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The Best Travel Plug Adapter

By Geoffrey Morrison

If you want to use electronic devices in a different country, you’ll probably need a travel plug adapter. After spending more than 30 hours researching and testing 14 options, we found the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter to be the best one. It fits four types of outlets, and it has more USB ports than any of its competitors, so it can can charge more devices at higher speeds.

Everything we recommend

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Best universal travel adapter.

With four plugs that will work in most countries, plus faster-charging USB ports (and more of them) than its competitors, this adapter is the best all-around choice.

Buying Options

Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set

The best plug adapter.

Individually, these tiny plug adapters are smaller, lighter, and cheaper than any universal travel adapter. To juice up multiple devices, though, you’d need a separate multiport charger too.

Ceptics Plug Adapter Set

Heavier, but sturdier.

The plugs in this set of five are bigger and heavier than our top pick for plug adapters, but more solidly built.

In a sea of almost-identical travel adapters, the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter stands out, combining the best of the features we were looking for. It contains the three most common international plugs and a US-style plug, which should cover you in the majority of countries around the world. It has the most USB ports—four of the standard USB-A and one USB-C—of any universal adapter we tested, and it could charge more of our devices faster. A replaceable fuse and an included spare should take the brunt of any accidental, unfortunate, or shockingly bad connections. The Epicka is fairly compact and well built, and it even comes with a nylon case.

However, no universal travel adapter is truly universal, and they’re all a lot bulkier and more expensive than simple plug adapters. If you want the smallest adapter possible, or if you’re going someplace where a universal adapter won’t work (more on that in a minute), then a plug adapter could be what you need.

The Ceptics tiny plug adapters are barely larger than the prongs they convert. Small, simple, and cheap, they’re perfect for someone who wants to carry only the adapter they’ll need and who already has a multiport USB wall charger they like. Like our universal adapter picks, this set contains the three most common international plugs and the US plug. However, it also includes a somewhat rarer plug used in some European countries that has two thick, cylindrical prongs. This means that the Ceptics will likely cover you in even more places—as long as you pack the appropriate plug adapter.

These plug adapters are bigger than our top pick for plug adapters, but this means they offer a larger surface for chargers to brace against, which makes them more stable and less likely to fall off the wall. (We’ll call these “ Ceptics White ” to minimize confusion and set them apart from our “Ceptics Black” top pick.) While you can purchase these as a five-pack, which contains basically the same assortment of plugs as the Ceptics Black set, the company also sells, in this same model line, three-packs for nearly a dozen specific regions. So if you’re headed to a country not covered by the so-called universal travel adapters (for example, Brazil , India , Israel , or South Africa ), or if you want to purchase multiple adapters for your gear, there’s probably an option available here.

A note up here, which we’ll discuss in detail below: All of these are adapters only . They do not convert voltage. The majority of your electronic devices only need adapters—the voltage converter is built into the charger itself. (If the device charges via USB, just about any USB port will suffice, though different ports may provide different charging speeds.) Check out Do you need a voltage converter? if you’re curious about these aspects.

The research

Why you should trust us, who should get this, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: epicka universal travel adapter, flaws but not dealbreakers, our pick: ceptics international worldwide travel plug adapter 5 piece set, runner-up: ceptics adapter plug set for worldwide international travel use, do you need a voltage converter, the competition.

In addition to my work here at Wirecutter, I also write about tech and travel for CNET, Forbes, and Wirecutter’s parent company, The New York Times . Perhaps more relevant to this guide, I usually spend a good chunk of each year (global pandemics aside) as a digital nomad, living months at a time in different countries all over the world. My current country count is 50, spread across six continents, and since I travel with a lot of electronics gear for work, being able to plug in is obviously crucial.

I’ve owned and used many different types of universal-style travel adapters, and several different companies’ worth of plug adapters, plus I’ve talked with countless travelers about what they like … or, more important, what they hate. We also got some advice from Wirecutter's Mark Smirniotis, who used to oversee our power devices section.

Do you travel? Are you going to travel sometime in the (near or far) future? Do you want to be able to charge or use electronic devices in a different country? If so, you’re probably going to need a travel plug adapter. There’s a variety of different outlet types around the world, not to mention different voltages and frequencies, so you can’t expect your phone charger to just plug in and work wherever you’re headed. Sure, Canada, Mexico, Japan, and many other countries use the same small pair of prongs as the US, but places like continental Europe, the UK, Australia, India, Russia, and pretty much everywhere else do not.

You have two main choices when it comes to travel plug adapters: the universal-style travel adapters (that’s one device with multiple sets of prongs that you extend and retract) and smaller, individual plug adapters that usually come in sets. Both have pros and cons.

Should you get a universal travel adapter or a simple plug adapter?

Universal travel adapters are for the person who wants one handy adapter that will work in just about every country. You can keep it next to your passport and toss it in your luggage when you’re packing. The ones we considered have USB ports, so you don’t need to worry about bringing a separate charger for anything that charges via USB (think  phones  and noise-cancelling headphones ). However, these are bulky, they have parts that can break, and even the best will take longer to charge your phone or tablet than will a good USB wall charger .

The alternative is small and simple plug adapters. These attach to the prongs of your current USB charger (whether it’s a multiport one or the charger that came with your device) to allow them to fit into a foreign outlet. These can work because nearly every modern charger can adjust to the available voltage in pretty much every country, as long as you can adapt the prongs to fit in the outlet. (More on this in Do you need a voltage converter? ) These are great for people who already have a multiport USB charger they like and don’t want to deal with the additional bulk of a universal travel adapter. Also, these are necessary if you’re traveling to a country that has outlets incompatible with any of the four types included in a universal adapter (which, as that sentence reveals, aren’t actually universal).

The choice between universal travel adapters and individual plug adapters ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both types work, and different people will like or dislike each. If you’re not sure which will be best for you, read each section here closely.

Here’s the big caveat: If you’re planning on bringing something with you that has a motor, a heating element, or a single power cord that leads directly from the plug to the device (i.e. there’s no power brick or wall wart ), it almost certainly won’t work with a travel plug adapter. Most people will only need one of the adapter choices we recommend, but very occasionally there’s a piece of gear that needs a voltage converter. For more on that topic, also check out the voltage converters section below.

Where in the world will your travel plug adapter work?

All universal travel adapters have four different sets of prongs, which cover most countries most Americans tend to travel to. First is the big, wide-blade UK-style plug (often designated "Type G”) . This will work in places like the UK, obviously, and also Ireland, Hong Kong, and some other parts of Asia and the Middle East.

Next is the round Europe-style plug, aka the Europlug (Type C) . However, this is where we run into complications. This plug should work in most of Europe—it was designed, in fact, to fit into a wide range of European outlet types. For instance, parts of Italy, Switzerland, and Denmark each use different plugs from one another. Should this double-round one work in those locations? Yes. Will it? Hard to say. I’ve stayed in places where my Europlug didn’t work, yet it did in the hostel before and the hotel after—all within the same small region of a country. With any luck, if this happens to you, the place you’re staying will have a power strip that will let you plug in, though there’s no guarantee of that.

Third is the angled small-blade style (Type I) found in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and other parts of Oceania, and a few other areas. Some universal adapters have one set of blades for this and the US style—you just manually rotate the blades into the correct position depending on where you are. In our testing, we had no trouble getting them to work.

The last, the small US-style blades (Type A or B) , mean you could use our picks to visit the US and other countries that have the same plugs—if, that is, you’re reading this from outside the US.

What are the places not covered by these four styles? Some parts of Brazil, South Africa, India, and more. I’ve stayed in parts of Italy, for example, that should have Europlugs but only had something called Type L . I’ve stayed in houses in Brazil that had Type N , but the Europlug fit enough to work. In others, it wouldn’t.

To find out which plugs you might need while traveling, refer to the excellent Wikipedia article called Mains electricity by country that shows pictures of (almost) all the possible plugs and outlets, along with a list of the world’s countries and (almost all of) the style or styles they use. This is invaluable information to check before you leave. If multiple plug types are listed for a specific country and you’re staying in an older building, you should probably assume its outlets will require whatever plug isn’t on a universal travel adapter, since these only have the most common, newer varieties of plugs.

Which brings us to perhaps the most important fact: Getting your gear to work in different countries isn’t quite as simple as it should be, and there’s no single solution that’s guaranteed to work for everyone. Our picks should work for you, but you may have some random piece of equipment, or be traveling to some country, for which our “good for most” picks just won’t work. (Case in point: One Wirecutter editor visited Iceland recently. The house she stayed in had outlets unlike anything on Wikipedia’s chart, and the plug adapters she’d used elsewhere in Reykjavik didn’t fit at all. It turns out the mystery sockets belonged to an obscure Italian system from the 1960s that was popular in Iceland for a time. Luckily, the hosts had power strips in the house that her adapters fit into.) We’ll try to mention such potential caveats when we can, but the world is a big place, and when it comes to electricity and wall outlets, there’s a lot of variation. That’s important to keep in mind.

There are approximately 70 billion universal travel plug adapters on the Web. However, after spending 20 hours staring at them, I found there’s only about a dozen basic designs—and countless “companies” selling them. Among those dozen or so actually different products, I saw a few distinctions that helped narrow the field. Since most options had four USB ports, that seemed like a reasonable minimum to require. Their maximum power output, rated in amps, became a determining factor in our rankings. The higher the maximum output, the faster the port will charge your gear.

Some plugs came with a replaceable fuse, which seemed like a good idea, and a few included a replacement for said fuse, which seemed even better. This way, if either you plug the adapter into a sketchy outlet or a roommate at the hostel uses your adapter to plug in their completely necessary portable arc welder, the fuse will go, not your adapter. Then it’s just a matter of swapping in the included spare fuse and you’re good to go.

These fuses have a maximum power rating, and therefore the adapters have a maximum wattage rating. However, you shouldn’t be connecting anything with a high enough power draw to trip these fuses. Check out Do you need a voltage converter? for more information. The short version is that recharging portable electronic devices is fine, but powering anything that has a motor or heats up is not. Nearly every appliance or device has its power draw written on it somewhere , so worst case, you can compare that to what’s listed on the adapter. And so you don’t have to look it up, volts × amps = watts.

The other option we considered and tested is individual plug adapters. These small adapters attach to the prongs of your current charger so they’ll plug into a foreign outlet. In deciding which of these to test, we judged by size and available plug-type options. As you’ll see with our two picks, one is exceptionally small, and the other offers sturdier plugs that are available in a range of plug types that’s wide enough to cover you no matter where in the world you’re headed.

The universal travel adapters are far more similar to one another than they are different. However, getting in a dozen and playing with them for a while revealed that some felt better put together than others. After spending several minutes with each one, forcefully extending the various plugs, slamming them back in, and just being fairly rough with them, I found it easy to tell which felt like they’d last a few trips, and which wouldn’t. None felt like you’d own them for a lifetime. Since none are expensive, though, this didn’t seem like a major issue.

All had a US-style plug, so I tested each one in several outlets around my house—some new, some old. I didn’t find much difference in how they fit and worked. I connected several chargers and plugs to the output side of each adapter as well. Again, not much difference. Last, I checked how bright the LED on each was, since a too-bright LED keeping me awake has been a pet peeve of mine for years. Many USB chargers have LEDs bright enough to practically read from; I eliminated any universal adapter that had this problem.

For the plug adapters, I tried plugging in several devices, as well as inserting them into outlets around my house. I checked how tight the connections were and how they felt overall. Would they fall apart with simple use or perhaps hold up to being tossed around in bags for a few weeks or months?

In reality, the testing for all the adapter types didn’t reveal much variation in terms of performance. These are all remarkably similar products. How they felt to use and their different features played a far bigger role in establishing our final picks.

While all the universal travel adapters we tested included the same three types of plugs (plus the familiar US-style one), they differed in how many USB ports each had and how quickly they could charge—and that’s where the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter excelled. It has five USB ports: four of the standard USB-A size and one of the newer USB-C. (You may not have a USB-C device at the moment, but you likely will in the future.) These will let you charge, say, three phones, two tablets, and—via the adapter’s main plug—a camera battery that has its own wall charger, all at once.

In addition, and just as important, is the maximum power output: 5.6 amps. This was the highest of all the adapters we considered, which means you can charge more of your devices at higher speeds before hitting the max output.

Keep in mind that the maximum output per USB-A port is 2.4 amps, the max on the USB-C port is 3 amps, and if you’re using all five ports you won’t be able to charge every connected device at full speed—it’ll only give you that 5.6 amp output in total . The output is still far lower than what you can get from a decent USB charger combined with our pick for a simple plug adapter (more on that in the plug adapter section , below), but it’s significantly better than most universal travel adapters, which often max out under 3 amps total.

The Epicka has three sliders on one side, with a button on the other to lock/unlock your chosen plug in place. This arrangement feels more secure than the semi-locking or slide-locking system that some other universals use. However, this is plastic-on-plastic, so don’t expect a tank. As these things go, the Epicka feels sturdy. The US and Australia share a pair of prongs—you twist the prongs manually to set them up for an angled Australia-style outlet.

The four regular USB plugs are all on one side, which is tidier than the “flailing gibbon” look of some other universal adapters.

The above details were what put the Epicka at the top of our list, but the adapter has a few other features that are the cherry on top, so to speak. For instance, it comes with a small nylon case and a USB cable with a split end, so it works with either Micro-USB or Lightning devices. While the adapter has an LED to show you it’s working, the glow isn’t so bright as to be a distraction at night.

One last note. There are multiple Epicka universal adapters, and even Epicka can’t keep the names straight. We’ve seen this one called, variously, Universal Travel Adapter, International Travel Adapter, Travel Adapter-2, Universal USB Travel Power Adapter (2018), and even Universal Travel Adapter One Worldwide International Wall Charger AC Plug Adaptor with 5.6A Smart Power 3.0A USB Type-C for USA EU UK AUS Cell Phone Tablet Laptop (Grey). Best to follow the link above. Also, you may find another company selling a twin of this. The Epicka has the most reviews and offers free shipping with Prime. The other options we saw have few or no reviews, or charge outrageous shipping costs.

As with all of these adapters, I wouldn’t expect the Epicka to last forever. Given its locking design and case, it’s probably going to last longer than many others, but all of these are almost entirely inexpensive plastic devices. Just something to keep in mind.

While the prongs themselves felt secure, and being able to lock them into place was nice, it’s entirely possible that the size and weight of the adapter, plus whatever you’ve plugged into it, could pull it out of an outlet. That is, unfortunately, a risk with every universal adapter.

Another risk with any universal adapter—as we mentioned above—is that it’s not going to work where you’re headed. Epicka claims it will work in 150 countries, but there are more than 200 countries (the exact number is harder to pin down than you might realize) . And even in each of those 150 countries, there’s no guarantee that the adapter will work in every outlet in every building. Plug adapters are a somewhat safer bet to work specifically where you’re going, but they have their own downsides, which we’ll discuss below.

Also, while the Epicka is a little smaller than some of the others we tested, all universal adapters are much bulkier than plug adapters. As someone who has spent most of the past several years traveling, I feel plug adapters are far easier and less annoying to deal with. This is largely why we have two recommendations for that category.

The Ceptics Plug Adapter set combines everything we were looking for in plug adapters: small size, solid build quality, and—well, small size is really the thing here. Each adapter is no larger than it needs to be to fit over the American-style prongs of your charger. The plastic feels solid and not flimsy. Each adapter has the region or countries it should be used in written on the side. The five plugs in the set are the same four as you’ll find on the universal adapters recommended above, plus the thicker, round European-style prongs used in parts of France, parts of Asia, and elsewhere.

Though the set comes with a small case, you probably wouldn’t be traveling with the entire set very often. Instead, you’d pack just the specific adapter or adapters you’d be using on each trip. These are for the person who wants to travel as light and as simply as possible. I myself, and my friends who travel frequently, swear by these small, inexpensive adapters. Also, if you have a USB multiport charger you like or a charger that’s especially fast, you can use that charger with just a tiny, almost weightless plug at the end.

However, plug adapters aren’t for everyone, and that’s why they’re not our main pick. For one thing, if you don’t already own a multiport USB wall charger, you’ll still have to get one if you don’t want to carry a charger for each device. Also, depending on what you’re connecting with these plug adapters, your charger or device could wobble and maybe fall out. The connections inside are solid enough that this shouldn’t happen, but it’s possible. Our universal-adapter picks, as well as the other Ceptics set we discuss below, have a larger “face” for your charger to brace against—more like that of a traditional outlet—so there’s less chance of gravity having its way with your gear.

Being small and inexpensive, plug adapters are not built for high-power, high-wattage items, though hopefully we’ve persuaded you to leave those at home . If you’re charging a battery, you should be fine. If you’re running a motor, probably not. Laptops, yes; mini-fridges, no.

Last, these things being so small, you could easily lose them in your bag or leave them behind in an outlet somewhere, if you’re the type of person who loses things. (That’s why I usually keep mine connected to my charger.)

For a hardcore traveler like me, these are my pick. They’re cheap, light, and small, and they work.

Though made by the same company as the Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set—and bearing a confusingly similar name—the plug adapters in the Ceptics Adapter Plug Set for Worldwide International Travel Use are, as you can see, a completely different design. They’re much larger than the other Ceptics (let’s call the previous set Ceptics Black and this one Ceptics White for simplicity). Nonetheless, they’re each smaller than a universal adapter, and they have one key benefit over our top plug-adapter pick: You can purchase them in multipacks for individual regions, including regions beyond those covered by the Ceptics Black set.

The Ceptics White are small, but not as small as the Ceptics Black. That extra size does offer one benefit, however: These adapters have more of a face on the output side, so there’s more surface for your charger to lean against. This means your charger is less likely to fall out. Again, neither set of plugs we tested had loose connections, but this is always a risk, as chargers vary. One other difference: In place of the two-pronged US plug we saw (type A) in our other picks, this set includes the three-pronged grounded version .

The real benefit to the Ceptics Whites, however, is not their physical characteristics. This range is one of your only options if you want to buy a plug adapter for a specific region or country. Headed to India or South Africa ? A universal adapter probably won’t work, but you can get a three-pack of Ceptics that will. You can also buy the offset three-prong and in-line three-prong for Switzerland and Italy, respectively, as well as plugs for Israel and Brazil , both the thin and the thick European plugs, and of course, Australia and UK versions too. They cost less than $10 per set. Any of those links will bring you to a page that lets you choose among plugs for different regions—definitely verify at checkout that you’ve picked the correct ones!

These adapters are ideal for someone headed to a country not covered by a universal adapter, or who has multiple chargers they want to plug in while traveling. They’re not quite as compact as the Ceptics Black adapters, but for most people, this difference in size won’t be an issue. I’ve traveled with these Ceptics plugs for many years, and they show no signs of wear.

Every adapter you see in this guide merely sends the current from the wall directly to whatever you plug into it. These are not voltage converters. Which is to say, if you’re in the UK, whatever you plug into the front of the adapter is going to get the UK’s 220 volts/50 hertz electricity, not the 120 volt/60 hertz that you’d get in the US. Travel plug adapters don’t convert the voltage; they only convert the plug . (Our universal picks do convert the local current to USB voltage, but only for the USB ports.)

However, for the vast majority of people, this is all you need. It’s exceptionally rare that anyone would need a voltage converter anymore. This is because most so-called wall warts, like on your phone charger or your camera’s battery charger, will convert the wall voltage into what it needs automatically.

Take a look at your charger. Somewhere, it should say “100–220V 50/60Hz.” This means it can accept anything between 100 V and 220 V, which covers domestic electricity pretty much everywhere, and either 50 Hz or 60 Hz, which again covers everything. If your charger doesn’t say this, it might not work with a travel adapter. If it only says "120V–60Hz," it will almost certainly not work—or not work correctly—with a travel adapter.

But here’s the other reason we don’t recommend buying a voltage converter: Your device might not work even with one. Anything with a motor (like hair dryers), anything with a heating element (like a clothing iron or a curling iron), or anything with a plug that goes directly to the device (as in no wall wart), probably won’t work in another country regardless of what kind of converter or adapter you bring . The good news is, pretty much every hotel, hostel, and Airbnb will have a hair dryer you can borrow. This is one of those times where we can’t cover everything you might want to bring, but for the vast majority of you, you don’t need a voltage converter. Either it’s not necessary, or the device that needs one won’t work anyway. Worst case, if it’s something cheap and you really need it—a hot pot or an electric kettle, say—consider buying one at your destination.

One occasional exception is electric razors. These often fall into the “single cable, no wall wart, has a motor” category. Which is to say, they probably won’t work without a voltage converter. (Again, check the fine print near the plug or on the device itself.) Many hotels have a shaver plug in the bathroom , with a US-style outlet and US-style 110 volt-or-so voltage. However, not every hotel will have these, and they’re very rare in hostels and Airbnbs. If you need one, best to call ahead and see if your hotel has them. Or use disposables on your trip.

It’s worth noting again for clarity, USB is USB, so if you’re just plugging in a USB cable , unless something is horribly wrong, one USB port’s voltage is the same as any other USB port’s voltage. How fast that port will charge your gear will vary (that’s related to amperage), but unless the charger is faulty, a USB port shouldn’t damage your gear.

We considered many more adapters than those listed here. However, the majority of travel adapters available boil down to just a dozen or so designs sold by myriad companies. We’ve listed two representatives of each of the most common designs, but in most cases, many more exist. Chances are, if it looks similar and has similar specs, it’s probably the same inside.

Universal travel adapters

Askali, Unidapt , others: Only 3.4 amps maximum output, which means it’ll take longer to charge all of your devices.

Bluegogo  (currently unavailable): Only two USB and slower-charging than our picks.

Bonaker: Formerly our runner-up pick, this travel adapter had the usual mix of four plug types to cover you in most countries, but its four USB-A ports were slower than our top pick’s, and it had no USB-C port at all. It’s also since disappeared from Amazon.

Bonazza , Urbo , others: Feels flimsy, even compared with others here. Two-piece design is more cumbersome than helpful. Only 3.4 amps maximum output.

Ceptics Travel Power Strip : The Travel Power Strip combines the interchangeable-plug aspect of the Ceptics Plug Adapter Set with a two-outlet power strip and short extension cord. It also has USB-A and USB-C outputs. If you have multiple non-USB items you want to charge at once—a laptop and a camera charger, for instance—this is a good option. But we think most travelers will prefer the more portable brick design of our picks over this power strip.

