wirecutter travel power strip

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market.  See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our  credit card rating methodology .

The 5 Best Travel Power Strips [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

791 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3233 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Things to consider with travel power strips, the 5 best travel power strips, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

In order to stay connected on the go, you will need a reliable power supply to keep your devices up and running at all times. Lightweight and compact, these clever little power strips offer multiple power outlets, allowing you to charge numerous different devices simultaneously.

When you need to rely on more than 1 outlet, a travel-friendly power strip offers you all the extra power and convenience you need while you are away from home. To ensure that you can enjoy reliable and efficient charging on the move, consider the following before you buy:

Power Source and Ports

Most modern-day travelers look for a power strip that doesn’t just offer regular AC plugs for day-to-day items — they also want to find USBs for charging their phones, tablets, cameras, and other devices.

A multi-function travel power strip will provide you with a selection of power options , with most offering AC outlets that can charge up to 5V/2.4A and additional UBS-A or USB-C power ports for charging cell phones and devices.

Hot Tip: Look for a power strip that offers 4 or 5 outlets — that way, you can charge your cell phone, your laptop, and even your electric toothbrush and other accessories all at the same time.

Cable Length

It is not just the additional power outlets that make a travel power strip so useful, it is also the versatility they offer when it comes to positioning . Unlike a wall socket, these power strips come with flexible cables that allow them to be positioned away from the wall and somewhere more practical.

With a travel power strip, though, you need to find the balance between a cord that is long enough to be useful without it becoming too bulky to carry around with you.

Power Supplies and Safety Features

Most countries work with different types of power sockets, and many have different voltages. Before you pack your regular power strip from home, you must check the electrical supply information for your destination.

Many power strips also come with safety features that will protect against surges in the electrical current, which could cause your devices to become overloaded, and they should always be made from fire-retardant materials in case the worst happens and they become over-heated.

1. All-around Strip for Everyday Use

One beat power strip with usb.

This 5-in-1 power strip can support up to 5 different devices simultaneously and is perfect for use both at home and while you are away.

Each of the 3 USB ports can intelligently charge up to 5V/2.4A (total 5V/3.1A), and with built-in surge protection, it will prevent your devices from overheating.

With a 5-foot long extension cord, it can be used in multiple positions, and the lie-flat design makes it compact enough to discretely power up your electronics without getting in the way.

Made with high strength, fire-resistant ABS and PC shell, it is safe and durable, and with multiple outlets, it allows you to keep all of your chargers neatly in 1 place.

What We Like

• Lightweight and strong

What We Don’t Like

• USB ports are prone to fail over time

2. Compact Power Strip for Traveling

Anker power strip with usb.

This highly capable, versatile travel cube comes with 3 AC outlets and 3 USB ports, allowing you to power up multiple appliances.

Compact and highly portable, it measures less than 2.5 cubic inches and offers 18W max output from the USB ports and 120W from the AC outlets.

Featuring Anker’s world-renowned PowerIQ technology, you can enjoy superfast charging, and the built-in overload protection and a fire-retardant casing will ensure that it stays safe, even while you are away from home.

• Super-compact but highly capable
• It would be better if it featured a slightly longer cable

3. Power Strip With a USB-C Port for Greater Versatility

One beat power strip with usb c.

Designed to charge up a wide variety of devices, this multi-function power strip comes with 3 AC outlets, 3 USB-A ports, and an additional USB-C port.

It is compatible with 100-240V worldwide voltage, and the compact and lightweight design makes it suitable for use at home, in the office, or even while you are away.

Offering superfast charging, you can connect up to 7 devices simultaneously , and with a 5-foot long extension cord, it can be placed within easy reach of your office desk, nightstand, or other practical pieces of furniture.

Made from high-quality components, it is fireproof and comes with protection against both overheating and short circuits, and the lightweight, compact design makes it easy to carry around with you.

• The compact design
• The space between the outlets is quite small

4. Retractable Cord Power Strip

Ntonpower travel power strip.

Perfect for use while you’re away from home, this compact but highly capable power strip comes with 3 power outlets and 3 USB ports, allowing you to charge up to 6 devices at a time.

With a reduced-length power cord that can be wrapped around the sockets for more compact carrying and high-quality construction that is resistant to fire , this is a safe and reliable power strip that is perfect for use while traveling.

For your continued safety, this awesome little power bank also has a fire-resistant outer shell and offers protection against overheating, overcharging, and electrical short circuits.

• Just the right size for traveling
• The cord is surprisingly short

5. Compact Power Strip With Surge Protection

Upwade outlet travel power strip.

This funky-looking power strip is one of the most compact 2 AC models you can buy and offers a hidden 5-foot power cord that lets you move the power strip around with you.

Highly portable and perfect for use while traveling, it comes with 2 surge-protected AC outlets and 4 smart USB ports that are all equipped with SmartID technology and multiple-circuit protection.

Incredibly safe, the unibody shell is made from fireproof materials, and the high-quality construction ensures that it remains safe from short-circuits and power surges on the go.

• The longer-length cord and compact design
• The plastic feels a little cheap and brittle

Being able to charge all of your appliances in 1 go makes life so much easier when you are away from home. Look for power strips that offer a combination of plug sockets and USBs, and ensure that the travel power strip you choose offers the correct voltage to charge your devices safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a surge protector and a power strip.

A power strip allows you to connect multiple devices from 1 wall socket. Surge protectors are a type of power strip that will protect your devices against electrical surges that can happen on your travels.

Do power strips reduce power?

Power strips do not reduce power as they are designed to draw the same amount of power for your device as if it was plugged directly into a wall outlet.

Is it OK to daisy chain power strips?

Daisy chaining is where you plug 1 power strip into another. You should not daisy chain power strips as this could cause electrical failure or even a fire hazard.

What should you never plug into a power strip?

There are some appliances that you should avoid plugging into a power strip and instead connect directly to your wall socket. These include white goods products (such as fridges and freezers) and devices that create heat, such as microwaves, coffee makers, and hair straighteners.

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the  latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's  privacy policy   and  terms of service   apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation  calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

• Memorial Day tech deals
• Call of Duty Black Ops 6 confirmed
• Spotify’s Car Thing is shutting down
• LG Memorial Day TV deals
• iPad Pro M4 review

The best portable power strips and surge protectors with USB charging

A must-have for travelers..

By Mark Smirniotis

This post was done in partnership with Wirecutter . When readers choose to buy Wirecutter's independently chosen editorial picks, Wirecutter and Engadget may earn affiliate commission. Read the full guide to portable power strips and surge protectors with USB charging .

After researching dozens of models and extensively testing the eight best-specified and -designed, we think the best power strip for travel in North America is sold under two different brands, as either the Accell Home or Away Surge Protector or Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector —they're functionally identical, so just pick the one that's cheaper when it's time to order. Both sell for about $20, have three outlets and two USB-charging ports, and are smaller and lighter than any other travel model we tested, but still fit bulky power adapters without blocking other outlets.

This model has been our pick every year since 2015. Although other companies use the same design, we found that the Accell Home or Away Surge Protector and the Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector offer the best capabilities at a price that's usually lower than the competition's. Owners give both versions high ratings, and Wirecutter staffers have used the Accell model since 2015 without issue.

If you want surge protection on the go, or prefer a power strip with a cord, the Protect It 3-Outlet Travel-Size Surge Protector is the best choice. It's the only portable model we tested whose ability to clamp down surges is on a par with that of full-size surge protectors—other portable models we tested let more than twice as much surge voltage through, potentially damaging anything plugged into them. The third AC outlet on the back of the unit helps to keep power bricks out of the way, and the right-angle plug easily fits in tight spots, like behind hotel furniture.

Our other picks aren't designed for international use. If you're going to be traveling outside of North America, we recommend PowerCube's ReWirable USB . It has two USB ports like our other picks, but provides four AC outlets instead of three. And it has two features that make it ideal for international travel: It's rated for 100 to 250 volts, so it doesn't need an additional voltage converter, and it includes four interchangeable plugs to fit a wide variety of international wall outlets.

Why you should trust us

I've researched and tested power products for Wirecutter, including USB battery packs , residential solar power, uninterruptible power supplies , and home surge protectors , since 2015. Our surge tests for this most recent update were performed by our consulting engineer, Lee Johnson, who has more than 10 years of experience designing and testing electrical components, including performing tests for Wirecutter on larger surge protectors. In earlier versions of this guide, Richard Baguley, who designs tests at Reviewed.com , provided input on our testing procedures and the general topic of surge protection.

Who should buy this

A portable power strip is great to have while you're traveling. Having additional outlets can be a (battery) lifesaver in airports and hotels, where wall outlets can be few and far between. A power strip that you can easily pack into a carry-on or bag can mean the difference between enjoying fully charged devices on the plane or trying to stretch the last 10 percent of your battery over an hours-long flight.

In many older houses and apartments that don't have a lot of wall outlets, a small power strip can be helpful to gain a couple of extra outlets, particularly in rooms (such as the kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom) where you may not have the space for a full-size surge protector, or where it can be handy to have USB outlets to plug in your phone or other small electronics.

Generally, a power strip is a device that merely adds extra outlets; a surge protector also adds protection against—you guessed it—power surges. Most portable versions are surge protectors in name only, and don't provide a level of protection that we would trust long-term. We've highlighted any models that have surge protection similar to what you'd expect from a home version.

How we picked

The white Accell Home or Away, black Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector, and PowerCube ReWireable USB are all roughly the same size. The Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Travel-Size Surge Protector (bottom) is slightly larger. Photo: Rozette Rago

We didn't find many useful professional reviews of travel power strips, so we started from scratch with our own criteria.

Size and weight: When traveling, the most important factors to consider for whatever you'll be packing are size and weight. A power strip isn't going to do you any good if it's too bulky or heavy to stick in a carry-on or checked baggage, or if it can't be squeezed into an outlet located behind a desk or nightstand in a hotel room. So to keep our picks to a travel-friendly size, we limited most of our contenders to power strips with no more than three AC outlets and two USB ports—our international pick is the sole exception.

Outlet placement: We tried to find models that position AC outlets in a way that maximizes the number of devices you can plug in, regardless of the size or shape of those devices' power cables or power bricks—we dismissed models with AC outlets that are too close together.

Plug design: If the power strip's own AC outlet plug retracts or folds into the body of the device when not in use, it not only makes it easier to fit it into smaller packing spaces, but also helps prevent the plug from snagging on other items in the bag—damaging itself or those items. It's also important that plugging the power strip into an outlet doesn't block the other outlet in the same receptacle.

Our top picks, from Accell and Tripp Lite, share the same design with a folding plug to make it easier to store in overcrowded luggage. Photo: Rozette Rago

Surge protection: Ideally, any power strip is also a good surge protector, but in practice, most portable versions are too small to include meaningful protection. The joule rating on the box will give you some indication of how long a given model will take cumulative hits, but not how much power could hit the gear you have plugged in. For example, a portable unit with a 540-joule rating won't be able to take as much punishment as a home model with with a rating over 3,000. But what matters to the survival of your gear is how much voltage from a surge makes it through the outlets. In other testing, we've found that many electronics can survive a 400-volt hit—the amount most home surge protectors let through when struck by a 5,000-volt surge. Most portable models, though, let through over 1,000 volts of the same surge. We call out models that can serve as true surge protectors, but if that's your main concern, you'll need to invest in a larger option .

USB charging: Finally, given the number of devices and accessories that charge via USB, we limited our search to power strips that also have high-current USB-charging ports. Most recent iPads require 2.4-amp current to charge at full speed, but few of the power strips we found can provide that much current, so we settled for models that can provide 2.1 amps. Unfortunately, most of the units we tested split this current over two ports, rather than providing up to 2.1 amps per port. This means that if you plug in two iPads, for example, they'll each charge at less than half their maximum speed, because each will be getting only roughly 1 amp of charging current.

Using these criteria, we cut our list of candidates from dozens to just a few. We then combed through warranty policies and read customer reviews on Amazon. We started covering this topic in 2013, and in all that time, we've found only a handful of models worth testing: the Mediabridge Portable Surge Protector (now discontinued), Belkin Mini Surge Protector , Monoprice 3 Outlet Power Surge Protector (now discontinued), 360 Electrical Power Curve Mobile Surge Protector , CyberPower CSP300WU , Accell Home or Away Surge Protector , Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector , Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Travel-Size Surge Protector , PowerCube ReWireable USB , and several other models from PowerCube .

How we tested

For all models we tested, we tried plugging a variety of chargers with different plug shapes—for devices like laptops, tablets, digital-camera batteries, and smartphones—into the power strips. We tried different combinations to see which power strips could accommodate the greatest number and variety of devices. We also took into account the design of the power strip and the placement of its plug, and considered if it could be used without blocking the adjoining wall outlet in a two-outlet wall plate.

Next, we looked at the USB charging ports and tested the charging capabilities of each. We did this by plugging in a PortaPow USB Power Monitor (similar to this model ) along with an iPad Air 2, noting the monitor's amperage reading. We then connected a second iPad to measure the total output while charging two devices.

For our late-2017 update, we didn't find any new models to try, but we expanded testing on our picks from Accell, Tripp Lite, and PowerCube to see how tough their surge protection capabilities really are. Our electrical engineer, Lee Johnson, tested each model with a 5-kilovolt surge generator, capable of creating voltage surges 40 times the standard AC power in the US. He started with a series of surges from 160 volts all the way to 5,000 volts, recording the voltage at the outlet where you would normally plug in your other devices. Then he did a series of five 5,000-volt surges, and averaged the outlet measurements to get the protected output voltage. As a control, he also tested an LCD computer monitor's resilience in the face of a surge. First, he sent a 400-volt surge through the monitor, about the same amount of power that would get through a home surge protector. The monitor powered on and displayed images without a problem. Then he surged it directly with 5,000 volts from our generator, and with a loud pop, the monitor was dead. In the future, we'd like to test more electronics at more voltages to determine when they'll fry, but for now, we're comfortable knowing that 400 volts is indeed safe in the short term for similar gear.

Our pick: Accell Home or Away Surge Protector/Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector

Accell's Home or Away mobile power strip (model name D080B-010K for the white version, D080B-011K for the black) edged out its competition in every category: size, design, and USB-charging capability. It's small, its USB ports charge connected devices as fast as any of the competition, and it's inexpensive. The Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector is the same design with the same capabilities, so just buy whichever one is cheaper the day you order.

The Accell/Tripp Lite design is the only one we saw that keeps all three AC outlets easily accessible at all times, because they're placed on different faces. Because of this, it can accommodate an impressive variety of devices and plug sizes—we tried every size and shape of device charger and plug we could find, and it handled them all easily (even simultaneously). There might be some combination of plugs that doesn't work, but we haven't found it yet. In fact, we even managed to get three of the other, larger power strips to plug into the Accell/Tripp Lite. Other power strips couldn't handle two large plugs next to each other, but it wasn't a problem for the this model. And though it's easier to plug very large plugs into the front outlet, larger plugs can still squeeze into the side outlets.

The Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector has outlets on the front, left, and right, so each can fit a large power brick. Photo: Rozette Rago

At 4½ inches long, 2½ inches wide, and just under 1½ inches deep, the Home or Away and Tripp Lite 3-Outlet are the smallest of any of the power strips we tested. Each easily fits into smaller backpack or carry-on-luggage pockets, and their plug prongs fold away neatly when not in use. You'll also barely notice the 5-ounce weight in your bag.

Despite the small size, the Accell Home or Away and Tripp Lite 3-Outlet are very sturdy. Each stayed solidly in the wall outlet and didn't wobble around, even when it had three very large plugs and adapters plugged into it. This was a problem with some of the other models—the Belkin, for example, did not sit flush against the wall when plugged in; it left a gap between the wall and the body of the power strip, regardless of if anything was plugged into it.

The Accell Home or Away Surge Protector uses the same design, so it won't block the second wall outlet when you plug it in. Photo: Rozette Rago

That said, the best-designed model would still be useless if it didn't work well. Fortunately, in our testing, the Home or Away and Tripp Lite 3-Outlet outperformed the competition. Each functioned exactly as advertised in our USB speed tests: With a single iPad Air 2 connected to one of the unit's USB power ports, we saw 2.1 amps of power draw; plugging a first-generation iPad Air into the second USB port halved that figure to each, as expected. This means that with two iPads or other high-draw devices plugged into the unit's USB power ports, each device's charging speed will be less than half of what you'll get with that device's own charger, or our favorite multiport USB chargers . This is not optimal performance, but it is par for the course for this type of product, and we couldn't find anything with independent 2.1-amp or 2.4-amp USB ports.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

Because they're rated for only 110-volt outlets, we don't recommend using the Accell Home or Away or Tripp Lite 3-Outlet internationally. Even if plugged into an international adapter, it's not a safe option, because most countries have 220-volt electrical grids. If you need an international power strip, we have a recommendation below .

We also find it disappointing that the USB charging speeds don't match those of modern devices. Sure, you can charge a single high-draw device at close to full speed, but connecting two will charge each at rather slow speeds. Of course, you can always plug a high-speed charger into one of the unit's three AC outlets, but part of the appeal of USB charging ports on your power strip is being able to leave those chargers at home.

The manufacturers might call this a surge protection, but we don't, because, according to our tests, the included protection isn't likely to save your gear. When we sent a 5,000-volt surge through the Accell Home or Away and the Tripp Lite 3-Outlet, each let nearly 1,000 volts continue through the outlets to your devices. That's far above the 350 to 400 volts that home surge protectors let through and that most electronics can handle without dying a loud and smoky death. Because this amount of surge protection is so lacking, we didn't worry about the one minor difference between the Accell version and the Tripp Lite version: The former has a 612-joule rating; the latter is just 540 joules. This difference means that the Accell might survive a little more surge damage than the Tripp Lite, but it's such a small difference, on a feature you can't rely on anyway, that the distinction is moot. Home surge protectors, by comparison, offer 2,000 to 3,500 joules of protection before they wear out. If you're looking for surge protection, we recommend the Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Travel-Size Surge Protector, below, which clamps voltages better and will last longer.

Also great: Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Travel-Size Surge Protector

Photo: Rozette Rago

If you want real surge protection on the go, or prefer a power strip with a cord instead of one that sits right on the wall outlet, the Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Travel-Size Surge Protector is the best choice. It has an outlet layout that's almost as good as the one on the Accell Home or Away and Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet, but adds surge protection that's more than twice as good. But it is slightly bulkier, which may be a dealbreaker for anyone who packs light.

