After researching dozens of models and testing top competitors, we’ve come to the conclusion that the best travel power strip in North America is the Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector.
This device has three ports and two USB-A charging ports that are spaced well for larger plugs, and it’s smaller and lighter than any other travel model we tested.
The best choice
This compact strip gives you three AC outlets and two USB power ports but doesn’t take up much space in your bag or weigh you down. We wouldn’t recommend it for international travel.
This power strip has been our top pick every year since 2015. While other companies use a similar design in their models, we’ve found that the Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Surge Protector offers the best capabilities at a price that’s typically lower than the competition.
Also great
This is the only portable option we tested with reliable surge protection. The 18-inch cord adds a little extra bulk but gives you more flexibility than models that plug directly into an outlet.
If you prefer a power strip with strong surge protection and a cord, the Tripp Lite Protect It 3-Outlet Travel-Size Surge Protector is the best choice.
It’s the only portable model we’ve tested that limits harmful power surges as effectively as full-size surge protectors. Other portable models we’ve tested allow more than twice as much excess voltage to pass through, potentially damaging anything connected to them.
The third AC outlet on the back of this unit helps reduce plug clutter, and its right-angle plug allows it to be easily installed in tight spaces.
Also great
With four international plugs and a protection rating of 100 to 250 volts, this charger is a convenient option for traveling abroad.
If you are traveling outside of North America, we recommend using the Allocacoc PowerCube ReWirable USB.
There are two features that make this model ideal for international travel: It’s designed to handle 100 to 250 volts, so it doesn’t require an additional voltage converter, and it comes with four interchangeable plugs to fit a wide range of international wall outlets.
Additionally, the device has two USB-A ports like our other picks, and offers four AC outlets instead of three.