Conair Travel Smart : It has only one USB port, with a maximum of 1 amp, but with three outlets, it’s one of the few travel adapters that lets you plug in multiple non-USB devices.

Monoprice Compact Cube Universal Travel Adapter : I own one of these, and it’s fine, but if you’re going the universal route, our picks have USB charging for just a few dollars more. If you don’t need USB charging, our plug-adapter picks are probably better choices. Insten is a similar product but with, apparently, surge suppression built in. But as there’s no way to change the fuse, this is likely one-and-done if you plug in something too powerful.

Mu One (currently unavailable): The Mu offered a much higher power output than other travel adapters: 45 watts, enough to quickly charge even a big-battery device such as a MacBook Air. However, after trying and failing to launch a Mu Two in 2020, the company went out of business. The name and remaining assets were bought by a company called Discovery Club, which seems to be selling off the inventory.

Ougrand (green) : Same shape as the Unidapt, but with a USB-C in place of one of the regular USB connections; 3.4 amp max total.

Huanuo  (currently unavailable): A bit bulky, with three regular USB ports and one USB-C; 3.4 amps maximum.

WGGE , Jollyfit : Only 2.4 amps max, less than either of our picks.

Plug adapters

Bestek Grounded Universal Worldwide Plug : Likely made in the same factory as the Ceptics White plugs, the Bestek set looks the same and is roughly the same price. It offers a wide variety of plug types, but lacks the Type C Europlug that’s common in most adapter sets and usable across most of Europe. (The Europlug was invented to fit into a wide range of European outlet types.) If our Ceptics White pick is sold out, these will also work.

Lewis N. Clark Adapter Plug Kit  (currently unavailable): This kit looks fine, but it is more expensive and has one less plug compared with our Ceptics pick.

Insignia Global Travel Adapter Kit  (currently unavailable): The Insignia has a clever interlocking and compact design, akin to that of the old Flight 001 universal adapter (Flight 001, the specialty travel-gear retailer, is now no longer operating in the US), and the individual plugs feel solid. However, it is expensive compared with our picks, and it doesn’t offer anything that you couldn’t do with our picks just by connecting them end to end (if you wanted to).

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Geoffrey Morrison

Geoffrey Morrison is Wirecutter’s former AV editor, current editor-at-large, and a travel writer and photographer. He covers action cameras, gimbals, travel backpacks, and other gear. He has been to all 50 states and 60 countries, and he is the author of Budget Travel for Dummies and the sci-fi novel Undersea .

Further reading

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We put in another year and tens of thousands more miles of travel to test the best travel gear—and we stand by last year’s choices alongside a few new picks.

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The 10 Best Travel Adapters of 2024

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why trust tripsavvy.

TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

Travel overseas comes with its share of logistical challenges. Charging your devices in Greece or Sweden shouldn't be one of them. Travel adapters allow an electronic device from one country to plug into a differently shaped outlet. For example, U.S. wall outlets require a plug with two flat vertical prongs, while outlets in the U.K. require a plug with a top vertical prong and two bottom horizontal ones. One major heads-up: most adapters do not convert electricity from one voltage to another, which may be a requirement depending on where you're headed.

When selecting products, we considered supported destinations, the number of USB ports, and different price points.

Best Overall

Epicka universal travel adapter.

Packs easily

Quick-charging USB ports

Covers a wide range of countries

Noisy when charging

A travel adapter helps charge your electronic devices on the go, whether you're taking a short trip across the pond or hopping on a worldwide adventure. The Epicka Universal USB Travel Power Adapter offers support for more than 150 countries, including the U.S., Australia, and most of Europe. The universal input design allows a multitude of plug options. The inclusion of four USB-A ports on its front and a USB-C port allows the charging of six devices at a single time. The first set of USB-A ports charge at 2.4 amps, making it ideal for tablets, cameras, and phones for faster charging, while the remaining two ports charge at 2.1 amps, making them better suited for phones only. The adapter's versatility and compact size saved our reviewer from overpacking. Our tester also appreciated the bonus iPhone charger that comes included.

As with many universal adapters, the Epicka is designed with 110-volt devices in mind, so it's not recommended for higher-powered appliances such as hair dryers or flat irons. 

Size: 2.8 x 2 x 2 inches | Weight: 7.2 ounces | Maximum Voltage: 240 volts | USB Ports: 5

Best Budget

Jmfone universal international travel power adapter.

Charges multiple devices at the same time

Small, compact design

Not compatible with high-energy devices

Simple, lightweight, and effective, Jmfone's universal power adapter is ideal for international travel. It covers 160 countries worldwide to support any backpacker's wanderlust. Perfect for phones and laptops, this adapter simultaneously charges up to five devices with its four USB slots and one AC socket. Thanks to the classic one-piece block structure and built-in surge protection, it packs easily and keeps your devices juiced up. We should note that it's not recommended for use with high-power appliances such as hair dryers.

Size: 2 x 2 x 2 inches | Weight: 4.5 ounces | Maximum Voltage: 240 volts | USB Ports: 4

Conair Travel Smart Conair Travel Smart All-In-One Adapter

Fast charging time

Works with dual voltage appliances

Has features to protect devices

Only one USB port

Not compact

For a travel adapter that performs well, can charge more than one device at a time, and is available at a reasonable price, the Conair Travel Smart All-In-One Adapter is a must-have travel accessory. The all-in-one universal adapter has three outlets and one USB port, so you can charge up to four devices simultaneously—making it great for families or those traveling in groups. The adapter has built-in surge protection and works in Africa, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, the Caribbean, Europe, Great Britain, the Middle East, and North and South America . 

Size: 7.3 x 5.4 x 2.6 inches | Weight: 5.44 ounces | Maximum Voltage: 240 volts | USB Ports: 1 

Best Converter Combo

Bonazza bonazza all-in-one world travel plug.

Built-in surge protection

Easy to pack

Easy to use

No USB ports

Traveling outside the U.S. with high-powered electronic devices is always a bit tricky as you need to convert the voltage from 220-240 volts to 110-120 volts. Fortunately, there are options like the Bonazza All-in-One Adapter and Converter, which do exactly that, making travel in more than 150 countries much easier. This all-in-one option offers the comfort of knowing you can use higher-powered devices, such as a hair dryer, without risking a blown fuse.

Beyond hair dryers, this adapter/converter combo is suitable for popular items such as iOS devices, laptops, straighteners, and more. For the input itself, the Bonazza only accepts U.S. standard-type plugs, not international varieties. At just 3 inches and 7.2 ounces, it's also an ultra-portable choice. Our reviewer appreciated the compact size and accompanying travel pouch, noting that it "makes it easy to keep the adapter clean." Our tester also found the adapter incredibly simple, a real bonus compared to other devices.

Size: 2.3 x 2.5 x 2.8 inches | Weight: 3.66 ounces | Maximum Voltage: 240 volts | USB Ports: 0

Runner-Up, Best Converter Combo

Bestek travel adapter and converter.

24-month warranty

Charges seven devices simultaneously

Generous cord length

Not compatible with hair appliances

Widely regarded as a great travel adapter, the Bestek Travel Adapter Converter is a superb combination that provides the best of two important worlds. As an all-in-one solution, the Bestek not only offers three separate international travel adapters covering more than 150 countries, but it also doubles as a 220-volt to 110-volt converter for reducing load and avoiding overheating your most precious travel items. TripSavvy Senior Editorial Director Laura Ratliff states, "Bestek's converter is a must-have when traveling abroad in hotel rooms with minimal outlets."

Capable of charging multiple devices at once, the Bestek adds four USB charging ports for a combined total of 6A output, plus three AC ports. The travel-ready design includes a bag for easy storage and a 5-foot power cable.

Size: 6 x 3 x 1.57 inches | Weight: 1.2 pounds | Maximum Voltage: 240 volts | USB Ports: 4

Best Universal

Ceptics international travel adapter.

Surge protection

Travel-friendly size

Does not convert voltage

When it comes to must-have products while traveling internationally, few items are more important than a universal travel adapter. Supporting worldwide charging in more than 150 countries, the Ceptics Travel Adapter is designed to work with almost any input plug configuration. It can charge as many as five devices simultaneously but works best with tablets, phones, and laptops. The four charging ports—two of which are 2.4 amps and two of which are 2.1 amps—are capable of working with nearly any USB-A device, including Android and iOS, as well as tablets, MP3 players, digital cameras, GPS, and more.

Size: 3 x 2.1 x 2.5 inches | Weight: 5.6 ounces | Maximum Voltage: 240 volts | USB Ports: 4

Most Portable

Targus travel adapter.

Cylindrical design

Worldwide voltage compatibility

This uniquely shaped power adapter from Targus allows you to connect to a wall outlet in North America, the U.K., Europe, Australia, and the Pacific region of Asia. The tube shape holds three interchangeable adapters for AC power cords. About the size of a pepper grinder, it stores easily in a carry-on or duffel bag . Durable polycarbonate plastic material ensures that this model can take all the packing/unpacking, bag dropping, and shoving that accompanies international travel. Note that you won't find any USB ports on this adapter.

Size: 5.6 x 3 x 7.6 inches | Weight: 5.1 ounces | Maximum Voltage: 250 volts | USB Ports: 0

Best User-Friendly

Flight 001 5-in-1 adapter.

Fun, visual organization

Some reviews mention durability issues

Color-coded and lightweight, the Flight 001 travel adapter is as functional as it is attractive. It breaks into four different adapters, separated by bright colors, so you can easily tell which adapter to use in which country you're in. Even more, each universal adapter corresponds to plugs for the U.S., the E.U., the U.K., and Australia and can work in over 150 different countries. The pieces conveniently attach like a cube, with two USB ports capable of charging tablets, cameras, and more.

Size: 4.06 x 2.52 x 2.05 inches | Weight: 6.7 ounces | Maximum Voltage: 240 volts | USB Ports: 2 

Best Compact

Oneadaptr world adapter.

Tested security

Compact and functional

If you want to save on space without sacrificing function, this device is for you. Another classic one-piece adapter, the One World PD sets itself apart by offering fully grounded connections for each plug type to protect against the risk of shock. The sliding toggle controls the North American, the U.K., and Australia/China plugs, while a smaller European plug pops out. It also has three USB-A ports and one USB-C to put out 18 watts. An over-current protection system will automatically shut off any abnormal usage detected. A BS8546 certification guarantees the highest protection. This small but mighty adapter is perfect for phones, tablets, and laptops (which charge best using the AC power adapter).

Size: 2.15 x 2.72 x 2.64 inches | Weight: 6.3 ounces | Maximum Voltage: 240 volts | USB Ports: 3

Best for Apple Users

Apple travel adapter kit.

Built to last

Reduces overall tech load

Trusted company

Not a standalone option

Most of us have strong opinions about our tech gear, especially when it comes to an iconic brand like Apple. If you are a supporter and own several of their products or even just a MacBook, this is a great complementary set of adapters. These plugs use the Apple power adapter brick as a base, so you'll need to have that already for this kit. It contains seven AC plugs with laser-etched labels for quick identification and covers many tourist destinations including Japan, Australia, Europe, Korea, Brazil, and more. As with any brand, there is peace of mind knowing that the accessories come from the same manufacturer for smooth and secure functioning. And, we appreciate that the price range fits right in with the other picks on our list.

Size: 5.3 x 5.3 x 1.9 inches | Weight: 11.2 ounces | Maximum Voltage: 240 volts | USB Ports: 1

When international adventure calls, be prepared with the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter . Its universal input design, USB-A, and USB-C ports simultaneously support up to six devices in over 150 countries. For the ultralight backpacker or the occasional jet-setter, the Jmfone Travel Adapter is a smart, budget-friendly choice.

What to Look For in a Travel Adapter

Destination.

If you want to cut down on bulk, go for a streamlined, single-type converter, though it might only work in some regions. On the other hand, universal adapters will be effective no matter where you wind up—so if you’re a frequent jet-setter, this might be the best option.

There are other benefits to choosing a lighter product, depending on the space you'll be staying in once you arrive. "Because some hotels and homes have outlets in the most unusual locations, make sure that the adapter is not too large or heavy to fit into sunken sockets," says Charlie Cotton, head of operations at millennial group travel company FTLO Travel.

Newer converters now come with USB ports, eliminating the need for the USB-to-outlet converter for charging tablets and phones. In most cases, this means that you can charge more than one device at a time, which is handy for families—everyone’s gadgets definitely add up on the road—or those traveling with multiple devices .

Forking over a ton of money for a converter you’ll only use once a year doesn’t make sense, so go for a price that correlates with how often you travel. That said, buying one before you leave for vacation is almost always cheaper than on the ground.

Many countries use a single plug type throughout. To ensure your adapter is compatible, you must identify the plug type used in the country or countries on your itinerary. World Standards shares a map that details plug types for every country.

A universal adapter allows you to take your devices worldwide with one compact adapter that fits a variety of outlets. A plug adapter fits a single country’s outlets.

A plug adapter updates the shape of your device’s plug to fit the outlet in the country you’re traveling to. It doesn’t convert voltage. A voltage converter adapts the electrical voltage from the device to the outlet. This is valuable because American devices sometimes operate at a different voltage than is available in other countries.

Amber Nolan is a travel writer located in Key West with over 10 years of experience in the travel industry. Her work has been published in USA Today, Jetsetter, Cruise Critic, Frommers, and several other travel publications. She is currently covering tourism for the local Key West newspaper, the Blue Paper. In addition to her research, we also sent several of the products to testers for their feedback. 

In researching what to look for when selecting travel adapters, we spoke to three travel experts. Experts we spoke to included:

• Lydia Mansel , outdoor gear writer at Just Packed
• Charlie Cotton , head of operations at millennial group travel company FTLO Travel
• Laura Ratliff , senior editorial director at TripSavvy

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The 11 Best Portable Travel Chargers

Sarah Schlichter

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia."

Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'—Freya Stark"

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else."

Email Sarah at [email protected] .

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Travelers use their phones for just about everything—from navigating and translating to snapping photos and looking up the nearest place for great sushi—and sometimes there just isn’t enough battery life to get it all done. That’s why a good portable charger is a must-pack. The best portable chargers are lightweight and effective, and many even do double duty to truly earn their spot in your suitcase.

INIU Portable Charger

If you’ve got more than one device to charge on the road, consider this offering from INIU . It features two USB ports so you can power up both your phone and something else (such as a tablet or e-reader, or your companion’s phone). It charges quickly, is compatible with most devices, and weighs less than half a pound. It’s also got a handy LED flashlight.

Smartphone Charging Wristlet

To power up your phone discreetly, tuck it into this wristlet from Uncommon Goods . Made of vegan leather, the bag has a hidden USB power cord inside that will charge most iPhones and micro USB-compatible phones up to 1.5 times. It will automatically power on once connected.

Anker PowerCore 10000

The Anker PowerCore 10000 is one of the most popular portable chargers on Amazon, compatible with both Android phones and iPhones as well as most tablets and laptops. It weighs less than seven ounces and is about the size of a deck of cards, making it easy to pack even if you’re traveling with only a carry-on.

PhoneSoap Go

Calling all germaphobes: You can charge and sanitize your phone at the same time with the PhoneSoap Go . The device uses UV light to kill more than 99 percent of bacteria and is compatible with just about any phone, even larger ones. Though the PhoneSoap Go was designed for phones, it will also sanitize any smaller items that fit into it, such as glasses, keys, or watches.

Auzev Charging Cable Bracelet

Wear charging tech right on your wrist with this innovative bracelet from Auzev . It’s a charging cable for Apple devices that looks like a braided leather bracelet and weighs less than an ounce. See this page for all available sizes.

Metecsmart Power Bank

With a built-in lightning cable, the Metecsmart Power Bank is designed to charge iPhones twice as fast as your phone’s original charging cable. It also has a built-in micro USB port for powering up Android and other devices. Thanks to pass-through technology, it can charge your devices while it’s also charging itself.

BigBlue 28W Solar Charger

Campers and hikers will appreciate this charger from BigBlue , which has multiple solar panels that stretch out nearly three feet to absorb the energy of the sun but then fold up to a relatively compact size when not in use. The included micro USB cable is compatible with most Android phones, some DSLR cameras, and most iPhones and iPads. The charger weighs 1.35 pounds and is waterproof.

Courant Carry Wireless Charger

Sick of traveling with a snarl of cables? It’s not cheap, but the Qi-certified Carry charger from Courant will power up your phone wirelessly. (It does come with a USB-C cable as well, just in case.) Encased in Italian leather, this sleek portable charger comes with a carrying bag and is compatible with a wide range of phones.

Pocket Power 5K Power Bank

This ultra-portable charger from Belkin weighs less than five ounces and measures just 4.86 x 2.49 x 0.51 inches, making it easy to slip into your pocket or purse. Its universal USB port is compatible with a variety of devices, including iPhones and iPads, Galaxy and Google phones, and Apple Watches. One nice feature: a warranty worth up to $2,500 if your device is damaged while connected to the charger.

Mophie Juice Pack

Mophie’s Juice Pack will not only protect your phone but also provide up to 38 hours’ worth of extra power, thanks to a battery built into the case. You can power up the case without cables using any Qi-compatible wireless charger (not included). Cases are available for a variety of iPhones and Galaxy devices.

RapidX X5 Car Charger

The X5 Car Charger is one of the best travel chargers for road trips because it plugs into both cigarette lighters and 12v-24v outlets and can power up to five devices at once. It has an extended USB hub so everyone in the back seat can plug in as well. The charger is compatible with iOS, Android, and other devices.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 8 Genius Ways to Preserve Your Phone’s Battery Life While Traveling
• 8 Innovative Phone Cases and Accessories for Travel
• 5 Smartphone Essentials You Should Never Travel Without

Follow Sarah Schlichter on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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The 9 Best Portable Chargers for Travelers

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There’s nothing worse than getting through the hustle and bustle of airport security only to finally make it to your gate and realize that your phone is out of battery. Searching for an outlet can be a pain and more often than not leaves you stuck hovering over one awaiting your turn. A portable charger offers peace of mind and freedom that airport outlets, hotel lobbies, and coffee shops just can’t supply. Even when you're not traveling, they're useful to have on hand for days when you forget to charge your phone at night or notice it’s running low midday after too much time on Google Maps (or TikTok).

The best portable chargers are compact, portable, and have a battery life that can last you more than one charge (an especially helpful feature for group travel). Read on for full reviews of our editors’ longtime favorites, as well as more recently tested chargers we recommend.

How we tested:

Each new charger was tested for at least three weeks. While testing, we kept these key questions in mind: how long it took to charge devices, how many devices it could charge at one time (and which devices it’s compatible with), and how long it took to charge the charger itself. We also brought them on the road to see how they fared while traveling, and included reviews for chargers we've used long-term.

Can you travel with them?

Yes, portable chargers are safe to travel with, as long as you pack them in your carry-on. They range in size, but even the largest power banks will fit into a carry-on bag or tote.

What are the qualities to look for in a portable charger?

When looking for a portable charger, it’s important to keep in mind the mAh, size, and the devices you plan to charge with it. Some portable chargers have multiple cables that can be plugged directly into your device while others come with built-in ports for USB or USB-C cords. Consider whether you want something specifically for your phone, or a multipurpose power bank that can charge your computer, smartwatch, or earphones, too.

What does mAh stand for?

It stands for milliampere hours which is a unit of measurement that’s used to describe the capacity of a battery. The higher the number, the more battery power you have. Chargers can range from as low as 1,000 mAh to as high as 50,000. For everyday use, it’s fine to get something in the 3,000 to 4,000 range, but we recommend upping the capacity when you’d like to charge more than one device at a time or if you’re looking to use it on a device of five volts or higher.

Editor favorites

Battery capacity: 20,000 mAh Dimensions: 11" x 5" x 2"

I never leave the house without my portable charger. I’m very meticulous about my phone battery and my portable charger is super easy to carry around all day. I’ve had it for five years and have had no use for anything else. It has two ports so I can charge multiple devices at once and it’s small enough to fit in my purse or my fanny pack while traveling. It’s quite thick so you don’t feel like it will break on you. Charging it is easy. There is a small cord that you plug into its side and then plug the charger into the wall, but any type of similar cord will work. It does take a while to charge, about a day if you want it to be full. However, the battery will last you at least three or four charges to your phone. — Kayla Brock , associate social media manager

Battery capacity: 10,000 mAh Dimensions: 6" x 3" x 0.7"

I’ve had this BioLite charger for a year, and while there are smaller versions I prefer for day-to-day use (this one’s less than a pound, but about the same dimensions as my iPhone 13 Pro Max, which is to say a bit bigger than I’d like when carrying it in a purse), it’s a reliable option for trips when you know access to outlets may be infrequent, and can toss it in a backpack or tote. It has two USB slots and one USB-C slot, so I’ve used it to power up other devices like my Kindle, FitBit, and AirPods. You can get two to three full phone charges before needing to plug in the battery park; for more charge time—up to five hours—upgrade to the Charge 80 . — Madison Flager , senior commerce editor

Battery capacity: 10,000 mAh Dimensions: 5" x 2" x 1"

I’ve had this portable charger for about nine months now. I was intrigued to find one that didn’t need a separate charger—it has a fold-down plug that you can stick directly into the wall when it’s running low. I’ve charged my laptop, phone, and even camera with it. It has three built-in fast-charging cables that are compatible with Android and Apple devices, and three different cable ports along the bottom. It usually takes about two to three hours to fully charge and when I’m using it passively that can get me through two charges. It’s on the larger side, about the size of a long bifold wallet. I’ve been able to charge my Apple watch, phone, and camera with it. This is always tucked away in my backpack or tote , especially on longer flights. — Paris Wilson , commerce producer

Battery capacity: 5,000 mAh Dimensions: 5" x 2" x 3"

This charger is one of the first things I put in my bag when I’m on my way out the door, especially if I’m traveling. I’ve used it for about a year now and love it. It's slim which means it fits in all of my purses, even the smallest one, and is very lightweight and easy to carry around. It holds a pretty good charge so you can use it a few times before you need to recharge it. I like that the side shows four little lights which show how much battery life the power bank has left. I also appreciate the design which is pretty cute and much more stylish than any of the other phone banks I’ve used before. — Jamie Spain , travel bookings editor

Battery capacity: 4,500 mAh Dimensions: 3" x 2" x 1"

I never go anywhere—to work, to dinner, to travel—without this tiny portable charger. It’s about the size of my AirPods case or my favorite lipstick, meaning I can pack it in nearly any fanny pack, sling bag, or tote I’m carrying. And while I love it most for its compact size, it also really works—giving my phone a full charge on the go. I’ve been using mine to charge my iPhone for years and have even gifted it to several family members and friends. — Meaghan Kenny , associate commerce editor

Newly tested chargers

Battery capacity: 10,000 mAh Dimensions: ‎5" x 3" x 0.5" Charging power: Two full phone charges

Until being asked to test one for this story, I never really used a portable charger. This was not for lack of need—my phone’s battery is perennially in the orange, and no lifestyle changes or memory tricks have availed in fixing who I am as a forgetful person. Keeping this INIU power bank in my messenger bag has, quite simply, made my life a whole lot easier. The charge comes lightning-fast, and its charging port is the same as required for my Macbook, plus there are two USB out ports so you can charge two devices (even three, if you want to use the charging port as well!) at once. The little paw tracks how charged up it is at any given time, with little toes blinking blue from left to right, which is just icing on the cake. — Charlie Hobbs , editorial assistant, destinations

Pros : Can charge up to three devices at once, slim, charges devices quickly Cons : A bit heavy

Battery capacity: 6,000 mAh Dimensions: 4" x 3" x 0.5" Charging power: One full phone charge

I was very impressed with this ultra-slim power bank. It’s about the size of a credit card and lightweight, easily fitting in my jacket pocket or purse. Conveniently, it features two built-in cables and a USB to charge an iPhone or other devices directly. These small built-in cables can be neatly tucked into the device when you’re not using them, so there’s no need to worry about tangled cords in your tech case. It gives my iPhone a full charge quickly, and can even charge multiple devices at one time. Another feature I love: There’s a small LED light on the device that lets you see how much charge the power bank has left. — M.K.

