Travel adaptors
Travel adaptors allow you to plug any UK electrical appliance into a foreign electrical socket. It is important to note that they do not convert the voltage or frequency.
There are over a dozen different styles of plugs and sockets used throughout the world. Before travelling, make sure you know the socket type used in the country you are visiting.
Some travel adaptors are designed to be used in more than one country but also some are not suitable for appliances requiring an earth connection and should only be used with double-insulated equipment.
Double-insulated or Class II appliances are marked with the double-insulated symbol, marked with two squares, one inside the other. Before plugging an appliance into an adaptor, check it doesn’t exceed the maximum power rating (shown in AMPS or WATTS on the adaptor).
Electricity supplies worldwide can vary from anything between 100 volts and 240 volts; this means it's not always safe to use UK electrical equipment that is rated at a voltage different from the foreign supply. Check before you plug it in (The nominal voltage and frequency of the electricity supply in the UK is 230V 50Hz.)
For safety, all travel adaptors sold in the UK with a UK plug or socket section must meet an electrical safety standard known as BS 8546.
Buying a travel adaptor
Whichever you choose, buy from a reputable retailer rather than a third-party seller online, as the adaptor may not have passed all the necessary safety checks.
ALWAYS
- Do plenty of research first before buying.
- Buy a known and trusted brand from a reputable retailer.
- Always unplug any devices when not in use.
- Check the travel adapter regularly for any signs of damage.
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