When traveling to Europe from North America, do I need to purchase a different power strip?

When traveling to Europe from North America, do I need to purchase a different power strip? - Top view of paper world map with continents and different countries oceans and seas placed in sunny room

I'm a Canadian citizen travelling to Europe for the first time and was worried about the difference in voltage between the two regions. Currently, I plan to bring a travel adapter (not a voltage converter) and a power strip which I bought recently. The power strip is marketed as something without surge protection, but at the same time it has overcharge protection and overvoltage protection. As well, I am confused by the power rating which states 125V, when I'm planning to use it with 220V, is this a potential hazard? Would this power strip + adapter combination be alright for Europe? Sorry for my bad physics knowledge and thank you so much in advance.

Specifications of the Power Strip: Power rating: 1250W (125V 10A), USB power rating: 15W (5V 3A), USB port input: AC 100-240V 50/60HZ.

The power strip in question can be found here: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B073ZCG3JR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1



Best Answer

Since the power strip voltage rating is too low for European voltages, leave it at home. It might be fine, might not, and peace of mind is worth at least $50.

There are purpose-built travel power strips that are rated for Europe. Google 'travel power strip' (without the quote marks).

Here's an example:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01I5R1LNO/

Note: This adaptor isn't for high-power use. If you want to plug in a high-power thing e.g. hairdryer, you should use a hairdryer rated for 240 VAC, and a simple plug adaptor, and plug directly into the European wall.




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Can you use a US power supply in Europe?

American appliances run on 110 volts, while European appliances are 220 volts. If you see a range of voltages printed on the item or its plug (such as "110\u2013220"), you're OK in Europe. Some older appliances have a voltage switch marked 110 (US) and 220 (Europe) \u2014 switch it to 220 as you pack.

What type of adapter do I need for Europe?

For Europe the associated travel adaptor is type C, which is the plug which has two round pins.

Can I use a US power strip in Italy?

If your device can run on 230 volts or is dual voltage and your plug will fit in an Italian power outlet then you can use it in Italy without needing a plug adapter.

Do I need an adapter or converter for Europe?

When traveling to Europe, one of the most important things to bring is a power converter, as the wall sockets are much different than in America. There also aren't as many outlets in hotel rooms as in the U.S. because electricity is very expensive in Europe.



TRAVEL ADAPTERS and Power PLUGS explained | World Travel Tips




More answers regarding when traveling to Europe from North America, do I need to purchase a different power strip?

Answer 2

For a product like this with conversion to USB, switches and protection I would not use it outside its rated input. Much simpler to buy a product rated for 240V.

If all your chargers are 240V input rated then the easiest way is to buy enough plug adapters for the number of devices you need to charge simultaneously. One charger with multiple USB outputs and a travel adapter for it, and a second for a laptop charger (assuming that charger is 240V rated).

Answer 3

You don't need that much hardware for regular electronic gadgets.

I (canadian) only bring a couple of plug adapters and a couple of cables (usb and apple).

All my gadgets (phone, watch, kindle, laptop, camera chargers) are all rated 110-220v.

I've been (recently) to France, Italy and Spain and did not have any problems.

Answer 4

It is basically a complete unknown whether that would work with 240V AC or not, for example it has a switch, who knows what's that rated for. There are any number of power strips on Amazon (example there's a table for related devices, look at those too) rated for 240V, go with those.

However, if you don't need a ground (which very often you don't) then the MOGICS Bagel / Donut and its spiritual successor (and licensee), the upcoming Maru (& Masa) Kickstarter is vastly superior to these devices because of their size and international adapter.

Answer 5

Your power strip is rated at 125V and has overvoltage protection. 230V is clearly an overvoltage for a 125V device, so your strip should not work.

Answer 6

The seller of that specific item has since answered a question stating that "The Voltage Range of this power strip is 100-240V". Assuming you trust the seller / manufacturer claims the voltage shouldn't be a problem for the power strip itself, though of course you'll need to ensure that all devices you plug in to it are rated for 240V.

Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

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