Pros : Small, built-in fast-charging cables  Cons : Power bank drains quickly

Battery capacity: 5,000 mAh Dimensions: 4" x 3" x 0.5" Charging power: One full phone charge

For weeks, this foldable charger kept popping up on TikTok and Instagram—when I finally got my hands on one, it didn’t disappoint. The credit card-sized portable charger is probably the most compact one I own, and is magnetic, which means you don’t have to pull out a cord or deal with a tangle of wires in your bag or lap when using it. At first, I was doubtful of how strong the magnet would be, and found myself being delicate with my phone when moving through an airport while charging, but over time I’ve gotten used to the durability. I’ve taken it with me on a few recent flights, and have been using the kickstand when watching videos or shows on my phone—though of note, the kickstand angle is better for viewing your phone vertically rather than horizontally. — M.F.

Pros : Compact, good for in-flight or daily use, charges via a USB-C cable Cons : Can only charge a single device at once; requires MagSafe case; gets warm with extended use

Battery capacity: 2,500 mAh power Dimensions: 5" x 3" x 0.5" Charging power: One full phone charge

Calpak is a Traveler team favorite, but I hadn’t had a chance to branch out to more of their travel accessories . Voila, the portable charger that not only charges your devices but is in a beautiful leather luggage tag that you can personalize. I’ve taken it on flights to Barcelona and Cleveland where I was met with different scenarios for each trip. Traveling to a different country, I was concerned that I would run into issues with trying to use an adapter, but that was not the case. It was my saving grace while in the airport, and was an everyday necessity when I was on walking tours. It’s smaller than an iPhone but just as thin, so it can fit into a jacket pocket or crossbody bag. You can only charge one device at a time and while it is helpful, it is not a charger you should rely on for more than a few hours or so. Also if you do decide to use it more as a luggage tag, you'll need to take the charger off before checking in your luggage at the airport. — P.W.

Pros : Small, thin, lightweight Cons : Only charges one device at a time

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The 14 Best Portable Chargers of 2024

We appreciate a good balance of speed and power while on the go.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

There’s nothing worse than grabbing your phone or laptop while traveling and realizing your battery is completely drained. A portable charger is one of the most useful travel items, especially when you find yourself in a tricky situation with no access to an outlet. Whether you’re exploring in a campervan and need a hefty charger to handle your laptop, or boarding a plane and in need of something super compact to charge your smartphone, there’s a portable charger for all types of travelers’ needs so you don’t find yourself in a powerless pickle. 

With so many choices on the market, we’ve narrowed down your search by prioritizing features like weight and size for portability, functionality, power, and battery capacity. These are the 14 best portable chargers of 2024 to make sure you stay connected wherever you go.

Best Overall

Nimble champ portable charger.

It’s lightweight and pocket-sized.

If you need more capacity, consider upgrading to the Pro version which provides 20,000 mAh.

The Nimble Champ is “smaller than a deck of cards” and incredibly lightweight, making it an ideal travel companion. This tiny but mighty backup charger comes in a spectrum of colors, allowing you to match it to your personality. It’s also extremely functional, with the ability to charge two devices at once and compatibility with a wide array of phones, tablets, Apple MacBooks, and fitness trackers. The dual USB-C power delivery offers high-speed charging to almost any device and the capacity to charge most smartphones up to three times. In fact, with this charger, you can get your smartphone back up to an 80 percent charge in just half an hour. The included lanyard makes it easy to tote around, whether on your wrist or attached to your bag. We also love that it’s crafted out of 90 percent certified recycled plastics with a free e-waste recycling option for your old, unused devices.

The Details: 3.38 x 2.28 x 0.98 inches  | 6.2 ounces | 10,000 mAh | 1 USB-C, 1 USB-A

Best With Built-in Cords

Charmast portable charger.

It can charge up to six devices at the same time.

The attached cords are short.

The slim and travel-friendly Portable Charger with Built-in Cables on Amazon is our top choice for those who need a variety of included cords for multiple devices. With six outputs and three inputs, this charging device is ideal for people with an array of different types of electronics, from smartphones to tablets, and micro devices. Its lightweight and slim profile make it easy to throw in your bag without taking up too much space. Each included cable can be tucked into the back of the device, keeping things organized so you don’t have to spend time untangling a mess of wires. Check the digital display screen to keep track of how much battery is left on your backup charger so you can plan appropriately (and it will take between four and a half to six hours to fully recharge). When at full capacity, this backup charger can power up your smartphone twice, your tablet up to 1.5 times, and much more.

The Details: 5.71 x 2.68 x 0.51 inches | 0.63 ounces | 10,000 mAh | USB-C, Micro USB, built-in charging USB-A cable (input); 2 USB-A and 1 USB-C and built-in Micro USB, USB-C, and Lightning cables (output)

Most Compact

Tntor portable charger for iphone.

It has a built-in lightning cable for charging iPhones.

Phones with USB-C ports (like Androids and newer iPhones) will need to supply their own C to C cable to charge.

The ultra slim Tntor Portable Charger for iPhone wins the award for “most compact” with a 6-millimeter thickness and credit card size. Specifically designed for iPhone users, the built-in cord means it’s ready to charge and you don’t have to tote around a separate cord. At 5,000 mAh, this charger is carry-on compatible and can charge not just your iPhone, but other lightning-equipped devices including an iPad, iPad mini, and AirPods. This is an ideal charger for those who don’t need to charge multiple devices and only need to top off their iPhone en route to their next destination. It offers one full charge when at 100 percent capacity and requires a three-hour charging time. The Intelligent Control Circuit feature protects your devices from overcharging, as well as other problematic issues such as over-voltage, short circuiting, temperature protection, and over-current.

The Details: 4.84 x 2.6 x .24 inches | 4 ounces | 5,000 mAh | USB-C (input); built-in Lightning cable (output)

Best Wireless

Podoru wireless portable charger.

Paired with a magnetic case, it can charge right on the back of your phone without a cord.

It will only work with a magnetic case (purchased separately) and is compatible with iPhone 12 series and higher.

Indulge in the luxury of leaving your cords behind with the Podoru Wireless Portable Charger that can power up to three devices with its magnetic charging capability. Compact with an impressive capacity to recharge your phone up to two and a half times, it’s an ideal option for travelers or those on the go for long stretches of time. The LED display shows how much battery is left in your charger — and, if you need to top off other devices in addition to your phone, two extra input and output ports allow you to do so. There are eight built-in low temperature ice cores and a protective safety system not just for temperature control, but also short circuit and overcharging protection as well. Thanks to its silicone shell, it’s easy to grip and with a soft exterior that won’t scrape your device when connected magnetically. 

The Details: 5.67 x 3.43 x 0.94 inches | 6.5 ounces | 10,000 mAh | USB-A (output); USB-C (input/output)

Best With Stand

Aoguerbe magnetic power bank.

The stand is foldable and compact.

It’s a little bulkier than other models we’ve seen.

We love the folding stand that’s built into the design of the Aoguerbe Magnetic Power Bank. It allows you to charge your iPhone without the hassle of a bunch of cords when paired with a magnetic phone case. Charge up to three devices at a time, with the capacity to bring your iPhone to 100 percent up to two times per fully charged power bank. The included stand folds down to keep the compact profile of the power bank and can be used to keep your phone upright in either a vertical or horizontal orientation. The charger also won’t block your camera lens, so you can easily continue to use your phone while it’s being charged. Built-in temperature control and other safety protection helps ensure this device won’t damage your phone or overheat. 

The Details: 4.09 x 2.68 x 0.86 inches | 6.7 ounces | 10,000 mAh | USB-C and Lighting (input); USB-C and USB-A (output)

Best for Tablets

Eggtronic laptop power bank.

It can charge your tablet up to four times.

  Due to its powerful capacity, it’s larger and heavier than comparable power bank models.

We love the powerhouse Eggtronic Laptop Power Bank for so many reasons: it has the capacity to charge multiple devices twice as fast as standard models, and boasts a relatively compact size and sleek design. This universally compatible power bank can refuel the battery on not just your smartphone or tablet, but also laptops, cameras, bluetooth devices, and more. The LCD display shows the current battery life so you can stay up to date on its capacity. This durable device is a great travel companion for anyone; from professionals that need to stay in touch on the road and want the freedom to work from anywhere , to those exploring the great outdoors on a multi-day camping trip. When it’s time to recharge the power bank itself, it’ll only take about three hours which is impressive for such a powerful device. 

The Details: 6.75 x 4 x 0.63 inches | 1.34 lbs | 20,000 mAh | 2 USB-A (output); USB-C (input/output)

Best for Laptops

Anker 747 power bank.

It can fully charge an entire MacBook Air.

It’s rather heavy — and expensive — if not using it to charge laptops often.

For travelers who are working en route to their destination and need to keep their laptop consistently charged, the Anker 747 Power Bank is our top choice. Compatible with a wide range of brands including Dell and Apple, this power bank can refuel computer batteries in anywhere from two to three hours. Charge up to four devices at once, and enjoy the long-lasting capacity that can power an iPhone 13 Pro up to five times before needing to be charged itself. Paired with the included Anker 65W 515 wall charger, this power bank can reach 100 percent in two and a half hours versus more than 17 hours without. Built-in sensors offer advanced temperature control to make sure the device doesn’t overheat while the battery management system prevents overcharging. 

The Details: 7.2 x 3.23 x 0.95 in | 1.34 pounds | 25,600 mAh | 2 USB-C, 2 USB-A

Best Multi-device Charging

Anker prime 27,650mah power bank.

It charges three devices at once.

This charger is over the mAh limit for traveling on some airplanes, so it’s best to check with the airline before bringing it with you on board.

For those who need a power bank that can charge multiple devices (and fast), the Anker Prime 27,650 mAH Power Bank is a fantastic choice. While not necessary to use, the accompanying app shows you up-to-date stats, and can also help to locate your power bank with sound alerts should you misplace it. This exceptionally functional power bank can recharge a smartphone more than four times and a MacBook Air more than once before needing to be reloaded. Using the dual USB-C ports, the power bank itself can be recharged in less than 40 minutes. As a bonus, this soda-can-sized charging bank comes with its own travel pouch. The built-in active shield prevents the charger from overheating and other safety issues. 

The Details: 6.37 x 1.96 x 2.24 inches | 1.47 lbs | 27,650 mAh |  USB-C, Lightning (input); USB-C, USB-A (output)

Best Fast Charging

Ugreen 145w power bank.

It can charge a MacBook Air in 90 minutes.

While compact, it’s a bit heavier than other models.

Not only does the Ugreen 145W Power Bank charge devices quickly, but it also can be charged back to 100 percent in under two hours using the two-way fast charging. This requires an additional purchase of a 65W charger . Because it has 145 watts in output, it can recharge a laptop more than once and a smartphone more than five times all at a rapid speed. The smart digital display keeps you in the loop with how much battery is left in the power bank. It’s also compatible with so many devices, from smartphones to drones, that you won’t be limited with what you can charge as you travel. With three ports, you can charge a few devices at a time as well. 

The Details: 6.3 x 3.18 x 1.05 inches | 1.11 lbs | 25,000 mAh | 1 USB-C, 1 USB-A (output); 1 USB-C (input/output)

Best LED Display

Vnbbt magnetic wireless power bank.

The display shows both the available charge left on the device and the progress of the item it’s charging.

It’s not compatible with non-magnetic phone cases.

Take the guesswork out of charging when using the Vnbbt Magnetic Wireless Power Bank, thanks to its incredibly accurate LED display feature. It can be fully charged for your travels within two and a half to four hours. Its ultra compact, lightweight design makes it easy to bring along with you. The material is non-slip so you don’t have to worry about grip being an issue while using the magnetic charger paired with a magnetic phone case. The display is simple, quickly informing you of how much charge is left to go and how much is on the power bank itself so you can plan accordingly. Charge your iPhone in less than 45 minutes and power up two other devices at the same time. 

The Details: 7.87 x 3.94 x 0.79 inches | 8.1 ounces | 10,000 mAh | USB-C (input/output), USB-A (output), and magnetic wireless charging

Best for Android

Iwalk small usb c portable charger.

It’s lipstick-sized and very portable.

The battery life isn’t that impressive compared to other power banks.

Specifically designed for Android users, this tiny portable charger easily fits in a bag or even your pocket. The iWalk charger is cordless as well, so you don’t need to provide a cord or untangle wires when you want to use it; simply plug it directly into the USB-C port. Although there isn’t an LED display to show the percentage of battery left, there are indicator lights to track the power level. It’s designed to prevent over-charging, short circuiting, and temperature control while using as well, so you can have peace of mind if you need to step away. In general, it takes approximately two and a half hours to recharge this portable device. 

The Details: 3 x 1.8 x 1 inches | 0.071 ounces | 4,500 mAh | USB-C (input), USB-C (output)

Best With A/C Outlet

Sinkeu portable laptop phone charger.

It includes an actual plug as well as a cord for charging via a car cigarette lighter.

There are no slots for a USB-C.

For a power bank with an actual built-in plug, the SinKeu 65 Watt Portable Laptop Phone Charger is our top pick because of its portability and versatility. This power bank is fantastic for charging laptops, tablets, and other compatible devices like certain camera batteries (65 watts and under) that need a typical plug port. The 12V port is great for recharging speakers and other devices that require that output, while the 5V port is perfect for refueling your cell phone up to eight times before needing to be recharged itself. For compatible laptop models, it can provide a full charge twice, making this a great option for travelers with a wide array of devices. The included cigarette lighter plug makes it possible to recharge this power bank in your car as well. To fully recharge, it takes approximately four hours. 

The Details: 6.8 x 3.8 x 1.8 inches | 1.1 lbs | 24,000 mAh | 2 USB-A, 110V AC outlet, 15V (input), 12V (output)

Best Colors

Charmast small portable charger.

It’s small and comes in a fun spectrum of colors.

It’s difficult to plug your phone into the charger if you have a case.

We love the colors and size of the Charmast Small Portable Charger that can easily fit in your pocket or purse. This charger has the ability to be fully recharged within an hour and a half when using a 9V-2A fast charger (or three hours with a standard one). Although it doesn’t have the capacity to fully power your smartphone back to 100 percent, it can provide up to 65 percent charge which is a great option for most travelers who just need to top up a device throughout their journey. It can, however, recharge AirPods up to six times. With no additional cords needed, plug it directly into your phone’s lightning port (and it’s also offered with a USB-C instead for Google, Samsung or iPhone 15 devices). With colors like pink, green, blue, orange, black, and white, you can match this portable charger to your phone’s case (or whatever suits your mood!)

The Details: 1.38 x 3.03 x 0.97 inches | 4.7 ounces | 5,000 mAh | USB-C (input), Lightning port (output)

Best With Wall Plug

Brand q ultra slim portable charger.

It’s ultra slim and offers 5-in-1 types of charging.

The built-in cords are stiff and not easy to manipulate.

We love that the built-in wall plug on the Q Slim Portable Charger folds into the power bank to keep a slim profile for transport and that this option comes with its own case. With three included cords, this universal charger is ideal for all types of phones, and you won’t have to bring additional cords along on your adventures. Most phones can be charged between two and a half to four times before needing to recharge the power bank. The included “Intelligent Power Management IC” makes sure your devices will be protected from short circuit, overheating, and overcurrent issues while in use. Another great feature is that you can charge your phone from the power bank while also charging the power bank from the wall plug.

The Details: 6.29 x 2.95 x 0.6 inches | 12.1 ounces |  10,000 mAh | Micro USB, AC (input); Lightning, USB-C, Micro USB (output)

Tips for Buying Portable Chargers

Consider charge potential and timing.

When shopping for a portable power bank, one of the main features to look out for is the capacity for fully charging your devices, especially your smartphone. If you have long travel days with little opportunity to plug your phone in and your backup charger can only offer half a charge to top it off, that may not work for you. Another thing to consider is how long it will take to recharge each of your important devices, as well as the length of time it will take to recharge the power bank itself. Most people can recharge a power bank overnight if it takes more than a couple of hours, but you need to look at your precise needs while on the go.

Decide how much capacity you need

All of the numbers referring to capacity in mAh and watt hours can be a little tricky to understand when deciding what you’ll need. The term mAh means “milliampere-hour” and measures the units of electric charge, or how much power it can hold. This will be the difference between being able to charge just one device at a time versus multiple, and/or charging your phone multiple times or even a laptop at all. If you just need to top off your phone and keep it from getting to zero percent, something below 5,000mAh should do the trick. If you need to charge your phone constantly or have more than one device, something more than 10,000mAh might be for you.

Since the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have rules for rechargeable batteries and power banks measured in the max watt hours allowed, you’ll need to know how to convert the mAh listed for the power bank or charger into watt hours to see if your device can come along with you. To do this, you’ll need to multiply milliamp hours by volts then divide by 1,000. So, if you take the Eggtronic Laptop Power Bank listed above, it’s 20,000mAh at 5V, making it equivalent to 100 watt hours. 

The FAA and TSA state that any spare battery with more than 100 watt hours or 27,000mAh needs to have approval from the airline.

Look at the types and numbers of ports

One of the most important aspects of choosing a power bank is to make sure it will be compatible with your devices. The last thing you want is to purchase a back-up charger that’s only suitable for an iPhone when you have an Android. There are numerous options that offer more than one type of port. The most common inputs and outputs are USB-A and USB-C, as well as lightning ports (for Apple devices). Some models offer a wall plug or cigarette lighter adapter as well, perfect for those who need to charge a device from the car or have to charge something with a physical plug. 

It’s important to note that regulations will have lightning ports outdated for future iPhones due to the European Union’s ruling that all smartphones need to have the USB-C charging port in common.

A portable charger or power bank is a great back-up solution to ensure you don’t run out of battery on your devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. They provide an extra lithium-ion battery-powered source — or another source like the sun — that can connect to a wide array of devices, depending on their ports or magnetic charging capabilities. When connected, they transfer their stored energy to the electronic device plugged in. Typically, they are small enough to fit in your bag without taking up too much space, and some are even compact enough to fit in your pocket.

Yes, it’s possible to bring most portable chargers on an airplane, though there are restrictions to abide by: it’ll have to stay in your carry-on luggage that you’ll have with you in the cabin, as it can’t be in a checked bag. It also can’t possess more than 100Wh (watt-hours) or 27,000 mAh capacity. If your power bank has a larger capacity than this, you’ll need approval from the airline.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L contributor Lauren Breedlove used her first-hand experience as a travel writer and photographer on-the-go who often needs to keep her devices charged for all of her adventures. She tapped into her knowledge of using different power banks and backup charger brands to curate this list for every need, big and small.

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Related Articles

The Best Universal Power Plug Adapter for Travel with Fast-Charging USB-C

Mose Hayward

Travel Nerd

In our years of travel we’ve tried out loads of too-flimsy or too-bulky power adapters, and have always been hungry to find the one plug that could do it all without weighing us down. It’s the key travel gadget that makes all other travel gadgets possible.

Sure, you can stop at any electronics store or airport shop before an international flight, and grab a set of plug adapters that will be just fine. But they’ll also just cost you a lot more than you need to spend and often they’re sold as a set containing one plug for each region, taking up unnecessary space in your bag. If you order the right one online before you go, you’ll travel just a bit lighter and better.

The Best Universal Power Plug Adapter for Travel

The Epicka Travel Adapter pictured at right is my current favorite because it is a small, universal solution that works in pretty much anywhere — basically it takes any plug you might have (electronics from home or bought abroad) and converts it to work with any outlet you might find in your travels . Other features of note:

• Three USB-C ports and two USB-A ports with fast-charging (works great)
• Overload protection from the 8A fuse (with a spare fuse included)
• Takes 100-240V 50/60 Hz (basically the full range of what you might encounter)

The Epicka narrowly beats out other such adapters because of its safety fuse, snug fit for all kinds of wall outlets, and the many ports. If it’s not available, check out our previous recommendations: this simpler Epicka adapter , a four USB-A Epicka Adapter (cheap) and the Ougrand Travel Adapter Plug . Note that these do not offer fast charging, though, which is pretty much essential when you’re travelling and need juice fast at times.

All of these recommendations are compact, well-made, and basically accept any plug; they’re even useful for me for handling conversions in the United States, UK, Ireland, mainland Europe, Asia, and Africa, including some of the funkier outlets and plugs I’ve come across in Brazil, Russia, and Italy.

