Travel Adapters
Travel adapters allow you to use your electronic devices when travelling to countries with different plug types. As power outlets vary in shape and configuration around the world, a travel adapter converts your home plug to fit the sockets used in your destination.
Essential for flying abroad, travel adapters help ensure your devices can be safely connected in hotels, airports, and other locations. Find out more about the different regions and the varying plug standards in our comprehensive travel plug adapters guide.
Country Plug Types and Voltage Guide
Plug types and voltage standards vary by region. Below is a general guide to common plug types and voltages used in key regions.
North America
North America typically operates on a 120V supply, with most devices designed for around 110–120V. The standard plug type is Type A, featuring two flat parallel prongs, with Type B adding a third round grounding pin. This plug type is also used in countries such as Japan, Mexico, parts of Central America, and Thailand.
UK and Ireland
The UK and Ireland use a 230V supply, with electrical appliances designed to operate between 220–240V. Power outlets require a Type G plug, which has three flat rectangular prongs arranged in a triangular configuration and includes built-in safety features such as a fuse, insulated sleeves on the live and neutral pins, and a shuttered socket to prevent accidental contact. When travelling to these regions, a travel adapter is required to use devices from countries with different plug types. This plug type is also commonly used in Hong Kong, Malta, and some parts of the Middle East.
Europe
Most European countries operate on a 230V supply, similar to the UK and Ireland, with appliances rated for 220–240V. The most common plug types are Type C and Type F, both featuring two round prongs. These plugs are also used in parts of Asia, including Hong Kong for some older buildings, Africa, and South America.
Types of Travel Adapters
Single Country or Single Region Travel Adapters
Single country or single region travel adapters convert your home plug to fit the power outlets of a specific destination. Designed for one plug type only, they are simple, compact, and ideal for travellers visiting a single country or region, such as using a UK or HK plug type with EU sockets.
Multi Region or Universal Travel Adapters
Multi region adapters, also sometimes known as universal travel adapters, support multiple plug types in one device, allowing use across several countries. They often feature interchangeable or sliding plugs and may include multiple output options, making them convenient for frequent travellers or trips spanning different regions.
Grounded vs Non-Grounded Adapters
Grounded Adapters
Grounded adapters are designed for use with three-prong sockets and provide an earth connection for added safety. While many devices can operate without grounding, a grounded adapter offers extra protection by reducing the risk of electrical faults and improving overall appliance safety.
Non-Grounded Adapters
Non-grounded adapters are compatible with both two- and three-prong sockets but do not provide an earth connection. They are suitable for basic devices and low-risk applications but offer less protection against electrical surges or faults compared to grounded options.
How to Choose the Right Travel Adapters
When selecting a travel adapter, consider these key factors to ensure safe and reliable device use abroad:
- Destination Plug Type and Your Home Plug Type: Match your home plug to the destination socket to ensure a secure and compatible connection.
- Voltage and Frequency Compatibility: Confirm your devices support the local voltage and frequency. Some may need a voltage converter in addition to an adapter.
- Current Rating and Device Power: Ensure the travel adapter can handle your device’s power to prevent overheating or electrical faults.
- Earthing Requirements: Use grounded adapters for three-pin devices; non-grounded adapters suffice for smaller electronics.
How to Order Travel Adapters from RS Hong Kong
Find the right travel adapters in Hong Kong for any destination at RS. As a trusted supplier and distributor, we stock high-quality adapters and accessories from leading brands such as PowerConnections, SKROSS, Korjo Products, and RS PRO. Explore our range to find travel adapters, universal travel adapters, power distribution units, and USB connectors all designed for safe, reliable use at home or abroad.
Purchasing is simple and straightforward. Select the adapters and accessories you need, add them to your basket, and complete your order securely online. For detailed information on delivery times, costs, and coverage across Hong Kong, please visit our Delivery Information page.