With two outlets on the front face and a third on the back, the Tripp Lite Travel-Size can accommodate at least one large power brick without blocking the other outlets. Models like the Cyber Power Systems CSP300WU or the Belkin Mini Surge Protector put all three outlets in a row, where a single power brick can get in the way of adjacent outlets.

Because the Tripp Lite Travel Size plugs into the wall with an 18-inch cord instead of sitting right at the outlet, it doesn't block the second wall outlet like other units can. And because it has a right-angle wall plug, this strip is a far better solution for outlets behind furniture—a huge plus if you're often plugging into obstructed outlets in hotel rooms or Airbnbs.

Aside from the outlet spacing and the flexibility of a corded model, the other reason to choose the Tripp Lite Travel-Size is its solid performance as a surge protector. When we hit it with repeated 5,000-volt surges, it let only an average of 447 volts through to the outlets. That's close to the performance of our favorite home surge protectors that let between 368 and 444 volts through in the same test. (We've tested 400-volt surges on computer monitors and found that they can handle such a spike, though we didn't test repeated surges over a longer timeframe.) Three other portable models that we tested allowed nearly 1,000 volts to pass from our surge generator to the power strip outlets where devices would be connected. That's enough to endanger most electronics, which makes the protection anything but.

Not only does the Tripp Lite Travel-Size provide better protection for each individual surge, but it should handle more surges before wearing out. The protection circuitry inside is rated to take a cumulative 1,050 joules before wearing out, or about twice that of one of our top picks, the Tripp Lite 3-Outlet. Though joule ratings aren't perfectly linear, that means that the Travel-Size should last much longer as a surge protector.

The 18-inch power cord on the Tripp Lite Travel-Size wraps around the sides, and is just the right length to plug into the rear outlet when stored. Photo: Rozette Rago

Like our other picks, the Travel-Size also includes two USB ports that charge devices at up to 2.1 amps. But also like every portable power strip we tried, that total is shared between the two ports. Apple and some other manufacturers include 1-amp chargers with their phones, so charging with the Travel-Size will actually be faster, even when charging two phones at a time. But most modern phones and tablets can fast-charge at more than 2 amps, so if you're charging multiple devices at the same time, you'll be better off with a dedicated USB charger .

Also great: PowerCube ReWireable USB

Though the power strips we tested are convenient for traveling, none are recommended for use outside of North America, because none are rated for use with the 220-volt outlets found in most European and Asian countries. In fact, many of the manuals included with these power strips specifically state that their warranties are void should you use the them outside of the US.

One option that will work abroad—and the only model we found that met our criteria—is PowerCube's ReWirable USB . The PowerCube unit works with 100 to 250 volts, so it can be safely plugged in pretty much anywhere in the world.

The PowerCube ReWirable USB is a 2½-inch cube and weighs barely more than 7 ounces. It has one outlet on each of its four outside faces, plus two USB ports on the face opposite its own AC plug. This design ensures full access to each outlet by almost any size plug without any of those plugs blocking the other outlets. The USB ports share 2.1 amps, much like on our other picks.

There's no good way to store them, but the PowerCube comes with international plugs that can be easily swapped in when traveling abroad. Photo: Rozette Rago

Included with the PowerCube unit are four interchangeable AC plugs to fit Australian, European, North American, and UK outlets. The plugs are easy to swap in and out as needed, and because they push the cube a fraction of an inch away from the wall, the wall plate's second outlet will be accessible for most plugs and power bricks in most situations. However, the extra plugs are easy to misplace.

Though it's not advertised with any surge protection, we found the PowerCube knocked 5,000-volt surges down to the same 900- to 1,000-volt range as the Accell Home or Away and Tripp Lite 3-Outlet. That is to say, the surge protection is minimal and we wouldn't rely on it.

Long-term test notes

If you need a portable power strip while traveling, we still think our top picks are the best options. But as more gadgets have the ability to draw power over USB or USB-C, we think fewer people need the extra AC outlets that this type of power strip offers. Over the past three years, three Wirecutter editors have taken our top picks—either the Accell Home or Away or the Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet —on dozens of trips. After extensive use, the foldable plug on one of the power strips got stuck in the out position, but they have all been trouble-free otherwise.

Even though one editor continues to pack one of these power strips on every trip, the other two reported that the extra AC outlets have become less important, and that they now tend to pack other chargers instead. Deputy editor and avid traveler Michael Zhao said, "Now you can get a 65W USB-C charger that can charge a phone, laptop, battery pack, tablet, and wireless headphones at a fast speed with just one outlet. That's more practical for me to carry than this." Although the USB chargers he mentioned lack surge protection, portable power strips like our picks offer only token protection anyway. If you tend to pack just one device that needs an AC plug, you may want to consider a multiport USB wall charger or a high-speed USB-C laptop charger instead of a portable power strip.

The competition

Belkin's Travel RockStar Surge Protector is a cool concept on paper. It combines the benefits of a travel surge protector with those of a portable USB battery pack. Unfortunately, it's about twice as heavy and it takes up more space than the Accell power strip, yet it has one less outlet and only a single, 2-amp USB port. A 3,000 mAh battery sets the Travel RockStar apart from the pack, as it's the only such combo we've seen. However, the combination of the Accell or Tripp Lite unit and a great portable USB battery costs a lot less than the Belkin, and although the two pieces will take up a bit more space in your bag, it's easier to walk around with just a battery than with the large Travel RockStar. We hope Belkin iterates on this concept, but it's simply not great yet.

Out of all of the models we looked at, Belkin's Mini Surge Protector was the most popular on Amazon and around the Web, which is why we didn't eliminate it at the start for a tight outlet placement that makes it impractical to use with large power bricks. But in person, that was a real problem. Plus, it weighs almost twice as much as the 5-ounce Accell and Tripp Lite units, and it's considerably longer and wider than the rest of the competition. The swiveling plug lets you rotate it out of the way of a wall plate's second outlet, but the button to swivel and the plug itself tend to get stuck.

360 Electrical's Power Curve Mobile Surge Protector has an innovative design, with two AC outlets next to each other that each rotates a full 360 degrees to maximize the amount of space for devices with larger plugs. This design works surprisingly well: With a little maneuvering, we were easily able to plug in two large, transformer-size adapters without obscuring the adjacent USB ports. The unit is also conveniently sized at just 5 inches long and 2 inches wide—only slightly larger than the Accell and Tripp Lite power strips—and the plug folds away nicely for easy storage. But it has only two outlets instead of three, and the USB ports charge devices slightly slower than the ports on our top picks. Lastly, the two LED indicators are so bright that they could double as a nightlight in an otherwise dark room, which is less than ideal when sleeping in hotels.

The RND Power Solutions Wall Power Station is too bulky, and the outlets are too close together.

This guide may have been updated by Wirecutter . To see the current recommendation, please go here .

When readers choose to buy Wirecutter's independently chosen editorial picks, Wirecutter and Engadget may earn affiliate commissions.

Latest Stories

The internet archive has been fending off ddos attacks for days.

The nonprofit organization has announced that it's currently in its "third day of warding off an intermittent DDoS cyber-attack."

OpenAI's board allegedly learned about ChatGPT launch on Twitter

“[The] board was not informed in advance of that,” Toner said on Tuesday on a podcast called The Ted AI Show. “We learned about ChatGPT on Twitter.”

VR classics Job Simulator and Vacation Simulator come to Apple Vision Pro

Job Simulator and Vacation Simulator have been released for the Apple Vision Pro. This is a version developed specifically for the platform with optimized hand-and-eye tracking.

The TikTok ban law will be argued in court this September

TikTok will face off with the Justice Department this fall in its bid to stop a law that could lead to a ban of the app in the United States.

Ooni's larger, dual-zone Koda 2 Max pizza oven is now available for pre-order

Ooni's largest pizza oven yet allows you to monitor food and ambient temps from your phone. It's now available for pre-order and ships in July.

Apple's M3-powered MacBook Air laptops are up to $150 off right now

Apple's M3-powered MacBook Air laptops are up to $150 off right now. This brings the price of the 15-inch model down to $1,150, thanks to a discount and a clippable coupon.

Apple’s WWDC 2024 keynote is scheduled for June 10 at 1PM ET

Apple has scheduled the WWDC keynote for June 10, which should provide updates on various software updates. The 35th annual Worldwide Developers Conference goes until June 14.

OpenAI’s new safety team is led by board members, including CEO Sam Altman

OpenAI has created a new Safety and Security Committee less than two weeks after the company dissolved the team tasked with protecting humanity from AI’s existential threats. This latest iteration will include two board members and CEO Sam Altman.

Lego just announced the first-ever Zelda playset and it's glorious

Lego just announced the very first playset inspired by The Legend of Zelda. It’s a team up with Nintendo and costs $300.

Apple's new M2 iPad Air tablets drop to record-low prices

The new M2 iPad Air is on sale already, and some models are available for record-low prices.

T-Mobile to acquire majority of US Cellular, further consolidating carrier market

T-Mobile will acquire most of US Cellular in a $4.4 billion deal. The company hopes to use the acquisition to provide better coverage in rural areas.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is coming to Xbox Game Pass on its release day

Microsoft has confirmed that Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 will be available on Game Pass on its release day later this year. More details about the game will be revealed on June 9.

Apple's 10th-gen iPad falls to an all-time low of $300

A new deal has dropped the 10th-gen Apple iPad down to $300, which is the lowest price we've seen for the entry-level tablet.

June’s PlayStation Plus offerings include PS VR2 games for the first time

Sony has revealed that PS VR2 games will soon be available through a PlayStation Plus plan for the first time. The company also revealed that the major Days of Play sale will start on May 29.

A popular Japanese digital pet with the weirdest mode of interaction is coming to the US

A play on the Japanese mimetic word for “squishy” (punipuni), Punirunes has a design quirk that sets it apart from other gadgets of its ilk: a doughy button at the center of the device that serves to simulate physical contact with your pet.

Google is bringing a slew of AI-powered software features to Chromebook Plus laptops

Google has a host of new AI-powered features coming to its Chromebook Plus models.

Acer, ASUS and HP all have new Chromebook Plus laptops with Google's built-in AI features

Google announced a host of new AI features for Chromebooks, and Acer, ASUS and HP have new models to showcase them.

Opera is adding Google's Gemini AI to its browser

Opera ha teamed up with Google to integrate its Gemini AI models into its Aria AI browser assistant.

The Morning After: Preparing for Summer Games Fest 2024

The biggest news stories this morning: The Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D remake is coming to Switch, Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC, Apple’s 16-inch MacBook Pro M3 Max is $250 off, Are breadmakers better than making bread by hand?

The best microSD cards in 2024

Here's a list of the best microSD cards you can buy, as chosen by Engadget editors.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

• Backchannel
• Newsletters
• WIRED Insider
• WIRED Consulting

The Best Travel Adapters

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

Best Overall Ceptics World International Travel Plug Adapter Read more

Upgrade Pick Zendure Passport III Read more

Budget Pick Epicka Universal Travel Adapter Read more

Best Travel Adapter Set Ceptics Adapter Plug Set for Worldwide International Travel Read more

Whether you're planning a country-hopping odyssey or a quick business trip, your journey will go more smoothly with the right kit. That includes good travel adapters so you can safely charge all of your gadgets wherever you land. We've tested several, and our favorites below will work in most parts of the world.

Adapters make great gifts for travelers , and be sure to check out our roundup of other travel essentials if you’re a frequent flier. Don't forget to pack USB-C charging cables .

Updated January 2024: We added the OneBeat Travel Plug Adapter, mentioned the OneWorld135 and OneWorld30, added a note on our OneAdaptr recommendations, and updated prices throughout.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get WIRED for just $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED.com , full Gear coverage, and subscriber-only newsletters. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

Best Overall

Jet off to more than 200 countries with this compact adapter in your luggage, and you can charge up all your gadgets. The classic slider design pushes out EU, UK, and US plugs, and you can rotate the pins for sockets in Australia or China. I appreciate how securely the plugs lock into place, and you must press a side button to retract them. You have a universal input socket, and Ceptics has included three USB-A ports on the bottom and two USB-C ports on the side. The USB-A ports can deliver a maximum charging rate of 15.5 watts, while the USB-C ports offer up to 18 watts (one PD and one QC 3.0).

The main problem is the lack of any grounding, which is meant to reduce the risk of an electrical shock if there's a fault, such as a loose wire inside a device with a metal case. ( This video explains grounding really well. ) Thankfully, there's overload protection with an 8-amp fuse, and it comes with a spare, but you should not use this adapter with any device that has a third metal ground pin on its plug.

Upgrade Pick

Zendure's all-in-one travel adapter is what I toss in my bag first for every trip. It has a boxy design with sliding toggles to switch between US, European, and British plugs. (It covers more than 200 countries.) There’s an auto-resetting fuse to protect your gadgets from power surges, and the Passport III has a 10-amp limit. The latest version also sports a funky, translucent design with a metallic finish (purple is best). Sadly, there's no grounding, so you shouldn't use this adapter with any device that has a third metal grounding pin on its plug.

There are four USB-C ports alongside a single USB-A port and an AC socket, so you can charge six devices simultaneously. Using gallium nitride technology, Zendure was able to increase the power output of the USB-C port to 65 watts, capable of fully charging a 13-inch MacBook Pro in under two hours. That means you can leave your laptop's charging brick behind (if it charges via USB-C). There’s support for the Power Delivery (PD) and Programmable Power Supply (PPS) standards (Samsung uses PPS in its flagship range), so it can fast-charge almost any phone or tablet. It’s expensive, but this travel adapter will satisfy even the most gadget-laden of travelers.

★ A Good Alternative : The OneWorld 65 ($69) sports a very similar design, the same 65-watt charging rate, and support for more than 200 countries. But it has three USB-C and two USB-A ports. It comes in white and has a 10-amp fuse with a replacement included. WIRED readers can also get a discount with the code OneWorld65_15%Off .

Budget Pick

With the capability to work in more than 150 countries, this affordable adapter from Epicka will do the job for most people. It has sliders you push to reveal the three most common international plugs—EU, UK, and US—and you can rotate the pins for sockets in Australia or China. This plug can recharge your power-hungry devices, like laptops and camera batteries, but there are four USB-A ports on the bottom and a 15-watt USB-C port on the side for phones, tablets, smartwatches, and Kindles. It’s not as well constructed as our other universal adapter picks, but it's much cheaper.

Once again, there’s no grounding here, so don’t plug devices with a third metal ground pin into this adapter, but there is an 8-amp fuse for safety, and it comes with a spare. It is also certified by RoHS, CE, and FCC.

Best Travel Adapter Set

Universal adapters don't always work properly everywhere, and most do not have any grounding. The cheaper and more reliable alternative is to buy individual adapters. This international set from Ceptics is our favorite. It includes five types to cover most of the globe, and they are properly grounded. If you’re visiting only a single destination, just pack the relevant type. None of these adapters have any kind of USB ports, so you will need to bring the respective charging adapter for your gadgets.

This set is especially good for Europe, because it includes Type C, E/F, and G adapters (more on this below), so you’re covered for any socket. Ceptics offers an even cheaper and smaller five-piece set, but we don’t recommend it. The adapters are flimsy, there’s no grounding, and the European plug's design doesn’t work well with the recessed sockets you will sometimes encounter.The drawback of plug adapters is that they’re easy to lose, but at least Ceptics includes a small bag for storage.

Julian Chokkattu

Louryn Strampe

Medea Giordano

Scott Gilbertson

Extra Outlets

What I love about this sturdy, compact plug adapter is the lack of sliding pins or moving parts to worry about and that it stays put in the outlet. Offered in several versions (Type C, Type E/F, Type G), it enables you to charge up to six gadgets. I’ve been testing the Type G model in Scotland, and it plugs into a single outlet to give you three US outlets, a USB-C port, and two USB-A ports. The USB-C can put out up to 15 watts, and the USB-A ports are limited to 12 watts, not especially speedy but fine for overnight charging. The adapter is grounded and has various safety features.

On the downside, it can be tough to make use of all the outlets simultaneously as larger plugs, like the MacBook power adapter, tend to block one of the other US outlets. It does not offer surge protection, and the Type G adapter maxes out at 3,250 watts (250 volts, 13 amps), while the EU versions top out at 2,500 watts.

For Charging Everything

This kit includes multiple plug attachments that slide and lock into place to keep you powered across most of the world. It is much larger than the average adapter, but provides two grounded US AC outlets. There is also a built-in USB-C cable, two USB-A ports, and two USB-C ports. The USB-A ports and built-in USB-C cable offer a combined maximum charging rate of 15 watts. The PD USB-C ports go up to 20 watts each. The top charging rate for all of them simultaneously is 55 watts.

There is built-in surge protection, but this is not a voltage converter, so don’t go plugging in hair dryers or other electronics that are not dual voltage. While the two AC outlets are handy, they are close together, so the shape and size of some plugs can make it tricky to use both. But with the ability to charge up to seven devices, this kit is handy. We also like the original Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit ($36) , though it lacks the two USB-C ports.

Fast Charging

With a familiar sliding pin design, this adapter also covers more than 200 countries. Taller and heavier than our top pick, this is OneAdaptr’s most powerful release to date, and it employs gallium nitride technology to deliver up to 100 watts. Aside from the universal AC outlet, you will find two USB-C ports and two USB-A ports on the bottom. Both USB-C ports offer 100-watt charging, and both USB-A ports are 18 watts, but 100 watts is the maximum in total, so when you plug in multiple devices, it divides between them.

Almost every charging standard you can think of is supported, including PD 3.0, QC 4+, FCP, SCP, AFC, PPS, and more, so there’s a good chance you can charge your phone at the fastest rate possible. There is no grounding, so don’t plug in any gadget with a third metal pin. But there is a 10-amp fuse with a spare included, and this adapter conforms to IEC 60884, CE, and FCC standards. If you want more power or feel you can make do with less, we also tested and liked the OneWorld135 ($109) and the OneWorld30 ($39) .

Note : We have tested OneAdaptr’s range extensively and found they work well, but the company has had issues fulfilling orders, and we are concerned about the volume of negative reviews online. The company assured us that it has recently taken steps to improve fulfilment and customer service, and we will continue to monitor the situation.

Safest Option

The OneWorld PD has sliding toggles on the side that cover the US/Canada, the UK, and Australia/China, and you can pop out a much smaller stand-alone European adapter. It promises to work in more than 150 countries. There are three USB-A ports on the bottom as well as a USB-C port that supports Power Delivery and Quick Charge 3.0 to deliver up to 18 watts. That's enough to fast-charge most phones and tablets, not so much a laptop. You can plug in your laptop's AC charger to speedily juice it back up, but that means carrying the heavy charging brick around.