The main advantage of the Epicka is more ports and multi-USB-C fast charging.

UK, Ireland, Hong Kong

This article was completely updated for the new tech options on June 4, 2024 . Originally published: Sept. 14, 2017. Completely re-written with our latest recommendation on June 17, 2018. Added the Truton on April 14, 2019. Once again completely re-written on April 16-17, 2019. We removed the dysfunctional Amazon bestseller list on Oct. 30, 2019. Updated on Dec. 22, 2019 with a non-USB option. Updated with our new recommendation on Dec. 11, 2020. Rewritten with new recommendations based on the new Epicka version and other new options on May 25, 2023. Some minor updates were added on Nov. 28, 2023.

The Advantages of our Top Choice Universal Power Adapter

With the Epicka plug adapter we can go anywhere with a single adapter — and change our minds on the fly about which countries to visit without having to pick up new adapters for our electronics. Here’s why this is currently our top choice over the other plug adapters and adapter sets we’ve tried (there have been quite a few).

• Small and compact: We travel very light (with only  a wheeled carry-on backpack ) so a whole set of adapters would mean lots of unwanted bulk when compared to a simple, universal solution. A lot of (otherwise good) tech recommendation sites fall down on this issue by recommending expensive and unnecessarily bulky adapter sets like this one . Universal adapters are the smallest way to get a handful of USB-C and -A charging ports from one outlet, though we recommend an even smaller universal adapter without USB ports below, if you just need one plug. I carry one of each.
• Ready for anywhere:  Plans change; the best trips send you on unexpected, corkscrew paths. With an all-in-one adapter you’re ready to meet any outlet in any country. And, if you should happen to purchase devices with strange plugs in these foreign lands, this Epicka power adapter allows you to still use them when you get back home, as it accepts all foreign plugs and can convert them to your home power outlets.
• Charge multiple devices at one outlet: As much as I endeavor for minimalism, there are still multiple USB devices in my long-term travel bag (headphones, a Kindle for language learning , a travel speaker , a travel hair trimmer , etc.). This charger outputs to six devices at once (two standard USB-A, three USB-C, and one wall plug). It’s a lifesaver to be able to plug in a single regular wall plug while simultaneously charging all my stuff, and perhaps also a companion’s or train-seat-neighbor’s stuff. Those nearby in trains or coffee shops have been quite grateful that this adapter allowed us to share an outlet and charge several phones from a single available outlet.
• Relatively inexpensive: Universal adapters are generally less expensive than the options at electronics stores like Best Buy . (If you’re sure you’ll only ever need a single type of adapter, however, you can find even cheaper simple adapters for specific countries.)
• Has fast-charging USB-C: You can leave your USB-C power brick for your laptop or phone at home, since that’s included here. In my tests the USB-C port fast-charges phones as quickly as the phones’ original chargers, and it provides a good amount of power overall to the USB and wall plug too. The total DC output max is 75W and the maximum power is 1000W at 100 volts or 2400W at 240 volts.
• There is a safety fuse , and unlike similar competitors, there’s a spare fuse inside the casing, so if this blows out on your journey you’re ready to go again. As a general rule, you should not use high power-consumption devices like hair dryers or stuff with heat and motors with this or any travel adapter (use a specific travel hair dryer, etc., instead), and if, like me, you have an otherwise-lovely someone in your life who repeatedly ignores rules like this, pick up some replacement fuses for the Epicka Travel Adapter as well—they’re cheap.

The Downsides to This (or Any Similar) Universal Travel Adapter

• The Epicka travel adapter is fine for computers (laptops, tablets) and electronics (Android phones, Apple phones, etc.) and basically works with devices and countries that have 100-240V 50/60 Hz. But note that it does not convert voltage. In the (rare) case you are travelling with a device that requires conversion (e.g., a high-power motorized device or older device), see below for voltage conversion .
• While the Epicka travel adapter can simultaneously power six devices, it only has one standard wall plug. If you’re travelling with more than one device that doesn’t use USB and need to charge or use them simultaneously, you’ll have to step up to something bulkier .
• While the Epicka is the smallest full-featured universal plug adapter that we’ve found, you can go even smaller and more minimalist in travel adapters with the choice below (but there are no USB ports).

Countries Where You Can Use the Epicka Travel Adapter (or Any Similar All-In-One Converter)

Australia, china (mainland), etc..

The Epicka, like most such adapters, allows you to turn the prongs of the USA/Canada adapter slightly inwards to become this slanted adapter type popular in Australia.

• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea

US Type – USA, Japan

These are two flat vertical plugs found in much of the Americas.

• American Samoa
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Cayman Islands
• El Salvador
• Philippines
• Puerto Rico
• Saudi Arabia

Here are a couple of outlets I ran across in a single AirBnB I stayed at in Brazil. As you can see it is nice to have a universal adapter to be prepared for everything there.

These are two round plugs. There are slight variations of these in many countries but generally the two round plugs of the Epicka will fit regardless.

Italy is not on the official list but often the Epicka will work even without the third middle grounding plug that one often sees in Italy. I’ve found on occasion however that the other smaller, more-adjustable plug adapter (below) that I also carry can be useful in Europe as I can slide its two prongs closer and further apart.

• Bosnia-Herzegovina
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• South Korea

Here’s an example of an outlet I encountered on a train in France. It’s nice to be able to share with neighbors by having multiple outlets in your travel adapter.

These annoying, large outlets and prongs MUST have the third grounding plug in order to work. I’ve frequently seen Europeans stick a pen cap in UK outlets’ grounding hole and then force their two round-pronged devices in. But with the Epicka (or any UK-compatible travel adapter) there’s of course no need for that. These are the countries concerned.

• Northern Ireland
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent
• United Arab Emirates

It’s true that you could just buy a specific adapter for the country you’re going to, but in some places you really can’t know what to expect and it’s easier to just have a universal travel adapter.

You can check the full range of possible world outlets and plugs on Wikipedia , and there are some obscure configurations that you’ll still find in use in places that aren’t covered by any universal adapter or typical travel adapter set. But in those rare cases, your hotel or host is very likely to also have plug adapters or a power strip for your use, and so that they can plug in world electrical appliances themselves.

Do You Need to Convert Voltage? — For most travellers, probably not!

Note that plug adapters do not convert voltage ; in the unlikely event that you need to step up or step down for a specific piece of electronics (for example, from a 110 volt device to a country that is on 220 volts), you instead need to look for a (heavier, bulkier) voltage converter .

But first take a good look at the fine print on your electronics’ plugs before buying a voltage converter to see what voltages it actually accepts (and you can compare that with the specific voltage and frequencies for the country you’re travelling to).

You’ll find that most smaller consumer electronics items like laptops, mobile phones, and even hair dryers sold today say something like “100-240V ~ 50-60Hz”; this means that they accept anything from 100 to 240 volts and from 50 to 60 Hz — to put it simply, they work in Europe, America, Asia, anywhere. If, as is most likely, your devices accept a range of voltages that include the voltage of the place you are travelling to, you don’t need a voltage converter , just a plug adapter like the ones we’re recommending in this article.

If you do in fact need a voltage converter for something like a trimmer, shaver, or hair straightener, be sure to get one that can handle the high wattage of the specific device. It is likely easier and cheaper to buy a specific device for travel, like this travel hair trimmer that charges anywhere —or to buy or borrow such a device at your destination.

The Smallest Universal Plug Adapter that’s Worthwhile—But No USB Ports

If you just need a plug adapter without USB, or you’d like an extra plug adapter for your pack, the best option is the Kikkerland Universal Travel Adapter , which is small, light, and incredibly flexible. For example, the Euro prongs can be moved in and out a bit to fine-tune for the width of some truly weird sockets. I found this flexibility to be useful on occasion in parts of India and Brazil. This can also help to keep the plug from falling out of a socket.

The only downside is that it can be a bit complicated to configure. Don’t just throw the two pieces in your bag and then try to figure out how to put them together once you’ve reached your destination. Take the card as well with the illustrations showing the configurations. This will save you a lot of hassle.

I kept the instructions myself and took them with me, but was overconfident and wasted about five minutes trying to put the pieces together for a UK outlet. Once I actually looked at the instructions, however, I was able to set it up in a few seconds and get to charging.

Wrap-Up: The Travel Power Adapters We Recommend

Here is the most convenient solution that we’ve found for converting pretty much any plug for any outlet, anywhere.

About The Author

6 thoughts on “The Best Universal Power Plug Adapter for Travel with Fast-Charging USB-C”

I can’t tell which size round poles/prongs this has? Either way, it’s missing one IMPORTANT type for Europe. Different countries in Europe need either the 4mm poles, or 4.8mm. You can shove a 4.8 into some older/worn 4mm outlets… but not exactly safe, and will NOT fit in all.

Can I find a list of countries where the Nierbo adapter works? I may need D, G & M plug styles for Botswana.

Yes you should be fine; see the full list at the Amazon link above. Generally it works anywhere, but if you do come across super-irregular local plugs you’ll generally find adapters easily available to the more common plug types.

i need a univeral adaptor that works in egypt. please let me know your recommendation. None of the ones you sight mention egypt. thanks

@nancy rapp With our recommendation above you’re covered for Egypt of course!

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Whether you are planning an international vacation or a work trip, a travel charger is a must-have accessory to keep your phones, laptops, and other gadgets juiced up without relying on multiple adapters and power bricks .

Fortunately, there's a wide selection of travel chargers on the market. However, not all travel chargers are created equal, and you need to pick one that will not only work in the country you are visiting but also offer sufficient USB ports and AC outlets. To help, we have rounded up some of the best options to get you started.

Zendure Passport III Universal Travel Adapter

The Zendure Passport III is an impressive travel adapter that supports sockets in over 200 countries. It can charge your phone, tablet, laptop, and other mobile devices via two USB-C and three USB-A ports. You will also be happy to know it supports USB PD 3.0, PPS, and QuickCharge 3.0 fast charging protocols. Plus, you get a 10A AC outlet to power other devices.

Satechi 145W GaN USB-C charger

The Satechi 145W GaN USB-C charger is compact, lightweight, and versatile, making it one of the best travel chargers you can add to your kit. It has four interchangeable international adapters and a durable carry pouch for convenience. The charger's Gallium Nitride chip allows fast charging of high-power devices without overheating. And the nicely labeled USB-C ports deliver 145W (total wattage) at 140W for the first two ports from the top and 45W for the last two.

Tessan 5-in-1 Universal Travel Adapter

The Tessan 5-in-1 Universal Travel Adapter will easily fulfill all your charging and power needs while traveling internationally with its four USB ports and one AC outlet. It has two Type-C ports that can deliver 100W each when used individually, making them suitable for charging your laptop. It also has an all-in-one design that features plugs for most countries.

Ceptics 5-in-1 65W World Travel Adapter

The Ceptics travel adapter is a versatile solution for your travels. Unlike the three prongs that most all-in-one adapters offer, it includes six swappable attachments to service power sockets in many countries. It also packs three USB ports and two AC outlets to charge or power other electronic devices. Additionally, it comes with a 5-foot-long power cord that you can attach to the primary adapter if you want to bring it closer to you.

Epicka TA-105 Pro

The Epicka TA-105 Pro sports an all-in-one design, so it's a solid travel charger for most people. It features three pin types to support popular travel destinations, and each pin is accessible with a simple slide-out mechanism. In terms of charging ports, you get three USB-C and two USB-A ports, out of which the USB-C1 can deliver 70W output. You also have a proper 10A AC outlet to connect other devices.

Lencent 120W International Travel Adapter

Lencent's 120W International Travel Adapter is one of the most powerful options on this list. The onboard single USB Type-A and three USB Type-C ports can reach a total of 120W when simultaneously charging multiple devices. The inclusion of popular fast charging protocols, such as USB PD 3.0 and QuickCharge 4+, is another highlight of the Lencent offering. It also supports a wide range of voltages for universal compatibility.

Tessan 636DV Universal Travel Adapter

The Tessan 636DV Universal Travel Adapter is like an affordable version of the value pick — the Tessan 5-in-1 Universal Travel Adapter. The 636DV doesn’t offer 100W charging or GaN technology, but it features five USB ports and has 45W USB PD charging through the Type-C port marked USB-C1. Plus, its sliding prong system is easy to use and functions in many countries worldwide.

Epicka TA-205

Besides its fantastic TA-105 Pro travel adapter, Epicka offers the TA-205, which is more compact but still features many USB charging ports and a single AC outlet. It can also work in over 200 countries, save for India and South Africa. The charging adapter also supports USB PD on its USB Type-C ports, but the total power output tops out at 35W.

Newvanga Universal Travel Adapter

The Newvanga Universal Travel Adapter has four input plugs that can be used in different countries, so you can take it with you just about anywhere. All the connectors neatly fold inside for a compact solution you can comfortably carry inside your pocket or backpack. The adapter has one USB-C outlet, a USB-A port, and an AC socket with a power rating of 1380W (at 230V AC) and 660W (at 110V AC).

Travel chargers are great, but...

Most of our recommendations have one or two AC outlets, which can be convenient. But as most travel chargers are not voltage converters, you must confirm the voltage specifications of the devices you intend to connect. It's okay if the electronics or power bricks support a wide voltage range and have something like “Input: 100–220V 50/60Hz” printed on them or in their documentation. But if they can only work with a single voltage like 110V, it’s best to avoid using them overseas without a convertor.

It's also important to keep in mind that India (Type D plug), Israel (Type H plug), and South Africa (Type M or N plug) aren't typically supported by universal travel chargers. So, if you are visiting one of these countries, ensure you get a travel adapter that works in that country.

Top travel chargers for a smooth trip

Traveling to another country can seem like a massive undertaking; you need to plan for so many things, like keeping your phones, tablets, and laptops powered. This will ensure you have access to good travel apps , including Google Translate and VPNs , while you are on the road. The handpicked travel charger recommendations on this list will ensure your tech is always topped off and ready.

The Zendure Passport III takes the top spot. It is perfect for most users, offering plenty of USB ports, support for multiple fast charging protocols, and an AC outlet. The built-in sliding plugs will also work in over 200 countries. But if you are willing to spend more, the Satechi 145W GaN USB-C charger can deliver all the power you need to keep your gadgets working. Plus, the adapter will function in most countries around the world.

However, breaking the bank isn't always an option, so the Tessan 5-in-1 Universal Travel Adapter is ideal when you want to save a few pennies. You can use it in many countries, making it great for travel. It also has multiple ports to juice up your mobile accessories, phones, laptops, and tablets.

Best phone chargers in 2024: USB-C PD, PPS, and fast chargers

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The 21 Best Portable Chargers for All of Your Devices

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Best Overall Nimble Champ (Series 2) Read more

The Upgrade Pick Anker 737 Power Bank Read more

Best for Phones Anker Nano Power Bank Read more

Best for Tablets Einova Eggtronic Ultra Fast Power Bank (63W) Read more

Portable devices have a Murphy’s law–like ability to run out of power at the least convenient moment: as you step on the bus, right in the middle of an important meeting, or just as you get comfortable on the couch and press Play. But if you keep a battery-powered portable charger handy, all those situations are a thing of the past.

There are hundreds of portable battery packs, and picking one can be confusing. To help, we've spent years working our way through all of them. This obsession started when Scott Gilbertson lived off-grid in a vintage RV , powered primarily by solar panels. But even if you're not living in an off-grid solar setup, good power banks will come in handy. These are our favorites. Be sure to check out our Best MagSafe Power Banks guide for Apple-specific portable chargers, and our Best Portable Power Stations guide if you need more power.

Updated August 2024: We added portable chargers from Biolite, Ayaneo, Anker, and UGreen, an honorable mention, removed some older power banks, and updated prices.

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Best Overall

The Nimble Champ topped this list for years, and now its successor is taking over by combining everything that made the original so good and bringing some welcome improvements. At 6.2 ounces, it's one of the lightest on the market. It's smaller than a deck of cards and can deliver 20 watts to charge two devices at once via a USB-C port on either end. While Scott used the original for years, the new version has only been out for a few months, but so far, so good. It feels durable, comes in a snazzy new range of speckled color finishes, and has a bright lanyard loop that makes for easy carrying and helps you pick it out of your backpack. The Pro version is bigger but doubles the capacity (to 20,000 mAh) and has a similar design with two USB-C ports that go up to 65 watts. There's also a smaller version with a 5,200-mAh capacity that tops out at 15 watts.

The other reason we like Nimble best is because of its environmental efforts . Batteries are not environmentally benign. They use lithium, cobalt, and other rare metals whose supply chains are environmentally and socially questionable at best. But Nimble's use of bioplastics and plastic-free minimal packaging at least reduces the environmental impact where it can be reduced. This new version uses 90 percent recycled plastic (up 25 percent from the original) and comes in smaller plastic-free packaging. Nimble includes a 3.3-foot USB-C to USB-C cable in the box.

Two USB-C ports (20 W). Can charge most smartphones two or three times (10,000 mAh).

The Upgrade Pick

For folks who don’t mind paying for quality, the Anker 737 is a versatile and reliable beast with a whopping 24,000-mAh capacity. With power delivery 3.1 support, this power bank can send or receive up to 140 watts to charge phones, tablets, and even laptops. You can charge it from zero to full within an hour. It’s relatively compact for its capacity, but it weighs almost 1.4 pounds. Tap the circular power button on the side once and the snazzy digital display shows the remaining battery percentage; tap it again and you get stats, including the temperature, total output, cycles, and more. The screen also displays watts in or out when you plug something in and a remaining time estimate based on the current rate. It fast-charged everything I tested it with, and you can charge three devices at once without a problem.

Two USB-C ports (140 W) and one USB-A (18 W). Can charge most phones at least four times (24,000 mAh).

Best for Phones

If you want a compact charger that comes in fun colors and simply slots into the bottom of your phone for a top-up, Anker’s dinky charger is tough to beat. This power bank has a built-in rotating USB-C or Lightning connector (MFi certified), so you don’t need to worry about cables. It packs 5,000 mAh of energy (enough to fully charge most phones). I tested the USB-C version with several Android phones and found it stayed in place, enabling me to use my phone more or less as normal. There’s a USB-C port for recharging the power bank, and it comes with a short cable. It might not be a good pick if you use a thick case.

One USB-C (22.5 W) or Lightning (12 W) connector and one USB-C port for charging only. Can charge most phones once (5,000 mAh).

Best for Tablets

WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu has been enjoying his time toting around this 20,000-mAh charger. It's slim, fits easily into the padded sleeve of most backpacks, and has enough capacity to recharge an 11-inch tablet twice from zero percent. It's capable of dishing out 45 watts of power for fast charging via the USB-C port, and 18 watts from the middle USB-A port. In a pinch, you can use it to recharge a laptop (as long as it's not a power-sucking machine like a MacBook Pro). It has a lovely fabric material on the exterior, and there's an LED that shows how much juice is left in the tank.

Two USB-A ports (18 W and 10.5 W) and one USB-C (45 W). Can charge most tablets two times (20,000 mAh).

Best for Laptops

Goal Zero updated its Sherpa line of portable chargers with better wireless charging capabilities: 15 watts, up from 5 watts in the previous model. I tested the Sherpa AC, which features two USB-C ports (60-watt and 100-watt), two USB-A ports, and a 100-watt AC port for those devices that need a pronged plug. It strikes a good balance between power storage (93 watt-hours in my drain test) and weight (2 pounds). It’s enough to charge up my Dell XPS 13 almost twice.

You get a nice color LCD display that shows how much power you've got left, how many watts are coming in and how many are going out, and a rough guess as to how much longer the battery will last (if conditions remain the same). Recharge times vary depending on whether or not you have the Sherpa wall charger (sold separately), but I was able to get it to recharge in under three hours no matter what power source I used. There's also an 8-mm port on the back for attaching a solar panel if you have one. The Sherpa is not cheap, but if you don't need the AC out and can live with a single USB-C (100-watt out, 60-watt in), the Sherpa PD is otherwise the same thing for $200.

Two USB-C ports (60 W and 100 W), two USB-A (12 W), and one AC (100 W). Qi wireless charging (15 W). Can charge most laptops one to two times (25,600 mAh).

Best for Fast Charging

Ugreen's charger is, as the name suggests, a 145-watt charger with a 25,000-mAh battery. It's surprisingly compact for the power it provides, although at 1.1 pounds, it's definitely not ultralight. There are two USB-C ports and one USB-A port. What sets the Ugreen apart is that you can actually draw 145 watts while charging. That works out to one USB-C port at 100 W and the other at 45 W. Very few other batteries we've tested are capable of that feat, and none that I know of at this size. If you want to charge fast, this is the power bank for you (although it's worth noting that reviews around the web suggest it doesn't support Samsung's fast-charging tech). There's a small LED readout on the side of the battery with the current charge state of the battery. I'd have liked to see some charging info on that screen as well, but that's a small quibble with what's an otherwise outstanding option if you need to keep your laptop charged up wherever you are.

Two USB-C ports (100 W and 45 W) and one USB-A. Can charge most phones around five times or a laptop once (25,000 mAh).

Best-Looking Power Bank

I am a sucker for Sharge’s transparent designs and cyberpunk aesthetic, but this prism-shaped power bank is more than just a pretty face. With a maximum output of 170 watts, a whopping 24,000-mAh capacity, and an IP66 rating for water resistance (fine in the rain, but best not to submerge), the Sharge 170 has form and function. The smart display shows battery life as a percentage, time remaining, and the input or output in watts. It supports many standards, including power delivery 3.1, Quick Charge 4.0, and PPS, and it fast-charged most of the devices I tested, including the iPhone 15 Pro, Pixel 8, Xiaomi 14 Ultra, and MacBook Air. You can simultaneously charge three devices at fast speeds, and the box includes a braided USB-C cable and a wee velvety bag. It can also recharge completely in an hour via USB-C at up to 140 watts (with the right cable and charger). The only thing I don’t like is the relatively high price. I also tested and loved an earlier release from this company, the Shargeek Storm 2 ($199) , which has a larger capacity but tops out at 100 W.

Two USB-C ports (165 W) and one USB-A (30 W). Can charge most phones around five times or a laptop once (24,000 mAh).

