Language 
No results found
US plug type: Complete adapter guide for travellers
Learn everything about the US plug type, voltage, and adapters. Discover whether you need a USA travel adapter to use your devices safely.
The US plug type uses Type A and Type B power plugs at 120V. If you’re travelling from the UK or most other countries, differences in plug types, voltage, and socket types can require some planning before your trip.
Our guide walks you through the typical American plug, travel adapters, and voltage so you can connect your electrical appliances safely while travelling. Stay connected on your trip to America with an unlimited data travel eSIM.
Match your eSIM to your vacation
Choose a plan lasting between 1 and 90 days so you never pay for days or data you don't use.
What plug type does the US use?
The US uses Type A and Type B plugs. The Type A US plug type has two flat parallel pins, while Type B adds a round grounding pin, giving it three total pins.
You’ll see this plug shape across the USA, Canada, Mexico, and Japan. However, you may still need a plug adapter, depending on where you travel from.
Voltage and frequency in the US
The standard voltage in the USA is 120V with a frequency of 60Hz. This is quite different from the UK and Europe, where the power supply typically ranges between 220 and 240V.
Before connecting any device, check the input details printed on the charger. It’s a small step that helps protect your electrical appliances and ensures proper compatibility.
Do you need a travel adapter for the US?
Whether you need a travel adapter depends on where you’re travelling from:
- From the UK or Ireland: Yes, UK plugs use Type G with three rectangular pins, which do not fit an American plug socket.
- From Europe: Yes, Europe uses plug types C, E, and F, which don’t fit American sockets.
- From Canada or Mexico: No, these countries already use the same plug type as the US.
- From Australia or New Zealand: Yes, Australian plug types have angled flat pins, so you’ll need an American plug adapter.
In short, unless you’re coming from Canada, Mexico, or Japan, you should pack a USA travel adapter. Without one, you’ll face issues powering your devices. This will also affect your ability to stay connected too. Whether you’ve arranged a local US SIM card, a pocket WiFi for the US, or an eSIM, it will be pointless unless you can charge your devices.
Do you need a voltage converter for the US?
This is where travellers from the UK or Europe need to be extra careful. The standard voltage in the US is 110V, about half that used in the UK.
This isn’t an issue for dual-voltage-rated appliances. If the power supply label on your device says “INPUT: 100-240V”, you’ll only need a travel adapter to connect safely to a US plug socket. The good news is that most modern electrical appliances are dual voltage.
However, single-voltage appliances and older products such as hair dryers and straighteners may struggle with the different voltage. In these cases, you would need a voltage converter, though many travellers buy a dual-voltage travel version instead.
Where to buy US travel adapters
If you need a US adapter, you have three options.
- Buy online: Buying an adapter online is the easiest option. Retailers such as Amazon, Argos, Target, and MIJU sell plug adaptors for $10-25 USD.
- Buy at the airport: Most major airports sell travel adapters in electronics shops in the travel accessories section. The downside is price; airport shops may charge two to three times more than online stores.
- Buy in the US: Stores like Walmart, Target, Best Buy, CVS, and Walgreens usually sell American plug adapters for $5-15 USD.
Stay connected in the US with an unlimited data eSIM
Sorting out the right USA plug adapter is only one part of staying connected during your trip. You’ll also want reliable internet for Google Maps, messaging apps, booking activities, and sharing photos along the way.
International roaming in the USA can be expensive, and getting a local SIM card means dealing with registration and swapping SIMs.
Holafly’s eSIM for the USA offers a simpler solution. Buy your eSIM plan online, scan a QR code, and activate it as soon as you land. For extended stays, consider a flexible internet plan with no long-term contracts or cancellation fees from Holafly Plans. All you need is an eSIM-compatible phone!
Unlimited data. Peace of mind.
Make sure you have travel data that's there when you need it most.
Plans that may interest you
Born and raised in Queens, New York, I'm a Psychology graduate with a passion for writing that I've been nurturing since 2019. Over the years, I've enjoyed creating meaningful content across various niches, including sports, hospitality, and career development. At Holafly, I focus on crafting useful and inspiring pieces to make your adventures more effortless. One of the best perks of this role? Creating travel content always seems to inspire my next vacation destination!
