Electrical outlets: bring an adapter to New York
Americans use different electrical outlets than Europe. Here's how to adapt… with an adapter!
In the United States, you’ll quickly notice that the electrical system differs completely from Europe’s. Americans use 110 volts and flat-pin outlets. Rather than explain further, here’s what they look like:
Buy an electrical adapter
- To charge your smartphone or camera batteries, bring an adapter. You’ll find them easily at hardware stores for just a few dollars. If no stores are nearby, airports carry them, though at higher prices.
- Forgot one entirely? No problem. You can find adapters throughout New York at drugstores like Duane Read.
- Important: before plugging in any device, confirm it’s compatible with 110 volts.
Use adapters in hotels
- Some New York hotels have a universal outlet in the bathroom for shavers. Despite the label restricting it to razors, it works perfectly for smartphone chargers and battery chargers—provided the hotel is modern and caters to international guests.
- At upscale hotels, especially five-star properties, the front desk will happily lend you an adapter. Budget hotels typically don’t offer this service.