A Repairable Power Bank

While I love the swirly designs, solid metal bottom, and compact size, it is Gomi’s ethos that really sells these power banks. Handmade by a small indie business in Brighton, UK, from recycled plastic, with power generated by repurposed ebike batteries, Gomi claims at least 50 percent less CO 2 emissions than comparable power banks. It looks and feels good, with curved sides, and Gomi promises up to 6-foot drop protection. There’s a power button on the side to light up the four LEDs and show how much of the 10,000-mAh capacity remains.

Both ports can deliver up to 18 watts, and you can charge two devices at once. It takes around four hours to fully charge from dead. There is a two-year warranty with this power bank offering free repairs. Gomi has designed it to be easily repairable, so even out of warranty you can get it fixed for a maximum cost of £20 ($25) plus shipping. If it should get damaged beyond repair somehow, Gomi will recycle it properly. You also get a braided USB-C to USB-C cable in the box.

One USB-C port (18 W) and one USB-A (18 W). Can charge most smartphones two or three times (10,000 mAh).

Folding Wireless Charging

With an unusual design that features a fold-up wireless charging stand for phones and a charging spot behind it for your wireless earbuds case (if it supports Qi wireless charging), plus a USB-C port to plug in a third device, the Satechi Duo is a handy power bank to have in your bag. It has a 10,000-mAh capacity with LEDs to show how much juice is left. The downside is that it is slow, offering up to 10 watts of wireless charging power for phones (7.5 watts for iPhones), 5 watts for earbuds, and 10 watts from the USB-C port. It takes three hours to refill the battery with an 18-watt charger.

One USB-C (10 W) and two Qi wireless charging spots (up to 10 W). Can charge most phones one to two times (10,000 mAh).

Best Qi2 Portable Charger

The latest entry in Anker’s MagGo range is the first Qi2 power bank we've tested. The Qi2 wireless charging standard borrows elements of Apple’s MagSafe, enabling supported phones to connect with perfect alignment using a ring of magnets. Qi2 brings faster wireless charging rates of up to 15 watts, but it is also backward compatible, so older Qi devices can still charge, albeit more slowly. This compact portable charger has a handy kickstand, a two-way USB-C port on the left edge, and a power button with an LED display showing remaining power as a percentage of charge time on the right. It can accommodate Qi2 or MagSafe phones in portrait or landscape orientation (it works with Apple’s StandBy mode ). I tested with an iPhone 14 Pro and got 25 percent in around 20 minutes. Despite a large capacity, it falls short of two full charges for your iPhone when charging wirelessly. You might squeeze out a little more if you plug in the short USB-C cable provided.

One USB-C port (27 W) and Qi2 wireless charging (15 W). Can charge most smartphones one or two times (10,000 mAh).

Best MagSafe

Anker's slim MagSafe power bank comes in a few fun colors and stays stuck to the back of any MagSafe iPhone (and Android phones using MagSafe cases ) to charge it wirelessly. You can also recharge the power bank or charge another device with it via the USB-C port, and it has a wee foldable stand built in. Just know that Anker has an older version of this that has the USB-C port on the bottom edge of the power bank. The new model (A1614) has it on the side, and you can turn off the power bank so it doesn’t charge the device (when you only want to use the kickstand). We recommend some alternatives in our Best MagSafe Power Banks guide .

One USB-C (12 W) and Qi wireless charging (7.5 W). Can charge most phones to between 50 and 80 percent (5,000 mAh).

Best for Apple Watch

Remembering to take a power bank with you for a night away is a real achievement, but what about your Apple Watch ? It may be one of the best smartwatches , but the battery rarely lasts beyond a full day. This compact, black power bank from Belkin has a soft-touch finish and an Apple Watch charger built in at one end. Even better, it can fast-charge your Apple Watch, and there’s enough capacity to charge your iPhone or AirPods via USB-C at the same time, making this the perfect portable charger to stow away in your bag or pocket. You get a 1-foot USB-C to USB-C cable in the box.

One USB-C port (20 W) and one Apple Watch fast charger (7.5 W). Can charge most smartphones two or three times (10,000 mAh).

Small and Fast

Displays in power banks are growing more common. All offer a precise readout of the remaining battery percentage, some show charging rates and other stats for power bank nerds, but this is the first one I’ve tried that has a cute wee robot face. This makes it easy to anthropomorphize (mine is named Charlie), but thankfully, it is also a super speedy power bank offering up to 100 watts, which is unusual in a charger this size. Light and easy to sling in a bag or even a pocket, Charlie can be fully charged in just 90 minutes and supports several fast charging protocols (PD, PPS, QC, AFC, FCP, and SCP). I also tried the 20,000 mAh model ($100) , which ditches the face for a detailed stat readout on its color screen, but I prefer the smaller version.

One USB-A (15 W) and one USB-C (100 W) port. Can charge most phones at least twice (12,000 mAh).

Best for Outdoors

If you are hiking, camping, or adventuring, the BioLite is a handy companion. This durable power bank is versatile, a good size to slip into a bag, and has a nice grippy textured finish. The yellow plastic makes it easy to spot in a bag or crowded tent, and the segmented LED shows the remaining power in blocks of 10 percent. The Charge 100 Max can simultaneously charge up to five devices, and the wireless charging pad on top is handy in the dark when you don’t want to fumble with cables. If you don’t need such a large capacity, we also tested and liked Biolite’s smaller and simpler 6,000-mAh Charge 20 PD ($30) , 10,000-mAh Charge 40 ($60) , and 20,000-mAh Charge 80 ($80) .

One USB-A (15 W), three USB-C (2x 100 W and 1x 15 W) ports, and a Qi wireless charging pad (15 W). Can charge most phones around five times or a laptop once (25,000 mAh).

Best Wall Charger Power Bank

Hybrid devices are great when space is limited. This wall charger and power bank in one is a solid hybrid option. WIRED reviewer Eric Ravenscraft raved about it , and I have to agree. The display shows you what percentage of the 10,000-mAh capacity remains, there's a USB-C port, a USB-A port, and two built-in cables (USB-C and Lightning). But that’s not all. Turn it on its side, and you have a magnetic wireless charger. There’s even a wee slide-out phone stand and a strap for easy carrying. While you can technically charge five devices at once, it’s awkward, and the battery will die quickly. Still, this is a handy multipurpose power bank to have in your bag. You can refill it by plugging it straight into the wall or via the USB-C port, but it takes a few hours to fully charge from empty.

One USB-C port (20 W), one USB-A port (22.5 W), one USB-C cable (15 W), one Lightning cable (12 W), and Qi wireless charging (up to 15 W, only 7.5 W for MagSafe iPhones). Can charge most phones one or two times (10,000 mAh).

Most Portable

The svelte Clutch, available in black, white, or pink, is about the same size as a stack of credit cards and weighs around 2 ounces. It’s designed to slide easily into pockets and bags and offers a modest top-up for your phone’s flagging battery. The third version of the super-slim portable charger packs a larger battery than its predecessors, at 3,300 mAh. You charge it via the USB-C port, and there's a built-in charging cable (there's a different Lightning model). It’s slow, it gets quite warm when plugged in, and a full Clutch added only around 40 percent to my iPhone 14 Pro’s battery. It also scuffs quite easily in a bag. You can get higher capacities and more efficient chargers for less, but portability is the point of the Clutch V3, and it’s a handy size to tuck away in your bag for emergencies.

One USB-C port and a built-in Lightning or USB-C cable. Can top up your phone (3,300 mAh).

Most portable chargers are featureless plastic bricks, but Ayaneo proves power banks don’t have to be dull with this adorable retro replica of Nintendo’s Super Famicom, better known as the SNES (Super Nintendo Entertainment System) in the US. Super cute and lightweight at 238 grams, Ayaneo’s Retro Power Bank has a tiny OLED showing the remaining battery, charging speed, protocol, and temperature. The function button brings it to life, and the slide switch cycles through the display options. It can send or receive up to 45 watts, but that’s a total for the output, so if you charge two devices simultaneously, you’ll get 15 W and 30 W. It supports PD 3.0, QC 3.0, and SCP. It’s a handy size, works reliably, and always catches the eye of older gamers.

Two USB-C (45 W) ports. Can charge most phones at least twice (12,000 mAh).

Best for the Rest

Got devices that don't charge via USB? Yes, they're still around. I have an old, but still great, GPS device that runs on AA batteries, headlamps that take AAA batteries, and countless other odds and ends that need batteries. After running through several brands, I've found Eneloop rechargeable batteries to be the longest-lasting and most reliable. The fast Panasonic charger can recharge any combination of AA and AAA batteries in less than four hours, and you can sometimes get it bundled in a pack that includes four AA Eneloop rechargeable batteries.

The standard AA Eneloop batteries hold around 2,000 mAh each, with AAA batteries holding 800 mAh, but you can upgrade to Eneloop Pro (2,500 mAh and 930 mAh, respectively) for more demanding gadgets, or go for Eneloop Lite (950 mAh and 550 mAh) for low-power devices. They come precharged with solar energy, and Eneloop recently switched to plastic-free cardboard packaging.

Rechargeable batteries are a smart idea, and Eneloop are the best , but if you need alkaline batteries for some reason and you are in Europe, check out the Itson range . They are made in the EU from recycled materials, and they are very affordable.

Best for the Car

It’s a horrible feeling when your car refuses to start because the battery is dead, but if you have a portable battery pack like this one in your trunk, you can give yourself a jump-start. WIRED reviewer Eric Ravenscraft  called it a roadside lifesaver after it jump-started his car several times on a long trip home from out of state. The Noco Boost Plus is a 1,000-amp, 12-volt battery pack with jump leads. It also has a USB-A port to charge your phone and a built-in 100-lumen LED flashlight. It’s a good thing to have in your trunk, but you must remember to charge it every six months. It’s also IP65-rated and good for temperatures from -4 degrees Fahrenheit up to 122 degrees.

One USB-A port. Can jump-start a car up to 20 times.

Camping Companion

There is plenty to like about Anker’s Solix C300 DC. This portable charger has a whopping 90,000 mAh capacity, so it can easily keep your gadgets topped off for a weekend in the wilderness. It has a lovely pop-up lantern with three brightness settings and a versatile array of ports. You can charge it to 80 percent in an hour using the two fast USB-C ports, but it also has an XT60 input for a 100 W solar panel (it took me several hours to fully charge this way) and a socket for charging from your car. It is heavy at 6.17 pounds, but the tall form and carry handle make it easy to take with you, and Anker sells an optional shoulder strap for $30. You can connect the Anker app on your phone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, but you don’t need to, as the display shows the percentage remaining, watts in or out, and a remaining time estimate. If you are hiking with a pack to go camping, this is the highest capacity portable charger you can realistically carry easily.

Four USB-C ports (2x 140 W, 1x 100 W, and 1x 15 W), two USB-A (12 W), and one car port (120 W). Can charge most phones more than 10 times or a laptop three times (288 Wh).

A Portable Power Station

Folks seeking more power for camping or a long road trip should pick up the Jackery Explorer 300 Plus. This cute and compact battery has a fold-out handle, packs a 288-Wh capacity, and weighs 8.3 pounds. It has two USB-C ports (18 W and 100 W), one USB-A (15 W), a car port (120 W), and an AC outlet (300 W, 600 W surge). There is plenty of power to keep your small gadgets going for a few days. There’s also an AC input, or you can charge it via USB-C. The fan kicks in sometimes, but the Silent Charging Mode keeps it below 45 decibels. You can manage it with Jackery’s app via Bluetooth, and it also has a handy flashlight. We have found Jackery gear reliable and durable, and you can expect to get at least a decade out of this battery. Go any bigger than this and portability gets debatable. We have a separate Best Portable Power Stations guide with recommendations for folks who need a lot of power.

If you want charging options for going off-grid, you can get the 300 Plus with a 40-W book-sized solar panel ($400) . It took me around eight hours to charge the battery with this panel in blue sky sunshine. If you want a faster charge and have the space for a larger panel, consider the 300 Plus with 100-W solar panels ($500) .

Two USB-C ports (100 W and 18 W), one USB-A (1 5W), one car port (120 W), and an AC outlet (300 W). Can charge most phones more than 10 times or a laptop three times (288 Wh).

Honorable Mentions

There are so many portable chargers out there. Here are a few more we like that just missed out on a place above for one reason or another.

• Cuktech 10 Power Bank for $50 : With impressive build quality, including a nice grippy material on the underside and a handy display showing power output and input, this Cuktech (pronounced chook-tek) power bank almost earned a place above. Despite the modest capacity, it is built for speed and capable of outputting 100 watts, with support for PD 3.0 and PPS. It can also recharge in less than an hour (up to 90 W). The trade-off for the high speed is low efficiency. You won’t get anywhere near the 10,000 mAh capacity advertised, but this is true of most power banks.
• FansDreams MChaos for $59 : I love the idea of a wearable power bank, and this one comes in lime green with a carabiner that makes it easy to attach to a bag. It also has a built-in, retractable, 28-inch USB-C cable to charge your phone at up to 20 watts. Recharging the power bank is a little slower at 18 watts. The colored LED gives you a sense of remaining juice as it goes from green to orange to red, but the 5,000-mAh capacity means you’ll be lucky to get one full charge for your phone, and even the discounted price feels a little high. We also tested the 10,000-mAh model ($59) , which has a nicer design. Pull the 2.3-foot retractable USB-C cable out and the percentage remaining pops up visible through the shiny plastic of the case. There’s a USB-C port on the bottom for charging, and it goes up to 22.5 watts either way.
• Sharge Flow Mini for $19 : With a similar design to Anker’s Nano Power Bank above and the same 5,000-mAh capacity, you might be tempted to go for this instead. It comes with interchangeable USB-C to USB-C or Lightning connectors (which I worry will be easy to lose) and has a built-in USB-C cable that doubles as a strap, though it’s tricky to pull out. There’s a power button with four LEDs to show the remaining power, and it only takes an hour and a half to refill, but the charging rate maxes out at 12 watts either way.
• Infinacore Pandora Portable Power Global Wireless Charger for $40 : This was our pick for the best wall charger power bank, but the Raycon that replaced it packs more power and charges faster. This is still a decent charger that plugs directly into the wall, and it has the advantage of optional EU and UK plug adapters for an extra $10, making it a handy travel companion. It offers 8,000 mAh via one USB-C port, two USB-A ports (18 W total), and Qi wireless charging (5 W).
• Baseus Blade 2 for $80 : With an extremely thin design, this 12,000-mAh-capacity power bank is easy to slip into a backpack and can charge most phones a couple of times or top up a laptop at up to 65 watts. It has a display showing battery life as a percentage or time remaining and the input or output for both USB-C ports. We've tried many products from up and down the Baseus product line. While they are generally reliable, we do think there are better options.
• Iniu Power Bank BI-B64 for $80 : Offering relatively low prices, Iniu is a power bank brand on the rise. This portable charger packs a 27,000-mAh capacity, can put out up to 140 W, and charges three devices at once via the two USB-C ports and a single USB-A port. We also tested the very similar BI-B63 ($60) , which has a slightly lower capacity at 25,000 mAh but seems like a better value. Unfortunately, both fell slightly short of the stated capacity when tested. We also like the color options available in the company's slimmest version .
• Anker Prime Power Bank for $130 : With a total combined output of 200 W and a hefty 20,000-mAh capacity, this is a solid choice for charging any device; you could even use it to charge two laptops at once via the two USB-C ports. There is a USB-A port, too, and a digital screen like the 737 listed above. You can also buy a Power Base ($70) for this, which enables you to stick the power bank on top and charge it via pogo pins. The base makes it easy to keep the power bank topped up and is handy for desktop charging with two USB-C ports and one USB-A port (combined max output 100 W). I tried the UK version (£130) , which worked great, but WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu had issues with the US base failing to charge the power bank.
• Anker Nano Power Bank 10,000 for $35 : Another solid option from Anker (also available for £30 from Amazon UK ), this power bank has a built-in USB-C cable that doubles as a loop for easy carrying and a further one USB-C and one USB-A port. It has a 10,000-mAh capacity, good for just shy of two full charges for most phones. It maxes out at 30 watts each way and can be fully charged in around two hours.
• Acefast Fast Charge Power Bank M1 for $45 : The see-through design and fun colors (we got purple) make this worth a look. It has a 10,000-mAh battery inside, supports power delivery, and can go up to 30 watts. The display shows the remaining power as a percentage, and you can recharge it in less than two hours.
• OtterBox 2-in-1 Power Bank with Apple Watch Charger for $40 : Finished in durable aluminum, this clever OtterBox power bank has a built-in Apple Watch charger. The rubberized bottom helps it stick to surfaces, and Nightstand mode makes it a handy bedside clock. But the limited 3,000-mAh battery means it runs out fast if you use the USB-C to top up your iPhone.
• Juice 3 Portable Charger for £20: An environmentally conscious alternative for folks in the UK, Juice power banks come in lots of colors, are made from 90 percent recycled plastic, and come in 100 percent recycled packaging. The series is numbered based on roughly how many charges you can expect to get out of it for the average smartphone, so the Juice 3 holds three full charges.
• Rugd Power Brick for $50 : This shock- and water-resistant (IP67 certified) charger doubles as a bright 16-LED with an SOS mode, and has a hefty 10,050-mAh capacity (one USB-C at 18 W and a USB-A that supports QC). It’s also bright orange, weighs just 280 grams, and comes with a carabiner for easy attachment, all of which make it an excellent camping buddy.
• Mpowered Luci Pro Lux for $36 : This solar-powered inflatable lantern boasts 10 LEDs and emits a lovely warm glow that’s perfect for camping or walking at night. It is IP67-rated and packs down flat for easy carrying. While it’s not primarily a power bank, the 2,000-mAh battery in the Luci Pro can charge your phone in an emergency. A nearly full Luci Pro boosted my Pixel 6 Pro by around 25 percent. It takes at least 14 hours to charge back up using the solar panels, or you can plug into an outlet and recharge in three.
• Mophie Powerstation , Powerstation XL , and Powerstation Pro AC for $35+ : Mophie's 2023 update to its Powerstation line has three devices in 10,000-, 20,000-, and 27,000-mAh capacities. They're bulky, nondescript devices with USB-C and USB-A ports, but the latter has an AC port and is great for travel. WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu used the XL during his trip to Japan and had no trouble keeping his Switch Lite and Pixel 7 Pro topped up. There are LEDs to indicate remaining battery life, but there's otherwise nothing special about 'em.
• iWalk Portable Charger for $27 : WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu used the Lightning version of this power bank while covering the Apple event and it reliably topped up his iPhone. The 4,800-mAh capacity won't fully refill your device, but it's tiny enough to keep in a bag at all times. There's an LED that shows the remaining percentage of power left. The company also has a MagSafe power bank ($30) .

What to Consider

There are a few things worth thinking about when you’re shopping for a portable charger.

Capacity : The capacity of a power bank is measured in milliampere-hours (mAh), but this can be a little misleading because the amount of power you get out depends on the cable you use , the device you're charging, and the charging method (Qi wireless charging is less efficient). You will never get the maximum capacity. We try to provide an estimate of what you’ll get in terms of charges for devices.

Charging speeds and standards : The charging rate for devices like smartphones is measured in watts (W), but most power banks list the voltage (V) and the amperage (A). Thankfully, you can calculate the wattage yourself simply by multiplying the voltage and amperage. Unfortunately, getting that maximum rate also depends on your device, the standards it supports, and the charging cable you use. Many smartphones, including Apple’s iPhones , support the power delivery standard, meaning you can use higher-power power banks to recharge the device with no issues. A few phones, such as Samsung’s Galaxy S range, support a supplementary PD protocol called PPS (Programmable Power Supply) that goes up to 45 W. Many phones also support Qualcomm’s proprietary Quick Charge (QC) standard. There are also other proprietary fast-charging standards, but you won’t generally find power banks that support them unless they come from the smartphone manufacturer.

Pass-through : If you want to charge your power bank and use it to charge another device simultaneously, it will need pass-through support. The Nimble, GoalZero, Biolite, Mophie, Zendure, and Sharge portable chargers listed support pass-through charging. Anker discontinued support for pass-through in some of its products because it found that differences between the output of the wall charger and the input of the device charging can cause the power bank to cycle on and off rapidly and shorten its lifespan. Monoprice does not support pass-through charging, either. We would advise caution when using pass-through, as it can also cause portable chargers to heat up.

Travel : It’s safe to travel with a power bank, but there are two restrictions to keep in mind when you board a flight: You must have the portable charger in your carry-on luggage (it cannot be checked), and it must not exceed 100 Wh (watt-hours). If your power bank has a larger capacity than 27,000 mAh, you should check with the airline. Below that should not be a problem.

Why You Should Avoid Cheap Stuff

Many years ago, the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 gained notoriety when its batteries caught fire in a series of incidents. There's been a steady stream of similar, though isolated, incidents ever since. However, despite the high-profile coverage of batteries gone wrong, the vast majority of Li-ion batteries are safe.

The chemical reaction that occurs inside a lithium-ion cell is complex, but as in any battery, there's a negative and a positive electrode. In lithium batteries, the negative is a lithium-carbon compound, and the positive is cobalt oxide (though many battery makers are moving away from cobalt). These two compounds cause a reaction that is safe when controlled and delivers energy to your devices. When the reaction gets out of control though, you end up with earbuds melting in your ears. What changes a safe reaction to an uncontrolled reaction can be any number of things: excess heat, physical damage during use, physical damage during manufacture, or using the wrong charger.

The three basic rules that have kept me safe (thus far) through testing dozens and dozens of batteries are:

• Avoid cheap cords, chargers, and outlet adapters.
• Make sure batteries aren't exposed to excessive heat (over 110 degrees Fahrenheit).
• Regularly inspect batteries for signs of damage.

Avoiding cheap wall-outlet adapters, cords, and chargers is the most important. These are your most likely source of problems. Those chargers you see on Amazon for $20 cheaper than the competition? Not worth it. They probably got the price down by skimping on insulation, leaving out power-management tools, and ignoring the basics of electrical safety. Price alone is no guarantee of safety, either. Buy from reputable companies and brands.

Then there's heat. Too much of it can cause all manner of problems, both in terms of discharge and in terms of safety. Avoid heat, and pay attention to your batteries when they're charging. If your device gets overly hot when charging, this can be a sign of problems. Similarly, beware of any swollen, bulging, or otherwise misshapen batteries.

