ADAPTER PLUGS

You will also need to carry adapter plugs with you to fit the outlets in the countries you're visiting. An adapter will allow you only to plug your appliance into another type of outlet. It will not change the electrical voltage. There are five main types of electrical plugs that are used about 95% of the time around the world. In the chart below these five types of plugs are labeled A, B, C, D, E. Travelers will only need to carry four adapters with them (B-E), if they are using U.S. appliances.

• ADAPTER A : The U.S. uses the familiar plug with 2 flat parallel prongs. Also used in many countries including Canada, Mexico, Guatemala, Jamaica and Venezuela.

• ADAPTER B : Has two round prongs and can be used in most of the countries in continental Europe.

• ADAPTER C : Primarily in Australia; has 2 flat prongs like A, but form a V-shape rather than being parallel.

• ADAPTER D : Has 3 prongs (2 flat, 1 rectangular) that form a triangle; widely used in Great Britain.

• ADAPTER E : Similar to B except the 2 prongs are oversized and round.