Charging electronics is hostels

Hi Richard...
First make sure you take a European adapter plug with you and be aware that the United Kingdom and Ireland use a 3-pronged plug while the Continent uses a 2-pronged plug. If you don't already have one, they may be purchased at any electronics store. No need to spend a lot and I'd recommend one adaptor plug that's good for global use rather than carrying multiple plugs. As for power outlets... While I haven't stayed in hostels in a long time, I'm sure they'll have outlets. I also see patrons charge their devices in coffee shops like Starbucks and other venues. Always keep an eye on you devices. Have a good trip...

We have stayed several weeks in hostels. However, we always had a private room and had no problems charging our electronics. If you stay in a dorm try to get a bed very near an outlet. If not you will have to sit and watch your device. BTW, always carry at least 2 extra adapters in case you leave one.

Richard, I've found that the number of outlets tends to vary somewhat between Hostels. In some cases, there may only be one outlet in a room and of course that has to be shared with the others. In one Hostel I stayed in, the only outlet was in the hallway outside the room. In some of the more modern Hostels, the Card Key that opens the room is also used to activate the electrics in the room. No outlets or lights will work unless the card is in the Reader. I always remain in the room when charging is in progress, so that items don't "disappear". Most of the newer electronic products are able to get almost a full charge in about an hour, so it's not a problem. Some clarification on the first reply. Plug Adapters for the U.K. or Europe may be 2-pin or 3-pin, depending on whether these provide a ground. The plug configuration of grounded and ungrounded UK Plug Adapters is the same, except in the ungrounded model, the ground pin is plastic. However, the plug configuration for grounded Plug Adapters varies for countries on the continent. The Italian grounded Adapter is slightly different than the Swiss, which is different from the German and French grounded Adapters. In most cases, all that's needed is the 2-pin ungrounded European Adapter. You can see all models on the Magellan's website. It's extremely important to ensure that all your electronics are designed for use on 230 VAC electrical systems. You'll need to check the Input Voltage specifications on EACH device you're travelling with. Will you be packing along a Cell Phone? There are some important things you'll need to know, ESPECIALLY if it's a Smartphone such as an iPhone or Android device. Happy travels!

I am planning to bring my iPhone. While I've never stayed in hostels I have been to Europe, so I'm covered when it comes to adapters.

Richard, Have you used your iPhone in Europe before? Which model is it, and which cell network are you with? I'm assuming you're aware of the perils of travelling with a Smartphone, and the possibility of HUGE charges for data roaming?

I have a 3GS with AT&T. I've never used it in Europe but I have looked into keeping the charges low.

I've stayed at many hostels in shared accommodations in Europe. I recently stayed in a youth hostel in London and there was only 1 outlet next to someone else's bunk. So I had to charge my camera and phone in the common room. Most other times in previous shared dorms, I've stayed at, there was a power bar in the bedroom where all the roommates can charge their stuff.

Sometimes you may have to search. Often the outlet (or two) in your room is already being used by someone on their laptop or by others charging their devices. Never leave your device alone to charge. If you can't stay with it, unplug it and put it in your locker (and lock it). Unattended things tend to disappear in hostels.

As opposed to American kids, who eschew theft.

My experience with hostels has been that most of the other people are just travellers on a budget, young families, and school kids; I've never had the kind of negative experience that Ralph seems to have had. Of course, it is just common sense that you don't want to leave your valuables unattended in a public place. I wouldn't leave my Ipod charging unattended at a desk in my local library here in the States either.

Sarah, I'm the one who brought it up. I like hostels but loose items tend to disappear. I don't know who takes stuff. I just wanted to make sure Richard, or anyone who hasn't stayed in a hostel, understands to keep an eye on his stuff or keep it locked up. Too many newbies think it's okay to leave something out because they're "just going to the bathroom for a minute", then learn an expensive lesson.

Ralph, I wasn't saying "don't watch your stuff" I was responding to your huge sweeping statement about the morality of "Euro kids" as in:
"Most euro kids will think nothing of jacking your IPad especially in a hostel." No matter where in the world you are, leaving expensive gadgets in public spaces unattended is stupid. It's so common sense it doesn't really need to be said. Except for you, I guess.