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Review: Twelve South's 'ButterFly' is a Great Travel Charger

Earlier this month, Twelve South launched the ButterFly 2-in-1 MagSafe Charger , and it may be the best multi-device travel charger that's come out to date. The "ButterFly" name comes from the shape, as it has two magnetic sides connected by a small strap in the middle.

play The Apple Watch charger can be used flat or it can be popped out to support Nightstand mode and bands that can't charge in a flat orientation. The ‌MagSafe‌ side is a simple charging puck that connects to ‌MagSafe‌ iPhones and other devices like the ‌MagSafe‌ AirPods.

Both the Apple Watch charging puck and the ‌MagSafe‌ charger can charge the ‌MagSafe‌ AirPods, which makes this 2-in-1 charger almost as versatile as a 3-in-1 model.

Bottom Line

This is the most compact travel charger I've tried, and I have no complaints, except for the price tag. $130 is expensive, but it is using two of Apple's proprietary technologies - Apple Watch fast charging and ‌MagSafe‌.

Other than the cost, this is the perfect travel charger and if you're looking for a premium solution that folds down small and works well with the ‌iPhone‌, AirPods, and Apple Watch, the ButterFly is worth checking out.

The ButterFly charger from Twelve South can be purchased from the Twelve South website or from the Apple website for $130.

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Top Rated Comments

This one's better at half the price: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BKPCXZQY

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Traveler’s Tech Guide: Picking the Perfect Chargers and Cables for Your Next Trip

• Last updated: October 11, 2023
• Digital nomad

Home » Travel Blog » Traveler’s Tech Guide: Picking the Perfect Chargers and Cables for Your Next Trip

When it comes to traveling, I’ve learned the hard way that not all chargers and cables are created equal. One of my biggest travel blunders was finding myself in an airport lounge with a dead phone and a charger that simply didn’t fit the outlets. That’s when I realized how important it is to have the right gear for your tech needs while on the go.

Now, let’s talk about finding the perfect chargers and cables for your travels. It’s not only about making sure your devices stay powered up, but also ensuring compatibility with different outlet types across the globe. And let’s not forget durability — you don’t want a flimsy cable giving out on you mid-flight!

So here we go! My traveler’s tech guide will help you navigate through picking just what you need to keep your devices charged up and ready, no matter where your journey takes you. Remember: being prepared can make or break your trip, especially in this digital age!

Understanding the Importance of Quality Chargers and Cables

I’m sure we’ve all experienced it at some point – that sinking feeling when your phone battery is flashing low and you’re miles away from home. It’s in these moments that we truly appreciate the value of a good charger. But not just any charger will do. Quality matters.

So, why should you invest in quality chargers and cables ? For starters, they ensure safe charging for your devices. Inexpensive chargers may seem like a bargain initially, but using them can lead to issues such as overheating or even permanent damage to your gadget’s battery life over time.

Another reason to opt for quality chargers and cables is their durability. Imagine you’re on a trip of a lifetime, capturing every moment on your phone or camera only for your charger or cable to stop working because it couldn’t stand up to the rigors of travel.

Let’s talk numbers here:

As this data reveals, cheap non-branded chargers have an alarmingly high failure rate when compared to their premium counterparts.

In addition, quality chargers and cables offer better performance – faster charging times, efficient power transfer, and longer life span are just some benefits you’d enjoy. Do not forget about compatibility too! High-quality products often come with wide-ranging compatibility across various device models and brands.

• Safe Charging
• Better Performance
• Wide Compatibility

These four factors alone underscore why investing in reliable products is essential. Remember: when it comes to tech accessories like these, it’s always better to play safe than sorry!

Navigating the Tech Market: Choosing the Right Charger

Let’s dive into picking the right charger for your travel needs. It can seem like a daunting task with so many options available, but I’ll guide you through it.

First things first, compatibility is key. Not all chargers are created equal and it’s crucial to ensure that the charger you choose pairs well with your devices. For instance, an Apple iPhone won’t charge with a micro USB charger – it needs a lightning cable. Android phones, on the other hand, generally use either micro USB or USB-C connectors. So, before hitting that purchase button online or in-store, double-check your device’s charging port type.

Secondly, power output matters. This is measured in watts (W) and determines how quickly your device will charge. Standard chargers typically offer around 5W of power but if you’re looking for faster charging times – especially handy when time is precious on the move – look out for chargers advertised as ‘Fast Charge’, supplying up to 18W or more.

Next up is portability. When traveling light is important, bulky chargers simply won’t cut it! Look out for slim designs and foldable plugs that make packing them away easier.

Lastly, don’t forget about safety standards! Trustworthy brands adhere to rigorous safety regulations and offer features such as overcharge protection or automatic shut-off after full charge to protect your devices from damage.

Here are some pointers:

• Check compatibility – does the charger fit your device?
• Consider power output – do you need fast charging capabilities?
• Think about portability – will it pack easily without adding unnecessary weight?
• And finally safety standards – does the brand have good reviews and adhere to safety protocols?

Choosing the right charger doesn’t have to be complicated; armed with this knowledge you’ll be able to navigate those tech aisles like a pro!

Different Types of Travel-Friendly Chargers

Traveling is a blast, isn’t it? But there’s one thing that can quickly turn your dream vacay into a nightmare: running out of battery on your essential gadgets. Fear not! I’m here to shed some light on the different types of travel-friendly chargers.

A great option for those constantly on the go is the power bank or portable charger. These compact devices pack quite a punch and come in various capacities, from 5,000mAh up to 20,000mAh and beyond. They’re designed to provide multiple charges for your smartphone or tablet before needing a recharge themselves. And let’s not forget their versatility – many models now cater to laptops and even certain gaming systems!

Next up are solar-powered chargers – perfect for camping trips or locations where outlets might be scarce. By harnessing sunlight energy, these marvels keep your devices juiced up without needing an electrical supply.

And then we’ve got wall chargers with international compatibility – an absolute must-have if you’re jetting off abroad. These handy gizmos are designed with interchangeable plugs fitting sockets in Europe, Asia, America, and more! No need to worry about lugging around numerous adaptors anymore.

Finally, let’s talk about car chargers – they’re lifesavers during long road trips when your GPS decides it’s had enough halfway through the journey! They plug into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket and provide USB ports for charging.

Let me emphasize that all these chargers have their pros and cons depending upon what type of traveler you are. So next time you’re packing for an adventure; don’t forget to choose wisely from this smorgasbord of options.

Selecting Durable Cables for Your Devices

I’ve come across a lot of travelers who focus intently on getting the best tech gadgets but overlook the importance of high-quality cables. Trust me, investing in durable and reliable charging cables is equally important when planning your travel tech kit. It’s an easy miss but can have a significant impact on your travel experience, especially if you’re heavily reliant on electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, or laptops.

Choosing the right cable doesn’t just mean picking any wire that fits into your device; it demands more attention than that. You’ll want to look at factors such as durability, length, compatibility, and speed. For instance, braided nylon cables are generally more robust than standard plastic ones and can resist tangles better.

Here are some features you should be looking for:

• Durability : Look for cables with reinforced stress points since they endure daily bends and twists better.
• Cable Length : If you’re going to charge your device from a distance or while using it (say in bed), opt for longer cables.
• Compatibility : Ensure that the cable is compatible with your device model before purchasing it.
• Speed : A decent-quality cable should support fast-charging capabilities.

Remember to avoid buying no-name brands from obscure shops. They may seem like a bargain initially but often fail in performance after only a few uses. And there’s nothing worse than being stuck somewhere unfamiliar with a dead phone battery!

In a world where USB-C is becoming commonplace among new devices, having one handy during travels could prove beneficial. These USB-C cables offer faster data transfer speeds and support higher wattage power delivery which means quicker charging times – perfect for those always on-the-go moments.

While picking up these types of chargers might sound simple enough, it’s crucial not to underestimate their importance in our increasingly digital lives! As I’ve learned from my own experiences (and mishaps!), investing in high-quality charging cables can save you a lot of frustration on the road. So, next time you’re packing your tech gear, make sure your cables are up to par!

How to Identify High-Speed Charging Cables

I’ll admit it, deciphering the world of charging cables can be a bit daunting. But don’t fret! I’m here to walk you through some key factors that’ll help you identify high-speed charging cables.

First off, let’s talk about USB standards. It’s essential to know that not all USBs are created equal. The standard has evolved over the years, with more recent versions offering faster data transfer and charging speeds. For instance,

• USB 2.0: This might be the most common type out there, but it’s not your best bet for speedy charging.
• USB 3.x: A significant step up in terms of speed compared to its predecessor.
• USB-C: This is the latest and greatest in the bunch, capable of delivering power at an impressive rate.

To further illustrate this point:

Next on our list is cable length. You might think a longer cable would be more convenient—after all, who doesn’t love being able to charge their device from across the room? However, when it comes to fast charging times, shorter is definitely sweeter.

Lastly, pay attention to wattage ratings if you’re looking for a quick juice-up. Higher wattage means faster charging—simple as that!

Consequently:

• A typical phone charger provides around 5 watts
• Fast chargers go up to around 18 watts
• Ultra-fast chargers can reach up to whopping 100 watts

Here’s how they stack up:

In a nutshell, when you’re out hunting for high-speed charging cables, remember to check the USB standard, keep an eye on cable length and always consider wattage ratings. Happy shopping!

Packing and gear tips:

• Digital Nomad Packing List: The Ultimate Guide to Traveling Light
• Best Walking Shoes for Men: Top Picks
• Best Camera Lenses for Travel Photography: Tips For Your Next Trip
• Travel Accessories for Women: Best Items For Your Next Trip
• Best Backpacking Tent: The Ultimate Guide
• Best GoPro Alternative: The Ultimate Guide

Pairing Your Devices with the Perfect Charger and Cable

I’ve come across a startling number of travelers who have faced the frustration of device connectivity issues on their trips. They’re left with an unusable device simply because they didn’t bring the right charger or cable. So, let’s dive into how you can avoid this predicament.

Firstly, it’s essential to know your device specifications before selecting any charger or cable. Every device has a unique power requirement and connector type – be it micro-USB, USB-C, Lightning, or something else entirely. I highly recommend checking your device manual or looking up its specs online to ensure you’re pairing it with compatible accessories.

Consider these examples:

• The latest Apple devices use Lightning cables for charging and data transfer.
• Many Android phones use USB-C cables which are faster and more efficient than their predecessors.
• Older models might still require a Micro-USB cable.

Secondly, we need to talk about power output. Chargers vary significantly in their wattage – from 5 watts phone chargers to 85 watts laptop chargers. You’ll find this information usually printed on the charger itself as ‘Output’. It’s crucial not just for charging speed but also for safety reasons that you match your devices with an appropriate power source.

Lastly, always opt for quality over price when choosing chargers and cables. Counterfeit products may seem like a bargain until they fry your expensive gear due to poor build quality and lack of safety standards!

So there you go! It isn’t rocket science but just being aware of what your devices need can save you some serious headaches (and heartaches) when traveling. Remember: Know your gadget before hitting the road! The perfect travel buddy could be as simple as the right charger and cable combo!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Chargers and Cables

When it comes to buying chargers and cables for travel, I’ve seen countless travelers fall into common pitfalls. Let’s delve into these mistakes, so you can avoid them on your next tech purchase.

Firstly, let’s talk about the importance of checking compatibility. Many people assume that all cables are created equal – they’re not. For instance, you might find yourself snapping up a cheap cable only to realize it doesn’t fit your device. It’s crucial to check whether the charger or cable is compatible with your device before purchasing.

Next up is ignoring power output. Not every charger provides the same amount of juice. Some might charge your phone in an hour, while others could take half a day! Be sure to look at the wattage – usually denoted ‘W’. As a rule of thumb: The higher the wattage, the quicker it’ll charge your device.

The third mistake I often see is overlooking cable length. A super-short cable may be compact for travel but if it means you’re stuck sitting on the floor next to an outlet… not ideal! On the flip side, excessively long cables can also be a hassle as they tend to tangle easily and add unnecessary weight to your luggage.

Another blunder is falling for counterfeit products. They may seem like a bargain at first sight but they’re often poor quality and can even pose safety risks such as overheating or fire hazards. Always buy from reputable retailers and avoid deals that seem too good to be true!

Lastly, don’t forget about multi-device charging options if you carry multiple gadgets when traveling! A wall charger with several USB ports or a universal charging station can save space in your bag and also make life easier by allowing you to charge multiple devices at once.

By avoiding these common mistakes when buying chargers and cables, you’ll set yourself up for stress-free travels knowing that all your tech needs are covered!

Wrapping Up: Picking the Best Chargers and Cables

I’ve spent a considerable amount of time talking about various types of chargers and cables. My aim has been to equip you with enough knowledge to make an informed decision when purchasing these essential travel tech accessories. Now, it’s time for me to wrap up my insights and recommendations.

Picking the best charger largely depends on your specific needs. You’ll want one that’s compatible with your devices, efficient, and convenient for travel. I’d recommend going for a multi-port USB charger if you have multiple gadgets. It’s space-saving and you won’t have to carry different chargers around.

When it comes to cables, durability should be your top priority. No one wants a cable that frays or breaks easily! Look out for nylon-braided ones as they’re generally more robust. Also, remember to consider length – while longer cables provide flexibility in use, they can also add extra bulk to your bag.

A few quick takeaways :

• Always check compatibility before buying.
• Multi-port USB chargers are great for those traveling with multiple devices.
• Durability is crucial when choosing cables – nylon-braided ones are often a good pick.
• Balance out cable length based on your needs and comfort while traveling.

Traveling can be stressful enough without worrying about running out of battery power or dealing with faulty wires! So investing in quality chargers and cables is worth every penny in my book.

Remember this: The right tech gear not only enhances the ease of your trip but also its enjoyment factor! Safe travels everyone!

Elizabeth Harpe

• Published: September 24, 2023

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Minimalist Electronics For Travel

This Minimalist Electronics for Travel post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click on a link, we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you. Please read our full policy below , thank you for your support!

Electronics can be some of the heaviest gear in your travel pack. If you’re out there on the road lugging around multiple bulky travel adapters, battery packs, laptop charge cords etc. I want to introduce you to my minimalist electronics for travel setup.

I have a simple setup with a phone, battery pack, a few USB cords, laptop, and one adapter that can charge all my devices in over 150 countries. So let me show you what these things are, and how they can help to slim down your travel electronics.

CARD 4-Pro International Travel Adapter

Cost: $89.00 Dimensions: 3.4″ x 2.2″ x 1.2″ (8.6 x 5.6 x 3 cm) Weight: 5.5 oz (153 g) Output USB-C: @ 45W max, 20V/2.25A, 15V/3A, 12V/3A, 9V/3A, 5V/3A Output USB-A: 5V/3A, 3 ports (shared) Origin: Made in China

Shop CARD 4-Pro Travel Adapter

The CARD 4-PRO international travel adapter is the most versatile adapter I’ve found. It comes with 4 USB outputs (including a 45W USB-C) and adapter plugs that can be used in over 150 countries. If you travel with a laptop the CARD 4-Pro can replace both your travel adapter and your laptop charge cord, making this the only adapter device you need.

The CARD 4-Pro has 4 outlet plugs with 60W total output. The USB-C plug can power up to 45-watt laptops, or fast-charge cell phones or tablets. It has an additional three USB-A ports, allowing you to charge up to 4 devices at the same time. However, note that these 3 slots share a 15W total output, so the more things you plug in, the less power each device will get.

Folded into the back of the CARD 4-Pro are all 4 of the major travel adapter types. This allows you to use it in over 150 countries with no further adapter needed ( map of world socket types ). The Type A plug covers North America and Japan. Twisting converts it into type “I” for Australia and New Zealand. The type “G” plug covers the UK, and the Type “C” covers most of Europe.

The only downside I have found to this otherwise perfect minimalist travel charger is the bulk. The orientation of some of the plugs sometimes make it difficult to plug into awkwardly placed outlets. If a plug is behind furniture, or oriented close to another object, it can be difficult to plug it in.

Anker PowerCore 10000 PD Redux

Cost: $45.99 Dimensions: 4.2″ x 2″ x 1″ (10.7 x 5.1 x 2.5 cm) Weight: 6.8 oz (193 g) Capacity: 10,000 mAh (~2 phone charges) Output USB-C (18W): 15V/1.2A, 9V/2A, 5V/3A Output USB-A (12W): 5V/2.4A Origin: Made in China

Shop Anker PowerCore 10000 Redux

For my external battery pack, I have the Anker PowerCore 10000 PD Redux with a max 18W power delivery. Battery packs aren’t necessary minimalist travel electronics, but for me it’s worth the weight and peace of mind. I rely on my phone for almost everything when I travel including camera, navigation, e-tickets, communication and internet.

“PD” stands for power delivery, and I’m guessing “Redux” means reduction because it’s slightly smaller than the non-redux version. The 10,000 mAh will get me through a full day of heavy use, it’s enough for about 2 full charges of my phone.

The PowerCore has two ports, one USB-C and a USB-A. The pack charges through the USB-C port in about 3 hours. It’s also the Power Deliver (PD) port, supplying up to 18W fast charge. The other USB-A can charge a device with up to 12W. You can use both of these ports at the same, but it’s going to split the total 18W between your devices.

Google Pixel 2

Most modern cell phones have the capability for international use , so I wouldn’t expect most people need to upgrade their phone for travel. The most important thing is to make sure your phone is unlocked and has the capability to switch SIM cards.

I have the Google Pixel 2 phone. It’s inexpensive, unlocked, and easy to switch out SIM cards to use abroad. It’s also compatible with Google Fi which is a great plan for travelers (US residents only). They have inexpensive plans that include free international data and texting in over 200 countries when you travel. Which means you don’t need to pay roaming fees or switch out SIM cards. You can also keep your phone number, so you don’t need to worry about 2 factor authentication abroad.

My laptop is a 15” Toshiba Inspiron at a heatfy 3 lbs 14 oz (1.76 kg). It’s not the best minimalist electronics for travel, but I’m not a digital nomad and don’t travel with it except on business trips. It has low power requirements though and can be charged with a 45W power adapter, letting me use the CARD 4-Pro when I take it on the road. I would recommend not taking your laptop unless you absolutely need one or getting something a little smaller like the Dell XPS 13” or a MacBook Pro 13”.

And finally minimalist travel electronics charge cords, I use a couple of USB cords mostly by Anker. I’ve been burned by cheap generic cords so many times I prefer to pay a little extra for something I know will last.

Anker Powerline+ III USBC to USB C (6ft)

Weight: 1.8 oz (53 g) Length: 6 feet Power Delivery: Up to 60W Data Transfer: 480 Mbps

My main cord is the Anker Powerline 6 foot USB-C to USB-C cord. It’s a little heavy 1.8 oz (53g), but it’s a tough braided cable that I know will last. It has a 60W power deliver capability so I know It will work with all my devices, and a medium-fast 480 Mbps data transfer.

I like having at least one long cord so I can charge my laptop while I use it and plug my cell phone in away from the wall. Usually I carry a shorter one also (~3ft), for charging and using the batter pack. The one I carry comes included with the PowerCore 10000.

3 in 1 USB Charge Cord

My girlfriend has an iPhone and I use one for work, meaning I sometimes need to carry multiple charge cables. If you have devices with multiple plug types, this little 3 in 1 cord adapter is useful. It’s a random brand (EEiiqi) I bought in a 2 pack on Amazon for about $8, but it works well.

It has a USB-A on one end, meaning it will plug into my travel adapter, laptop, or external battery. It converts power into a lightening, USB-C, and  micro-USB, allowing you to charge 3 different types of devices at the same time.

Minimalist Electronics for Travel Total Weight

All in all, I think this is a decent minimalist electronics for travel setup, but could use some improvement. You save a ton of weight by using an adapter that can also charge your laptop and removes the need to carry a laptop charge cord. My biggest weight however is the laptop, it’s well over half the total weight of my electronics. By slimming down, focusing on a lighter laptop or bringing a tablet (like a Pixelbook), you could save a ton of weight here.

CARD 4-Pro: 5.5 oz (153 g) Anker PowerCore: 6.8 oz (193 g) Anker USB-C Cable: 1.8 oz (53 g) 3 in 1 Cable Adapter: 0.6 oz (19 g) Google Pixel: 6.2 oz (176g) Dell Inspiron 15″: 3 lbs. 14.4 oz (1.76) kg ———————————- Total Weight: 5 lbs. 3.9 oz (2.39 kg)

I run One Bag Travels as an independent website, I am not directly associated with, nor do I take payments from any of the companies featured on this site. My opinions are based on my personal experience with these products, as well as years of experience as an independent traveler.

Any revenue I receive from One Bag Travels is from affiliate marketing relationships, meaning if you click on one of the product links, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. I strive to review products that I like, or are popular in the one bag/minimalist travel community, not just brands that I receive a commission on. Sometimes a company will send me a free product to review, I am however under no incentive or obligation to give them a favorable review.

The continued existence and success of One Bag Travels relies on the support of my readers. I believe providing thorough, honest, unbiased information is the best way to grow this support. I put a lot of work into my reviews, if you find this information was helpful in your decision, we encourage you to purchase through one of our affiliate links, at zero extra cost to you. This support allows me to continue providing the best reviews and content for you. Thank you for your support!

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This 3-in-1 MagSafe charger is the one gadget I can't leave home without — here's why

This is my favorite travel peripheral

I frequently travel for work so it’s always important I keep my iPhone 13 Pro , Apple Watch SE and AirPods Pro 2 charged. 

I used to have a separate charger for the watch and another for the phone and earbuds. Combined with all the necessary wires for each device, carrying around so many chargers wasn’t optimal. That’s all in the past as the ESR HaloLock 3-in-1 Magsafe foldable charger has simplified my life.

My colleague John Velasco wrote about this device last year and it’s the same one he gave me. I have a Belkin 3-in-1 MagSafe charger on my office desk and another at home. However, neither is as portable as ESR’s unit since they can’t fold. The foldable design and elegant travel case make this 3-in-1 MagSafe charger extremely easy to travel with. In fact, I don’t know how I went so long without it. It’s a true game-changer.

With my upcoming trip to IFA 2024 this 3-in-1 MagSafe charger will be invaluable. Here’s why.

