Travel adapter for UK
The UK uses a Type G plug, three rectangular flat pins arranged in a triangle. If you are traveling from the US, Europe, or almost anywhere outside the UK, Ireland, or a handful of other countries, your plug will not fit a UK socket without an adapter.
An adapter only changes the plug shape. It does not change voltage. The UK runs on 230V at 50Hz, which is higher than the 120V used in the US and Canada. Most modern laptop, phone, and camera chargers handle this automatically, check the small print on your charger for "100 to 240V" to confirm. If it only says "120V," you need a voltage converter as well, not just a plug adapter.
The easiest way to avoid getting this wrong is a single adapter built to handle every socket type you will actually encounter, rather than working out plug shapes and voltage limits trip by trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a converter or an adapter for the UK?
Almost always just an adapter. Most phone, laptop, and camera chargers already handle UK voltage. A converter is only needed for older or single voltage appliances like hair dryers and straighteners.
Can I use a EU adapter in the UK?
No. EU plugs use two round pins and will not fit a UK Type G socket. You need a UK specific or universal adapter.
Will one adapter work for the UK and my next trip to Europe?
Yes, if it is a universal adapter rather than a UK only one. A universal adapter switches between plug types instead of covering just one country.
