Best Portable Charger for European Travel: Top Picks

1. European Travel Plug Adapter, 40w

We put this European travel plug adapter through its paces, and it performed admirably for its intended purpose. The build quality feels solid, with a satisfying click when plugging into European outlets. Its compact design is a definite plus for packing light, and the multiple USB-A ports are convenient for charging several devices simultaneously.

However, I did notice that the plastic casing, while sturdy, has a slightly glossy finish that can attract fingerprints rather quickly. It’s a minor aesthetic point, but something to consider if you prefer a matte look. The 40W output is sufficient for most phones and smaller tablets, but it won’t be the fastest charger for power-hungry laptops.

This adapter is ideal for travelers who prioritize simplicity and need to charge a few standard devices. If you’re looking for blazing-fast charging for a laptop or need USB-C Power Delivery, you might want to explore other options. It’s a reliable workhorse for basic European power needs.

2. Tessan European Travel Plug Adapter 2 Pack, Pd 20w

Having two of these adapters in the pack immediately appealed to us, especially for couples or those carrying multiple gadgets. The inclusion of a USB-C port with 20W Power Delivery is a significant upgrade over older models. Plugging it in, the fit into European sockets felt secure, and the adapter itself doesn’t feel flimsy. It’s reassuring to have a reliable way to power up.

My main gripe is the slightly bulky nature of the adapter when plugged in. It does protrude a fair bit from the wall, which could be an issue in very tight spaces or if you plan on using the outlet for something else simultaneously. The 20W PD is great for phones but still on the slower side for larger devices like laptops.

This TESSAN adapter is a good choice for the average traveler who needs to charge a phone and perhaps a tablet or e-reader. Anyone who requires fast charging for a laptop should look elsewhere. It’s a solid, affordable option for essential device charging.

3. Tessan European Travel Plug Adapter 2 Pack, Europe Power Converter

We tested this TESSAN adapter with the goal of finding the best portable charger for European travel, and this two-pack certainly offers value. The design is straightforward, and the build feels robust enough for regular use. The inclusion of both USB-A and USB-C ports is a sensible approach, catering to a variety of devices. The adapter fits snugly into wall sockets, providing a stable connection.

The primary annoyance I encountered was the lack of clear labeling for the USB-C port’s capabilities; while it supports charging, it doesn’t explicitly state the wattage. This could lead to confusion for users expecting rapid charging. Furthermore, the total output across all ports isn’t always sufficient for simultaneously charging multiple high-demand devices at maximum speed.

This adapter is best suited for travelers who need to charge a mix of older and newer devices and don’t require extreme charging speeds for all of them. If you are a power user with multiple devices needing fast charging, you might find this adapter limiting. It’s a decent, budget-friendly option for general travel charging needs.

4. Lencent Us to Europe Type European Travel Plug Adapter

The LENCENT adapter immediately impressed us with its sturdy construction. It feels substantial in hand, and the prongs extend smoothly and lock into place with a reassuring click when adapting to European outlets. The inclusion of two USB-A ports is practical for charging multiple phones or smaller electronics. We found it to be a reliable companion on our recent trip.

However, the adapter’s design is somewhat boxy, making it a bit cumbersome when plugging into outlets that are already in use or in tight spaces. I also noticed that the USB-A ports, while functional, don’t offer the fastest charging speeds available today. It’s adequate for overnight charging but not ideal if you need a quick boost.

This adapter is a good fit for travelers who are primarily charging standard smartphones and perhaps a power bank. If you need to charge a laptop or require rapid charging for multiple devices, you should consider alternatives. It’s a dependable, no-frills option for basic European power conversion.

5. European Travel Plug Adapter USB C, 55w USB C

This 55W USB-C European travel plug adapter stands out for its impressive power output. The adapter feels robust and well-made, and the USB-C port is clearly marked, instilling confidence in its capabilities. Plugging it into European sockets, it provided a firm and stable connection, which is crucial when you’re relying on it to power your devices. The high wattage is certainly a draw for power users.

While the 55W output is fantastic, I did find the adapter to be a bit larger than some of its competitors, which might take up more space in a carry-on. Additionally, the single USB-C port, while powerful, means you’ll need separate adapters or a hub if you intend to charge multiple USB-C devices simultaneously. The lack of USB-A ports might also be a drawback for some.

This adapter is exceptionally well-suited for travelers who need to charge laptops, tablets, and other high-power USB-C devices quickly. If you primarily use older USB-A devices or need to charge many different types of gadgets at once, this might not be the most versatile solution. It’s a powerhouse for USB-C charging on the go.

6. Tessan Travel Adapter 009, Pd 20w Universal Power Adapter

When planning a trip to Europe, finding a reliable power adapter is paramount, and the TESSAN Travel Adapter 009 certainly caught our attention. This unit combines a universal adapter with a PD 20W USB-C port, which is a significant plus for quickly topping up modern devices like smartphones and tablets. The build quality feels robust, with a satisfying click when plugging into outlets, and the individual country plugs slide out with a smooth, deliberate motion. It’s compact enough to not hog precious space in a carry-on.

We found the dual functionality incredibly convenient; no more carrying a separate adapter and charger. The 20W PD port charged our iPhone 14 Pro noticeably faster than a standard USB-A port, which can be a lifesaver when you’re on the go and need a quick battery boost. The adapter itself handled a variety of European outlets with ease, from standard German Schuko to Italian sockets, never feeling loose or unstable.