ESR 3-in-1 MagSafe Charging Stand: $54 @Amazon 

  The versatile ESR 3-in-1 MagSafe Charging Stand is a must if you frequently travel. It can charge your iPhone, AirPods and Apple Watch simultaneously and relatively fast. Best of all, the whole package is easy to travel with.

What’s in the box?

This package includes the 3-in-1 foldable MagSafe charger, a portable watch charger for Apple Watch , a 20W charging adapter and a 5-foot USB-C to USB-C cable. All of that comes in a classy travel bag that easily fits into your backpack or whatever you use to carry your belongings.

Getting the aforementioned items in and out of the travel bag is pretty easy. The interior has foam compartments that keep the items from moving around. The travel bag also magnetically snaps closed. And the best part is that the whole package only weighs 0.68 pounds!

Simple setup 

Setting up the ESR 3-in-1 MagSafe charger is both easy and fun. The MagSafe charger itself opens nearly 90 degrees when fully unfolded. The gentle slope provides an excellent viewing angle for your iPhone. There’s a USB-C port on the device's base where you connect the 20W charging adapter.

Once that’s done, you can start placing your devices. The magnet does an excellent job of keeping your phone securely in place in both portrait and landscape orientation. The AirPod charging base is just behind the MagSafe charger. This base has a little bit of a magnetic pull but not a lot. Right beside the AirPod base is a USB-C port for the portable watch charger. Like the other chargers on this device, the watch charger magnetically keeps the watch in place.

How fast does it charge? 

The 3-in-1 MagSafe does a decent job of charging. I placed all of my Apple devices on the charger for 22 minutes for this anecdotal test.

As you can see from the table above, it doesn’t take long to charge your devices. That said, ESR’s charger isn’t meant to quickly charge your devices. It’s best for charging your items overnight so that you’re ready for the next day.

Bottom line

I like traveling as light and unencumbered as possible. Because of that, the ESR 3-in-1 MagSafe foldable charger has made my life easier. Not only does it have everything I need to keep my Apple devices charged, but it’s so light that I barely notice it in my backpack.

If you’re looking for a similar device, then you should consider the ESR 3-in-1 MagSafe foldable charger.

More from Tom's Guide

• Best MagSafe chargers for your iPhone
• Forget Anker — this is my new favorite 3-in-1 MagSafe charger
• This MagSafe wireless charger is about the same size as my Apple Watch

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Tony is a computing writer at Tom’s Guide covering laptops, tablets, Windows, and iOS. During his off-hours, Tony enjoys reading comic books, playing video games, reading speculative fiction novels, and spending too much time on X/Twitter. His non-nerdy pursuits involve attending Hard Rock/Heavy Metal concerts and going to NYC bars with friends and colleagues. His work has appeared in publications such as Laptop Mag, PC Mag, and various independent gaming sites.

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Mophie Travel Kit - Portable, Wireless Charging for Samsung, Apple iPhone 8/iPhone X and Other Qi-Enabled Smartphones - Black (409901792)

About this item.

• Compact design: the Compact design and travel pouch make it easy to carry everything you need to charge while traveling.
• Compatible with Qi: the charge stream travel kit is compatible with virtually any Qi-enabled smartphone.
• Charges on contact: simply place your smartphone on the pad and charging begins immediately.
• Rubberized, non-slip grip: protects your phone while charging, preventing scratches and slips.
• Charge through lightweight cases: the charge stream pad mini included in the travel kit can deliver a charge through cases up to 3mm thick.

Similar item to consider

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Top Brand: Mophie

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What's in the box

• charge stream pad mini, wall adapter, car adapter, USB A to Micro USB cable, QSG

Product information

Looking for specific info, product description.

Charge your smartphone while traveling with the charge stream travel kit. It includes everything you need to charge wirelessly in a car, airport, or hotel. Just place any Qi-enabled smartphone on the charge stream pad Mini and charging begins on contact. The kit also includes a 2.4A wall adapter, 2.4A car adapter, and a 4.9 ft. USB-A to micro USB cable.

Customer reviews

• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 63% 18% 6% 6% 7% 63%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 63% 18% 6% 6% 7% 18%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 63% 18% 6% 6% 7% 6%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 63% 18% 6% 6% 7% 6%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 63% 18% 6% 6% 7% 7%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the quality, value, performance, and compactness of the charging adapter set. For example, they say it's a great travel case and well built. Some appreciate the wireless charging pad and that it fits perfectly in the upper tray. That said, some complain that it charges very slow.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the charging adapter. They mention that it is well built, has high quality components, and is perfect to have on the go or in a glove compartment as a charging backup. Some say that it comes in s great little travel pouch.

"This is prolly one of the best travel kit out there. The best because of course it's made from a reputable company. The build quality is outstanding...." Read more

"...Great travel case and well built for the price . Happy with this product for traveling." Read more

"...And now the charger doesn’t work at all. It comes in a great little travel pouch ." Read more

"...Love it! All around great kit - very high quality . I've bought several Mophie items and am always happier than expected." Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the charging adapter set. They say it's a great set of adapters for travel.

"...At this price the bundle is a bargain . Considering that it comes with car adapter, this set should cost much more than it does...." Read more

"...I feel the price was very good if you look at the price of other Qi wireless chargers." Read more

"...Can pack a little bulky, but great to have. Excellent value ." Read more

"...It feels like I stole this product. The value at this price is insane . Great product!" Read more

Customers are satisfied with the performance of the charging adapter. They mention that it works well, is great, and is easily brandable. Some say that the adapter is amazing and helpful.

"I have had problems with other surface chargers however this one works very well . Great travel case and well built for the price...." Read more

"...They cases were easily brandable and should be well received ." Read more

"...The value at this price is insane. Great product !" Read more

" Wonderful product . Great Seller. Highly recommended" Read more

Customers are satisfied with the compactness of the charging adapter. They mention that it's a good travel size charger and that it fits perfectly in the upper tray of the center console.

"...The build quality is outstanding. The wireless charging pad seems really compact which is really nice but it only delivers 5w which is not fast but..." Read more

"...Either than that it's a good travel size charger set" Read more

"...A very clean solution that fits perfectly in the upper tray of the center console. Love it! All around great kit - very high quality...." Read more

"...I bought this second one to keep in my Day Bag. Compact enough , only thing I add is a USB C adapter and I'm all set." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the charging adapter. They mention that it charges very slowly, does not charge their devices, and does not deliver 5W.

"...really compact which is really nice but it only delivers 5w which is not fast but not slow either...." Read more

"...Spent hours long looking at similar items. Found by accident. Not super fast charging but very convenient package either use at home or traveling...." Read more

"I wanted to use this in my car. I could not get a good charge for my iPhone 11. I attached it using two different USB amp jacks in my car...." Read more

"Difficult to engage the QI tech and when and if you do it charges very slow ." Read more

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What’s the Difference Between a Travel Charger and an Adapter

The difference between a travel charger and an adapter is rooted in their function.

Do you know the difference between a travel charger and an adapter? Do you need both or just for your destination? Here’s a quick read to clarify what your need to stay power upped and connected when you’re away from home.

Travel Chargers or Converter

A travel charger is also known as a converter. Typically a travel charger or converter converts, that is steps down, the local electricity to a lower voltage. The US and Canada use lower voltage electricity than most parts of the world. The problem is if you plug in an appliance like your US hairdryer which is made for lower voltage into a higher voltage plug (even when using a plug adapter) it will send too high of an electrical current to your appliance. If this happens you’ll “fry” your hairdryer or whatever other appliance you plugged in and ruin it rendering it no longer useful.

Travel Adapter

A travel adapter makes it so that your device can plug into the outlet which has holes that are different than ours in the US. IT does nothing more. You may only need a travel adapter . Many of today’s devices like newer laptops, apple products like iPhones and iPads are dual voltage, so you don’t need a travel converter or charger to use charge and use them in foreign countries. Most of the time, you will need just adapter plugs when traveling however in some cases, you may need a voltage converter (also known as a travel charger). One of the best tips you can follow is to buy your adapter plug and travel converter here before you travel internationally and take it with you.

Universal Travel Adapter/Converter

Read on to the bottom of the article which explains what universal travel chargers and adapters are.  Many savvy globe trotters pack a universal travel charger and adapter device as it’s an all-in-one device. If you’re not sure what you need, read on for a better understanding.

Electrical Appliances work at: >110/120 volts = USA/Canada >220/240 volts = Vast Majority of the Rest of the World

     International Power Converter

Converters should only be used with electric appliances, such as hairdryers, irons, small fans, or any appliance that has a mechanical motor. If the appliance is electronic, which contains a computer chip, like a laptop,  a converter is usually not required.

Many new electronics are designed to work at both 110 volts and 240 volts. Most devices that are intended for travel, devices such as laptops, cameras, cell phone chargers, and other battery chargers usually do not require a converter. Look for an indications panel on your electronics to verify what power level is compatible. If you’re not sure a quick inquiry to the manufacturer of the item you’re not sure about could save you from ruining your device.

We recommend checking the label, owner’s manual, or contacting the manufacturer to be certain! 

Is My Device Dual Voltage? 

If the electrical appliance has a dual voltage (which means it can run on 110/120 volts or 220/240 volts), make sure the switch is on the correct voltage pertaining to your location. Some electrical items are made to operate at one voltage only. Most laptops, phones, and cameras, however, are dual voltage and don’t even require that you flip a switch. You just need a simple plug adapter to power them up.

Dual Voltage  appliances will say 110-220 VAC, or INPUT AC120/240V 50-60Hz 1300W

Single Voltage  appliances will say 110 VAC. 120 VAC or INPUT AC120Vac 60Hz 200W

Note : If your appliance is dual voltage, you do NOT have to worry about a converter. All you need is a plug adapter for the country you will be visiting. It is our recommendation if your appliance is not dual voltage and you depend on it buy one that is for travel.

Wattage is the amount of power required to operate an electrical appliance or device. You need to know the wattage of the device in order to get the right converter. You want a converter that can handle the wattage required by the appliance plus about 25% more just to be sure. So read the specifications.

Most devices have a label showing the wattage. If the wattage is not listed on the label, the voltage and amperage are usually listed and can be used to figure out the wattage using a simple formula.

Multiply the voltage by the amperage (amps or A) to calculate the wattage. Example: An appliance labeled with a voltage of 110 and amperage of 1.5 is 165 watts (110 x 1.5 = 165 Watts)

Please Note : Converters are  NOT meant for long time use. Converters are meant to change the electrical voltage for small electrical items, (such as hair dryers, irons, etc) for travelers for a short amount of time. We recommend no longer than 30 minutes.

Adapters are simply connectors that change the plug shape to match the electrical outlet.  Adapters allow you to use your device by connecting pieces of equipment that cannot be directly connected to the standard plug. They act as a go-between. You plug your device into the adapter and the adapter into the electrical socket. Throughout the world, there are about 15 types of electrical outlets so chances are that if you travel outside of the US you’ll need a plug adapter.

Adapters allow a dual-voltage appliance or a converter from one country to be plugged into the wall outlet of another country.

We highly suggest taking a variety of adapters when traveling because of how many different shaped plugs there are! An adapter kit or an all-in-one device that offers multiple plugs does not take up much room so it is best to buy one before you go. I keep my all in one charger and adapter unit, known as a universal adapter/converter with my carry-on bag so I’ll never forget to pack it.

Universal Travel Adapter/Converters

A universal travel adapter/converter is an all-in-one device. It’s a travel charger and an adapter all in one. For most people, this is the best option to travel with because you’ll be prepared for whatever charging or electrical need you may have.  These universal products handle both jobs and keep your tech gear powered up, These are our favorites from Amazon and all are competitively priced.

Universal Adapter and Converter for Travel

International Travel Adapter 220V to 110V Step Down Power Voltage Converter for Hair Straightener/Curling Iron, Universal Power Plug Adapter

220V/240V to 110V/120V Step Down 230W Voltage Converter and International Travel Adapter Combo for Hair Straightener Flat Iron, Hair Curler, CPAP, Toothbrush

Travel Tips

• Pack travel adapters and phone chargers in your carry-on luggage. If your suitcase is lost, you will still be able to charge your cell phone & camera.
• Surprisingly, adapters are difficult to find in other countries. We recommend purchasing an adapter kit before traveling, to keep your electronics charged and ready for action! Research which adapters you may need based on electronics prior to your trip, so you have time to purchase the right one. The best solution is to invest in a universal charger/converter device that converts the voltage and offers adapter plugs that fit most countries.
• Bring an external battery for your phone in your carry-on luggage as well.

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Best Travel Cord Organizers: Easy Solution to Using Devices On a Trip

Electronics , LUGGAGE , Packing Tips

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In our constant quest to pack light, there is always one thing that we can’t seem to downsize or organize efficiently – electronics and their cables.

Recently, I bought these awesome cord wraps and thought I’d do more research to see what else is available to help travelers keep their cables and cords all in place. Take a look at these travel cord organizer options to make using your devices easier, and tips for how to pack them!

You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly !

Best Travel Cord Organizer

Table of contents.

An electronics cable organizer keeps cords untangled and all in one place. Find your chargers and earbuds quickly and easily by using one of these helpful product s, so you can get on with enjoying all your devices while traveling that much faster!

Best Electronic Organizer Bags

BAGSMART Electronic Organizer

Readers’ Top Pick: BAGSMART Compact Electronic Organizer

Named as one of the best travel tech organizers, keep messy cables and small electronic accessories neatly in their place with the Bagsmart electronic cable organizer . This reader favorite holds your gear so that everything is in one place, and extremely organized so that you can find whatever you need asap! It’s a great, slim size, too, that’s easy to slip into your bag or backpack. It’s one of the biggest sellers on the blog, too! 

Bagsmart also has a larger sized electronic cord organize r that works for more long time travel or business trave, and can fit several cables, external  hard drives, or pick up a smaller sized electronic cord organizer for USB cables, batteries, SD cards, and so on—check them both out!

TFG readers recommend the best travel power strip for your next trip!

BUBM Electronics Accessory Organizer

BUBM Electronics Accessory Organizer 

Many travelers swear by portable organizers such as the BUBM foldable cable bag . They love that everything, including electronics and cords, is accessible in one location. Many agree that this makes packing so much easier! 

One of our readers says, “I just started using a small organizer bag like yours for all my electrical. I really like mine, regardless of the amount of room it takes up. But that’s because I can tell at a glance which cord is which, which item I need, and if something is missing.”

Hestech Electronics Organizer Cable Travel Case

HESTECH Electronics Organizer Pouch

A handy little pouch like the Hestech Organizer Bag allows all of your chargers, cords, and tech accessories to be stored in one place. This pouch is made of waterproof double layers, keeping everything safe and sound. 

It’s designed with plenty of pockets and elastic straps to keep secure your accessories in its place, so you won’t have to be digging around to find what you’re looking for! Furthermore, it’s super portable and convenient for carrying in your personal item or carryon !

We’ve put together the ultimate  power outlet guide  for determining which plug to use in what country!

Sunsir Electronic Organizer

Sunsir Tech Organizer Pouch

There’ll be a place for everything and everything in its place with this efficient Sunsir electronic organizer pouch . The protective and waterproof shell opens up to a spacious interior with plenty of elastic cable holders, mesh pockets, and even little slots for flash drives and memory cards! Plus, the back has a sleeve that’ll fit a mini tablet or a phone. 

This one is absolutely perfect for digital nomads and business travelers!

SIDE BY SIDE Premium Pouch Organizer for Tech

Side By Side Pouch Organizer for Electronics  

Side by Side makes a super cool electronic organizer pouch that opens up to three separate compartments for ultimate organization. There are elastic straps to hold down cables and other gear, memory card and flash drive slots, and a zippered mesh pocket for smaller bits of tech. This pouch is well-padded and will keep your things safe and secure inside. 

It’s big enough to hold things like a computer charger and travel adaptors, yet it’s amazingly compact and easy to carry around!

Vaultz Storage Bags

Vaultz Mesh Electronic Cords Travel Case 

One of the most convenient and lightweight items to store cables are mesh drawstring bags like these by Vaultz . You can have cords in one place and can easily throw them in my purse or daypack when I’m on the go. 

They don’t weigh anything, and it makes the prep for working remotely or being on a business trip easier. And they’re not only for chords! You can also use them as stuff sacks to store other items like clothing, underwear , or other random, smaller items.

Best Electronic Cord Organizers

Bobino Cord Wrap

Bobino Lightweight Cord Separator

These Bobino “cable buddies” come in various sizes for a laptop extension cord, cell phone USB wire, and headphone cord. One of the reasons these cable organizers are so popular is because they’re extremely compact, lie flat, and are featherlight.

If the thought of the dirt and germs that accumulate daily on your phone gives you the heebie-jeebies, then let TFG readers show you how to clean your cell phone .

Fuse The Snap Back Charger

CableKeep Travel Charger Organizer 

The Fuse charger from CableKeep is great for laptops, and also makes a wonderful cell phone charger cord organizer. Although not as compact as the others, it does feature a layer around the power supply, which keeps cables clean and protected.

Tophome Earbud Holder

Tophome Compact Cord Organizer

This terrific iPhone cord organizer by TOPHOME keeps your earbuds in one spot, and this adorable ELFRhino earbud jolder is another great option that will easily fit into a pocket or purse.

Avantree Reusable Velcro Ties

Avantree Velcro Travel Organizer Ties

Some other handy cable organizers include Cord snap cable ties for smaller wires such as phone chargers and these Avantree ties for just about everything.

Find some more great  travel gadgets  for your next trip!

Nite Ize Twist Ties

Nite Ize Travel Cord Twist Ties 

For less expensive travel cord organizer options (and items you might like to use at home), I would suggest these rubber tie twists by Nite Ize , these reusable garden ties , or these ever versatile but more permanent zip ties .

Additional Tips on Organizing Travel Cords

Besides keeping your cords neatly organized, another aspect of using your devices is the problem of having too many separated charging cords, perhaps these solutions might help!

Minlu Multi Charging Cable

Minlu Retractable Charger

So compact! This Minlu charger is retractable (so no more messy, hanging cords), and it can charge any of your devices with the 3-in-1 retractable cable. It has a built-in Micro-USB, USB-C, and iP connectors. It’s able to charge both Apple and Android devices too! 

Headed somewhere hot and want a portable method to stay cool? Here are the best travel fans so you can keep your temperature down!

Minlu Multi USB Cable

Minlu Power Travel Charger

If you want to downsizing your charging cables, this multi-charge cable by Minlu seems to be the perfect downsizing solution. Say goodbye to tangled cord problem, and hello to more organiztion!

KINGBACK Multifunctional Retractable USB Charger Cable

KINGBACK Multi-Charging Cable

One of the best ways to keep organized while traveling is to minimize, and this Kingback multi-charging USB cable allows you to do just that! Rather than bringing multiple cords to keep track of, this handy gadget has four cables—two USB-C and two micro-USB—that are iOS and Android compatible, all attached to a single USB output. 

Because the cords are all attached, there’s no chance of any of them getting lost. Plus, it’s definitely a space saver, and will make packing your electronic accessories so much easier and more efficient!

Compass Rose Travel Adapter

Save Space with All-in-one Travel Electronic Adapter

So now that you have all your electronic cables organized beautifully, the last thing you need is to do is downsize your chargers. This  universal travel adapter can plug into any outlet around the world. As a bonus, it also has dual USB ports and a surge protector. It doesn’t get any better than that!

Watch the Youtube  video above where we explain the differences between travel adapters, converters, and voltage or read this post .

What’s your preferred travel cord organizer? Comment and share!

For more travel packing accessories, please read:

• Best Portable Power Bank Chargers for Travel
• What are the Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Travel?
• Voltage Converter vs. Travel Adapter: How do They Work?
• What is the Best Travel Adapter?

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53 comments.

I usually have a ziplock baggie full of tangled chords – the wrap ties will be perfect! And I already own and LOVE my Compass Rose adaptor. I use it at home, too, when I need to charge more than one device.

Love all of these options!! I’ll definitely be trying one for my next trip!

Great recommendations! I’ve used the ebags cord cube for several years now and it’s holding up really well!

Great info. Thanx for all your suggestions

I travel for work and some of these are great ideas for compact storage at really inexpensive prices.

Love your articles… always so very informative and helpful!!!

I have been following this column for the last few years . I’m a 74 year old traveler who loves current information and suggestions.

Please don’t forget about those of us who are of the older generation with a desire to travel with ease. My sense of wonder creates my next trip. Your excellent information helps. Thank you, Lynne

That Newvanga travel adaptor is such a great idea. Those universal adaptors take up so much space when traveling to a variety of countries.

I was looking for a more organized way to store the multiple cables and cords for my electronics. Great options! I have used the Nite Ite twist ties for a long time. I always go back to them after trying what comes with the device.

Both my son in law and I travel for work. So excited for options for myself and a gift. Thanks!

Crazy how much space chargers & cords can take! I’m glad Apple has to go to usb c so that it will save me one more cord!

The Avantree Velcro is amazing! My husband loves it!

Great suggestions! I used the Tophone headphone organizer until I got my airpods. I need to become more organized with this stuff when I travel!

I have gotten so many great tips from your blog…Thank you! I’m a big fan of your compass rose packing cubes!

I got my cord organizer on Temu really inexpensively. I also really recommend this travel adapter from Amazon: https://a.co/d/39iSuZg

I have one from Travelon that is great. It’s more of a flat style which works well. I also like the idea of twist ties to keep cords more organized. Great article with great options!

So very helpful! Smart ideas to get and stay organized!

So many smart choices to get organized! I appreciate the insightful advice to help me get ( and stay) organized!

I have many of the items mentioned 🤦‍♀️. Prefer to carry electronics cords and stuff in a clear bag so can see items. LOVE the TFG universal adapter and take it on EVERY trip.

I have the BAGSMART cord organizer. It works well for me and matches the three other BAGSMART products I own.

This makes me realize I need this At home not just when traveling! Plus maybe I can hide my cords from my daughter who seems to run off with them! I have a carryon backpack but love the portability of these cases.

Fantastic options for managing cords/cables. I look forward to purchasing one for my next adventure.

I really like the different options for cable storage. I usually take 4-5 cables and was looking for a durable bag for storage.

You always have vey helpful articles for traveling light and less stressful. Thank you, you’re doing an excellent job!