What sets the AC plugs apart is that each one is earthed. Most universal travel adapters offer two-pin US plugs and make the third pin on the UK plug plastic, but the OneWorld PD provides fully grounded connections for every plug type to protect you from the risk of shock due to faulty wiring. It can handle up to 10 amps. Over-current protection automatically shuts down the power if there’s abnormal usage, and it resets via a button on the top. The rare British Standard 8546 compliance guarantees that the OneWorld PD has been fully tested and is one of the safest travel adapters you can buy. The downside? It's frequently out of stock.

Note : We have tested OneAdaptr's range extensively and found they work well, but the company has had issues fulfilling orders and we are concerned about the volume of negative reviews online. The company assured us that it has recently taken steps to improve fulfilment and customer service and we will continue to monitor the situation.

For Wireless Charging

A few of the best wireless chargers can be good choices for travel. This modular system from RapidX is compact and capable of wirelessly charging two phones at up to 10 watts each, which makes it a good option for couples or families. The beauty is that you can add or remove pods, and a single charging cable can power up to five. They snap together magnetically and pull apart for easy packing. You can also get additional phone pods ($15) , and there’s a version with a phone pod and an Apple Watch pod ($45) .

You get a 30-watt US power adapter and a 5-foot USB-C cable in the box, so you will still want a travel adapter to pair with this system. If you plan to add pods, you will want a more powerful adapter. (RapidX recommends 65 watts or above for three or more devices.)

For Apple Devices

This handy trio of chargers keeps your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods ticking and folds neatly into a felt carrying case for travel. The magnetic pad in the center can charge your iPhone at the fastest 15-watt rate, the Apple Watch dock pops up for Nightstand mode (sadly no fast charging here), and there is a grooved spot for your AirPods. It is compact and lightweight, and charges all three devices from a single cable and outlet. A 30-watt US wall adapter and a short USB-C to USB-C cable are included, but you must pair this with a travel adapter. We recommend this Mophie charger for travelers in our guide to the  best Apple 3-in-1 wireless chargers .

International Plug Types and Universal Adapters

There are 15 plug types in use across the world. Type A and Type B are used in the US, Canada, Mexico, and Japan; Type C is common across Europe, South America, and Asia; Type E and Type F are found across Europe in places like Germany, Russia, and France; Type G is used in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and a handful of other places; and Type I is used in Australia, New Zealand, China, and Argentina. Universal adapters tend to cover all of these types.

Some countries are not usually covered by universal adapters, such as India ( Type D ), Israel ( Type H ), and South Africa ( Type M or N ). You'll need to buy specific plug adapters for those places. To avoid any surprises when you land, double-check what type you need before you travel.

If you're visiting just one destination, a basic plug adapter that caters to one plug type is all you need. For trips to multiple destinations or for frequent flyers, a universal travel adapter can prove more versatile. The universal adapters we recommend here have the bonus of including multiple USB ports for charging several mobile devices from a single outlet.

A Word on Voltage Converters

Voltage converters are big, heavy, and expensive, and they don’t always work, so it’s probably best not to buy one. The reason you might think you need one is that the AC sockets on all of our recommended travel adapters do not convert the voltage coming from the socket. This means plugging into a UK socket will deliver 220 volts at 50 hertz, which is very different from the 120 volts at 60 hertz you can expect in the US. Don't worry! Your gear won't get fried. You just need to make sure anything you plug into one of these universal travel adapters has something like this printed on it:

Input: 100–220V 50/60Hz .

That should include most modern gadgets. If your device or charger can’t handle a variable voltage, it’s probably best to leave it at home. Most places provide hair dryers , irons, and kettles, so there’s no need to take them with you. It's often cheaper to buy a set with the correct plug at your destination and save the luggage space and hassle.

Christopher Null

Brenda Stolyar

Parker Hall

Ryan Waniata

WIRED COUPONS

Save $7-$23 On TurboTax Online

H&R Block Promo Code: Save Up to 20% on 2024 Tax Software

Incredible Deals at Instacart: Up to $20 in Savings

50% Off Any $12+ w/ DoorDash Coupon Code

Finish Line Coupon - $15 off $150 on sneakers & more

Groupon Coupon: Extra 15% Off Any Size Order

• Mobile Site
• Staff Directory
• Advertise with Ars

Filter by topic

• Biz & IT
• Gaming & Culture

Front page layout

Tech —

From the wirecutter: the best surge protector for your home electronics, we tested a whole bunch, and you don't have to spend a lot for the winners..

Mark Smirniotis - Jun 16, 2016 6:30 pm UTC

This post was done in partnership with The Wirecutter , a buyer's guide to the best technology. Read the full article with more details and background information here .

Surge protectors don't last forever. Like lightbulbs, they need to be replaced every few years when they wear out. Just because your old surge protector passes power to your devices doesn't mean it's still actively protecting them—in fact, you probably need a new one. After assessing more than 30 hours of research, and 32 hours of testing by an electrical engineer, we found that most surge protectors that cost just above $20 will provide adequate protection from surges. Our extensive research and testing showed that more-expensive units didn't provide enough additional benefit to be worth their higher cost. And of the units we tested, our top pick is the 10-outlet Tripp Lite TLP1008TEL , because it stops passing power when it's no longer effective at blocking surges.

Most surge protectors rely on an easily ignored LED indicator to tell you when they've ceased protecting your gear. We picked the TLP1008TEL because when its ability to block surges wears out, it cuts the power off entirely. So long as your devices are energized, you know that surge protection remains in place and have no ambiguity as to when it needs to be replaced.

If this Tripp Lite is unavailable, the Belkin PivotPlug is also a capable surge protector and has an excellent design that offers more outlets at a similar price. But, unlike the Tripp Lite, it still provides power even after the protection ceases being effective, alerting you by the failure of an indicator LED. You might prefer a unit that functions this way if you're plugging in hard drives or other sensitive electronics that you fear might be harmed by a sudden shutdown, but for most people this won't be a concern. With a total of 12 outlets, the Belkin model includes eight tilting outlets along its sides that allow you to fit all manner of power blocks at myriad angles.

For lighter duty, like under night stands or side tables, the Accell Powramid D080B-015K is the way to go. It has two USB ports and six outlets that are usable even with larger plugs, all in a comparatively small package. The USB ports put out a combined 2.1 amps, enough to charge one smartphone or tablet at high speed or two devices at low speed. Due to the Powramid's small size, Accell used a compact circuit that might not last quite as long, but offers a great deal of protection. Even at their lower price, Accell products safely prevent power from passing through when the protection fails—you'll know when it's time to replace it in a few years.

Tripp Lite's SpikeCube is perfect for traveling in areas with spotty grids. It covers just one outlet, but has performance comparable to that of the bigger picks squeezed into a pocketable package. If you want something on the go with more outlets than the SpikeCube and you are less concerned about surge protection, check out our full travel USB surge protector guide .

Who this is for

A surge protector offers peace of mind when you're concerned about sudden power spikes that could fry your expensive electronics. You may live where severe weather regularly causes power fluctuations (though a surge protector won't help you in the event of a direct lightning strike ), or be on an electrical utility's system that can't provide good, consistent power. You may also just want figurative insurance—more about actual insurance later—against an unlikely event that requires a small investment to forestall.

Because a surge protector is a "better safe than sorry" device, experts recommend getting one that stops providing power the moment the internal circuitry that protects against surges stops working. For most people, that isn't a problem, because most modern hardware can cope with the sudden loss of power—and better the loss of a power strip than the destruction of hardware that could cost thousands of dollars to replace.

However, if you have equipment that could be damaged by a sudden loss of power or mission-critical gear that can't ever go down or that needs a specific shutdown or power-up sequence (a hard disk drive, for example), you shouldn't be looking at a surge protector at all. Instead, you want a uninterruptible power supply, or UPS. A UPS is basically just a big battery that you place between your outlet and your gear, and most of them have surge protection built in.

If you live in an area with a stable power grid and a mild climate, you can probably skip the surge protector without too much risk. Ultimately, though, the low cost of surge protectors makes them worthwhile for a vast majority of people looking to stave off this one type of catastrophe.

How we picked

Many home office and home theater surge protectors come with ports that promise to protect your cable or phone lines, but we feel comfortable without them on our main pick. Though phone and cable lines certainly can carry surges into your home, many technicians and Internet providers discourage running data lines through surge protectors because, they say, it can introduce noise and degrade performance—a claim we weren't able to prove or disprove. In any case, our testing and tear-downs showed many manufacturers put wimpier protection (if any at all) on these auxiliary ports, so skipping them probably puts your modem or cable box at only slight risk.

Noise filtering is a common "premium" feature on the more-expensive surge protectors, but because most models performed similarly last year, we didn't test it on this year's models. In any case, all power supplies, whether internal or external, have noise filtration built in—in most cases, enough already to prevent any noise coming in on the AC line from interfering with the operation or performance of your electronics. Noise filtration probably isn't something you need to worry about unless you're having some sort of noise problem (usually manifested as static) in your audio or video gear or computer peripherals.

Though many surge protectors are sold with "connected equipment coverage," we didn't consider that in making our selections. We suggest you read the fine print because often you'll have to leap through a bunch of hoops to collect in the event of disaster. If you want financial protection you can count on, don't get it from a tech manufacturer. Just make sure to double-check that your electronics are covered by your homeowners policy or renters policy .

If your home theater costs more than a compact car, series mode protection may be worth investigating, but the technology isn't worth the huge price tag for most people. These surge suppressors are made by companies like Brickwall and Torus Power , and came on the market much more recently than the metal oxide varistor (MOV)-based protectors that we considered. Series mode protection is superior to MOV-based protection on pretty much every point, except for one big one: cost.

It would cost more than 10 times as much to replace our MOV-based pick with a similar number of series mode protected outlets from a reputable manufacturer. Though the series mode protector will theoretically pay for itself after 30 to 50 years (depending on how surge-prone your abode is), the upfront cost is simply too high to bear for most people. Spending $300 on a device to protect $2,000 worth of equipment from a rare disaster scenario is not worth it. We think it makes more sense to spend roughly $20 for a device that stops passing power when it's kaput and then replace it every few years.

Once we had a good idea of what features we could leave out, we surveyed 835 of our readers to learn about their expectations and narrow the criteria. Most of our respondents have six to seven devices plugged in, but wanted between eight and 12 outlets in a full-featured new unit, and were willing to spend up to $50. Features like USB outlets were less important than designs that accommodate bulky power supplies.

For lighter-duty use, our survey respondents generally had just three or four devices in use and the desire for a couple more, so we focused on units with six outlets that sell for less than $30. The smaller, lower-powered chargers used in a bedroom are less likely to have huge power bricks, so outlet spacing is less important than useful perks like USB ports.

We reached out to the manufacturers to verify clamping voltage, response times, and failure behaviors on top models, and after all that our final test list comprised the Belkin Conserve , the Belkin PivotPlug 12-Outlet BP112230-08 , the APC P11VNT3 3020J 11-outlet SurgeArrest , the Tripp Lite TLP1008TEL , and the Tripp Lite Isobar HT10DBS for office and home theater use; and the Accell Powramid , the Accell Power Genius , and the Belkin PivotPlug 6-Outlet for bedroom and light-duty use.

reader comments

Channel ars technica.

Best surge protector in 2024

These are the best surge protectors and power strips you can buy

When it comes to the best surge protectors, it can be a tad tempting to opt for the cheapest model out there. That’s understandable. After all, investing in a quality protector is hardly the sexiest tech purchase you’re ever going to make. Which isn’t to say buying a good one doesn’t have its benefits. If you’re blighted by electronic issues, one of the finest surge protectors can safeguard your favorite gizmos from going kaput. 

Zoning in on the right surge protector isn’t an easy process. Almost all of the big retailers stock them, which means you have thousands of options to sift through. Luckily, we’ve narrowed our list down to our favorite six models. My current favorite? That would be the APC Performance SurgeArrest 12 that’s main selling points are its Fail Safe mode and generous warranty.  

Read on to get the scoop on the best surge protectors on the market right now. Just remember not to be overly stingy on what can prove to be a vital device.

The best surge protector you can buy today

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

1. APC Performance SurgeArrest 12

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The best surge protector or best power strip in our opinion is the APC Performance SurgeArrest 12, model P12U2. The unit offers 4,320 joules of protection, along with 12 electrical plugs and two USB ports. The surge protector is relatively slim and compact, making it an easy fit behind media consoles or televisions. Not only that, according to the APC product page, the SurgeArrest 12 undergoes testing by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).

The SurgeArrest 12 also has a built-in fail-safe mode, cutting off power once the internal components have been compromised. This will ensure your electronics stay safe, even if it means having to go pick up another unit. APC also offers a lifetime warranty and states on its website that if the circuitry is damaged by a heavy strike or power line surge and is unable to offer 100% protection, it will “replace your damaged SurgeArrest free of charge.”

This product has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars with 22 reviews on B&H Photo. "Works great. And the green light around the edge looks dope and also makes it easy to find when you want to plug something in while you're editing in a darkened room," said a reviewer who awarded the surge protector 5 out 5 stars.

2. Belkin 12 Outlet Surge Protector

Belkin’s 12 Outlet Surge Protector, model BV12234-08, is an excellent unit that provides plenty of protection, which is why it’s one of the best surge protectors and best power strips on the market.

With 12 outlets and two USB charge ports, it matches the APC Performance SurgeArrest 12. It has a lower energy rating at 3,996 Joules but is still more than enough for most. It’s also available in white.

In terms of footprint, it’s relatively compact and can easily sit below a home theater setup. It also has a clip towards the bottom for cable management. The BV12234-08 also has room for large adapters, a recessed power button to prevent accidental shutoffs and mounting holes to secure to walls, baseboard or furniture.

The surge protector is backed by a two-year limited warranty. Just make sure not to plug in a heater, generator, medical device, car, or any other major electrical device, as that will voice any warranty protection.

This surge protector has been rated 4.5 out of 5 on B&H Photo. "I am loving this. I would tell people to get this surge protector and use it for all your devices," says one reviewer.

3. Anker PowerPort Strip 12

Anker is a brand more often found at online retailers like Amazon than at Best Buy. But the company has made a name for itself with its clean white aesthetic, value and quality. The Anker PowerPort Strip 12 is no exception.

As of publishing, the 6-foot version can be found for between $26-27. That undercuts the competition by around $10. Not only that, it has the surge energy rating and equipment protection to match. Although, the warranty on the surge protector itself only lasts for 18 months. This surge protector is also UL listed. As for protection, it has an overload protection feature that will flip the surge protector off during a major surge.

On Walmart's website, this product has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5. "It is so convenient to plug in so many cords in one location. I am very pleased that I learned about the Anker Strip Surge Protector," said one reviewer.

4. CyberPower Desktop Power Charger

The CyberPower Desktop Power Charger is meant for a desk, to plug in accessories or charge phones. Not only that, it includes a 10W Qi wireless charger.

The CyberPower Desktop Power Charger is built like a brick, and that’s a good thing. Even with its smaller size, it won’t slide around. It really is ideal for the kitchen counter where kids may need to plug in laptops to do schoolwork or charge devices. 

The power cord is braided and robust, meaning it should deal with a fair amount of abuse. While not a typical surge protector, we feel it sits within a specific niche and is worth considering.

This product has been favorably rated on Home Depot's website based on 34 reviews. One reviewer who rated the surge protector a 4 out of 5 said: "Liked it so much, we bought 3."

5. Monoprice 12 Outlet Power Surge Protector with 2 Built-in USB Charger Ports

The Monoprice 12 Outlet Power Surge Protector with 2 Built-in USB charger Ports is a solid piece of kit. The transparent rails on the side that light up to indicate both grounding and surge protection look slick. And of all the units we tested, it was the sturdiest of the bunch, with a flat and wide base.

In terms of design, there’s plenty of room to plug on oddly-shaped power pricks. And the cord feels solid. 

The Monoprice 12 also has lights that indicate if surge protection is working, and if protection fails following a major surge, the light will shut off. The device will auto-shut to prevent damage to electronics. It’s also UL Listed.

The reason why the Monoprice 12 doesn’t rank higher on our list is due to subpar warranty and no equipment protection. The one-year warranty, while not bad, falls below the competition. This could be excused if the Monoprice 12 was a value leader. Unfortunately, as of publishing, it sells for around $28, which is more than the Anker PowerPort Strip 12.

This power strip has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Walmart's website. One of the 22 reviewers said: "Really useful. Works great. USB outlets are handy - and I don't get any noise from the USB ports when using with audio devices which I have gotten with other USB chargers."

6. Belkin 3-outlet Mini Surge Protector with USB Ports

The Belkin 3-outlet Mini Surge Protector with USB Ports is a bit of an oddball but could come in handy for specific situations. Acting more like a wall tap, the 3-Outlet essentially gives buyers additional ports on their walls. It also swivels, meaning it can sit both horizontally and vertically.

Compared to larger surge protectors, the 3-Outlet falls short. It doesn’t have nearly as high a Joule rating at only 918, nor does it offer the same amount of equipment protection. But it does have more surge protection than other barebones power strips. 

Still, it sits cleanly on a wall and can work well next to a nightstand to plug in a lamp and some phone chargers. For travel and small spaces, the 3-Outlet Mini Surge Protector with USB ports can come in handy. Just use it mostly for smaller devices.

This Belkin surge protector has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on B&H Photo. The surge protector "allows charging of multiple items in 3rd world hotel rooms with only one outlet! Protects from primitive grids, with huge power fluctuations," said one reviewer.

What to look for when buying a surge protector

The way most surge protectors work is by using Metal Oxide Varistors (MOVs), which reroute energy back to the electrical source. Think of it as an automated levee or dam that can push a massive surge of water back towards a river to help keep your home safe. While MOVs are an efficient and cost-effective way for manufacturers to design surge protectors, they're not an absolute fail-safe. Every time there's a major surge, the MOVs degrade and are sacrificed to ensure your electronics stay protected. That means surge protectors don't last forever.

Also, a high current surge is what can really damage electronics. Some surges may have a higher current than voltage, meaning the voltage threshold might not be met to trip the MOV. Other "non-sacrificial" methods do exist, such as from Zero Surge . But a simple two-outlet Zero Surge model costs more than $200, exceeding every item on this list by a wide margin. But if your budget allows for it, then Zero Surge might be the way to go.

