My husband and I will be taking smart phones and an iPad to Italy this Spring (hopefully). We really need USB ports more than the US plugs since those are the only electronics we travel with.
I see lots of converters with 1 or 2 US plugs but only 1 USB port. Any suggestions for good converters with at least 2 USB ports?
Thanks!
The one I have by BESTEK. It has several USB ports. It is available on Amazon. I searched for "converter for travel."
Would have thought a mains to USB ( for the phones) would only be a few euro locally.
If you're only taking phones and an ipad you don't need a converter, just an adaptor. I agree that buying a USB charger locally once you arrive is probably the easiest thing. Something like this: https://www.biltema.se/en-se/office---technology/mobile-phone-accessories/chargers/usb-chargers/usb-charger-2-x-usb-a-24-a-2000046668
You looking for something like this?
If Italy is like UK I would expect a USB charger to be €5-9 euros
As to your ipad ( never had one) .
Again it's near certain to be dual voltage so an adapter would do.
That's likely best bought before travel
What about this one? It has 4 USB ports and built in plug adapters. It can be used not only in Italy but all over the world.
I just plug in a voltage transformer and then a 4, 6 or 8 port USB adapter into the outlet on the voltage transformer. I can also charge off my lap top.
Smart phones and tablets shouldn't need transformers. That would be unnecessary weight to cart around. That said, the devices that allow you to plug in four USB charging cords can be quite heavy themselves. I'd recommend comparing weights in online listings as well as reading a bunch of reviews. There are some poorly-made electronic devices out there.
I suppose the safest thing to do is buy a simple adapter plug (probably $1 to $3) and use it with the charging cord/plug you received with your electronic device. However, between the two of you, you probably have multiple devices that need to be charged every day. Many European hotel rooms have few available outlets, so having a single device to which you can connect four USB charging cords is very handy.
For Apple products, you don't need a transformer /converter. You just need adapter plugs.
The 4 USB port adapter I linked to above is VERY heavy. It weighs just under 5 oz. (LOL)
As acraven said, the most of USB charging cord can work with both voltage: 110V (US standard) and 230V (EU standard). Double check on your charger label if is written something like "Voltage 100-240V". If so, you don't need a new one, even if can be purchased for 10€. If it's suitable, a plug converter is enough.
The last 2 hotels I stayed at in Europe (March 2019-Paris & December 2019- Madrid) had USB ports on the walls for easy charging. Check with your hotel to see if that is offered. The BESTEK International Power Adapter is great too. Every member of our traveling party always has one. They come in handy anywhere (airports, trains, planes, etc) that you can find an electrical outlet.