This is perfect! Was looking for something for my husband to contain his camera and phone cables in one place. *adding to cart!

My favorite it the Bagsmart. It has room for all the cords, chargers and more! Great recommendation.

I use the retractable multi cord my engineer brother gave me and a zipper mesh bag. I don’t usually bring a laptop since I retired

I just got the Bagsmart case for all my cords and whatnot. I didn’t think I had that many cords and plugs, but this makes things better organized and I know where everything is right away so I’m not digging endlessly through my bag.

Great ideas! I have a tech cord holder similar to the BAGSMART version. I like how they are so much more compact than even a few years ago. I will try the velcro cord ties. Thanks!

Aaaah! Thank you for the great ideas! Managing the ‘Octo-mess’ of charges and cords drives me nuts! I am definitely investing in some of these products!

Great article!

So it’s this easy to tame my cord nightmare. I’m purchasing before my next trip to avoid the detangling chore I always face.

These all look amazing.

The travel organizers are amazing. It definitely helped when we were in France.

Thank you for creating this list, I’ve been searching for the perfect organizer as I typically put all my cords in one bag and it can be a tangled mess!

Fabulous article

Ok, I’ll take the plunge. Too many cords. What a mess.

Very helpful! I am always trying to find the best way to keep cords organized.

i really like the idea of the mesh bags as organizers. seems like it might be more compact/flexible than the others. the twist ties ones also look cool!

i also like the multi-charge, retractable cables. chargers for everyone!

I appreciate TFG has pulled together this great list of cord organizers! We’ve used 3 of these ideas to streamline and organize our device cords. Thanks for another useful solution!

My husband and I each have the HESTECH bag and love them. His is black and mine is pink.

This is great! Electronics and their cords have always been quite a challenge! I love the options you presented…and off I go to implement these tips also! Finally winning the war with electronic clutter!!!

Thanks for reading Deborah! Glad we could help!

I have enjoyed my travel cord organizer.! Thanks for another good tip!

Wish I had seen this article when I was on the road. Some excellent ideas on making you load just a little lighter; which is always nice.

Thanks Dale!

This is great! 100% going to purchase these got my upcoming trip

So worth it!

Taming my mass of cords has been on my list of travel tasks for a while now. If I had known there were so many great options I wouldn’t have waited this long to tackle the problem.

Me too! I only realized this the other day when I walked into Office Depot – good thing!

I use the Velcro straps on cords at home all the time. This was a great post to remind me that there are options out there for traveling that I wouldn’t have thought about.

Very helpful!

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Trek’s latest alloy Top Fuel is an awesome short-travel charger – I made some simple changes during testing and made it even better

Testing trek's new alloy top fuel at one of the uk's toughest enduro races showed that awesome control and all-round balance can trump high cost and weight. even more potential is hiding with just a simple tweak too.

Bike Perfect Verdict

Trek’s latest Top Fuel is a brilliantly balanced, super capable short-travel trail bike for all-day entertainment. However, it’s expensive and comparatively heavy until you open up the rear travel and that’ll mean more upgrades it should already have.

Excellent keen yet confident handling balance

Significantly lighter frame with more user friendly details

Suspension goes from great to exceptional with some simple shock surgery

Solid spec underlines increased tough trail performance

Trek have a great customer service and MTB advocacy/payback reputation

Heavier and more expensive than some carbon competitors

Short on rear travel as supplied

Fork is outclassed if you extend rear travel

Brakes are adequate at best

Why trust BikePerfect Our cycling experts have decades of testing experience. We\'ll always share our unbiased opinions on bikes and gear. Find out more about how we test.

Trek’s Top Fuel has been shifting from a superlight XC racer to one of the best, hard-riding short-travel trail bikes available. The latest version drops frame mass, improves geometry and opens up more hard hitting performance potential too, making it more versatile and upgradeable than ever. Given the high price not having the fork and brakes it needs to really reap those more rad rewards is frustrating though. 

Design and geometry

At first glance, Trek hasn’t done much between Gen 3 and Gen 4 of the Top Fuel but real sniffers will be able to spot a lot. For a start, the whole tube set has been remodeled to a slimmer format and the top tube dropped even lower with a corresponding super short seat tube (just 420mm on the M/L I tested) for a longer, 34.9mm diameter dropper post. Trek has ditched the Knock Block steering restrictor insert and together with the slimmer tubes saves from 150-200g on the previous frame depending on size.

The internal storage hatch entrance has been tidied up externally and internally as well so the cable trunking doesn’t get in the way and production bikes will come with a new design of BITS bag rather than the previous space-wasting wrap. There's only one bottle mount on the hatch and another accessory mount under the top tube.

Trek have kept the same suspension architecture as before, including the rear ABP (Active Braking Pivot) that revolves around the rear axle at the chain stay, seat stay junction. However they’ve now switched to two separate alloy rocker linkages driving the trunnion shock rather than a single magnesium casting. They’ve also doubled the options with the base of shock ‘Mino Link’ flip chip too so you can now change shock progression from 14% to 19% as well as shifting angles by half a degree and BB height by 6mm too.

Gen 4 is already half a degree slacker at the head than the previous Top Fuel at 65.5 - 65.9 while the seat tube is slightly more than half a degree steeper at 76.2 - 76.6. Reach is basically the same at 462 - 467mm, but Trek has introduced longer ‘proportional’ chainstay lengths on the M/L and L sizes and then longer again on the XL. Size S bikes also come with 27.5-inch wheels on both ends as standard, while the new shock chip makes adding a 27.5-inch rear wheel to create a ‘mullet/MX’ set-up an official option on other sizes.

Components and build

Top Fuel got a rolling change from a 120mm SID race fork to a 130mm trail fork during Generation 3 years so no surprise it comes with a basic Fox 34 Rhythm fork in that length as standard. Most of the kit is more trail than XC too, with a 30-tooth ring on the SRAM XO chainset (it’ll take a 34 max) driving the AXS T-Type wireless Transmission . 

The well-treaded Bontrager Gunnison Pro 2.4-inch tires roll on Bontrager 30mm internal width alloy rim wheels that weigh nearly 2kg reinforce a surefooted not sprightly feel too. The only XC remnants are the relatively low-rise bars on an already low front end and the SRAM Level brakes which are relatively light but also underpowered for a bike as capable as the Top Fuel. Especially if you extend the stroke of the rear shock to 55mm and take rear travel up to 130mm, but more on that later. Trek has already increased the price since launch too, but at least they invest heavily in various MTB good causes to help justify it.

Ride, handling and performance

With a 3.7kg alloy frame and mostly sturdy spec, the Top Fuel 9 is definitely a short travel trail bike rather than a downcountry bike. However, it didn't take long to realize just how good it is on technical trails. While it’s impossible to get more than 110mm of travel out of the rear shock unless you get inside it and cut down the bottom-out bumper, the suspension quality is still excellent. Not just in the way it tracks the ground very consistently while giving plenty of mid-stroke support but also in much better big hit control than you’d expect considering you’re short-changed on stroke.

The ABP concentric rear axle pivot helps here too by reducing reaction to both pedal and braking input, letting the back wheel and suspension do their thing with quick-witted sensitivity. As a result, it feels as poised through the pedals when you’re hammering the power through as it does when you’re heels down and hanging on through random rough sections. Even when pushing hard down the notoriously tough and toothy stages of the aptly named Ard Rock Enduro the back end rarely felt out of its depth. The designed in compliance of the new frame and separate linkages means more smooth, grippy moments and less stinging, slippery ones when it matters as well. That helps the Gunnison tires stay hooked up in an impressive variety of terrain and makes the naturally stiff bars and unforgiving grips less intrusive on long days.

The basic Fox 34 exonerated itself well up front most of the time as well so I never felt I had to compromise lines because of the bike. A good job too, as the weak brakes often meant I was committed to going in hard and fast, even if I’d have liked to have backed off more into dark root sections or bigger sends.

The same ‘totally sorted’ tag applies to the handling too. The tweaked geo feels appropriate to the capacity of the suspension in terms of feedback and alertness without getting wild at high speed. The lower bars, shorter head tube and longer back end do make it harder to lift the nose to send drops on descents they combine with the steeper seat angle to give it a real focus on getting the job done on touch-and-go climbs. Despite heavy wheels, the fast-reacting freehub keeps the Top Fuel fun to hustle hard between turns and features so the numbers on the scale really don't inform how alive and aggressive it feels on the singletrack. This all confirms the natural high achiever status of the Trek, especially in fast-tech situations where you’re more likely to be on the pedals than the brakes.

As good as the stock Top Fuel 9 is, a few minutes of shock surgery is truly transformational. Unscrewing the air can and removing the blue stroke-reducing shims (you’ll need shorter bolts for reassembly) opens up its appetite for not only bigger hits but also an even more fluid, connected feel overall. Moving it into the more progressive setting - which isn’t necessary with the stock shock setup - gives it an even better feel. Even with the relatively basic Performance grade damper that puts it right up there with the best short travel systems available such as the Evil Following , Yeti SB120 or Norco Optic . If you’re willing to invest it’ll take a piggyback air shock such as a Fox Float X or a RockShox Super Deluxe to handle the heat of flat-out descending even better too. 

It’s not the shock quality that’ll need upgrading straight away if you extend the stroke though, it’s the fork and brakes. While the 130mm travel Rhythm fork is OK with the rear end at 110mm, the simple GRIP damper is obviously out of its depth when you open up the rear end to the same travel. Unfortunately, there’s no easy damper upgrade option with the 34 Rhythm, which means you’re looking at a new fork. You’ll have to at least upsize the rotors if not replace the brakes completely as well so while the basic shock mod is very cost-effective, completing the package won’t be, making the already high price more irritating.

You could ride the Top Fuel 9 totally stock and have an awesome ride as the excellent rear end, poised handling, sorted spec (apart from brakes) and practical details all create a great balance. If you think of it as a short travel trail bike it pedals so well in the rough and the smooth it hides its chunky weight most of the time too. The result is a surefooted, smooth yet still engaging and rewarding ride for big days out or a no-holds-barred power hour in the local woods.

Even with a lighter frame than before the alloy Top Fuel is off the pace and price for a more XC-biased life though compared to a bike like the carbon framed Specialized Epic Comp which is 2kg lighter overall for £250 less. In that case, the Top Fuel has way more to offer in terms of opening up the rear travel to push it further into the fast and furious trail category where its weight is less of an issue. But then you’ll need a better fork and brakes to an already expensive bike so it’s a shame Trek didn’t fit those as standard, even if it meant treading on the toes of the 150/140mm travel, but kilo heavier Fuel EX. Regardless of the confusion, it’s a testament to just how much I enjoyed riding this bike that I’ve already got the kilogram lighter carbon frame here in the workshop ready to build into what I think could be an absolute all-round winner.

Test conditions

• Surface: Everything from road to loam, roots and loose rock
• Trails:  Natural XC, trail, moorland singletrack, red and black grade trails centre, off piste DH and 60km of rocky race trails at Ard Rock Enduro
• Weather: Dry, sunny, wet and all variations in between

Tech spec: Trek Top Fuel 9 Gen 4

• Discipline: Trail
• Price: $4,799 / £4,500 / €4,799
• Head angle: 65.5º / 65.9º
• Frame material: Alpha Platinum aluminum
• Fork: Fox Rhythm 34 GRIP 140mm travel
• Shock: Fox Performance Float DPS, 2-position, 185 mm x 50 mm trunnion mount, 120mm travel (claimed)
• Size: S, M, M/L (tested), L, XL 
• Weight: 14.67kg (size L actual)
• Wheel size: 29in
• Chainset: SRAM GX Eagle 30T 170mm arms with DUB bottom bracket. 
• Rear mech: SRAM GX Eagle AXS T-Type
• Shifter: SRAM Eagle AXS pod
• Cassette: SRAM Eagle CS-1275 12-speed 10-52T
• Brakes: SRAM Level Bronze 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors 
• Tires: Bontrager Gunnison Pro XR 29x2.4in 
• Wheels: Bontrager Line Comp 30
• Bars: Bontrager Line alloy 780 x 35mm
• Stem: Bontrager Elite 45 x 35mm
• Grips: Bontrager XR Trail Comp lock-on
• Seat post: Bontrager Line Dropper, 170 mm travel
• Saddle: Bontrager Verse Short Comp steel, 145 mm width

Guy Kesteven has been working on Bike Perfect since its launch in 2019. He started writing and testing for bike mags in 1996. Since then he’s written several million words about several thousand test bikes and a ridiculous amount of riding gear. He’s also penned a handful of bike-related books and he reviews MTBs over on YouTube.

Current rides: Cervelo ZFS-5, Specialized Chisel, custom Nicolai enduro tandem, Landescape/Swallow custom gravel tandem

Height: 180cm

Weight: 69kg

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Tula Oblast, Russia

The capital city of Tula oblast: Tula .

Tula Oblast - Overview

Tula Oblast is a federal subject of Russia, part of the Central Federal District. Tula is the capital city of the region.

The population of Tula Oblast is about 1,433,000 (2022), the area - 25,679 sq. km.

Tula oblast flag

Tula oblast coat of arms.

Tula oblast map, Russia

Tula oblast latest news and posts from our blog:.

30 August, 2021 / Tula - the view from above .

1 June, 2020 / Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Yepifan .

19 May, 2020 / Church of St. Sergius of Radonezh on the Kulikovo Field .

15 June, 2018 / Awesome Posters for the World Cup in Russia .

31 January, 2018 / Museum of Weapons in Tula .

More posts..

History of Tula Oblast

Ancient people began to settle in the territory of today’s Tula Oblast at the end of the Paleolithic (about 12 thousand years ago). In the early Iron Age (about 3 thousand year ago), the tribes of the Verkhneoksk archaeological culture appeared (the Balts).

In the 8th century, the Slavic tribe of Vyatichi came to this region in place of the Balts. They were engaged in cattle breeding, farming, crafts. At first, the Vyatichi paid tributes to the Khazars, and then they became part of the Old Russian state. In 907, they took part in the campaign of Prince Oleg against Tsargrad (Constantinople).

In the 12th century, the town of Dedoslavl (presumably, the present village of Dedilovo in Kireevsky district) appeared - a fortified craft and trade center, a place of gathering of the elders of the Vyatichi. By the 13th century, the smoothing of tribal features led to the disappearance of the tribal name Vyatich.

Having fallen into the sphere of influence of Kievan Rus, the territory of the Tula region for a long time remained a wild pagan land. After the collapse of Kievan Rus, this land became part of the Chernigov princedom. In the 13th century, the Mongol invasion swept through the territory of the region.

More historical facts…

In 1380, in the southeastern part of the present Tula region, at the confluence of the rivers of Nepryadva and Don, the Kulikovo battle took place, which initiated the liberation of the Russian lands from the Golden Horde yoke.

In 1503, the Tula lands became part of the Moscow Grand Duchy. In the beginning of the 16th century, the fortress of Tula was founded. In the 16th-17th centuries, it was an important fortified town located on the southern outskirts of the Moscow state.

The industrial development of the region began in the 17th century. In 1696, the Tula blacksmith Nikita Demidov built the first blast furnaces and workshops at the mouth of the Tulitsa River, which were the beginning of the development of blacksmithing in Tula.

The town became one of the centers of Russian metallurgy and metalworking. In 1712, according to the decree of Peter the Great, the State Arms Factory was established in Tula, which produced weapons for the Russian army. In 1719, the Tula region was formed. In 1777, it became a gubernia (province). At the same time, the production of samovars, gingerbread, accordions began to develop in Tula.

In 1855, the Malevskaya mine (to the south of Bogoroditsk) was put into operation, regular coal mining began in the Moscow region basin, the oldest coal mining region of Russia discovered in 1722. The development of industry in the province was facilitated by the construction of the railways: “Moscow-Kursk” in 1864-1868 and “Syzran-Vyazma” in 1870-1874.

In 1929, the Tula Governorate was abolished, its territory became part of the Central Industrial Region. In September 1937, it once again became a separate region. During the Second World War, Tula defensive and offensive operations were carried out on the territory of the Tula region.

For the courage and steadfastness shown by the defenders of Tula in the defense of the city, which played an important role in stopping the Wehrmacht offensive and subsequent defeating of enemy troops near Moscow, Tula was awarded the honorary title Hero City.

In the post-war years, the machine-building, chemical, metallurgical, and coal industries were further developed in the Tula region, research institutes and design bureaus were established.

Beautiful nature of Tula Oblast

Small river in Tula Oblast

Author: Volodin Yura

Chamomile field in the Tula region

Author: Lev Trusov

Tula Oblast landscape

Author: Maks Kuzmin

Tula Oblast - Features

Tula Oblast is located in the center of the East European (Russian) plain, within the zone of deciduous forests and forest-steppe. The length of the territory of the region from north to south is 200 km, from west to east - 190 km.

The climate is moderately continental, characterized by moderately cold winters with frequent thaws and warm summers. The average temperature in January is minus 10 degrees Celsius, in July - plus 20 degrees Celsius.

Tula Oblast was badly damaged as a result of radioactive fallout after the Chernobyl disaster, tens of thousands of hectares of land were contaminated and became unusable for agriculture. Forests occupy about 13% of the territory. Most of the rivers (about 80%) belong to the Oka basin, the largest and only navigable river in the region, a small part - to the Don basin.

The largest cities and towns of Tula Oblast are Tula (461,200), Novomoskovsk (120,800), Donskoy (60,700), Aleksin (56,100), Shchekino (55,400), Uzlovaya (48,400), Efremov (33,500), Bogoroditsk (30,000).

Today, Tula Oblast is one of the most demographically disadvantaged regions in Russia because of the prolonged outflow of the young population due to the proximity of the Moscow agglomeration, the depressed state of industry and the economy of the region in general, especially in small and medium-sized towns and associated social unhappiness.

The distance from the center of Tula to the center of Moscow is about 185 kilometers. The region has a relatively well developed transport network.

About 50% of ore deposits of the Moscow region coal basin, estimated at 1.5 billion tons, are concentrated in the Tula region. In the south-west, there are large deposits of peat. The region also has significant deposits of iron ore, strontium ores, various building materials including limestone, clay, sand, gypsum.

The main industries are chemical, mechanical engineering, food, ferrous metallurgy, electric power. Agricultural land occupies more than 60% of the total area of the region (barley, wheat, fodder crops, sugar beet).

Attractions of Tula Oblast

The rich history of Tula Oblast is reflected in its historical monuments and museums. These are the sites of ancient settlements, remnants of fortifications, architecture of old Russian towns, churches, estates, garden and park complexes.

The main attractions of the Tula region include:

• The Weapons Museum, The Samovar Museum, The Gingerbread Museum, the Kremlin in Tula;
• Yasnaya Polyana - the place of life and creativity of the world-famous writer Leo Tolstoy, who was born, lived most of his life and buried here. The estate is located about 12 km from Tula;
• Krainka - a balneo-mud resort located 11 km south-west of the town of Suvorov, on the left bank of the Cherepet River;
• Church of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God and the holy spring in the village of Turten in Yefremovsky district;
• Caves of Arapov underground monastery located about 500 meters to the south of Tetyakovka village;
• Military History and Natural Museum-Reserve “Kulikovo Field” - a unique memorial object, reminiscent of one of the most important events in Russian history;
• Polenovo - a museum-estate of the Russian artist Polenov;
• Bogoroditsk with a well-known palace and park ensemble of the 18th century;
• System of underground passages of the Guryev quarries;
• Belev - an ancient town with three monasteries (Savior Transfiguration Monastery, Holy Cross Convent, Zhabynsky Monastery);
• Museum-architectural complex of the village of Bogucharovo;
• Museum of Filimonovskaya Toys in Odoev.

Tula oblast of Russia photos

Pictures of the tula region.

Tula Oblast scenery

Author: Andrey Pelenitsyn

Abandoned church in the Tula region

Author: Kuzovkov N.

Orthodox church in Tula Oblast

Author: Sergey Sergeev

Roads of the Tula region

Highway in Tula Oblast

Author: Dmitry Grebenkov

Forest road in the Tula region

Author: Oksana Sidorenko

Winter in Tula Oblast

Author: Sergey Baskakov

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Tula Oblast

• 2 Other destinations
• 3 Understand
• 6 Get around
• 11 Stay safe

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Tula Oblast is a region in Central Russia ; it borders Oryol Oblast to the southwest, Kaluga Oblast to the west, Moscow Oblast to the north, Ryazan Oblast to the east, and Lipetsk Oblast to the southeast.

• 54.2 37.616667 1 Tula — the capital has long been a military bulwark of the Muscovy region: the brick walls of its kremlin withstood successive Tatar attacks in the Middle Ages, and its fortifications held off a major Nazi assault in World War II, earning the Soviet title "Hero City"

Other destinations

• 53.606389 38.675 2 Kulikovo Field — one of the top three battlefield sites in Russia, Kulikovo Field is the site of the largest battle (1380) between Muscovy and the Golden Horde , which resulted in a Russian victory that became the turning point in Russian independence from the Tatars and the beginning of the unification of Russia under Moscow. Essentially, the history of the modern Russian state begins on these fields. The site is a major tourist destination (especially for Russians) and has several museums and numerous monuments, including the first of their kind in Russia. The "Krasny Hill" Museum dates from the middle ages, making itself, rather than just its exhibits, a site of interest! Kulikovo Field is located near the tiny village of Monastyrshchino.

Located beyond the reach of Moscow's cosmopolitan and capitalist forces, Tula Oblast is for visitors the real Russia . The regions major tourist attractions are decidedly "Russian": Tolstoy's estate at Yasnaya Polyana and the birthplace of modern Russia in the battlefields of Kulikovo. The capital, Tula, is also a great "Russian" stop for its beautiful samovars and kremlin, and avoids the tourist hordes that descend upon Moscow's Red Square.

Outside Tula (and even within Tula), very few people understand anything but Russian .

Trains from Moscow's Kursky Station take 3 hours to arrive in Tula.

The Tula region is famous for its pryaniki (PRYA-nee-kee) — honey gingerbread cookies best eaten with tea.

Tula is the historic capital of Russia's production of samovars and these can make excellent, if expensive, souvenirs. Be sure to have good documentation of any samovar purchases because they may face strict scrutiny at customs — many irreplaceable antique samovars have been smuggled or carelessly allowed out of the country over the past century.

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