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electrical adaptor/converter

Hello,

I have been looking for Adaptor/Converter to charge my camera and battery pack (USB). Any of you have any suggestion ?

I'll really appreciate your help.

Posted by
5687 posts

Get a simple plug adapter - you don't need anything fancy like a "converter" for charging a camera or phone - all modern phone and camera charges are dual voltage. (though if you want to be sure, check the specs on the power adapter you are using - in small print, if it says 110v-240v or something like that, you are good).

I have a couple of plug adapters that work in most European countries. They are maybe $2-$3 USD on Amazon or eBay.

Posted by
1194 posts

All USB chargers convert to 5 volts out.

You may want to get one with a decent amperage (over 3 amps) to handle tablets too.

Other than that, you’re good.

If you use a US USB charger you’ll need a plug adapter.

Posted by
1540 posts

They also sell the plug adaptors at Wal-Mart , very inexpensive.
I use it all the time while traveling to charge my camera battery.

Posted by
8055 posts

We always travel with 3 or 4 plug adapters; they are easy to lose or leave behind and it is a lot easier to buy them in the US of course than in Europe.

Posted by
1137 posts

Along with a cheap plug adapter, I usually travel with a short (6') extension cord with 3 outlets at the end. This way, with one adapter, I can charge my laptop, phone, flash battery, etc. Plus, sometimes the actual outlet in a hotel room is in an inconvenient location. The 2 meter cord brings my devices to a more convenient location.

Posted by
32206 posts

luis,

As mentioned in previous replies, you must check the "Input Voltage" ratings on the chargers to ensure that they're designed for operation from 100-240 VAC. Most modern electronics are designed for "world operation" so it's likely your chargers will have that capability, so you won't need a "Converter".

As you posted this question in the France section, I assume you're only traveling to France? If that's the case, then you'll need THIS Plug Adaptor for ungrounded (two pin) appliances. I'd suggest packing along a couple as they're easily misplaced.

Posted by
4044 posts

The two-prong adapters seen in the links above do not provide a ground. New or modernized hotels will likely have a more intricate plug receptacle. The ground protrudes from the receptacle and may be too snug for a two-pronged plug to slip past. The modern adapter still has two plugs but also a hole to accept the ground. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0098B5GN8/ref=psdc_10967761_t3_B01C5TG278

Given how cheap these adapters are on the Internet, you could take one of each. I like the suggestion about an extension cord, after clawing around under beds to find the only available plug box.
The "universal" adapters sold at bargain prices deserve a bit of caution for countries away from France. These things often have a third prong that folds down -- but it is plastic, no use whatsoever as a ground.