🇨🇦 Canada to 🇮🇹 ItalyHigher voltage — check before plugging in!
Italy uses 230 V, much higher than the 120 V in Canada. An input rating of "100–240V" covers the listed supply voltage; you still need a suitable plug or adapter. For single-voltage devices, follow the manufacturer's guidance on conversion; using a suitable local device may be simpler.
What to pack
Plugbert recommends
Type C (Europlug) adapter
Pack an adapter that accepts your home plug. For small ungrounded chargers, a Type C (Europlug) adapter fits 10 A and bipasso sockets. For grounded devices, choose a grounded Type L (Italian) 10 A adapter. Neither fits a 16 A-only Italian socket; Schuko-only sockets need a different adapter. Check the outlet and the adapter rating.
For equipment requiring earth, choose a Type L (Italian) adapter for a compatible grounded outlet. Check its supported inputs and rated load. A two-pin output cannot provide an earth connection.
Tip: a "universal" travel adapter may be useful for several destinations. Check its wall-side plugs, grounding and power limits against your trip.
Voltage & frequency
🇨🇦 Home
120 V
60 Hz
🇮🇹 There
230 V
50 Hz
The destination may use a different frequency (60 → 50 Hz). Check your device's input rating for the local frequency; a plug adapter does not change it.
Will my stuff survive?
Decode a device labelPhone charger
Basically all modern USB chargers are 100–240V. Adapter only.
Laptop charger
Look for "100–240V" on the brick. It's almost always there.
Camera battery charger
Usually dual voltage. Check the tiny print.
Electric toothbrush
Many are dual voltage, some are not. Check the base.
Electric shaver
Often dual voltage. Often. Check.
CPAP machine
Most modern ones auto-switch, but confirm before you rely on it to breathe.
Hair straightener / curler
Some have a voltage switch. Many don't. Fire is a bad hairstyle.
Hair dryer
Usually single voltage and very power-hungry. Buy a travel one or use the hotel's.
Kettle / coffee maker
Single voltage, high wattage. Leave it home. Buy coffee abroad like a local.
Anything with a heating element
If it gets hot on purpose, assume it's single voltage.