Most quality surge protectors and power strips have a built-in kill switch which will make the surge protector inoperable if it can’t provide protection any longer. Others might continue to work without protection. All of the units on our list have the added security of turning off or notifying the user once components inside have degraded to a point of inadequate protection. 

And note, not all power strips offer surge protection. Some act as nothing more than an extension of an existing wall outlet. Some might add a layer of minimal surge protection. So, regardless of shape or size, all units on this list will give strong levels of protection. 

You’ll also notice that the surge protectors we recommend have high joule protection ratings. A joule is a measure of energy. The average lightning strike releases about one billion joules of energy in less than a second! The higher the joule rating, the more protection it offers. A higher joule rating also means a surge protector can absorb more energy before it fails. Generally, for most electronics and video game consoles — including the elusive PS5 and Xbox Series X — 2,000 joules and above will be more than adequate in keeping your devices safe. 

Sign up to get the BEST of Tom’s Guide direct to your inbox.

Upgrade your life with a daily dose of the biggest tech news, lifestyle hacks and our curated analysis. Be the first to know about cutting-edge gadgets and the hottest deals.

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.

• Dave Meikleham UK Computing Editor

iGulu F1 home brew kit review: Just add water and wait for the magic to happen

The AeroPress Clear Colors coffee press puts the simplicity back into making a brew

Leesa, Molecule, Saatva and more — 5 best cooling mattress and topper deals to shop in today’s Memorial Day sales

• Psychichfashion How about "smart" surge protectors, by which I mean energy saving surge protectors which turn off outlets automatically when they are not being used? Reply
• Bard Kallestad No surge protector survey can be accurate with using the "clamping voltage" ratings. No matter how many joules the unit can absorb, it must start absorbing them quickly with a low surge clamping voltage. 330v is the best and 500 or higher is too little, too late. Reply
• View All 2 Comments

Most Popular

• 2 Tempur-Pedic vs Purple: Which mattress for joint pain should you buy in today's Memorial Day sales?
• 3 Beat's $200 headphones are better than the Sony WH-1000XM5 in these 3 ways
• 4 5 RV mattresses I'd buy in today's Memorial Day sales — save up to $897
• 5 iGulu F1 home brew kit review: Just add water and wait for the magic to happen

• Kitchen & Household

Article updated on January 1, 2024 at 9:00 AM PST

Best Surge Protector of 2024

The best surge protectors guard your electronics from damage during power surges. Here are the power strips to consider for extra outlets and safety.

Our Experts

CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.

What is the best surge protector overall?

We ran rigorous testing on 16 of the top surge protectors available for under $100, and the standout performer against all of our requirements was the APC P11U2 . Its impressive amount of outlets -- 11 in total -- is worthy of note, and six of them have a generously wide design to provide spacing that can accommodate larger power adapters -- plus it comes with USB ports that allow you to directly charge your devices, has high joule rating (more on that in a bit) and a conveniently long power cord. It even comes with a lifetime $250,000 equipment protection policy, which can provide a little peace of mind. That, along with its exceptional functionality, makes this our recommendation for the best surge protector currently available. However, for those seeking surge protection with a specific features or a smaller size (the P11U2 is pretty large), we have more recommendations below worth checking out.  

So why do you need surge protection anyway? We've all got lots of electronics we want to plug in, with power strips upon power strips branching out like stubby snakes from every outlet. OK, maybe it's not that bad in your own house, but even beyond the convenience of extra plugs, the best surge protectors can actually prolong the life of your gear. They can, as the name suggests, protect electronics from the power surges that can slowly wear down the delicate hardware inside all modern electronics. 

Though the terms are often used interchangeably, there is a big difference between power strips and surge protectors . A power strip is essentially just a wired, multioutlet extension of a power outlet. A surge protector adds in circuitry, which is designed to prevent damaging power spikes from making their way to your TV , soundbar  or really anything that's plugged in. 

One of the easiest ways to tell if the product you're considering is a basic strip or an actual surge protector is by checking if it has a joule rating. All surge protectors will have one, and it's essentially how much of a power surge it can protect against. These devices do wear down over time, and while there's no easy way to tell how much the protection is reduced, some strips do offer a dedicated "protected" LED. Most manufacturers recommend replacing a surge protector every few years. For more about how they work, check out these  10 shocking facts about power strips . 

Best surge protectors

Best surge protector overall.

The APC P11U2 checks all the boxes for what I was looking for in a surge protector. It has six widely spaced plugs, plus five more that are closer together and two USB ports. It has 2,880 joules of protection, well above my test's average. Coincidentally, editor Ty Pendlebury has one in his testing lab. APC offers a lifetime $250,000 equipment protection policy . 

Overall build quality is quite solid, even though the protective covers for each outlet are superfluous and come off easily. The cord to connect the power strip to the wall is quite long, 8 feet, which is convenient. The P11U2 is fairly bulky, but if you want something smaller and don't need 11 outlets, the $33 APC P8U2 loses one row of the wide-spaced outlets for a much smaller footprint overall, though the joule rating and protection policy are also lower. 

It's not flashy, and doesn't have some of the features of some of my other picks, but for a basic, solid, surge protector, it's the one to get. 

Best surge protector runner-up

Tripp lite tlp1208teltv.

If the APC above isn't available or you're looking for something a little different, the Tripp Lite TLP1208TELTV offers most of the features we like about the APC. It only has four wide-set outlets, but eight close-spaced ones. There's no USB, but instead you get three RJ11 for telephone (one in, two out) and two coax for cable or satellite. It has a claimed 2,880 joule rating. I have one in my testing lab.

It has an 8-foot cord, and comes with $150,000 " Ultimate Lifetime Insurance " coverage and a limited lifetime warranty. 

It's usually a little more expensive than the APC, but if you want something to protect landlines or cable/satellite, it's ideal.

• The Belkin Conserve surge protector allows you to completely shut down most of your components to save on energy costs while keeping two outlets reserved for electronics you want to keep "always on"; surge protection for cable/satellite RF lines; sliding safety covers for outlets; wireless remote included for power on/off.
• No socket for Powerline network adapters; no phone line or network protection.

Best surge protector with wireless switch

Belkin conserve switch f7c01008q.

The Belkin F7C01008q has a handy feature: It comes with a wireless switch. Six of the eight wide-spaced outlets are controlled by this switch, which you can mount somewhere nearby via its included wall mount and sticky-tape. The protector itself is very flat, with far less bulk than the APC or Tripp Lite.

The fancy remote control comes at a cost, however. The surge protector has a claimed 1,000 joule rating, which is lower than my top picks. It has a shorter cord too, though at four feet it should be long enough for most situations. The Conserve Switch has a 1-year warranty on itself, and $100,000 for  connected equipment .

If you like the look of this design but don't need the switch, check out the Belkin BE112230, listed in the Others We Tested section below. 

Best surge protector for extension cords

Accell d080b-051b.

The Accell D080B-051B looks like a squid. Or maybe a six-legged octopus. (Hexapus?) I feel like this is enough reason to buy it, but it may not be for everyone. Its main benefit is that, instead of rigid outlets on a flat frame, like most surge protectors, it has five short cables with the outlets at the end. Most people probably won't need this specific type of functionality, but I'm sure some of you are looking at it and know exactly how it will fit in your home. Also, you know, the squid thing. 

The Accell is rated at a claimed 1,080 joules. Unlike most surge protectors, which continue to pass power when they've passed their joule rating, the D080B-051B fails safe, cutting power so your gear is protected against further surges. You will need to buy a new one if this should happen, but the whole point is to protect your more expensive gear. It's surprising that more surge protectors aren't built like this. 

Unlike the others on my list, though, there's no device warranty. While this is disappointing, it's not a total deal-breaker, as I discuss below.

Best compact surge protector

Belkin bp108000.

Unlike most surge protectors, the Belkin BP108000 is tubular instead of being box-shaped. Long and thin, it can sit behind or under furniture better than most other designs. Seven of its nine outlets rotate almost 180 degrees, so you can fit big charger wall warts on all of them. The other two outlets are widely spaced from each other, but are close to the bottom of the protector. This won't be an issue if you're plugging in cables, but grounded wall warts might not fit correctly. 

It has a claimed 1,800 joule rating, and comes with a $150,000 Connected Equipment Warranty . In addition to the power outlets, there are also one in and out RJ11 telephone connections. The cable to the wall is 6 feet long.

Best on-wall surge protector

Amazon s9p658o300a00.

The Amazon S9P658O300A00 plugs directly into your wall outlet, adding four more places for plugs. All six outlets on this Amazon Basics protector turn 90 degrees, so you can accommodate up to six wall warts if you turn the top and bottom plugs in the opposite direction of the middle ones.

It's rated for a claimed 1,080 joules. It doesn't have a connected equipment warranty.

Best small surge protector

Anker powerport strip pd 2 mini.

The small PowerPort Strip PD 2 Mini is perfect for placement on a desk or table where you often connect devices via USB to charge, and occasionally additional wall warts. It has a surge rating of 440 joules. The USB-A ports max out at 2.4 amps each, while the USB-C port is capable of 3A at 5V or 2A at 9V. 

The PowerPort Strip PD 2 Mini is also good for travel, thanks to its small size and 5-foot cord, though the Accell (mentioned below) is better for those who prefer to travel light.

If you want to connect big, or wide wall warts, the PowerPort Strip PD 2 Mini isn't ideal. As you can see from the photo, it doesn't have much space on either side of its outlets. If you're regularly connecting bigger warts, check out the Belkin SRA006p3tt5 mentioned in the "Other good surge protectors" section below.

Best surge protector for travel

Accell d080b-011k.

The Accell D080B-011K is a fantastic option for travelers, with a small size and foldable prongs. It has three outlets, one each on the front and sides, plus two USB-A connections. The latter are fairly slow, however, sharing 2.1 amps between them. It has 612 joules of surge protection, and a five-year, $100,000 connected equipment warranty. 

If you just want something small to fit in your carry-on, the Accell is perfect. If you don't mind more bulk, the Anker mentioned above has a long cable for easier connection to the notoriously hard-to-find hotel AC outlets.

Best for a desktop (or otherwise visible spot)

Belkin sra007p12tt6.

The Belkin SRA007p12tt6 is a classy-looking 12-outlet surge protector with a matte-white finish that would work better on a desk or otherwise visible spot than most of the other large protectors. Six of its outlets are widely spaced, and there are two 2.4-amp USB-A and one 3A USB-C outlets (4.5A combined max output). The wall plug is conveniently angled at 90-degrees at the end of the 6-foot cable.

With 4000 joules it's got far more surge protection than it's flatter counterpart, the Belkin F7C01008q, and looks less electronic gadget-y than the Belkin BE112230 mentioned below. There are mount holes on the back for easy wall mounting. While still made of plastic, its lightly textured finish feels more upscale than most protectors. Adapters and plugs snap securely into the protector's outlets.

The SRA007p12tt6 has a 2-year warranty and a $300,000 Connected Equipment Warranty .

How I tested surge protectors

When I tested these surge protectors there were three things I looked for: well-spaced sockets, a high joule rating (preferably 1,000 or more), and whether it came with a "connected device" warranty. Firstly, one of the most important things was having enough outlets to fit the wall wart power adapters that come with most products. These bulky connectors usually take up two or more spaces on normal outlets and power strips. So I physically checked each power strip to see if its outlets were sufficiently spaced to fit multiple warts.

Secondly, a joule rating was required, and all my picks had joule ratings comparable to or higher than their competitors. It'd be great to have a minimum or recommended joule rating, but such a thing doesn't exist for these kinds of products. 

I also gave preference to products that come with a guarantee in case your gear gets destroyed by a power surge. Nearly all of my picks have this kind of warranty, often in the range of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Are you likely to get your money back if your gear gets zapped? Hard to say. Insurance like this is hard to collect on, as some companies will only  replace connected gear "at their option." Having this sort of guarantee does give you some peace of mind, however, more than you have without it, and perhaps it will cover you in a way your homeowner's or renter's insurance doesn't. 

With all of this in mind, I compiled a list of nearly 50 surge protectors and then chose the top 16 to test out. My last bit of testing was hands-on. Specs can tell you a lot, but very quickly I found some of these to be better than others. Some had features that seemed useful, but weren't. Others were larger or smaller than they seemed in pictures, which in some cases was a good thing or in the case of the travel surge protectors, not so much. Our top picks were the ones that had the best combination of features, specs, and felt the most practical in normal use.

Read More:   10 Shocking Facts About Power Strips

A Closer Look at the Best Surge Protectors

Other good surge protectors

The APC P6WU2 is a chunky wall-mount design with six side-mounted outlets and two USBs on the front. Depending on what you're plugging into it, they might bunch up or not fit against the wall. The Amazon S9P658O300A00 can fit more plugs for a somewhat-similar footprint. However, the APC has a connected device warranty ($50,000), while the Amazon doesn't. For something similar but smaller, check out the Belkin BSV300ttCW mentioned below.

The Belkin BE112230 shares the flat design of the switched Belkin F7C01008q, just without the switch. It has six wide-spaced outlets, a claimed 3,940 joules of protection and a connected equipment warranty.

The Belkin BST300bg is a decent travel alternative to the Accell. It has three outlets on the front and two USBs on the top. The plug swivels so you can orient it multiple ways. The Accell is a little smaller, but this is a good runner-up.

The wall-mounted Belkin BSV300ttCW has three outlets and two USBs, all on the front. Its most interesting design feature is a lipped top surface where you can lean your phone while it's charging.

The cube-shaped Belkin SRA006p3tt5  is similar to the Anker, in that it's a small protector at the end of a long cord. The Anker's smaller size and dedicated USB-C connection are more convenient, but if you're connecting larger wall warts they'll likely fit better on this.

Are smart surge protectors worth it?

You might have noticed I haven't included any "smart" surge protectors, i.e. those that connect to a smart home via Alexa, Siri or Google Home. As of this writing smart surge protectors are inexplicably expensive. You're better off buying a basic smart plug , or even several, and connecting a power strip. This is a cheaper solution than the smart surge protectors currently on the market. 

Is it bad to plug too many things into a surge protector?

Yes, though depending what you're trying to connect, it might not matter. The outlets in most American homes are either 15 or 20 amps. This equals approximately 1,800 to 2,400 watts. Can you connect your TV, soundbar, and game consoles to one surge protector? Generally, yes. Can you connect your fridge, air conditioner, electric stove, and clothes dryer to one? No. Check the wattage rating on your gear. You're better off using more surge protectors, plugged into their own separate outlets, than fewer.

Do I need a surge protector when traveling?

Need? No, but it doesn't hurt to protect your gear. More important when traveling is having enough outlets to connect all your electronics. You'd be surprised how few accessible outlets many hotels have.

The 10 Best Power Strips and Surge Protectors to Keep Your Devices Going

Protect your electronics and multiply your outlets.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

Today, surge protectors often incorporate USB ports and surge protection. We’ve tested and vetted through our research a range to determine which are the best. But first, some buying advice.

The Best Surge Protectors

• Best Overall: APC Surge Protector
• Best Value: Belkin Surge Protector
• Best Surge Protection: Amazon Basics 8-Outlet Surge Protector
• Best for Remote Work: Tessan Flat Plug Extension Cord
• Best for Under a Desk: BESTEK 8-Outlet 6-Foot Extension Cord Surge Protector

What to Consider

Surge protection.

The proliferation of wireless handheld devices that charge at lower voltages makes surge protection more important than ever. What most people don’t realize about surge protectors is that they wear out over time. With every voltage fluctuation they absorb, their lifespan is shortened. So, to be sure you’re getting the most protection you can, it’s a good idea to replace them every two to three years.

Power surges can occur for a number of reasons. People tend to worry most about lightning strikes, which can find their way to electrical wires and cause power spikes in the millions of volts. Most surge protectors can’t handle anything this large, so don’t rely on them during lightning storms—the best way to protect from this type of surge is to unplug your sensitive electronic equipment. More commonly, power surges are caused during storms when power lines are downed. When the power company’s transformers and complex switching systems try to reroute power or address changing demands, it can create inconsistent power flow with dips and bursts. The other common cause for surges occurs within your own home. Air conditioners , compressors, and electric ranges require a large amount of power, particularly when they start up. However, their need drops off quickly once they’re running, which can cause surges elsewhere in the house’s wiring. The amount of protection surge protectors provide is measured in joules. A joule is a unit of energy required to do a certain amount of work. One joule is about the amount of electricity used to light a one-watt LED for one second. To adequately protect an average home entertainment system or computers and related equipment, look for surge protectors rated in thousands of joules. Always check with the manufacturer, they usually provide examples on the packaging of what a certain model can protect.

Port and Outlet Selection

Using the surge protector as a power hub for your home office? The amount of ports and outlets readily accessible is important to consider. Since you’re probably plugging in multiple devices, like a desktop monitor and a laptop charger, a surge protector can prevent overloading your wall outlet while still providing ample energy and protection for your tech. Among the surge protectors here, the most outlets you’ll find are 12 (anything more feels like overkill). And the models may include up to four USB ports.

USB Options

While USB-A is still the most commonly used USB type and likely the first that comes to mind, USB-C is slowly becoming the standard because it has faster data transfer and charging speeds than USB-A. Plus, USB-C plugs are symmetrical, so they don’t have to be oriented one specific way to fit. This can alleviate some of that poking around you’ve probably had to do from time to time when trying to connect a USB-A cable. Many modern devices have the capability to connect via USB-C. Still, the adoption has been gradual, so it doesn’t hurt to consider a surge protector with a USB-A port or two just in case.

How We Selected

We’ve tested several surge protectors on this list. We researched the market, surveyed user reviews, spoke with product managers and engineers, and used our own experience with them to determine the best options. We plugged surge protectors in and tested them in kitchens, family rooms, workshops, and offices. We evaluated them based on ease of use, features, and how they performed in various situations.

For any surge protectors that we haven’t gotten hands on, we carefully selected them based on our knowledge and context from previous testing, as well as their designs, versatility, capabilities, and customer experiences.

APC Surge Protector with Telephone, DSL, and Coaxial Protection

APC has a lot of confidence in this 11-outlet SurgeArrest, so much so that it offers a $100,000 equipment protection policy. Short of using it in a research lab to protect scientific instruments, we had a hard time coming up with a list of equipment to match that total. Multiple layers of protection guard against power surges coming through your coaxial TV cable, telephone/DSL lines, and home’s electrical outlets. There are LEDs to indicate protection status and building wiring faults.

