.
Voltage converters and transformers
Electricity supplies worldwide can vary from anything between 100V and 240V. It can be extremely dangerous to use an electrical appliance that is rated at a voltage different from the supply.
As voltage can differ from country to country, you may need to use a voltage converter or transformer whilst in USA. If the frequency is different, the normal operation of an electrical appliance may also be affected. For example, a 50Hz clock may run faster on a 60Hz electricity supply. Most voltage converters and transformers come supplied with plug adaptors, so you may not need to buy a separate travel adaptor.
All converters and transformers will have a maximum power rating (AMPS or WATTS) so make sure that any appliance you intend to use does not exceed this rating.
Dual voltage rated appliance
You can determine whether you’ll need to use a converter or transformer, by looking at the appliance rating plate.
A dual voltage rated appliance will display for example ‘INPUT: 110-240V’ on the body of the appliance or its power supply. This means that you will not need a converter or transformer but just a travel adaptor, because the USA operates on a 120V supply voltage, which is within the 110-240V range that the dual voltage appliance operates on.
Single voltage rated appliances
In the USA the supply voltage is 120V. If the appliance or its power supply are not dual voltage rated, the single voltage appliance will have to be used alongside a voltage transformer or converter to allow the appliance to work safely and properly (unless the appliance operates at 120V).
Converters and transformers perform a similar function, but their applications differ. Converters are typically used with appliances that operate for a short duration (1-2hours), whilst most transformers can be used alongside appliances that operate continuously.
It’s important to understand that some travel adaptors are not suitable for any appliances that require an earth connection. These types of travel adaptors should only be used with double insulated equipment, which will be clearly marked with the symbol shown below.
We recommend you check your appliances before embarking on your journey, to understand the requirements in USA.
For information on travel adaptors required for other North American countries, follow one of the links below:
Canada | Greenland | Mexico
FAQs
For USA there are two associated plug types, types A and B. Plug type A is the plug which has two flat parallel pins and plug type B is the plug which has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. USA operates on a 120V supply voltage and 60Hz.
Do I need a travel converter or adapter? ›
For most electronics, American travelers will only need an adapter for their international tour. But, it's very important to check your devices as any that are not dual voltage will also require a converter.
Does a travel adaptor have a safety mark? ›
Power adapters are one of the 33 categories of Controlled Goods under the Consumer Protection (Safety Requirements) Registration Scheme, and are therefore required to carry the SAFETY Mark.
What is the difference between adapter and travel adapter? ›
A power adapter will let you plug your device into an electrical socket that is different from the type used in your home country. These international travel adapters do not convert electricity, they simply allow your device's plug to fit into the foreign outlet.
What type of adapter is used in USA? ›
Type A and Type C are the most used plugs in the world. The U.S. uses Type A and Type B and the U.K. uses Type G.
What is the most common plug type in the US? ›
Plug type B
This plug is common in North America and is also used in places such as Japan, the Philippines and Taiwan.
What is the difference between an adaptor and a 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.
Do cell phone chargers need a voltage converter? ›
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.
Are travel adapters allowed in carry on? ›
Firstly, according to airline regulations, passengers are allowed to carry power adapters when traveling on the plane. Power adapters are often seen as accessories for electronic devices, similar to items such as phones and laptops, and can be placed in a portable suitcase or backpack.
What should I look for in a travel adapter? ›
Other things to consider:
- Fuses: Some travel adapters, converters or transformers have fuses incorporated in them. The fuse acts like a safety net for single voltage devices. ...
- USB ports: Some multi-adapters have built in USB ports. ...
- Packability: Single plug type adapters are your lightest and smallest option.
The Masterplug Safety Rcd Adapter Continuously Monitors Power To An Electrical Device And Cuts Power Within 40 Milliseconds If A Ground Fault Is Detected. This Is Fast Enough To Avoid A Fatal Electric Shock. This Socket Is An Ideal Way To Protect Yourself When Using Portable Power Tools Such As Lawn Mowers And Drills.
Are 2 way plug adaptors safe? ›
One of the biggest problems is that double adapters don't provide any overload protection. This means they can be easily overloaded if you have a high-drawing appliance such as a heater or hair dryer or too many devices running off the same outlet. They can overheat quickly and it's a common cause of house fires.
Is it safe to plug an extension into a travel adapter? ›
Absolutely. I do it all the time. Just make sure your converter has enough power to run all the things you want to plug in.
Do I need a voltage converter for my iPhone? ›
Most modern chargers, including those for iPhones, can handle voltages ranging from 100V to 240V. This adaptability eliminates the need for a voltage converter, simplifying your charging experience.
Can you use European plugs in USA? ›
European plugs are not compatible with American electrical sockets. In order to plug in your electric appliances, you will need a plug adapter or a converter. Otherwise, you will not be able to use your electric appliances during your U.S. road trip (phone charger, camera charger, laptop or tablet, etc.).
Can I use UK plug in USA? ›
Some UK electrical items can be used in the US, but as the UK voltages differs compared to the United States, others can't or will need significant adaptation. The standard UK voltage is 240v, whereas the United States standard voltage is 120v.
Can I charge my phone in the USA? ›
In America, the normal voltage is 120V. You would never connect a phone directly to 110V or 220V. You always connect the phone to a voltage adapter which usually supplies 5V, or 12V or whatever the phone requires. You need to check the label on your adapter (which some people call a “charger”).
Type A 
Type B 
