There are a lot of things I’ve stopped packing over the years — extra shoes, too many clothes, full-size anything — but one thing always makes it into my bag: a universal travel adapter with USB ports.
It’s not glamorous. It’s not exciting. But it’s the quiet hero of every trip. If you’ve ever arrived in a new country, pulled out your laptop to get some work done, and realized your plug doesn’t fit the outlet, you already know why this matters. Now imagine that happening right before a video call or a deadline. Not fun.
Why It Matters
As a remote worker, your devices are your office. If your laptop dies, you can’t work. If your phone is dead, you can’t get directions, call your Airbnb host, or even check into your flight. Having an adapter that works in almost every country saves you from the stress of tracking down a new one after a long day of travel.
The best part? Many adapters today come with built-in USB-A and USB-C ports, so you can charge multiple things at once — no need for separate bricks or clutter. It keeps your bag lighter and your charging situation simpler, especially in hotel rooms with only one wall socket (why does that still happen?!).
It’s Not Just About the Plug
I’ve learned to look for models with surge protection — because power cuts or surges can ruin your electronics. I also go for ones that are compact, with sliding prongs and no loose parts. After using cheap adapters that broke in the middle of a trip, I finally invested in a solid one and haven’t looked back.
Another underrated feature: indicator lights. A small LED shows that the adapter is working and power is flowing. It’s a little reassurance when you plug in at 2 a.m. in a random guesthouse and just need your stuff to charge by morning.
A Tiny Tool That Makes a Big Difference
I could write about laptops, noise-cancelling headphones, or packing cubes. But honestly, most of those things are replaceable, optional, or manageable. A good universal adapter? If you work online and travel across countries, it’s non-negotiable.
So if you’re getting ready for your next work-and-travel adventure, grab one of these before anything else. You’ll probably forget it’s even in your bag — until you need it. And then, you’ll be really glad it’s there.