The six outlets are spaced nicely to accommodate large power adaptors, and all of them have sliding covers to keep out dust and debris when you’re not using them. The heavy cord swivels 180 degrees so that it can lay flat and out of the way, no matter which way it’s oriented behind furniture.

Because of the SurgeArrest’s size and features, we found it most useful for elaborate entertainment or computer equipment.

Belkin Surge Protector

Belkin has everything covered with this 12-outlet surge protector. Connect phone/fax/DSL lines, coaxial cables for TV/cable modems, and ethernet and power cords for all your equipment to protect from surges and spikes wherever they come from.

The low-profile surge protector has six widely spaced outlets to accommodate large power adaptors, and a clip-on cable organizer keeps cords all heading in the same direction. The slim design helps it fit under desks and behind furniture, so you can set it up and forget it—although the protection and ground wiring status lights won’t be visible in this case.

Sliding covers protect unused outlets from dust and debris. Just remember they’re there, or it will be frustrating reaching behind furniture to plug something in. Finally, Belkin provides a $100,000 connected equipment warranty with this surge protector.

Tessan Flat Plug Extension Cord

Tessan’s Flat Plug Extension Cord is a compact option for when you only need a couple of extra outlets. Its size and shape make it easy to pack when traveling—we carried it in our laptop bag when working off-site. Four standard outlets, spaced far apart, means it was easy for us to fit devices with large plugs without overlapping. Three standard USB ports were enough to satisfy our charging needs and helped make this useful as a tabletop charging station.

You can also hang this Tessan flat on a wall or above a desk or nightstand if space is limited. We were surprised and impressed with the 3,940 joules of surge protection—that’s a lot for a surge protector this inexpensive.

BESTEK 8-Outlet 6-Foot Extension Cord Surge Protector

Bestek’s 8-Outlet surge protector is ideal as an accessible, under-desk power solution. We found that eight outlets were more than enough for a fully outfitted, single work-station desk. Two of them are set apart from the others specifically for devices with large plugs. The other six are spaced more tightly, and we were able to use all of them with a range of standard plugs.

Four smart USB charging ports ensure each device is charged at the voltage and rate best suited for it, and they self-adjust the current when charging multiple devices simultaneously. The lighted on/off switch has an integrated circuit breaker for overload protection on all outlets, so your gadgets will be safe from fluctuations in voltage or a sudden lightning strike.

The unit has a 15-amp circuit breaker, so you can even power some appliances with it—we plugged in an 8,000-BTU window air conditioner without issue.

Amazon Basics 8-Outlet Surge Protector

The Amazon Basics Surge Protector isn’t super compact, but it is a standout for how much surge protection it provides. 36,200 customers on Amazon give it an average 4.8 stars. Not only does it provide a high level of protection against surges, it comes with a green LED light that lets you know the surge protection is working and the wiring is grounded.

APC Rotating Surge Protector

APC’s six-outlet SurgeArrest is ideal for use near a desk or entertainment system. It has wall mounts on the back to hang it horizontally or vertically, but make sure it’s accessible, or the USB ports all the way at the end could be blocked. The main feature of this surge protector is how the six outlets swivel to provide ample room for large power adaptors or oversize plugs.

The power switch doubles as a circuit breaker reset, and when turned on, two LEDs indicate protection status and if the circuit is grounded properly. Finally, APC provides a $50,000 equipment protection policy.

One Beat 6-Outlet Surge Protector

The AC outlets on this surge protector from One Beat have ample space in between them to accommodate bulkier adaptors like laptop charging blocks. There are two outlets on the front panel and two on each side, which is convenient if you’re plugging in devices with cords that aren’t as flexible and need to lay flat. It’s space-saving and not very long, so it will work well for desktops and workstations.

The surge protector auto-detects your connected devices for charging efficiency, and the lighted on/off switch has an integrated circuit breaker and will automatically cut power if the voltage gets overwhelming.

Anker PowerPort Cube Power Strip

The compact cube-shaped PowerPort from Anker is more of an extension cord with USB ports than it is a surge protector. Its tiny size means it doesn’t take up space on a desk and will always be close for easy plugging and unplugging.

The PowerPort comes with an adhesive pad to keep it from moving around, wherever you decide to put it—it’s super sticky, so you can even tack it on a wall. We were able to do away with multiple AC adapters thanks to this Anker.

There are three AC outlets and three USB ports, so it will power all the personal electronic devices you need for work or play. Its compact size also makes it ideal for travel, and the cube can easily fits into a briefcase or laptop bag. Similar to the Belkin and APC surge protectors, Anker has a connected equipment warranty, with coverage up to $25,000.

Jacklyed Surge Protector Tower

This Jackyled is a convenient table-top power tower, if you will, useful placed in the center of a conference table in collaborative environments or for meetings. It has outlets on every side, with two USB ports each on two of the sides. There’s a power switch for each tier of the tower, so you can be selective about which equipment you power off and which you leave on. The power cord for this unit retracts and winds into the base, so there’s no extra cable looped around to deal with. Plus, the handle on top makes for easy transport in between rooms.

We especially liked the Surge Protector Tower on our project table where tools and equipment frequently come and go and we have several things happening at once. A modest amount of surge protection guards sensitive electronics, although we wouldn’t suggest using this as a permanent power supply for these devices.

Honeywell Wall Plate Surge Protector

Honeywell’s wall plate surge protector allows you to get more usage from the standard outlets around your home while saving space and eliminating extra extension cords . It comes with two AC charging outlets, along with a USB-A and a USB-C port for compatible devices.

Another convenient feature is the integrated phone stand, because you can set your device right on top of the wall plate to finish charging. Items plugged in benefit from the 800-joule surge protection.

While this surge protector doesn’t offer nearly as many outlets or charging ports as a traditional surge protector, it’s still a viable method for making the most of your standard home outlets if you don’t need to plug in that many more devices.

Amber is the Digital Content Producer for Popular Mechanics, Runner's World and Bicycling, where she covers a range of tasks for the commerce team. She also writes fashion and beauty content for Best Products. Her work has been featured across all of the Enthusiast Group sites. In her free time you can likely find her watching horror movies, reading a good thriller book, or listening to a comedy podcast.

Brad Ford has spent most of his life using tools to fix, build, or make things. Growing up he worked on a farm, where he learned to weld, repair, and paint equipment. From the farm he went to work at a classic car dealer, repairing and servicing Rolls Royces, Bentleys, and Jaguars. Today, when he's not testing tools or writing for Popular Mechanics, he's busy keeping up with the projects at his old farmhouse in eastern Pennsylvania.

.css-cuqpxl:before{padding-right:0.3125rem;content:'//';display:inline;} PM Reviews .css-xtujxj:before{padding-left:0.3125rem;content:'//';display:inline;}

The Best Camping Coolers for Summer Adventures

The 7 Best Portable Power Banks of 2024

The Best Thermoses for Hot and Cold Food and Drink

The Best Hammocks for Camping and Backpacking

The Best Water Bottles for Hiking

The 10 Best Portable Air Conditioners of 2024

The Best Bicycle Helmets for Safety and Comfort

Best Window-Mounted Air Conditioners

The 9 Most Reliable Umbrellas to Keep You Dry

The Best Backyard Hammocks for Maximum Relaxation

The 13 Best Drones You Can Buy

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Tech Essentials

The 6 Best Travel Adapters and Converters of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Whether you prefer a set of specific adapters or something universal, these are the best options on the market.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Other Options We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Travelers these days have all types of gear and gadgets that require power: cellphones, headphones, cameras, laptops, and even their toothbrushes. And, when venturing abroad, you’ll often find that not every hotel, airport lounge, or even public mode of transportation accommodates the U.S. plug, which means you likely need an adapter and/or converter for international trips. 

Our favorite adapters and converters are compact, work in multiple countries, have several ports including both USB and AC sockets, and, of course, power your essentials without frying them. As avid travelers, we tested an array of products on actual trips across the world and ranked them based on ease of use, effectiveness, and value to bring you the best picks for every scenario. Below, find our favorite easy-to-use adapters and converters for your next international journey.

Best Overall

Epicka universal travel adapter.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Effectiveness 4 /5

It’s able to charge six devices at once. 

This is not a converter, so you shouldn’t use it with high-power appliances like curling irons and hair dryers. 

Ready to use in more than 150 countries, this adapter from Epicka can charge six devices at the same time, as it comes with four USB-A ports, 1 USB-C port, and 1 AC socket. It works with all USB-enabled devices including iPhones and Androids, and can charge laptops, cameras, tablets, and power banks, too. It eliminates the need to purchase individual adapters for each trip, which makes it a great money-saving travel product . The adapter also has a built-in, double 8A fuse and safety shutters that keep children from trying to plug other items into the socket. The adapter comes in four different colors, and has a 1-year limited warranty. 

We love that it’s small and easy to pack, plus it’s simple to switch over to different prongs from country to country. The multiple USB ports are great for charging everything at once, and the adapter is super lightweight, so it isn’t adding much weight to your suitcase or carry-on either. We did find that the adapter was hard to fit in tight spots or use with older outlet styles in the UK and Hong Kong, but this didn’t happen often. 

The Details: 2.8 x 1.97 x 2.05 inches | 5.1 ounces | No converter | 6 ports | 1 AC, 4 USB-A, 1 USB-C | 240 volts

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best for Apple Users

Apple travel adapter kit.

• Effectiveness 5 /5

It’s exclusively for Apple products so you can trust it with those devices.

It only works with Apple's block-type power adapters.

This kit made by Apple, for Apple products, includes seven AC plugs that work for iPhones, iPods, iPads, and Mac laptops in North America, Japan, China, the UK, Europe, Korea, Australia, Hong Kong, and Brazil. Each one lists the regions the plug is compatible with, making it easy to grab what you need quickly. However, you will need Apple's power adapter brick to serve as a base; these tips work with Apple’s USB-C power adapters, MagSafe and MagSafe 2 power adapters, and 10-watt and 12-watt USB power adapters that come with devices (or can be purchased separately in a range of wattages including 12 watts , 35 watts, and 67 watts ).

We love this set because it’s an Apple-certified product, so we know our devices are safe. The adapters are also built to last, as one of our testers used the adapters for 10 years before having to replace some of them. The only thing we wish they added onto this set is a carrying case to hold all the pieces for traveling. 

The Details: 5.3 x 5.3 x 1.9 inches | 11.2 ounces | No converter | 1 port | 100-240 volts (10W, 12W, 30W, and 35W)

Most Compact

Ceptics travel adapter plug for south africa & botswana.

It comes with USB and AC outlet charging abilities in a compact plug. 

USB ports are on the bottom, instead of the top of the adapter. 

If you’re traveling through South Africa, Botswana, or Namibia, this compact adapter will allow you to charge up to three devices at once. The AC outlet allows you to plug your U.S. device into a Type M socket for South Africa, allowing you to charge up for safari adventures and more.  It works with cell phones, laptops, smart watches, tablets, and more, and we especially like that it has the ability for two- and three-prong AC input, as well as USB ports for added versatility. The style of adapter is a block shape, so you can tuck it into your backpack, purse, or carry-on without compromising on much space, and you can also buy similar adapters for Europe , India, Germany, Hong Kong, Switzerland, Brazil, and more. 

The Details: 1 x 1 x 1 inches | 2.5 ounces | No Converter | 3 ports | 2 USB-A , 1 AC | 250 volts

Best for Families

Bestek travel adapter and voltage converter.

• Value 4.5 /5

You can power seven devices at one time. 

It’s bulkier than a lot of other adapters. 

With three AC outlets and four USB ports, you can charge up to seven devices at once on this charger, making it easy for the whole family to charge their phones, laptops, tables, and camera batteries. Three plug adapters are also included and work in more than 150 countries, meaning you can travel far and wide and, most likely, have the right adapter for what you need. We also love that this one is a converter, too, converting 220 volts to 110 volts for U.S. electronics but it’s still not recommended to use this device to power your hair dryer, curling iron, or straightener.

The adapter comes with overcurrent, overload, overheat, and short-circuit protections. We tested the adapter by charging a phone, battery pack, Apple watch, and Kindle all at once and found that all devices were nicely charged overnight with no issues. 

The Details: 7.4 x 6.8 x 1.8 inches | 1.15 pounds | Converter | 3 AC, 4 USB-A | 110-220 volts

Best Multipack

Ceptics european travel plug adapter.

• Ease of Use 3 /5

It’s easy to use.

You'll need to use a separate plug for each item you're charging.

For a super affordable multipack for one destination, this one from Ceptics is a great choice, as it comes with three identical Type C adapters that will work across Europe, the Middle East, and South America. It accepts North American two- and three-prong plugs, and has a simple straightforward design. It’s worth noting though that this set won’t work in England, Ireland, or Scotland, but there are other three packs available that will work in those countries, plus India, China, Hong Kong, Australia, and more. 

The Details: 3 x 2 x 1 inches | 3.2 ounces | No Converter | 3 AC outlets | 100-240 volts

Best for Europe

Jarvania european travel plug adapter.

It works in both the EU and the UK. 

It’s a bit bulky as the UK adapter is separate. 

American travelers to Europe will most likely need an adapter that can handle numerous countries, and this one from Jarvania is great because it can be used with EU and UK outlets. It’s compatible with Type C (which also fits into Type E, F, H, J, K, L, and N outlets) to work in Italy, Denmark, Switzerland, Spain, and France and more. It also comes with a separate Type G plug adapter that will also work in the UK, so you’re getting an extra adapter, too. The main adapter has three ports (one AC, two USB), so you can charge up to three devices at once — a perk for the modern traveler carrying a phone, laptop, camera, and more. 

The Details: 2.7 x 2.1 x 2.2 inches | 3.8 ounces | No Converter | 3 ports | 1 AC, 2 USB-A | 110-250 volts

Other Travel Adapters We Liked

Two adapters we tested couldn’t quite earn a spot on our list but had standout features that may meet the needs of some travelers. 

Tessan Type G Adapter : This adapter with two AC outlets plus two USB ports works in countries such as Scotland, Ireland, the UK, Hong Kong, UAE, Singapore, and various African countries. However, we found the AC outlets are too close together on the adapter to always be useful. 

Tessan Type E F Adapter : With five total ports (USB and AC) that work in numerous countries, this is a great adapter, but we think the two pack is a bit much, as one adapter already has five ports, meaning lots of travelers wouldn’t need a second adapter. This adapter is also wider than other adapters so it can take up more unnecessary space. 

The T+L team tested 12 different adapters and converters in various countries across the world. We noted what countries we were in while using the adapters or converters, and how easy it was to use each one. We also ranked them based on effectiveness, meaning how well they charged our devices, and value in terms of price versus performance. 

Tips for Buying Adapters and Converters

Research your destination.

Before leaving on your trip, be sure to check out what types of outlets are used in the countries you’re visiting, and buy adapters and converters accordingly. The last thing you’ll want is to accidentally fry your device while abroad. Some hotels provide USB ports inside hotel rooms, but it’s best to make sure they’re available before arriving empty-handed.

Consider a kit

If you’re visiting numerous countries and are in a rush, it’s sometimes easier to simply buy a kit with several adapters for multiple different destinations, which can save you money instead of buying numerous adapters. Lots of kits are small enough to tuck away in your bag or carry-on, so just be sure that you take along the ones you need.

Read the fine print

Always be sure to read the instructions that come with your adapter or converter, and be sure to pay attention to the power details. You may think a converter is safe for your styling tools or appliances when it's actually not, and you could fry your device, or blow a fuse, if the adapter doesn’t convert voltage.

An adapter is used when you need to plug a specific type of prong into a different socket. It allows you to plug your U.S.-style prong into an outlet in another country that uses a different type of plug. A converter is different in that it changes the voltage of an outlet to match the voltage of the item being plugged in. Some countries use 110/120 volts, while others use 220/240 volts. If you don’t use a converter, you could ruin your device, or even risk a fire.

If your destination has a different prong type than your outlets at home, then you’ll need an adapter. But if the voltage is different in the place you’re traveling than it is at home, you’ll need a converter to convert that voltage. Some products have dual voltage, which means the device can handle voltages from all over the world.

Most of Europe uses Type C plugs, which also fit into Type E, F, H, J, K, L, and N sockets that may replace Type C in places such as Denmark, Switzerland, and Italy. (England and the rest of the U.K. uses Type G.) Always double check exactly which one you’ll need before your departure.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, the T+L team tested and reviewed numerous adapters and converters to find the best of the best for countries across the world. Freelance writer and world traveler Amanda Ogle further researched travel adapters to add additional insights to this list. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

The 11 Best Travel Adapters, According to Frequent International Travelers

Let’s face it: Though you may dream of going off the grid for your next international trip, traveling without your phone , camera , or tablet isn’t particularly practical. And if you bring them, it’s inevitable that you’ll need to plug in and charge them at some point.

That’s why a trusty travel adapter is such an essential part of your packing list. While there are many options that can fit American plugs into international outlets, the right adapter should also fit your itinerary and the tech you’re bringing along. In addition to my own testing, I’ve tapped the expertise of world-touring travelers, creators, and influencers for whom staying powered up is as essential to their journeys as a passport. Whether you want to top up your phone battery in a Parisian café or need to charge seven devices from a single outlet, let their wisdom guide you to the adapter that most adeptly satisfies your travel needs.

A note: Unless explicitly mentioned here, it’s worth observing that typical travel adapters don’t convert power voltage, which can vary between countries. Though most smartphones and tablets are dual-voltage these days, you’ll want to double-check the specifications of your devices before leaving on your trip — especially if you’re bringing something like an electric shaver or a hair dryer.

Best “just the plug” travel adapters

“These are dirt cheap and fit in the palm of your hand,” says Going.com founder Scott Keyes of this low-cost, no-frills option fit for European (but not U.K.) travel. Small enough for even the tiniest, trickiest outlets, Keyes also lauds the flexibility that comes with this four-pack of adapters.

You both “don’t have to take turns charging your electronics” and don’t have to charge all of them in the same outlet, as you would with a bulkier (and pricier) all-in-one alternative. Plus, there’s something to be said for not letting a single missing adapter ruin your trip: “If I lose one, which, let’s be honest, happens not infrequently on the road, they’re cheap and easy to replace,” Keyes says.

