The Best European Travel Must-Haves
Packing your bags for the European continent? The first transatlantic voyages by sea could last perilous weeks, but today you can reach Europe from anywhere in the world in less than a day. Whether you're preparing to delve into the history and culture of the land for the first time, or you're a seasoned European explorer, we've put together this list of handy essentials that could help you out along the way.
What to Look For
Travel to Europe presents many of the needs you would encounter in any intercontinental venture. One of the most crucial obstacles to overcome is adapting your devices to Europe’s differing standards for electrical current, so we’ve included plenty of options in our list to help with this. Most of Europe uses different plugs and a higher power standard than the US, so you’ll need to check your devices and pack the appropriate adapters to avoid having to buy them on arrival. With that in mind, the nifty two-pack of travel adapters from One Beat steals the top spot on our list. Pairing great value with versatility, we think it’s a no-brainer for anyone heading to Europe. But if you’re looking for an electrical adapter that can also be used beyond European borders, Hichor’s universal travel plug adapter is hard to beat. Don’t head to the airport just yet — check out the rest of our list and make sure you’re not missing any European travel must-haves in your bag.
One Beat European Travel Plug Adapter, 2-Pack
Go with the flow
If you’ve ever forgotten to bring a power adapter on a trip overseas, you’ll know how expensive these items can be when purchased at an airport or last-minute travel supplier. This versatile pack of two from One Beat is more useful than most, thanks to the range of sockets onboard. And at such a great price, you can save some pennies for fun on arrival.
Pros:
- Multiple connectivity options with USB, USB-C, and AV compatibility
- Fast-charging USB sockets could fill your devices up to 30% faster
- Also available for individual purchase
Cons:
- The overhanging design might not fit some smaller sockets
General Medi Mini First Aid Kit
Field medicine
Many European countries are known for their world-leading healthcare, so you’re likely to be in good hands should you happen to have an accident. Nonetheless, when venturing far from home, it pays to travel prepared. This mini medical kit contains a range of essentials for responding to minor injuries, so you’ll be prepared for whatever the journey holds.
Pros:
- Packed with 110 pieces to suit various emergency situations
- Portable and lightweight at just 0.35 pounds
- The water-resistant case will protect the contents during outdoor adventures
Cons:
- You might want to pack your own antiseptic ointment and NSAID painkillers, as these aren’t included
Forge TSA-Approved Cable Luggage Locks, 2-Pack
Safe and sound
We don’t want you to think that we have a bad impression of our friends across the Atlantic. But wherever you’re traveling, especially if it’s in unfamiliar territory, it pays to be a little security conscious. These dependable luggage locks strike the perfect balance between portability and protection. Their lightweight design is unlikely to stop a professional lockpick in their tracks, but they provide a sturdy barrier against opportunistic theft.
Pros:
- Extra long steel cable closure will fit most suitcases and lockers
- Easy combination setting with three digits
- Range of colors available
Cons:
- Not the most secure for unattended storage
Hichor Universal Travel Plug Adapter
Jack of all trades
If your adventure knows no bounds, this modular travel plug adapter could serve you reliably as you jet set far and wide. With a universal adaptable socket design on both the input and output, it can convert plugs and sockets from around the world to deliver the juice to almost any device, wherever you might end up. It’s sure to serve you in Europe, and it could be a worthwhile adventure if wanderlust draws you further during your trip.
Pros:
- Also includes one USB-C and four USB outputs
- Built-in auto-resetting fuse
- Maximum power output of 2000W can handle larger devices
Cons:
- No fast charging
Foval European Travel Plug Adapter Extension Cord
Power to the people
If you tend to travel with an arsenal of electronic devices, this multifunctional travel adapter is sure to come in handy. Rather than carrying multiple smaller adapters for each of your devices, this versatile power station comes with a range of sockets to charge them all in one go. And thanks to its five-foot extension cord, you can make use of hard-to-reach plug sockets without discomfort.
Pros:
- EU, UK, and US plug adapters included
- Multiple sockets are great for families or work teams
- Wall mounting sockets at the rear
Cons:
- No voltage conversion onboard, so it will only power dual-voltage devices
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a voltage converter for my trip to Europe?
In the US, the power standard is around 110 volts, whereas, in most of Europe it’s in the range of 220 to 240 volts. This means that your domestic devices might not work overseas without a voltage converter, which will transform the incoming voltage so it’s safe and usable. If your devices support dual-voltage, you won’t need a converter to operate them.
What plug sockets are used in Europe?
The plug socket most commonly found in Europe is the two-pronged type-C socket. The UK uses a different three-pinned type-G socket. It’s not just here that you’ll find this lesser-used adapter, though. In the Mediterranean, both Malta and Cyprus also make use of these sockets.
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