With our increased dependence on electronic gadgets, it is beyond imagination to have a life without them. Whether it is traveling overnight or overseas, carrying particular electronic devices like mobile phones, tablets, or laptops has become essential. Added to it are shaving and hairstyling appliances. However, when traveling overseas, you can encounter troubles due to no standardized international electric voltage, and thus you need to be careful before plugging in your appliance. However, leaving your city with particular preparation can help you survive the trip without frying your appliances’ circuits while still keeping them in use.
Here is what you must know about electricity consumption when traveling:
Adapter Plug
You need first to determine the type of sockets and the voltage standards that the destination country uses. You could refer to the Internet for such information. Once you are aware of the socket, you could purchase an adapter plug to fit that socket. Once at the destination, you can simply plug your device into these adapter plugs, and this adapter plugs into the sockets or the converters. However, you must also be sure of the voltage as adapter plugs to not act as voltage converters and will only enable your device to pluggedintoo the socket.
Single, multi, and dual-voltage devices
Most countries except the United States tend to use a 220-240 voltage range, whereas, in the United States, the content is 100- 120 V. Determine the voltage by reading the label or manual of your device carefully. If it states that the device is single voltage or has only one number before the V with the voltage range between 100-120, do not attempt to plug it in elsewhere, or it may end up damaging your device. In cases where you need to travel with these devices, carry a converter or buy it locally in an electronics store to ensure that your device remains safe. Most modern devices, fortunately, are multi-voltage. They are thus capable of adapting to different voltage ranges. In this case, you may require just an adapter plug. However, certain devices like the hairdryer or shavers can also be dual voltage, requiring you to switch between the voltages manually. If you do not switch manually, you may end up blowing a fuse for the entire room.
Converter
A converter or transformer can help you step up your device’s voltage to suit the higher voltage you may encounter overseas. You will require a converter or a transformer only if you are traveling with devices that are single voltage. To choose a suitable converter, you will need to check the appliance’s label for the wattage and voltage. Being aware of the electrical requirements in different countries will help you keep your devices safe and prepare with the needed adapters or converters, not to be troubled with the machines once you reach your destination.