For short trips that only involve a laptop and a phone, Arthur Wei, the well-traveled co-founder of Brooklyn Camper Vans , turns to this clever adapter. Truly living up to its “universal” billing, its ingenious design consists of interlocking pieces which snap into place to fit into European, British, Indian, Brazilian, and American outlets. Wei loves that Road Warrior’s adapter “packs light” and notes that its $12 price point means that your trip isn’t ruined if it goes missing.

Best travel adapters with built-in USB ports

I recently tested Epicka’s travel adapter on a two-week excursion around Portugal, and loved its ability to connect as many as six devices to power from a single outlet. It boasts three USB-C ports (plus two USB-A ports), all of which make it easy to charge smartphones, tablets, and other tech without even plugging a power block into the adapter itself.

If I have one complaint, it’s that it took a little extra finesse to fit it into the occasional oddly-angled European outlet. But double-checking that it’s plugged in properly is a small price to pay for this adapter’s charging capabilities. Overall, Epicka’s carry-on-friendly adapter offered solid value and performance, whether I needed to top up my camera battery or quickly charge my iPhone, iPad, and Nintendo Switch Lite while waiting for a transatlantic flight home.

When it comes to charging everything from her AirPods to her drone, Wendy Hu , photographer, creative director, and video host for Travel+Leisure, relies on this versatile option from Ceptics. Featuring two U.S. outlets, 2 USB-A slots ( another version features an additional two USB-C slots), and six interchangeable international adapters, Hu describes it as “sturdy and well-made” despite weighing in at just five ounces.

In addition to built-in surge protection to guard against voltage spikes and an attached micro USB cable (handy for charging smaller devices like Bluetooth headphones), it also offers quick-charging support for compatible devices — making it ideal for use in that brief window between daytime excursions and dinner plans, or during a brief pit stop in a café.

“For an adapter to work for me, it needs to be an all-in-one universal adapter with an AC outlet, USB-C, and USB-A outlets” says former Googler and current travel-content creator Catarina Mello , who recommends this one by Momax. “It also needs to have an overload dual fuse for safety and support for up to 2500 watts,” She says that’s a must in order to use devices like hair dryers, curlers, and steamers. “If your adapter can’t handle a larger surge current, it’ll get damaged or burn out.”

In addition to handling high-powered items, this universal adapter has space to power up to six devices from a single outlet across more than 150 countries. Three of those slots are quick charging USB-C ports, one of which pumps out 65 watts, delivering enough power to charge a laptop without bringing a separate adapter.

Matthew Kepnes, founder of Nomadic Matt and author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day , is loyal to Joomfeen’s efficient universal adapter, which nestles input plugs for European, U.K., U.S., and Australian outlets into a single, streamlined adapter weighing just over three ounces. With two USB-A ports, it maxes out on charging three devices at a time, making it a little less versatile than other, more powerful options. But if you’re looking for an adapter that can get the job done without eating into your travel fund, this option is hard to beat.

Best travel adapters with multiple AC outlets

For travelers who prioritize power over portability (or those who need an adapter that can safely convert voltage), multiple experts recommend Bestek’s Universal Travel Adapter, including former NFL player and current travel creator Jeremy Cash , who loves its “all-in-one design.” With a three-AC-outlet power strip and four USB-A ports, it includes support for charging up to seven devices at once “no matter what country I’m in,” he says.

In addition to that plethora of charging ports, travel blogger and mom Kiersten Rich lauds its ability to convert voltage, which she says is “better for protecting expensive electronics” and “critical” for any hair tools you’re bringing along for the trip.

With a profile of 7.8-by-6.5 inches and a weight of one pound, it’s far from the most minimalist option, but the inclusion of a five-foot detachable power cable means that this adapter can transform a single hard-to-reach outlet into a convenient charging station. That’s why director, producer, and photographer Kathryn Sheldon has relied on it through years of overseas trips with cameras in tow. She says, “I don’t bring it if I’m trying to be super lightweight and carry-on only, but otherwise it’s an amazing tool.”

On a recent trip to Thailand, Pack Hacker editor Lauren Maternowski says her team loved the utility of this mighty adapter from Mogics, which can charge seven devices simultaneously thanks to a unique circular power strip ringing the outlet adapter. It also makes use of a retractable extension cable that she says makes it “handy if your accommodations are short on accessible plugs.”

Maternowski says that you can also remove the titular bagel and leave it behind if packing space is at a premium: “The adapter itself is one of the smallest we’ve seen, so it won’t take up much room in your bag.”

If you aren’t worried about converting voltage but still find that you’re “always charging a million things,” travel blogger Rich recommends this 110-volt option from Foval for use with European outlets. Similar to Bestek’s adapter, it offers three AC outlets, four USB-A ports, and an extension cord. But it has the added advantage of a USB-C port — not to mention a slimmer, lighter design that can plug directly into a wall socket while taking up about half as much space in your luggage.

Best travel adapter accessories

Boasting a full complement of mesh and zippered pockets plus velcro cord holders, former NFL player Cash argues that this ProCase product “is essential for anyone who carries a ton of cords when they travel.” But it’s not just about cables: With a padded bottom compartment featuring removable dividers, its water-resistant design can safely store everything from external hard drives and MacBook chargers to AirPods and SD cards. As the pro athlete turned seasoned traveler puts it: “Trust me when I say you need this case.”

Former Googler Mello doesn’t travel without this five-foot, triple-pronged braid that functions as a USB-A to USB-C, lightning, and micro-USB cable. Though she usually treats these cables as her backup option, they’re viable as a primary cable if you’re looking to minimize clutter, and Mello admits they’ve “come in handy more times than I can count.” In welcome news for those who regularly misplace cables, these are sold in packs of three.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best women’s jeans , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , ultra-flattering pants , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

Every editorial product is independently selected. If you buy something through our links, New York may earn an affiliate commission.

• the strategist
• recommended by experts
• travel accessories
• packing and gear

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Deal of the Day

Micro sales, greatest hits, most viewed stories.

• Somehow, Everyone in My Neighborhood Has This Strange (But Wonderful) Clock
• The 11 Very Best Shampoos
• What Nikki Glaser Can’t Live Without
• What Ben Van Leeuwen Can’t Live Without
• The Best Memorial Day Sales You Can Still Shop

Today’s Top Clicked

• Verge Favorites

The Verge’s favorite travel gear

It’s summertime, and the traveling is easier when you have the right tech..

By Verge Staff

Share this story

If you buy something from a Verge link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics statement.

It’s travel season, which means it’s time to pack your bathing suit, your hiking boots — and your tech. We asked the staff of The Verge what their favorite travel gear was, and as you can imagine, we got a wide range of answers — from backpacks and travel apps to power strips and selfie sticks.

So sit back, think about vacation, and take a look at some of the stuff that our editors and writers find most useful when it’s time to get out of the house and on their way to relaxation or adventure.

Getting there

The best app for tracking your flights.

Alex Heath, deputy editor

Let’s be honest: most airline apps suck. And if you’re like me and not loyal to any particular airline, it’s annoying to bounce between a half-dozen apps of varying quality to check a flight’s status.

Friends, there is a better way. A couple of years ago, I discovered Flighty , an iOS app made by aviation nerds for aviation nerds. It uses real-time flight data to let you track just about any route in the world. I regularly get notifications for delays or gate changes before they are pushed to the airline’s app or announced in the terminal. It’s dark magic that has saved me from serious trip delays and headaches.

The real-time flight tracking is really just one piece of the puzzle; upgrading to the app’s Pro subscription gets you a bunch of helpful features like calendar sync, email import, TripIt sync, delay forecast, and more. I’m also a fan of the flight archive that shows you fun stats like the number of airports, countries, and trips around the Earth you’ve taken in a calendar year. The lock screen widget is helpful for putting all the most important info about your flight, such as the remaining duration, front and center as it’s happening. I’m not surprised Flighty was nominated for an Apple Design Award this year. It’s one of the best examples of indie software for power users that just works and fills a need. I’ll never fly without it.

A well-designed and elegant flight tracker with lots of interesting extras. It’s free, but the Pro version costs $49 annually.

Carry-on backpack

Kaitlin Hatton, audience manager

Earlier this year, I committed to traveling more, and so I took a look at the gear I had that could be replaced after years of trekking the globe. My ratty old secondhand carry-on bag was the first thing to be replaced. After several days of weighing the pros and cons of various travel bags, I stumbled upon this Lumesner carry-on backpack on Amazon, and it fit all of my needs. It can carry a laptop, several days’ worth of clothes, my 40oz Hydro Flask bottle , and more. The bag even includes some packing cubes. It’s very comfortable, and the weight is well distributed when it’s completely full. It’s an inexpensive alternative to many name-brand carry-on bags, too. So far, I’ve used it on a handful of trips, and the quality has held up. It also holds onto pet fur, though, so I had to add a small lint roller to my travel necessities. But that’s just life while traveling with a dog anyway.

Lumesner carry-on backpack

Expandable backpack that comes with a lot of storage space and packing cubes.

Versatile duffle bag

Victoria Song, reviewer

One thing I learned while living abroad is that traveling light will make your life a thousand times easier. If the trip is a week or less, you’ll almost never find me with more than a single carry-on and maybe a light personal item. That means my luggage has to be versatile, multipurpose, durable, and spacious enough for several kinds of trips. I’ve gone through many duffle bags and rollaboard suitcases in search of the perfect bag, and I love my Baboon to the Moon Go-Bag Small .

First off, it comes in bright, distinctive colors. If you need to check a bag, this is the easiest and fastest way to differentiate your luggage from everyone else’s in the carousel. It’s also super easy to spot. Call me paranoid, but I’m pretty sure any thieves are going to have a tough time making off with my incredibly vibrant purple duffle. (It also makes it a lot easier for my travelmates to find me in a crowd.) 

The other thing I really dig is that you can wear it in multiple ways. It comes with two straps that can be configured into a backpack or a crossbody bag, depending on what other luggage you have. There are also suitcase handles to make it easier to lift and stuff into an overhead bin. Inside, it has one big mesh pocket that you can stuff your laptop in, and built-in side compartments for stuffing in underwear, socks, and other smaller items. I’m also a big fan of the outside passport compartment. It’s so much easier to access your wallet / passport during security as well as stash items like watches, belts, and easy-to-lose items that the TSA makes you take off. Lastly, the outer shell is waterproof and super easy to clean, which came in handy when a kid spilled soda on it at the airport. 

The main compartment is also a good size. On my last trip to Google I/O, I managed three sets of clothes, three sets of workout clothes (wishful thinking), two extra pairs of socks and underwear, a jacket and sweater, a giant toiletry bag, a hair dryer brush, a bag containing several chargers, and an extra pair of shoes. And I still had extra room in case I picked up anything during my trip. 

Why a duffle? If you’re in the last group to board a crowded plane, it’s much less likely staff will ask you to check your bag compared to the smallest rollaboard.

Baboon To The Moon Go-Bag Small

Versatile duffle bag that comes in multiple colors and can be transformed into a backpack.

Dan Seifert, deputy editor, reviews

My favorite bag for toting along all of the chargers and cables my many electronic devices require is the Side by Side . It may not look like it can hold very much because, when it’s empty, it’s deceptively slim. But reader, it’s astonishing how much I can cram into this thing.

For a typical work trip where I might need to charge a laptop, phone, watch, tablet, headphones, and camera batteries, I will load this up with two high-powered multiport USB bricks; a smaller USB brick for backup; a dual camera battery charger; a folding triple charger for my iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods; six USB-C cables of varying lengths; and a Lightning cable. The Side by Side’s stretchy side panels will just expand and swallow it all.

And unlike other gadget organizer bags, the Side by Side can be put into my backpack vertically, which takes up less space overall. It’s a winner all around.

Side By Side

Premium organizer for cords, chargers, and all the other gadgets you may need to keep your tech going while traveling.

Comfortable neck pillow

Monica Chin, senior reviewer

Neck pillows seem like a great idea in theory, but I’ve never been able to figure out how to successfully use them to sleep on planes. I’d get cramps in my neck from bending my head that far over, and I hated that they seemed to shift around every time the plane wobbled. 

If you’ve ever had these frustrations with neck pillows, what you need to buy instead is this product called the Cabeau Evolution S3 . It’s a neck pillow that attaches to the back of your plane seat (or train, or bus, or whatever) with a clasp in the front that holds the two sides together. The angle is much more comfortable than that of a traditional neck pillow, it won’t shift around during the flight (seriously — it does not move), and it’ll prevent you from accidentally knocking into the people next to you as you sleep. As a bonus, it has pockets on the sides for storing small items. It also comes with a travel bag that clips onto the back, which I use to store essential items that I might need during the flight (chargers, passport, extra headphones, meds) so that I don’t have to go digging for them in my carry-on. 

My only warning is that I’m five feet, five inches tall, and I’m probably close to as short as you’d want to be to use this. The pillow already rides up onto my cheeks a bit, and I imagine that someone who’s a bit shorter than me might just have it straddling the middle of their head. 

Cabeau Evolution S3 neck pillow

Well-designed neck pillow that makes sure you can sleep comfortably when you travel.

Make mine Maps

You know what absolutely stinks when you’re on vacation? Figuring out where to eat on the fly, how to get from point A to point B, and visualizing where all the things you want to do are. Sure, it’s not so bad when you’re traveling domestically, but international trips can be a doozy if you’ve never been there before, don’t speak the language, and don’t know any locals. Which is why I love Google’s My Maps feature .

Basically, you can do all your research ahead of time and plot out points on a custom map. Want to group all the restaurants separately from all the attractions you want to visit? Cool, you can do that by grouping them in two separate layers that you can toggle on or off. That way, you can see where the restaurants you saved are in relation to your current location or your next sightseeing destination. You can also assign different icons to different groups to make them more distinguishable at a glance. And everything is viewable from your phone in the Google Maps app, though you’ll need to make sure you’ve got internet access. 

This is awesome if a tripmate is vegan, halal, kosher, or has any other dietary restrictions. (It’s also great if you need to map out accessible locations for tripmates who may need special accommodations.) Have multiple hotels you’re staying at on a cross-country road trip? No problem. Just group the hotels together and plot out driving directions / routes ahead of time. If you’re a visual person, this can be so helpful in figuring out the most time-efficient itineraries.  

The best part is you can collaborate on an itinerary with your travel buddies. You can also send a link to any friends or family if they want to visit the same place at a later date and time. Your custom My Maps entries are also viewable from the Google Maps app so you can take them with you on the go, though keep in mind there’s no way to use them offline yet. (C’mon, Google — what gives?) You can also directly import locations from a spreadsheet in case that’s your preferred method of listing out spots during the research phase.

I used Google Maps to plan out my honeymoon to Iceland last year. While we didn’t go to every location plotted out, it was really helpful visualizing where things were in Reykjavik in relation to our hotel and popular sightseeing locations. It took a huge load off our minds knowing that we had the flexibility to explore and be spontaneous, while having fallbacks in case we were tired and didn’t want to think. 

Google Maps

The ideal way to plan out your vacation or lay out a route for a business trip.

A portable speaker for an aging car

Barbara Krasnoff, reviews editor

Okay, it’s time to admit it — I have a well-used, not-at-all-new, not-at-all-smart car. It’s a 2007 Honda Civic, and the most technologically advanced thing it does is allow me to roll down the windows by pressing a button. No Bluetooth, no screens — nothing like that. It’s not that I don’t like having tech in my car, but I’m the sort of car owner who holds onto their auto as long as possible until it starts to become more expensive to fix it than to buy a new one. And so far, I haven’t hit that milestone.

Not that there aren’t issues, the most serious of which lately is that the port that I used to plug into in order to listen to my music on the car’s stereo system no longer works. (Not to mention the fact that my Pixel 6 doesn’t have an audio port anyway.) So I’ve compromised by using a small portable speaker (a several-years-old Ultimate Ears Roll ), paired via Bluetooth to my phone, to act as the speaker for my mapping directions, music, and audiobooks. At least this way, while I’m visiting friends and relatives over the summer months, I won’t have to depend on the very old-fashioned method of listening to whatever happens to be on the radio. 

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3

The rugged Wonderboom 3 packs plenty of punch for its size, allowing you to dish out 360-degree sound for up to 14 hours with or without stereo pairing. It also floats, rendering it a potential pool party mainstay.

Enjoying your wanderings

A mobile tripod for holiday snaps.

Jess Weatherbed, news writer

When you go on holiday with your partner or family, you generally get stuck with three options when it comes to taking group photographs: a cramped selfie, leaving someone out to take the picture, or asking a total stranger to take it for you. Not to be dramatic or anything, but I’d rather not ruin my vacation by trying to figure out which individuals nearby are the least likely to dip the minute I hand over my phone. And it’s depressing to think that my mum is in so few of our family photos because she was always the person on the other side of the camera.

A decent Bluetooth-enabled tripod can resolve these issues. I’ve had good experiences using Atumtek’s Premium Plus Phone Tripod Selfie Stick — it features a discrete, detachable Bluetooth shutter remote that you can pair with your smartphone, sparing you from having to set a timer and run like hell. Simply get into position and use the remote to snap as many shots as you need to ensure it’s caught you at a flattering angle. It also extends up to 60 inches to squeeze everyone into a group selfie if you’re using it as a selfie stick. This could be a brilliant gift for any “Instagram boyfriends” who spend hours of their vacations as their partner’s dedicated paparazzi.

Premium Plus Phone Tripod Selfie Stick

Expanding up to 60 inches, workable as a tripod, and with a Bluetooth-enabled remote, this selfie stick makes photo taking much, much easier.

An extension cord for awkward situations

Sarah Jeong, deputy features editor

Nobody wants to carry a power strip or an extension cord with them on their vacation. It’s probably unnecessary if you’re staying in relatively modern buildings and definitely unnecessary if you’re camping. But sometimes you want to stay in a charming historical hotel or a lovely cabin in the woods, and it’s only when you go to charge your devices at night that you realize that the only electrical socket in the bedroom is in the corner farthest away from the bed and there’s already two lamps plugged into it. 

Older buildings especially suffer from what I can only describe as loose socket syndrome, where those very convenient modern boxy socket extenders with five different USB and USB-C charging ports simply cannot stay in place and fall right out of the wall because they’re too heavy. After one (totally pleasant) vacation where I had to charge my phone, watch, AirPods, and laptop in a weird corner of my room with the plug-in charging hub propped up on a strategically balanced mountain of books and sham pillows, I bought this Anker combination extension cord / power strip . It’s not a full power strip — just a cube with a few sockets along with USB and USB-C charging ports at the end of a five-foot cable. I’ve brought it on a few trips since then. It takes up extra space in my suitcase but each time has left me feeling vindicated about the purchase. 

