Top Travel Adapters You Need in 2024

Whether you’re a frequent flyer, digital nomad, or love exploring new countries, a high-quality travel adapter is an essential item to keep your devices powered up. The last thing you want is to find yourself unable to charge your phone, laptop, or camera while on the go. With evolving technology and updated travel needs, having the right travel adapter in 2024 may just save your trip.

This guide highlights our top travel adapter picks, explains why you need one and provides tips for selecting the perfect adapter for your international journeys. Plus, we’ll address some common questions about travel adapters.

Table of contents

• Why you should pack a travel adapter
• Our top picks
• Common types of travel adapters
• Tips for selecting a travel adapter
• FAQs

Why You Should Pack a Travel Adapter

When traveling abroad, electrical outlets and voltage standards vary from country to country. A travel adapter allows you to plug in your devices to foreign outlets, ensuring you can stay connected and powered. There are several strong reasons to always carry a travel adapter:

• Device Compatibility: Charge your smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other essential devices wherever you go.
• Versatility: Most adapters are compact and suitable for use across multiple countries, reducing the need to buy one for every trip.
• Cost Savings: Avoid purchasing overpriced adapters at airports or tourist shops.
• Efficiency: Universal travel adapters often come with multiple ports, enabling you to charge several devices simultaneously.

Now, let's explore the top travel adapters you need in 2024!

Our top picks!

1. TESSAN Universal Travel Adapter with USB+Type C

Source: Shopee

Why We Love It: This adapter is compact yet powerful, working in over 150 countries with type A, type G, type C and type I compatibility (not sure what these mean? Scroll down below!). It allows you to plug in more devices simultaneously PLUS its durable polycarbonate shell and thermal protection layer protects you and your device well.
Product Highlights:
Max Voltage Support: 250V
Dimensions: 5.3cm x 7.1cm x 5cm
Price: S$42.90
What to Consider: It’s not a voltage converter, so avoid using it with high-powered devices like hair dryers.

2. Anker PD 65W GaN 4in1 International Travel Adapter Type C Fast Charging

Source: Shopee

Why We Love It: This all-in-one travel adapter covers US, UK, EU, and AUS plugs, and it can charge up to four devices simultaneously. Its grounded protection and fuse protection features are so safe that the adapter even automatically powers off if it's overloaded!
Product Highlights:
Max Voltage Support: 240V
Dimensions: 8.61cm x 6.60cm x 6.60cm
Price: $99.99
What to Consider: The travel adapter does not support Japan 2 pin and Switzerland plugs.

3. SoundTeoh TA-355 Travel Adaptor

Source: Selffix

Why We Love It: This travel adapter has a flame retardant PC casing, fuse protection (and a spare fuse) and a safety shutter too. Safety is pretty much the benchmark here!
Product Highlights:
Max Voltage Support: 240V
Dimensions: 10.8cm x 5.1cm x 17.6 cm
Price: $42.90
What to Consider: Compatible only with Type C outlets, limiting coverage outside Europe.

4. LENCENT GaN III 65W Universal Travel Adapter

Source: Lazada

Common Types of Travel Adapters

Before purchasing a travel adapter, it’s essential to understand the different plug types and their corresponding regions. Here are some commonly used plug types:

• Type C: Used widely in Europe, except for the UK.
• Type G: Found in Singapore, the UK, and other British-influenced regions.
• Type A & B: Used in North America and Japan.
• Type I: Common in Australia and China.
• Type E/F: Used in Germany, France, and other parts of Europe.

Always check the plug types needed for your destination before travelling.

Tips for Selecting a Travel Adapter

Here’s what to keep in mind when shopping for a travel adapter:

1. Identify the Plug Type for Your Destination: Verify the type of outlet used in your travel destination. 
2. Consider Universal Models: If you travel to multiple countries frequently, a universal adapter is a versatile option.
3. Check for USB Ports: Look for adapters with USB-A and USB-C ports for charging multiple devices.
4. Voltage Considerations: If you’re traveling with devices that don’t support dual voltage, consider purchasing a converter along with your adapter.
5. Size and Weight: Compact and lightweight adapters make packing easy, especially for frequent travelers.
6. Read Safety Features: Look for models with surge protection and built-in fuses to prevent damage to your devices.

FAQs

What travel adapter do I need for Singapore?

Singapore uses Type G plugs, similar to those used in the UK. A universal adapter that supports Type G will work perfectly.

What is the difference between an adapter and a converter?

An adapter allows you to plug your device into a foreign outlet with a differing prong type. A converter, on the other hand, changes the voltage of the outlet to match your device. Most modern electronics (laptops, phones, etc.) are dual voltage and only require an adapter, not a converter.

Are Singapore plugs the same as the UK?

Yes, Singapore uses the same Type G plugs as the UK, which feature three rectangular prongs.

How do I choose a travel adapter?

Start by checking the plug type and voltage of your destination country. Opt for a universal adapter if you travel to multiple regions, and consider one with USB ports for convenience. Ensure it’s lightweight and includes safety features like surge protection.

Read these next:

Best Credit Cards in Singapore 2024: Compare Top Promotions and Deals

Should You Take a Personal Loan for Debt Consolidation, or Use a Debt Consolidation Plan Instead?