Quick answer: Australia uses Type I plugs, so you need an adapter almost everywhere except New Zealand, Fiji and mainland China, which also use Type I sockets. If you're visiting more than one country, a universal adapter is the simplest choice. Most phone, laptop and camera chargers handle 100–240V, so they only need an adapter. Hair dryers, straighteners and other heating appliances usually need a voltage converter, or a dual-voltage model, in the USA, Canada and Japan.
Disclosure: Trip Topp sells the adapters linked in this guide.
Plug types and voltage by destination
| Destination | Plug type | Voltage | Adapter needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Zealand, Fiji | I (same as Australia) | 230–240V | No |
| Bali and Indonesia | C, F | 230V | Yes |
| Europe (most countries) | C, F (E in France and Belgium) | 230V | Yes |
| UK and Ireland | G | 230V | Yes |
| Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong | G | 230–240V | Yes |
| Thailand | A, B, C, O | 230V | Yes. Many sockets accept several types |
| Vietnam | A, C, F | 220V | Yes |
| Japan | A, B | 100V | Yes, and check voltage |
| USA and Canada | A, B | 120V | Yes, and check voltage |
| Mainland China | I, A, C | 220V | Often no, but older buildings may need one |
Adapter or voltage converter?
An adapter only changes the shape of the plug. It doesn't change the voltage. Look at the small print on your charger. If it says INPUT: 100–240V, it works anywhere with just an adapter. Phone, tablet, laptop and camera chargers almost always do.
If it says 230V or 240V only, it's a single-voltage appliance. That's common with hair dryers, straighteners, curling irons and electric shavers. In 100–120V countries (the USA, Canada and Japan), it will run weakly or not at all. You'll need a voltage converter, a dual-voltage travel model, or the hotel's own hair dryer.
Universal or country-specific adapter?
A single-country adapter is cheap and fine for one destination. A universal adapter makes more sense if you travel often or visit several countries on one trip, because one device covers every socket. It also usually adds USB ports, so you can charge several devices from one wall socket.
Our PlugMate Universal Travel Adapter ($59.99) covers outlets in 160+ countries and charges up to five devices at once, including a 20W USB-C fast-charge port. It has surge and overheat protection. If you'd rather carry one fewer device, the GlobeCharge Power Bank with Travel Plug ($94.90) combines a power bank with built-in AU, UK, EU and US plugs. Because it's a power bank, it must go in your carry-on. See our guide to power bank rules on Australian flights.
Tips for charging overseas
- Bring a short power board or a multi-port adapter. Hotel rooms rarely have enough sockets near the bed.
- Use the adapter's USB ports for phones and watches, and keep the main socket for your laptop.
- Don't run high-wattage appliances through a small adapter. Check the adapter's maximum load first.
- Keep cables together in a tech organiser, so you're not leaving chargers in hotel walls. More ideas in our guide to organising your travel tech.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a travel adapter for Bali?
Yes. Bali uses Type C and F round-pin sockets at 230V. Australian chargers work at that voltage, so you only need an adapter.
Do I need an adapter for New Zealand?
No. New Zealand uses the same Type I plug as Australia.
Will my Australian hair dryer work in Japan or the USA?
Probably not well. Most Australian hair dryers are 230–240V only, and Japan (100V) and the USA (120V) use lower voltages. Use a dual-voltage travel dryer or the hotel's dryer.
Can I take a travel adapter in my carry-on?
Yes. Plain adapters can go in carry-on or checked bags. Adapters with a built-in battery count as power banks and must stay in your carry-on.
What's the difference between a universal adapter and a converter?
A universal adapter changes the plug shape to fit foreign sockets. A converter changes the voltage. Most modern electronics only need the adapter.