The three prongs at the end of the cable are static, rather than folding flat for easy packing. This is key because the loose sockets of older buildings reject the beautiful convenience of folding prongs. There are more than enough sockets for one person, and with some finagling (and maybe an extra charging brick), it can accommodate two people’s devices.

If you’re traveling overseas, don’t forget to purchase a different plug type for the region you’re going to or pack an adapter. 

Anker 321 Power Strip

This all-in-one 20W USB-C power cube boasts three AC outlets, two USB-A ports, and one USB-C port.

Wraparound power

Sean Hollister, senior editor

It doesn’t have the USB-C ports of Sarah’s solution, but an utterly charmingly low-tech solution that never leaves my suitcase is this compact three-port power strip with a cable that folds around itself. The folding feature isn’t just to store the cable and prongs, either — if you wrap it around the brick backward , the plug can snap into place (see those metal clips?) to create a rigid three-port power brick that can hang right off a wall outlet. That’s useful when you’re not sure your outlets will be close enough to the floor. 

I’m linking to one sold by Element-Hz , but it’s a generic white-labeled product. I picked up mine at a garage sale years ago, and it has no branding at all. I’d pay two to three times as much for a modern one that adds a 65W or better USB-C PD port.

Element-Hz Power Series 2-in-1 Compact Power Strip

Power strip with a wraparound power cord that locks into place for convenience.

Universal Travel Adaptor 

In my youth, I forgot to pack plug adaptors for international trips one too many times. Buying them once you’ve landed in another country isn’t always easy, either. And if you’re like me, your relatives in rural Korea don’t always have more than one plug for your American devices — in which case, you’ll have to share with your six other cousins. Nope. Absolutely not. Which is why I never leave this country without a universal travel adaptor.

Basically, it’s six plug adaptors in one. Depending on which one you get, it might come with USB ports so you can charge multiple devices in one outlet. Granted, it’s bulkier than buying one or two specialized adaptor plugs, but if you’ve got a multi-continent itinerary, it’s a game-changer. What I like about this one from Epicka is that it comes with a spare fuse in case things go sideways with voltage.

The only caveat is that, although it says “universal,” it’s technically only the four most common types of plugs. That’ll get you by in most countries, but it’s not a guarantee in places like Brazil, South Africa, or India. Even so, I’ll take this over price gouging at airport electronics shops or having to take time out of my schedule to visit a local hardware store.

Epicka universal travel adapter

Epicka’s universal travel adapter is an all-in-one adapter that includes four different plugs that cover over 150 countries.

More time, more power, more flexibility

Nathan Edwards, senior reviews editor

I just got back from a weeklong trip with three small children, and my No. 1 tip is as old as the hills: give yourself plenty of buffer time . Sprinting through the airport isn’t ideal, but sprinting through the airport while carrying or herding several kids and their luggage is worse. 

Speaking of luggage: pop an AirTag (or Tile tracker) in each checked bag . We haven’t actually had to use them to locate our luggage, but I figure it’s like carrying an umbrella to ensure it doesn’t rain. 

I cosign Victoria’s multi-port travel charger rec above — we always bring a couple when we visit family overseas — but my new favorite charger for domestic travel is this Anker GaN charger . Its top USB-C port can charge a laptop, and it has another USB-C and a USB-A port, too. We travel with an absurd number of devices — we’re talking two or three phones, three iPads, two laptops, a variety of smartwatches, several sets of Bluetooth headphones and earbuds, and often a Nintendo Switch — and while it can’t charge all of them at once, it can charge three of them pretty fast and then move on to the next one. It replaced two laptop power bricks and a bunch of other single-port wall warts in our luggage, and it worked like a charm. I might get another one.

The last thing I want to shout out are the Puro BT2200s kids headphones, which are about as versatile as they come. They have Bluetooth and wired functionality, you can daisy-chain them so two kids can listen to the same input, and they automatically limit the volume to under 85dBA to protect kids’ ears. (My old colleagues at Wirecutter tested them and verified that they work.) On our last plane ride, my older kids used them to watch movies on the seatback screen and wirelessly to play games on their iPads. (Screen time rules go out the window when we’re traveling.) We were using cheap wired headphones for the kids until the 3.5mm plug broke off in the headphone jack of my daughter’s iPad. We can’t get it out, so we can’t use wired headphones, and the iPad won’t play out of its speakers because it thinks headphones are plugged in. Bluetooth it is.

Puro Sound Labs BT2200s

Bluetooth headphones for kids which limits the volume range to protect their hearing.

Google won’t comment on a potentially massive leak of its search algorithm documentation

Google scrambles to manually remove weird ai answers in search, apple’s wwdc may include ai-generated emoji and an openai partnership, lego’s first legend of zelda set is a 2,500-piece great deku tree, microsoft confirms call of duty: black ops 6 is coming to xbox game pass.

More from this stream Our favorite things: gear, gadgets, and other stuff

The verge’s favorite mobile phone gadgets, the verge’s favorite tools to stay organized, cheap stuff that doesn’t suck, the verge staff chats about our favorite backpacks, slings, and bags.

Wirecutter Travel Adapter: Hassle-free Charging for Globetrotters

Introducing the Wirecutter Travel Adapter: Hassle-free Charging for Globetrotters. As seasoned travelers, we understand the frustrations of navigating foreign power outlets and finding the right adapter to keep our devices charged. That’s why we’ve turned to Wirecutter, the trusted authority in tech gadgets and accessories, to bring you the ultimate solution for efficient and worry-free charging while jet-setting around the world. With their expert recommendations and in-depth reviews, the Wirecutter Travel Adapter is designed to meet the needs of even the most tech-savvy globetrotters, ensuring that your devices stay powered up no matter where your wanderlust takes you.

Key Takeaways:

The Wirecutter travel adapter article recommends the best travel plug adapters for overseas trips after testing over a dozen options.

It emphasizes the importance of having the right cables and adapters for charging devices while traveling.

The article recommends the Allpa 35L backpack and the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L as top choices for carry-on luggage, along with the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Duffel as a convenient duffel bag for packing in a suitcase.

For reliable and durable spinner carry-on luggage, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Expandable Spinner is recommended.

The article suggests both universal travel adapters and individual plug adapters, depending on personal preference.

It mentions the Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set and the Ceptics Adapter Plug Set for Worldwide International Travel Use as two different designs from the same company.

The article also recommends the Accell Home or Away Surge Protector and the Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector as the best travel power strips and surge protectors.

The importance of packing the right cables and adapters for charging devices is highlighted in the Gadgets We Bring on Every Trip article.

The 11 Best Travel Adapters article provides recommendations from frequent travelers and emphasizes the need for international adapters for charging devices.

CNN’s list of the 13 best travel adapters of 2023 offers options for reliable charging on the go.

Table of Contents

Traveling the world is an exhilarating experience. From exploring vibrant cities to discovering breathtaking landscapes, there is so much to see and do. As a seasoned traveler myself, I understand that staying connected and keeping your devices charged is of utmost importance. That’s where the Wirecutter travel adapter comes in.

The Importance of a Reliable Travel Adapter

When traveling overseas, it’s essential to have a travel adapter that is not only compatible with the country’s power outlets but also reliable and efficient. The last thing you want is to be stuck with a dead battery when you’re trying to capture a beautiful sunset or navigate unfamiliar streets.

Finding the Perfect Travel Adapter

After testing various travel adapters, I’ve narrowed down the options to four excellent choices. The top contenders include the Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set, the Ceptics Adapter Plug Set for Worldwide International Travel Use, and the universal travel adapters. Whether you prefer a set with various plug types or a single adapter that covers multiple countries, these options have got you covered.

Choosing the Right Cable and Adapter

In addition to the travel adapter, don’t forget to pack the right cables for your devices. Different countries may have different charging port standards, so it’s crucial to have the appropriate cables and adapters. With the Wirecutter travel adapter, you can confidently charge your devices without worrying about compatibility issues.

Selecting the Ideal Carry-On Luggage

When it comes to carry-on luggage, the Allpa 35L backpack and the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L are top choices. These bags are not only spacious and durable but also designed with the modern traveler in mind. With compartments for your gadgets and easy access pockets, they make organizing your essentials a breeze.

Packing a Convenient Duffel Bag

For those moments when you need an extra bag while traveling, the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Duffel is a perfect companion. This lightweight and compact duffel bag can be easily packed in your suitcase and pulled out whenever you need extra storage. Its versatility and durability make it an excellent addition to your travel gear.

Opting for a Reliable Spinner Carry-On

If you prefer the convenience of a spinner carry-on, look no further than the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Expandable Spinner. This travel companion offers smooth maneuverability and ample space to pack your essentials. With its strong construction and premium features, you can trust this carry-on to withstand the rigors of travel.

Ensuring Safety with Travel Power Strips and Surge Protectors

To protect your devices from power surges and ensure their safety, investing in a travel power strip or surge protector is a wise choice. The Accell Home or Away Surge Protector and the Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector are two top recommendations. These compact and reliable options provide peace of mind, allowing you to charge multiple devices simultaneously without any worries.

The Ultimate Charging Solution for Travelers

As I mentioned earlier, the Wirecutter travel adapter has been tested and recommended by countless travel enthusiasts, including frequent globetrotters and reputable sources like CNN. With its wide range of compatibility, reliability, and ease of use, it is undoubtedly the ultimate charging solution for travelers.

In Conclusion

When it comes to charging your devices while traveling, having the right travel adapter is essential. With the Wirecutter travel adapter, you can say goodbye to the frustration of incompatible outlets and hello to hassle-free charging wherever your adventures take you. So, pack your bags, bring your gadgets, and let the Wirecutter travel adapter be your reliable companion on your globetrotting journeys.

To apply for US travel documents, click here and begin your journey to explore the beautiful destinations across the United States.

Embark on an exhilarating adventure with Alpiones in the next chapter of Octopath Traveler 2 by clicking here . Prepare to be captivated by their enthralling storyline.

Navigate the treacherous Cavern of Waves in Octopath Traveler 2 by clicking here . Uncover hidden secrets and overcome challenging obstacles in this thrilling underground quest.

Discover a mysteriously disquieting shop in Octopath Traveler 2 by clicking here . Explore its eerie ambiance and find rare items that will aid you on your heroic journey.

Check the status of your travel case on the official Travel State Gov website by clicking here . Stay informed and updated about your travel arrangements with ease.

Pros and Cons of Using the Wirecutter Travel Adapter

Imagine this: You’re in a bustling airport, ready to embark on your latest globetrotting adventure. You have all your gadgets neatly packed, eager to capture breathtaking moments and keep you connected to the world. But there’s one problem – you need a reliable travel adapter to keep your devices charged. That’s where the Wirecutter travel adapter comes in.

The Pros of Using the Wirecutter Travel Adapter

Ultimate Convenience : The Wirecutter travel adapter is designed to make your life easier. With its compact size and versatile compatibility, it easily fits into your carry-on luggage or backpack. No more fumbling through messy cable bags or hunting for the right adapter in a foreign land.

Global Compatibility : One of the greatest advantages of the Wirecutter travel adapter is its ability to work in most countries around the world. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Europe or embarking on an exotic journey in Asia, this adapter has got you covered. Say goodbye to the hassle of purchasing multiple adapters for different destinations.

Efficient Charging : When you’re on the move, time is of the essence. The Wirecutter travel adapter excels in this aspect. Equipped with faster-charging USB ports, it ensures that your devices are juiced up quickly and efficiently. No more waiting around for hours for your gadgets to charge.

Reliability and Durability : The Wirecutter travel adapter is built to withstand the rigors of travel. It is crafted from high-quality materials, ensuring that it can endure the bumps and jostles of your journey. You can trust this adapter to keep your devices charged, trip after trip.

Trusted Recommendation : The Wirecutter travel adapter has been thoroughly researched and tested by travel enthusiasts and reputable sources. Its positive reviews and recommendations add to its credibility and reassurance that you’re making a wise investment.

The Cons of Using the Wirecutter Travel Adapter

Limited Prong Compatibility : While the Wirecutter travel adapter covers a wide range of countries, it may not be compatible with every unique prong configuration. It’s always a good idea to check the specific requirements of your destination before relying solely on this adapter.

No Built-in Surge Protection : Although the Wirecutter travel adapter is reliable in terms of charging devices, it does not provide built-in surge protection. If you’re traveling to an area with unstable electrical conditions, it may be worth considering an additional surge protector to safeguard your valuable electronics.

• The Wirecutter travel adapter offers ultimate convenience and global compatibility for frequent travelers.
• Its faster-charging USB ports ensure efficient charging on the go.
• This adapter is reliable and built to withstand the demands of travel.
• However, it may not be compatible with every prong configuration, so it’s important to do your research beforehand.
• It does not offer built-in surge protection, so consider additional measures if you’re traveling to areas with unstable electricity.

Citation: The New York Times , Wirecutter

Tips and Recommendations for Using the Wirecutter Travel Adapter Effectively

As a seasoned travel enthusiast and tech-savvy professional, I understand the importance of staying connected and keeping devices charged while traveling. That’s why I want to share some valuable tips and recommendations for effectively using the Wirecutter travel adapter. With its ultimate convenience, global compatibility, efficient charging capabilities, reliability, and trusted recommendation, this travel adapter is a top choice for frequent travelers.

Before diving into the tips, let me quickly highlight the pros and cons of using the Wirecutter travel adapter, so you know what to expect.

Pros of Using the Wirecutter Travel Adapter: 1. Ultimate Convenience: The Wirecutter travel adapter offers a hassle-free charging experience, allowing you to effortlessly connect and power your devices. 2. Global Compatibility: With its versatile design, the Wirecutter travel adapter is compatible with various power outlets found in different countries, ensuring you can stay charged wherever you go. 3. Efficient Charging: Equipped with faster-charging USB ports, this travel adapter allows you to juice up your devices quickly and efficiently. 4. Reliability and Durability: The Wirecutter travel adapter has been tested and recommended by travel enthusiasts and reputable sources, assuring you of its reliability and durability. 5. Trusted Recommendation: Wirecutter, a trusted name in product reviews, has thoroughly tested and recommended the Wirecutter travel adapter, giving you peace of mind in your purchase.

Cons of Using the Wirecutter Travel Adapter: 1. Limited Prong Compatibility: While the Wirecutter travel adapter is compatible with most power outlets globally, some prong configurations may not be supported. It’s essential to check your destination’s electrical standards before relying solely on this adapter. 2. No Built-in Surge Protection: Unlike some other travel adapters on the market, the Wirecutter travel adapter does not have built-in surge protection. If you’re concerned about safeguarding your sensitive devices against power surges, consider investing in a travel power strip or surge protector.

Now that we have a clear understanding of the pros and cons, let’s delve into some useful tips and recommendations for effectively using the Wirecutter travel adapter.

Understanding Your Destination’s Power Outlets

It’s crucial to research and familiarize yourself with the electrical standards of your travel destination. Different countries have varying power outlet configurations, and the Wirecutter travel adapter offers multiple plug options to accommodate these variations. Make sure you know which plug type is prevalent in your destination, and select the appropriate adapter before departure.

Bringing the Right Cables and Adapters

Apart from the Wirecutter travel adapter itself, it’s essential to pack the right cables and adapters for your specific devices. Some devices have different charging port standards, such as USB-C or Micro-USB. Ensure you have the necessary cables and adapters to connect your devices to the Wirecutter adapter for optimal charging compatibility.

Making the Most of the Faster-Charging USB Ports

The Wirecutter travel adapter features faster-charging USB ports, allowing you to charge your devices efficiently. Take advantage of these USB ports by prioritizing your electronic devices that support fast charging. By doing so, you can ensure all your devices are juiced up quickly, even when you have limited charging time.

Considerations for Prong Compatibility

While the Wirecutter travel adapter covers most power outlet configurations, there may be some instances where it may not fit perfectly due to specific prong designs. In such cases, you can use a universal travel adapter alongside the Wirecutter adapter to ensure compatibility, providing a seamless charging experience regardless of the prong configuration.

Additional Protection for Your Devices

As mentioned earlier, the Wirecutter travel adapter does not have built-in surge protection. To provide an extra layer of protection for your devices against power surges, consider investing in a travel power strip or surge protector. These devices will help safeguard your valuable electronic gadgets while using the Wirecutter adapter in areas prone to electrical fluctuations.

Optimal Maintenance for Long-Term Use

To ensure the longevity of your Wirecutter travel adapter, it’s essential to handle it with care. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, water, or physical stress during your travels. Additionally, regularly inspect the adapter for any signs of wear and tear, and replace it if necessary to maintain optimal performance.

With these tips and recommendations, you can maximize the benefits of the Wirecutter travel adapter and enjoy hassle-free charging on your global adventures.

Key Takeaways: – Understand your destination’s power outlets and choose the appropriate Wirecutter travel adapter plug type. – Pack the right cables and adapters for your devices to ensure optimal charging compatibility. – Prioritize devices that support fast charging when utilizing the Wirecutter travel adapter’s faster-charging USB ports. – Consider a universal travel adapter for prong compatibility if needed. – Invest in a travel power strip or surge protector for additional device protection. – Handle the Wirecutter travel adapter with care and regularly inspect it for any signs of wear.

Citations: – Wirecutter: The Best Travel Plug Adapters – CNN Underscored: 13 Best Travel Adapters for Reliable Charging on the Go

Conclusion and Final Verdict on the Wirecutter Travel Adapter

As a seasoned traveler, I understand the importance of having a reliable travel adapter that can keep my devices charged while exploring the world. The Wirecutter travel adapter is a top recommendation for globetrotters like me who prioritize convenience and efficiency. After conducting extensive research and testing, the Wirecutter team has provided valuable insights into the best travel plug adapters, and their verdict on the Wirecutter travel adapter is worth considering.

The Wirecutter travel adapter offers several key advantages for frequent travelers. Firstly, it provides ultimate convenience by allowing you to seamlessly charge your devices in any country. With its global compatibility, you can be confident that your adapter will work in a variety of power outlets around the world. This eliminates the need to carry multiple adapters or worry about finding the right one for each destination.

Another significant advantage of the Wirecutter travel adapter is its efficient charging capabilities. The adapter features faster-charging USB ports, allowing you to power up your devices quickly while on the go. This is particularly beneficial for those who rely heavily on their smartphones, tablets, or laptops during their travels. With the Wirecutter travel adapter, you can ensure that your devices are always ready to capture memorable moments or stay connected with loved ones.

