Adapters
Electrical outlets vary in their shape across countries. Plugs and outlets are categorized into types from A through N. In order to make your device’s plug fit into local outlets, you will need an adapter.
Converters
The voltage used across the world is either 110V-127V or 220-240V (the US uses 110V). A converter will make your device usable in countries with a different voltage than your home country’s.
What do you need?
Many modern electronics people usually take on their travels – smart phones, tablets and laptops– already have a built-in voltage converter, in which case, you will only need an adapter to plug it in. In the increasingly rare event that you bring a device that doesn’t have a battery pack with a voltage converter or a built-in converter (shaver, hair dryer etc), you’ll need to buy a separate voltage converter.
Both adapters and converters can be found at just about any local hardware, travel or outdoors store. We find this guide pretty thorough and helpful.