Traveling anywhere, anytime involves charging batteries, multiple batteries. Shavers and toothbrushes barely begin the list of re-chargeables we depend upon for a normal day, and traveling abroad further complicates keeping them running. I know you have your own way of dealing with the charging issue; here’s how Pam and I plan the electronics to pack, pack, and take care of charging.
We’ve used several different foreign country voltage adapters and converters to allow charging of US electronics and we’re trying out a couple more on our upcoming trip. Our standby adapter/converter is a Bestek unit that meets most of our needs. It has multiple plug types for virtually all continents you may visit and it further converts foreign voltages to a US standard. The Bestek accepts three US three prong plugs and two USB-A plugs. It’s size is about 7”x3”x1” and weighs about a half pound. It has a cooling fan that may bother your sleep but hasn’t ours. Don’t expect it to power your hair dryer or other high wattage items but otherwise it should meet all your travel electrical power needs. The downside is the weight and size. It is a good choice and we recommend them. I’ll report on the adapters we will be trying this trip when we get home.
USB connectors in all their many configurations and abilities can be confusing and I’m not the person to clearly explain their idiosyncrasies, but I can tell you they can ruin your day when they won’t fit. Here’s is a foolproof way to avoid USB connector pain… plug everything in before you travel and deal with your pain at home and in friendlier territory. TIP 1: We pack a USB “multiplier” to increase the number of USB plugs available and leave the little boxy white Apple chargers at home.
Don’t forget to include all wires and plugs (that you have successfully attached at home).
Hers’s a list of items you may need to charge including a couple we find useful (*)
Toothbrush
Shaver
*AirFly; Bluetooth transmitter/receiver for airplane and guide listening. Supports two sets of ear buds/ear phones, and “no wires” tour guide transmissions
*TOZO NC2 Bluetooth noise canceling earbuds
Auxiliary battery chargers
iPhones
iPad
I-watch
Lap top computer
With our world becoming more “electrified” daily, this list will only grow. Plan rechargeable travel equipment included to the smallest list possible, and do not pack in carry on baggage (wires and strange looking boxes are TSA targets for “closer inspection”). You don’t want some strange, non-English speaking person unpacking your carefully rolled, arranged and compressed personal items and clothing. Pack all electronic and other questionable items in your backpack, much easier to get through an “unzip” inspection. Tip 2: Pack M&Ms in easily accessible spots, they always get checked. Jim
PS: I’m not getting any $ from the products mentioned… yet.