Many people like to take their laptop or netbook with them when they travel. Most larger hotels have easy Internet access so their guests can check emails, upload photos and so the kids can keep in touch with their friends on Facebook.
If you have a North American laptop, using it while you are still on the continent is no problem. Even for your trip to Mexico, you’ll have no trouble just plugging it in and charging your battery. What do you do when you travel to another continent? Should you bring your laptop? How do you charge the battery overseas? Let’s take a look at some laptop charging solutions.
A Simple Little Plug
Your laptop electrical cable may almost be ready for world travel. Many laptops have a power adapter that accepts voltages from around the world. If you look at your adapter and it says something like, “input rating of 100-240VAC, 50-60Hz” then all you need is a simple little plug adapter to fit over the prongs of your plug. Look for a plug adapter that is specifically for the area you are visiting (Europe, Asia, etc) and you’re good to go for just a few bucks!
All Purpose Charger
Universal Laptop Charging Kit
If you need more features or you find yourself having to replace your original power cable, you can find a universal laptop charger, made by Kensington, Targus, Belkin or other, which will give you several features. First, check that the charger is rated for use overseas. Again, this will be specified with the “input” section of the specs. Your charger should have an input rating of 100-240VAC, 50-60Hz. This means you can use it anywhere in the world.
Many chargers also will have a convenient USB port for charging portable devices. Here you can plug in your camera, iPod or other MP3 player. Note that these types of adapters do not work in your car. For that you would require a car laptop charger, which is actually an inverter, changing the 12v power of your car’s battery to AC power.
You will still need to get the plug adapter to plug the charger into the wall socket overseas. Wherever you travel, you will always need the correct plug adapter.
Before you travel, it’s important to check that the charger properly fits your laptop and that it successfully powers and charges it. It would be a shame to find out that the power tip did not fit or that it was not compatible.
Travel Converter and Adapter
If you want to have a regular electrical socket like back home, this is a plug which you can use in different countries (check for your destination) and does two simple things, adapts the plug type and converts the electricity. This type of travel adapter gives you a standard electrical socket like you’re used to and which you can plug any device into. Many of these adapters are not rated for high power hair dryers, irons, etc.
Multiple Devices
Universal Adapter
Many times we will have more than one device that we will need to charge while traveling.
- laptop
- iPhone, Ipod
- camera
- AA/AAA battery charger
Check if you can find one charger that will handle all of your needs. Laptop battery chargers will also allow you to plug in any USB device, to the laptop itself or to the charger. Remember to bring your USB cables and any cable specific to your device. Again, remember to test out all of your cables before you travel as you may not find adapters to suit, once you are in a foreign country.
Your adapter, depending on brand name and features, may cost anywhere from $20 to $100. Many laptop manufacturers such as Acer, Compaq and Toshiba make their own laptop charger adapters but it’s not necessary to buy the same brand as your computer. When purchasing a charger, tell your salesman what you want to do with it and where you are traveling so they can confirm that it will be suitable for your needs.
The adapter should feel sturdy, not like a cheap dollar store brand. Choose a recognized brand as you are entrusting it to provided your devices with electricity.
With the proper adapter you will easily be able to use your laptop anywhere in the world. You’re kid’s Facebook buddies will love you.