Some travellers pride themselves on finding clever workarounds for plug and adapter problems on the road. Unfortunately, many of these tricks are dangerous, illegal, or both. This article is for awareness, not encouragement.
The Famous “UK Plug Pen Trick”
In the UK, sockets have safety shutters. Some people insert a pen, key, or similar object into the top hole to open the shutters, then jam in a Europlug. Yes, it might make your hairdryer work. No, it’s not safe. The shutters exist to prevent electrocution, bypassing them increases your risk of shock and fire.
Bending Plug Pins
Another “hack” involves bending the pins of a plug slightly so they fit into a different socket. This often leads to loose connections, sparking, and damaged sockets.
Using Two Adapters Back-to-Back
Some travellers chain two adapters together to make an impossible connection work. The problem? Each adapter adds resistance, heat, and a possible weak point.
Story from a Hostel Kitchen
In a hostel in Vietnam, I once saw someone boiling water with a kettle whose plug didn’t fit the local socket. They had wedged bare wires into the outlet and taped them down. The kettle worked, but the smell of melting plastic lingered for hours.
Why We Don’t Recommend These
Electrical systems are designed with multiple safety layers. Every time you bypass one, you increase your chances of damaging equipment or injuring yourself. A cheap, proper adapter is always a better choice than a risky shortcut.
Summary
Smart travel is about preparation, not improvising with live electricity. Keep your hacks for packing clothes or finding cheap flights, not for bypassing safety features.
FAQ
1. Is it illegal to bypass socket shutters?
In many countries, yes.
2. Can I get electrocuted by doing these hacks?
Yes, the risk is real.
3. Will bending pins damage my plug?
Almost always, and it can make it unsafe to use later.
4. Is chaining adapters safe?
No, it increases the chance of overheating.
5. Why do UK sockets have shutters?
To protect against accidental contact with live parts.
6. Do any adapters legitimately open UK shutters?
Yes, proper UK adapters are designed to do so safely.
7. Can these hacks damage the wall socket?
Yes, and you could be charged for repairs in hotels or rentals.
8. Are these tricks common knowledge?
They are often passed between travellers, but that doesn’t make them safe.
9. What should I carry instead?
A universal travel adapter and, if needed, a voltage or frequency converter.
10. Where can I get safe adapter advice?
Check globalplugs.com for country-specific plug, voltage, and frequency info.