Overseas Electricity

It’s generally understood you need a converter in order to use your electronics overseas, but if you’re like me, you don’t know what the numbers and symbols actually mean. Instead of just assuming that if it fits, it’s going to work, follow these tips to charge your gadgets safely.

Adapt

The first thing you probably notice about traveling with electronics is the plugs are different. If your destination runs on the same voltage as home, then all you’re going to need is an adapter plug so your device can fit in. There’s no end to the combinations of prongs and pins in the world, but this site has all the outlet types listed for you.

Convert

The more common problem travelers run in to is voltage. Don’t make the mistake of just shoving a plug in without knowing how many volts you’re running on; it could very well damage your electronics. America uses 120, but 220 volts are common abroad. The United States also operates on 60 Hz, whereas Europe and Asia runs on 50 Hz, though most modern electronics can run on both, just watch out for analog clocks and motors which rely on the frequency to maintain their timing.