Moreover, the Wirecutter travel adapter is known for its reliability and durability. Tested and recommended by travel enthusiasts and reputable sources like CNN, this adapter has proven its ability to withstand the rigors of travel. Its sturdy construction ensures that it will endure the bumps, jostles, and occasional drops that often come with life on the road. With the Wirecutter travel adapter, you can have peace of mind, knowing that your charging solution is built to last.

However, it is important to consider the limited prong compatibility of the Wirecutter travel adapter. While it excels in many areas, some prong configurations may not be compatible with this particular adapter. Before embarking on your trip, it is crucial to understand the power outlet standards of your destination and ensure that you have the appropriate adapter plug type. Alternatively, if prong compatibility is a concern, you may consider investing in a universal travel adapter that can accommodate different prong configurations.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the Wirecutter travel adapter does not have built-in surge protection. While this may not be a deal-breaker for many travelers, it is advisable to invest in a travel power strip or surge protector to provide an extra layer of protection for your devices. Products like the Accell Home or Away Surge Protector or the Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector can offer peace of mind by safeguarding your valuable gadgets from power surges.

In conclusion, the Wirecutter travel adapter is a reliable and efficient choice for travelers seeking a hassle-free charging experience. Its ultimate convenience, global compatibility, efficient charging, reliability, and trusted recommendation make it a standout option. However, it is important to be aware of its limitations, such as limited prong compatibility and the absence of built-in surge protection.

To make the most of your Wirecutter travel adapter, remember to understand the power outlets of your destination, pack the appropriate cables and adapters for your devices, prioritize devices that support fast charging, and consider additional device protection measures. With the right knowledge and the Wirecutter travel adapter in your travel arsenal, you can ensure that your devices remain powered up wherever your adventures take you.

• The Wirecutter travel adapter provides ultimate convenience, global compatibility, efficient charging, reliability, and a trusted recommendation.
• It is designed for frequent travelers who value seamless charging solutions.
• Pros: ultimate convenience, global compatibility, efficient charging, reliability, trusted recommendation.
• Cons: limited prong compatibility, no built-in surge protection.
• Understand your destination’s power outlets and choose the appropriate adapter plug type.
• Pack the right cables and adapters for your devices to ensure optimal charging compatibility.
• Prioritize devices that support fast charging when using the Wirecutter adapter’s USB ports.
• Consider a universal travel adapter for prong compatibility, if needed.
• Invest in a travel power strip or surge protector for additional device protection.
• Handle the adapter with care and regularly inspect it for wear and tear.
• The New York Times – “The Best Travel Plug Adapter of 2023 | Reviews by Wirecutter”
• CNN Underscored – “13 best travel adapters for reliable charging on the go”

Q1: What is a travel adapter and why do I need one?

A1: A travel adapter, also known as a travel plug or power adapter, is a device that allows you to safely use your electronic devices in countries with different electrical outlets and voltages. It converts the shape and size of the prong socket to match the local outlet, ensuring compatibility for charging your devices while traveling.

Q2: How do I choose the right travel adapter for my trip?

A2: When choosing a travel adapter, consider the countries you will be visiting and their electrical outlet types. Look for an adapter that supports the specific plug styles of those countries. Additionally, check for features such as multiple USB ports, voltage conversion capabilities, and compact design for convenience. Reviews and recommendations from reputable sources like Wirecutter can also help guide your decision.

Q3: Can I use a universal travel adapter for all countries?

A3: Universal travel adapters are designed to work in multiple countries by offering interchangeable plug options. However, it is important to note that not all universal adapters are compatible with every country. Some countries have unique outlet shapes and sizes that may require specific adapters. It is recommended to research the outlets in the countries you plan to visit and ensure compatibility with the universal adapter you choose.

Q4: What are the top recommended travel adapters for 2023?

A4: Based on the Wirecutter’s research and testing, the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter and OneAdaptr OneWorld are highly recommended as top travel adapters for 2023. These adapters offer features like compatibility with multiple plug types, faster-charging USB ports, and options for voltage conversion. It is always a good idea to check for the latest recommendations from reputable sources before making a purchase.

Q5: Can I use a travel adapter with my electronic devices’ chargers and cables?

A5: Yes, a travel adapter is designed to be used with your electronic devices’ chargers and cables. The adapter allows you to plug your charger into foreign outlets, ensuring that you can charge your devices while traveling. However, it is important to check the voltage compatibility of your devices. Some countries use different voltage standards, and if your device does not support the local voltage, you may need a voltage converter in addition to the travel adapter.

Author description olor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed pulvinar ligula augue, quis bibendum tellus scelerisque venenatis. Pellentesque porta nisi mi. In hac habitasse platea dictumst. Etiam risus elit, molestie 

Insider’s Guide: US Travel Department of State

Exploring time travel in the grindelwald era: a harry potter fanfiction journey.

• Electronics
• Accessories & Supplies
• Power Strips & Surge Protectors
• Power Strips

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Accell Power Travel Surge Protector - 3 Outlets, 2 USB Charging Ports (2.1A Output), Folding Plug - Black, 612 Joules, ETL Listed

About this item.

• Plug into all 3 outlets, even with bulky adapters & Transformers
• Protect your devices with surge-protected USB charging ports (USB output: 2.1a)
• Designed for travel with folding Power Plug and rugged, impact-resistant ABS
• Product safety tested and Certified by ETL

Similar item to consider

Similar items that may ship from close to you

From the manufacturer

Since 2002, ACCELL believes the best technology requires the best design, ease of use and reliability. These are the guiding principles behind everything we manufacture.

ACCELL's mission is to provide the most reliable, easy to use products for you to connect your devices.

The Home or Away Power Station

The Home or Away Power Station is the ideal power solution for use at home or when traveling. It provides 612 Joules of surge protection to 3 grounded AC outlets and 2 USB charging ports. Featuring a folding power plug, the compact, portable design maximizes storage/travel convenience. The two USB ports (2.1A shared output) are perfect for charging mobile devices such as phones, tablets and MP3 players.

• 3 wide-spaced transformer outlets with 2 USB charging ports for easy access charging simultaneous
• Non-polarized plug allowing compatibility with more outlets than a polarized power plug
• Foldable plug design for easy portability and convenience storage
• 2 powered USB ports (2.1 AMP, 5V, 10W shared power) for charging your mobile phone and tables
• Rugged and impact resistant prevents from damage or scratches
• LED indicator reports that the connected equipment is protected

X3 MOV Technology for Highest Safety and Fire Protection

The Power Station features advanced X3 MOV (Metal Oxide Varistor) technology that provides surge protection by detecting surge conditions and reacts by directing excess energy away from equipment through the electrical grounding system.

From the brand

Accell Corporation

Specialized in Connectivity

Based in the heart of Silicon Valley, Accell offers a variety of interconnect products and solutions for desktops and laptops, including Docking Stations, DisplayPort, Adapters, Surge Protectors, EVSE and more. Our high-quality product portfolio and specialized experience in connectivity have earned us long-term partnerships with many industry leaders. Accell remains committed to devoting our expertise and innovation to you and your business.

Explore Accell Products

Visit the Store

Product information

Warranty & support, looking for specific info, product description.

The home or away power station is the ideal power solution for use at home or when traveling. It provides 612 joules of surge protection to all connected devices. The power station features 3 surge protected grounded AC outlets and a folding Power plug, providing a compact and portable design for maximum storage and travel convenience.

Customer reviews

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 performance, charging, versatility, and weight of the adapter. For example, they mention that it works great at home, has two USB charging ports, and is convenient for travel. They appreciate that it's light weight and compact. Customers are also impressed with the quality, saying that it is durable and the folding plug looks to be robust.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the charging adapter. They say the USB ports are great for charging all of their devices without having to tether them. They appreciate the outlet locations and the folding design. They also say the charging ports work well and charge quickly. Customers also mention that the adapter comes with 2 USB 2A powers and 3 3-prong power plugs. They mention that it allows them to charge their phones and use their computer while.

"...It is small size and high quality. Great features with standard USB ports and foldable plug for easy carry...." Read more

"...this for more outlets and it works great and the I love having the USB port of it . Very convenient and safe product for travel." Read more

"...The most important thing is that there are two USB charging ports . No matter the shape or size, I am very satisfied with it。" Read more

"...And two USB ports for charging iPads and other devices.I've tried a bunch of these things and I think this is the best...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the performance of the charging adapter. They mention that it works well, charges USB items quickly, and is practical and easy to carry. Some say that the standard outlets work perfectly. Overall, most are happy with the product's performance and recommend it to others.

"...6. Add to your cart and check outThis is a very handy item to have with a GREAT price.It is small size and high quality...." Read more

"I mainly bought this for more outlets and it works great and the I love having the USB port of it. Very convenient and safe product for travel." Read more

"We have purchased several of these over the years. They work very well and a relatively compact...." Read more

" Very practical and easy to carry. The most important thing is that there are two USB charging ports...." Read more

Customers find the charging adapter convenient for home and travel, with two USB ports that make it easy to tote around. They also say it's light and portable, making it a great tool for when they travel. Customers also mention that the folding plug design makes it easier to plug in everything they can think of.

"...Great features with standard USB ports and foldable plug for easy carry .Nice LED power indicator, and super speedy delivery...." Read more

"...Very convenient and safe product for travel ." Read more

"Very practical and easy to carry . The most important thing is that there are two USB charging ports...." Read more

"...It also can serve as a great desk or nightstand charging station of multiple devices." Read more

Customers like the weight of the charging adapter. They mention it's small, compact, and fits into most travel bags, bug-out bags, or even a pocket. Some appreciate the snug fit and the ability to plug in without having to unplug it.

"...This is a very handy item to have with a GREAT price.It is small size and high quality...." Read more

"...They work very well and a relatively compact ...." Read more

"...At about the size of computer mouse, it fits into most any travel bag , bug-out bag or even a pocket with no fuss because the folding 3-pin plug..." Read more

"This little traveling surge protector was the perfect size , and I especially liked the folding plug so I could just drop it in luggage without..." Read more

Customers like the quality of the charging adapter. They say it's a durable surge protector with solid construction. The folding plug looks to be robust and prevents tears in their bag. The adapter fits snugly and securely, and is great for travel. Some customers also mention that the stiffness doesn't indicate a defect.

"...It is small size and high quality . Great features with standard USB ports and foldable plug for easy carry...." Read more

"...These were great and protective devices while we’re on the road." Read more

"This is currently my favorite charger. It happens to have surge protection , but I bought it more for the layout than the protection...." Read more

"...This makes it compact but also worries me about long-term durability . The plug does not rotate and the ground pin is at the bottom of the unit...." Read more

Customers like the foldability of the charging adapter. They mention that the plug in the back folds up easy, making it a cinch to carry. They also appreciate that the prongs fold up so it doesn't poke holes in their bag. Overall, most are happy with the foldable design and the retractable wall plug.

"...Smartly designed because it plugs into the top plug on an outlet, so it doesn't cover the lower plug like some others do...." Read more

"...surge protector was the perfect size, and I especially liked the folding plug so I could just drop it in luggage without worrying about it snagging..." Read more

"...The prongs fold up so it doesn't poke holes in my bag. Highly recommended." Read more

"The plug folds in a unique way : the ground pin folds toward the hot and neutral prongs...." Read more

Customers like the outlets of the charging adapter. They say it provides plenty of outlets for charging devices along with dual USB charging ports. The three AC outlets add flexibility to any wall outlet without the bulk of a powerstrip. Customers also say the adapter is durable and will hold plenty of electronics.

"...The three AC outlets add flexibility to any wall outlet without the bulk of a powerstrip...." Read more

"...go anywhere with confidence; the dual USB charging ports and 3 widely-spaced outlets ensure that a single outlet adapter will let you charge every..." Read more

"...out - this is a minor inconvenience, but the Accell unit takes up less space in my backpack and w/ no prongs sticking out I am not afraid of..." Read more

"This folds up very nicely but seems durably made, and will hold plenty of electronics including some that need charging with USB...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the ease of use of the charging adapter. Some mention it's easy to plug in and simple, while others say it'll be difficult to insert the plugs on the sides of the unit. That said, it charges their iPad no problem.

" Super easy !1. Type in Travel Surge Protector2. Click search3. Sort by LOW price4. Check the rating5...." Read more

"...It is rather clunky , does not pack so easy (check the dimensions), and tends to be an eyesore...." Read more

"...It's small, easy to plug in , and has a decent number of ports...." Read more

"...It is sometimes hard to insert the plugs on the sides of the unit...." Read more

Reviews with images

• Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

Top reviews from other countries

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

Advertisement

U.S. Officials Say Deadly Rafah Airstrike Did Not Cross Biden’s Red Line

The deaths were “devastating,” a White House spokesman said, but the scale of the attack was not enough to change U.S. policy.

• Share full article

By Zolan Kanno-Youngs

reporting from Washington

• May 28, 2024

U.S. officials said on Tuesday that the Israeli strike that killed dozens of Palestinians in southern Gaza was a tragedy but that it did not violate President Biden’s red line for withholding weapons shipments to Israel.

The bloodshed came after Mr. Biden warned earlier this month that the United States would block certain arms transfers if Israel targeted heavily populated areas in Rafah — a warning that has been tested regularly as the war has ground on.

John F. Kirby, a White House spokesman, said the deaths were “devastating” but that the scale of the attack was not enough to change U.S. policy. “We don’t want to see a major ground operation,” Mr. Kirby told reporters. “We haven’t seen that.”

Israeli tanks were on the outskirts of the city “to try to put pressure on Hamas,” Mr. Kirby said. He also offered a measure of specificity about Mr. Biden’s warning to Israel, which critics have said was too vague.

“We have not seen them go in with large units and large numbers of troops in columns and formations in some sort of coordinated maneuver against multiple targets on the ground,” Mr. Kirby said. “Everything that we can see tells us that they are not moving in in a major ground operation in population centers in the city of Rafah.”

Mr. Biden has faced pressure from advocates and members of his own party to use his power to curtail arms to Israel as a way to influence its conduct in the war. The United States is by far the biggest supplier of weapons to Israel, which raises questions about American responsibility as the death toll mounts.

The strike in Rafah on Sunday ignited a deadly fire and killed at least 45 people, including children, and wounded 249, according to the Gazan health ministry. It has prompted international outrage, including from leaders in the European Union, the United Nations, Egypt and China.

Vice President Kamala Harris, asked about Rafah on Tuesday, said “the word tragic doesn’t even begin to describe” the deaths. She did not answer a follow-up question about whether the strike crossed a red line for Mr. Biden.

Still, the Israeli military’s conduct was similar to what Mr. Biden said he would not tolerate when he warned, in an interview on CNN earlier this month, that the United States would not supply Israel with weapons to attack Rafah.

“I have made it clear to Bibi and the war cabinet they’re not going to get our support if, in fact, they’re going into these population centers,” Mr. Biden said in the interview.

In that interview, Mr. Biden emphasized that the United States would still ensure Israel’s security, citing the Iron Dome missile defense system and his support for Israel’s “ability to respond to attacks.” But he said he would block the delivery of weapons that could be fired into densely populated areas of Rafah.

The area that was hit on Sunday was not included in evacuation orders that Israel issued in early May, and some Palestinians sheltering in the camp said they had believed it was a safe zone .

The Israeli military said that the target of Sunday’s strike was a Hamas compound, and that “precise munitions” had been used to target a commander and another senior official there. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said it was a “tragic accident” that civilians were killed.

Around one million people have fled Rafah during Israel’s assault on the city, according to the United Nations , including many in the western part of the city and in the area around the camp that was struck on Sunday.

A State Department spokesman, Matthew Miller, said the United States was watching Israel’s investigation of the incident closely.

“Israel has said that it might have been that there was a Hamas ammo dump near the area where they took the strike,” Mr. Miller said. “It’s a very important factual question that needs to be answered.”

The Israeli military’s spokesman, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, told a news conference that Israeli jets had fired the “smallest munitions” that they could use and added that “our munitions alone could not have ignited a fire of this size.”

Israel invaded Gaza after the Hamas-led attacks of Oct. 7 killed some 1,200 people in Israel. Israel’s retaliatory offensive has killed more than 36,000 people, many of them women and children, according to health officials in Gaza.

World leaders, including Mr. Biden, have warned of the dangers of a major military operation in Rafah without a proper plan for evacuating the displaced Gazans taking refuge there.

Mr. Miller was able to provide little detail on hundreds of thousands of people who have fled Rafah in recent weeks.

“Some of them have gone back to Khan Younis,” he said. “Some of them have pushed into western Rafah. Some of them have gone to Mawasi. I don’t think there’s any one answer.” Mr. Miller said he did not know if Israel was assisting those people.

Khaled Elgindy, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute and an adviser to Palestinian leaders during past peace negotiations, said the White House was benefiting from its ambiguous descriptions on Mr. Biden’s “red line” for Israel’s military operation in Rafah.

“It’s definitely blurry and by design,” Mr. Elgindy said. “They don’t want to be pinned down. They don’t want to pin themselves down by identifying an exact point or line that gets across because Israel will absolutely cross that line. We’ve seen that over and over again.”

Erica L. Green contributed reporting from Washington, and Michael Crowley from New York.

Zolan Kanno-Youngs is a White House correspondent, covering President Biden and his administration. More about Zolan Kanno-Youngs

Our Coverage of the Israel-Hamas War

News and Analysis

Israel’s military said its troops were pressing on with their ground assault of Rafah , even as international outrage  over its operation there intensified in the wake of a deadly airstrike  on a camp for displaced Palestinians.

The temporary pier that the U.S. military constructed and put in place to provide much-needed humanitarian aid for Gaza has broken apart in rough seas , the Pentagon said.

Spain, Norway and Ireland formally recognized an independent Palestinian state . The previously announced moves by the three European nations are largely symbolic , but serve as a rebuke to Israel.

U.S. Military Aid Project: The Pentagon predicted that a stream of humanitarian aid would be arriving in Gaza via the floating pier, but little relief has reached the besieged strip .

Ari Emanuel’s Condemnation: The media executive condemned Netanyahu  for his leadership since the Hamas attack of Oct. 7, a conspicuous statement from one of Hollywood’s most powerful figures.

Amal Clooney Weighs In: The prominent human rights lawyer was on a panel that recommended arrest warrants  for leaders of Israel and Hamas. She had been criticized earlier for not speaking out on the war.