I learned about US voltage the hard way – plugging my UK hair straighteners into a New York hotel outlet and watching them slowly die over five minutes. The adapter worked fine; the voltage difference killed the device. Since then I have travelled to the US dozens of times and figured out exactly what UK travellers need. The short version: your phone and laptop chargers will work with just an adapter, but hair dryers and straighteners probably won’t without a converter (and it’s usually not worth the hassle – buy travel versions or use the hotel’s).
The US uses different plug types and voltage than the UK. Here’s what UK travelers need to know.
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Plug Types
| Region | Plug Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| UK | Type G | Three rectangular pins |
| US | Type A | Two flat parallel pins |
| US | Type B | Two flat pins + grounding pin |
UK plugs don’t fit US outlets. You need a plug adapter.
Voltage Difference
- UK: 230V, 50Hz
- US: 120V, 60Hz
This is an important difference. The US uses lower voltage than the UK.
Dual-voltage devices (100-240V): Only need a plug adapter. Check the label on your charger – most phones, laptops, tablets, and camera chargers are dual-voltage.
Single-voltage devices (230V only): Need both a plug adapter AND a voltage converter. This includes many UK hair dryers, curling irons, and older electronics.
What You Need
| Device Type | What You Need |
|---|---|
| Phone/laptop charger | Plug adapter only |
| Electric razor | Usually plug adapter only (check label) |
| Hair dryer | Probably voltage converter + adapter |
| Curling iron | Probably voltage converter + adapter |
Buying Adapters
- Amazon (before travel)
- Electronics stores
- Airport shops
- Many US retailers (Walmart, Target, Best Buy)
Choosing an Adapter
Consider:
- Grounded or ungrounded: 3-pin UK plugs need grounded adapters
- USB ports: Useful for charging phones directly
- Multiple outlets: Handy if you have several devices
- Surge protection: Protects electronics from voltage spikes
How to Check Your Device Voltage
Look at the small print on your charger or device. You’ll find something like:
- “INPUT: 100-240V 50/60Hz” – This device is dual-voltage and works worldwide with just a plug adapter
- “INPUT: 230V 50Hz” – This device is UK-only and needs a voltage converter in the US
Most modern electronics (phones, laptops, tablets, cameras, e-readers, electric toothbrushes) are dual-voltage. Heat-generating appliances (hair dryers, straighteners, curling irons, kettles) are usually single-voltage.
Adapter Costs
| Type | Price Range | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Basic adapter | £3-8 | Amazon, Poundland, Primark |
| Adapter with USB | £8-15 | Amazon, Currys, Argos |
| Multi-country adapter | £15-30 | Amazon, travel shops |
| Voltage converter | £25-60 | Amazon, specialist electronics |
Buy before you travel – airport prices are typically 2-3x higher.
My Recommendation
For most UK travellers to the US, a basic adapter with USB ports is all you need. I use one with 2-3 USB ports plus a UK socket, which covers phone, tablet, and laptop from a single outlet.
If you’re travelling with a single-voltage hair dryer or straighteners, honestly just leave them home. Either:
- Use the hotel’s hair dryer (most US hotels have them)
- Buy a cheap travel hair dryer with dual voltage
- Buy a cheap one in the US (Target and Walmart sell them for $15-20)
Voltage converters are bulky, heavy, and often unreliable with high-wattage devices. Not worth the space in your luggage.
Safety Tips
- Check device voltage before plugging in
- Don’t overload adapters with high-wattage devices
- Unplug when not in use
- Use surge protectors for expensive electronics
- Don’t use converters with appliances over 1000W
Frequently Asked Questions
What plug adapter do I need for the US from the UK?
You need a UK to US plug adapter that converts Type G (three rectangular pins) to Type A/B (two flat parallel pins). Choose a grounded adapter for 3-pin UK plugs.
Is the voltage different between UK and US?
Yes, the UK uses 230V at 50Hz while the US uses 120V at 60Hz. This significant voltage difference matters for single-voltage appliances, which may need a voltage converter in addition to a plug adapter.
Can I charge my phone in the USA with a UK charger?
Yes, with a plug adapter. Most phone and laptop chargers are dual-voltage (100-240V) and work worldwide. Check your charger label to confirm it shows this voltage range.
Do I need a voltage converter for my UK hair dryer in the US?
Yes, most UK hair dryers are 230V only and need a voltage converter for the US 120V system. However, converters are bulky and expensive – it’s better to buy a dual-voltage hair dryer or use the hotel’s.
Where can I buy a UK to US plug adapter?
You can buy them from Amazon, electronics stores like Currys or Best Buy, airport shops (though more expensive), and many US retailers including Walmart and Target.