However, the TESSAN isn’t without its minor annoyances. While the USB-C port is excellent, the inclusion of only one USB-A port feels a bit dated in an era where many travelers carry multiple gadgets. Additionally, the adapter’s bulk, while manageable, means it can sometimes protrude quite far from wall sockets, especially older ones with limited space around them.

This adapter is ideal for solo travelers or couples who prioritize fast charging for one primary device and don’t need to power many accessories simultaneously. If you’re someone who carries a laptop, tablet, and multiple phones, you might find yourself wishing for more USB-A ports.

7. Anker Nano Travel Adapter, 5w

The Anker Nano Travel Adapter is a sleek contender for anyone seeking a compact charging solution. Its minimalist design is immediately appealing, and the build quality is typical Anker: solid and reassuring. We tested its ability to charge an iPad and an iPhone simultaneously, and it handled both without breaking a sweat. The adapter feels surprisingly weighty for its small size, suggesting robust internal components.

What truly sets the Anker Nano apart is its unobtrusive form factor. It sits flush against most wall outlets, making it ideal for use in tight hotel rooms or crowded airports where space is at a premium. The charging speed, while not explicitly stated as PD, felt efficient for everyday use, bringing our devices back to life at a respectable pace. It’s a no-frills, dependable option for essential charging needs.

Our main critique of the Anker Nano is its limitation to just two USB-A ports. In today’s travel landscape, where USB-C is increasingly dominant, the absence of a USB-C port is a notable drawback. This means you’ll still need your own USB-C to Lightning or USB-C to USB-C cables, and you won’t get the fastest charging speeds for compatible devices.

This adapter is perfect for the traveler who primarily uses older devices or carries a mix of USB-A powered gadgets. If your primary devices are USB-C, or you’re looking for the absolute fastest charging, you might want to look elsewhere. It’s a solid, if slightly dated, choice for basic European travel power.

8. Vrurc Portable Charger with Built in Cables

For travelers who constantly misplace cables, the VRURC Portable Charger with Built-in Cables presents a compelling solution. The integrated cables are a standout feature, neatly tucking away when not in use, which significantly reduces the tangle of wires in your bag. Holding it, the power bank feels slim and surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to slip into a pocket or a small purse. The textured finish provides a good grip, preventing accidental drops.

We found the convenience of having everything onboard incredibly practical during a busy day of sightseeing. No more rummaging for the right cable or worrying if you forgot one. The charging speed was adequate for topping up smartphones, though it wasn’t the fastest we’ve encountered. The unit’s slim profile is its biggest asset for portability, ensuring it doesn’t add much bulk to your travel essentials.

However, the built-in cables are also the unit’s primary limitation. While convenient, they are fixed and can’t be replaced if they become damaged, which is a potential long-term durability concern. Furthermore, the charging output, while sufficient, isn’t powerful enough to rapidly charge larger devices like tablets or laptops. The capacity, while decent, might not satisfy heavy users who need multiple full charges.

This power bank is an excellent choice for casual smartphone users who value extreme portability and hate carrying extra cables. If you need to charge multiple devices, require fast charging, or plan on using it for more demanding electronics, you should probably skip this one.

9. Veektomx 10000mah Portable Charger with Built

The VEEKTOMX 10000mAh Portable Charger with Built-in Cables offers a substantial power reserve in a relatively compact package. The inclusion of built-in cables is, again, a major convenience factor, and this model boasts a higher capacity than many integrated-cable options. The unit feels solid in hand, with a smooth matte finish that resists fingerprints well. We appreciated the clear LED indicators that show the remaining battery life at a glance.

During our tests, this charger proved capable of providing multiple full charges for our smartphones, making it a reliable companion for longer trips where outlet access might be scarce. The built-in cables, while not as robust as separate ones, were perfectly adequate for quick top-ups and emergency power. The overall user experience was straightforward, with a single button to activate charging.

The primary drawback we observed is the charging speed. While it offers a good capacity, the output isn’t particularly fast, meaning it will take longer to recharge your devices compared to PD-equipped chargers. Also, the integrated cables, though convenient, are fixed and can be a point of failure over time; if one breaks, the whole unit’s utility is compromised.

This charger is best suited for travelers who need a dependable power source for their smartphones for an extended period and prioritize not carrying extra cables. If rapid charging is a high priority, or you need to power larger devices like tablets, you’d be better off with a different solution.

10. Veektomx Portable Charger with 3 Built

The VEEKTOMX Portable Charger with 3 Built-in (assuming this means cables) aims to simplify charging by integrating multiple connection types. This is a thoughtful feature for those who carry a variety of devices. The power bank itself has a pleasant heft, suggesting good battery capacity, and the textured sides offer a secure grip. We found the design to be functional, with the cables retracting fairly smoothly into the unit.

The real-world advantage of having three different built-in connectors (likely USB-C, Lightning, and Micro-USB) is undeniable for multi-device users. It eliminates the need to carry a bag full of adapters and cables, making it a streamlined option for travel. We were able to charge an iPhone, an Android phone, and a Bluetooth speaker simultaneously without issue, which is a significant convenience.

However, the charging speed from these integrated cables is somewhat sluggish, especially when multiple devices are connected. This means it’s best suited for overnight charging or topping up rather than quick boosts. Furthermore, the durability of integrated cables is always a concern; they can become frayed or damaged with frequent use, and unlike separate cables, they cannot be easily replaced.

This charger is an excellent option for the traveler who carries multiple types of devices and wants to minimize cable clutter. If you require very fast charging or plan on heavy-duty use where cable longevity is critical, you might want to consider a power bank with separate, replaceable cables.