In the United Kingdom, they use Type G power plugs and outlets. The voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz.
So, you’ll need a travel adapter in the United Kingdom. Their plugs and outlets are different from the Type A and B ones we use back in the States.
Quick Overview of the Plugs in the United Kingdom:
- Plug type in the United Kingdom: G
- Standard voltage: 230V
- Frequency: 50Hz
- Need a travel adapter? Yes, you do need a travel adapter
- Need a voltage converter? Don’t assume — check the power specs
- Recommended plug adapter: One Beat Travel Plug Adapter
This page is based on verified information from local power agencies, international standards organizations such as the IEC, and feedback from travelers who’ve recently been there.
The Only Travel Adapter You’ll Need in the United Kingdom
A bad travel adapter can leave you with a dead phone in the United Kingdom. We don’t sell them, but we’ve found the safest and most reliable option—so you can charge without worry. Check it out:
No adapter with you and already abroad? You’re not out of options—many airports and local shops sell them. Still, bringing your own is the easiest way to avoid overpaying or ending up with something that barely works.
People visiting the United Kingdom often also explore Scotland, Wales, and Ireland. Be sure to check if a different adapter is needed.
Power Outlets in the United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, they use Type G power plugs and outlets.
Type G
Type G outlets have three rectangular prongs in a triangular layout and built-in fuses. Other plug types won’t fit without an adapter.
Do You Need a Voltage Converter?
Before plugging in your electronics in the United Kingdom, check the voltage. It’s different from the 120V used in the U.S., so you’ll likely need a converter.
Before heading abroad, always check the power input label on your device. If it reads “100-240V, 50/60 Hz”, it’s designed to run on both 120V and 220-240V without needing a converter. Many smartphones, laptops, and cameras have this capability.
Which Travel Devices May Need a Converter?
Not sure which voltage converter to get? Take a look at the best-rated ones right here.
| Device | Need Converter? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Phone | ❌ No (usually) | Most modern phone chargers are dual voltage (100–240V) |
| Laptop | ❌ No (usually) | Check the power brick label for 100–240V |
| Hairdryer | ✅ Yes (often) | High wattage; many models are not dual voltage |
| Electric toothbrush | ⚠️ Check voltage | Some models are 110V only |
| Camera / DSLR | ❌ No (usually) | Most chargers are dual voltage |
| Power bank | ❌ No | Charges via USB, adapter is enough |
| Electric shaver / trimmer | ⚠️ Check voltage | Older or cheaper models may not support 230V |
| Tablet / iPad | ❌ No | All models are dual voltage |
| Portable fan | ✅ Yes (sometimes) | Many models are not compatible with 230V |
| Game console | ⚠️ Check voltage | Newer consoles like PS5 and Xbox are often dual voltage — check to be sure |
| Bluetooth speaker | ❌ No (usually) | Charges via USB |
| E-reader (Kindle, etc.) | ❌ No | USB charging only, no converter needed |
Top Travel Essentials to Pack
Adapters are important, but they’re just one piece of the puzzle. These extras help you travel lighter, smarter, and with fewer surprises.
More About the United Kingdom
The UK welcomed about 41.2 million inbound visitors in 2024, a slight increase over pre-COVID levels, with Americans making up the single largest share. Tourism contributes nearly 10 percent of the UK’s GDP, and spending is projected to climb steadily toward 2025. Whether you’re after castles in Scotland, literary haunts in England, or art in Wales and Northern Ireland, it’s a compact country offering deep variety.
English is the main language everywhere, transport is reliable, and safety levels are high—plus tipping is optional and standards are consistent. International visitors tend to stay about 7–8 nights on average, and many split time between cities like London, Edinburgh, or Liverpool and countryside escapes. Day trips, guided heritage tours, coastal drives and walking trails make it easy to tailor your trip to balance busy cities and open landscapes.
That said, prices are edging up thanks to inflation and changes in tourist taxes, so savvy travelers keep an eye out for deals and visit outside peak summer if possible. Despite that, the UK remains remarkably friendly and accessible for Americans—from history buffs to pub lovers, walkers, museum-goers or music fans. If you’re looking for culture, coastline, countryside and convenience in one itinerary, the UK pulls it off effortlessly.
Top places to visit in the United Kingdom: London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Bath, Oxford, and Cambridge.