A travel adapter with USB ports solves two problems at once: plug compatibility and device charging. Instead of packing separate chargers for phone, tablet, and camera, one adapter handles everything.
I’ve used various USB adapters over the past few years of travel. Here’s what actually matters when choosing one.
Featured: Lencent 4-Port USB Adapter
The Lencent is my go-to recommendation for most travellers. Four USB-A ports, 22W total output, works in 150+ countries, and costs under £15. It’s not the fastest charger available, but it covers most needs reliably.
What to Look For
USB Port Types
USB-A: The standard rectangular port. Works with most cables you already own. Fine for phones and tablets.
USB-C: The newer oval port. Supports faster charging (if your device does too) and is increasingly standard on phones and laptops. Some adapters include both.
USB-C with PD (Power Delivery): Can charge laptops that support USB-C charging. Typically 30W-65W output. Essential if you want to ditch your laptop’s bulky charger.
Total Wattage
The total output (measured in watts) determines how fast your devices charge and how many you can charge simultaneously.
Output
What it means
12W (2.4A)
Single phone charging speed
22-24W
Two phones at normal speed, or four slowly
30W+
Fast charging for phones, or laptop charging
60W+
Full-speed laptop charging while using other ports
More watts = faster charging, but also larger adapter and higher price.
Country Coverage
Most universal adapters cover US, UK, EU, and Australia – the four main plug types used across most of the world. Check coverage before buying if you’re going somewhere unusual.
Safety Features
Decent adapters include:
- Over-current protection
- Short-circuit protection
- Temperature control
Avoid the cheapest options – electrical safety isn’t where you want to save money.
Recommendations by Use Case
Basic: Phone and Tablet Only
A 4-port USB-A adapter like the Lencent covers most travellers. Charge phone, partner’s phone, tablet, and headphones overnight. Under £15.
Mid-Range: Faster Charging
Look for adapters with at least one USB-C port and 30W+ output. You’ll get faster phone charging and can charge some tablets at full speed. £20-35 range.
Power User: Laptop Charging
If your laptop charges via USB-C, a 65W+ adapter with USB-C PD can replace your laptop charger entirely. Reduces pack weight and the number of chargers you carry. £40-60 range.
What I Use
I travel with a 65W USB-C PD adapter that also has two USB-A ports. It charges my laptop, phone, and earbuds from one device, and the total weight is less than my laptop’s original charger alone. The downside is cost (around £50) and size (larger than basic adapters).
For light travel where I’m not bringing a laptop, the Lencent-style 4-port adapter does the job at a fraction of the size and price.
Tips for Using USB Adapters
Don’t daisy-chain. Plugging adapters into adapters is a fire risk. Use a single adapter that covers your destination.
Check device wattage. Your phone’s included charger states its output. An adapter with lower output will charge slower. Higher output is fine – devices only draw what they need.
USB-C cables matter. A USB-A to USB-C cable won’t deliver USB-C fast-charging speeds, even through a USB-C port. Use USB-C to USB-C cables for fastest charging.
Hotel USB ports are slow. The USB ports built into hotel bedside lamps are typically low-power. Use your adapter for proper charging speed.
UK to Europe Specific
If you’re only travelling to Europe from the UK, you don’t need a universal adapter. A simple UK to EU adapter (Type C/F) costs around £5 and is smaller than universal options. Add USB ports for £10-15.
The Masterplug UK to EU adapter with USB is a popular budget option for Europe-only travel.
Summary
Need
Recommendation
Budget
Basic charging
4-port USB-A adapter
£10-15
Faster charging
USB-C + USB-A combo
£20-35
Laptop charging
65W USB-C PD adapter
£40-60
Europe only (from UK)
UK to EU with USB
£10-15
For most people, a mid-range adapter with USB-C and USB-A covers all bases without breaking the bank.
