Charging your devices in Europe
Check the plug shape and the electrical rating separately. An adaptor that fits the wall does not necessarily make an appliance safe to use.
Read the small label on each charger before packing it. A plug adaptor changes the connection to the wall; it does not convert voltage. A charger marked for an input range such as 100–240V is different from a single-voltage appliance designed only for your home supply.
Electrical Safety First's adaptor guidance explains voltage, power ratings and earth connections. If you cannot confirm that an appliance is suitable, do not experiment with it in the hotel socket.
Check every country on the route
“European adaptor” is too broad a shopping description. Switzerland uses type J sockets alongside compatibility with suitable type C plugs; Italy has type C, F and L arrangements. The charity's country guides for Switzerland and Italy show the shapes and supply details.
Check the other countries on your itinerary in the same way. A multi-country adaptor may still omit a destination or be unsuitable for a device that needs an earth connection.
Keep the setup small and usable
For a phone, tablet and laptop, check whether one reputable multiport charger can supply the required power to the devices you actually carry. Count the cables too. The right wall plug is not useful if the only cable is in checked luggage.
Pack one accessible charging set for the journey. If the accommodation has limited sockets, charge essential devices before less important ones rather than building an unstable stack of adaptors.
High-power appliances such as hairdryers need particular care with ratings. A USB charger working normally tells you nothing about whether the same adaptor can handle another appliance. Use the accommodation's suitable equipment where available.
Before flying, check the airline's current rules for power banks and spare batteries, including capacity and where they may be carried. Keep the battery rating readable. Airport screening rules and the airline's baggage allowance are separate checks, covered in our packing and airline-fee guide.