March 29, 2024

What to Have in Mind about Power Outlets and Voltages When Travelling Internationally

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When you travel abroad, you don’t worry just about different currencies, languages, and foods— you also have to worry about different electricity voltages and plug shapes. There’s no standard power plug ( ปลั๊กไฟ 3 ตา , which is the term in Thai) or voltage used over the whole world; as a result, if you do not do your research ahead of time, you may not be able to use your electrical devices or worse-you may damage them by plugging them into foreign outlets.

Here are what to have in mind:

Plug Shapes

The most apparent issue you’ll face is the varied electrical socket shapes used in different countries. You’ll need the ideal plug shape, or you won’t be able to plug your electronics into the power outlets in the country you’re visiting.

Voltages and Frequencies

 Different countries also use varied voltages and frequencies of electricity. When you plug in your device, it may be severely damaged if it isn’t rated for the outlet’s voltage.

Check the instruction on your devices to see if they support the voltages you need. For instance, the print on your smartphone or laptop charging adapter. If you see ‘100-240V 50/60Hz’, the adapter is rated to work both in North America and Europe.

If your devices aren’t rated to work with the voltages in the country you’re visiting, you’ll need a “voltage converter” that plugs into the foreign outlet and converts the electricity to a different voltage. All surge protectors are not voltage converters — make sure you’re buying the right one.

Country-Specific Information

Consider both plug shape and voltage before traveling. For more information, surf the countries you’ll be visiting online and check the socket type and voltages they use. You’ll know the kind of adapters and converters you’ll need to purchase ahead of time.

Do your research on socket types and voltages used in countries you are traveling to.

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