The US and Europe predominantly use different kinds of 2-pin plugs and sockets, while The Gambia uses 3-pin sockets just like the UK. Please note that some hotels may only have 3-pin sockets, which will present a problem for gadgets with 2-pin plugs. To avoid any inconvenience, we advise you to bring a couple of 3-pin plugs or adaptors, which will allow your devices to fit the available sockets. However, despite all the planning, we sometimes find ourselves in a situation where we are trying to fit a 2-pin plug into a 3-pin socket! Check our valuable tip in the clip above and see how things are done in The Gambia.

A universal adapter that allows you to change the pins is an excellent investment for any avid traveller, and with the move to more USB charging options worldwide, finding one with a slot for these is an even better buy.

The number of adaptors you bring will depend on how many electrical devices you plan on using! Many hotel rooms only have 2 or 3 power outlets per room, so this should be considered. As a general rule, though, 2 power point adapters (or a power board) should be enough for any trip.

Please note that The Gambia operates on a 220-240 voltage supply while the USA operates on a 120V supply voltage and 60Hz.

Power cuts are relatively common in The Gambia, but all good hotels have backup generators. However, when travelling away from the city, power cuts can be problematic, so please ensure you bring power banks so you can keep your devices charged and maintain communication during these power disruptions. Invest in a high-capacity power bank to sustain your electronics throughout the day.

Maximize your connectivity options by bringing an unlocked phone or one with dual-SIM functionality. Unlocked phones allow you to purchase a local SIM card upon arrival, ensuring affordable data and call rates. Alternatively, dual-SIM mobile phones will enable you to easily switch between your home network and a local network, giving you the flexibility to stay connected without any hassle.

While we often remember to pack our chargers, it's easy to misplace or damage them during travel. Bringing an extra charger or two can save you from the inconvenience of searching for compatible chargers or having to rely on others for power.

As mentioned earlier, power cuts are frequent, or there may not be any power, especially when venturing away from the city. To navigate your surroundings safely during these times, it's also advisable to pack a rechargeable torch and a fan to keep you cool during the humid nights. These small investments will ensure you have peace of mind and are well-prepared for unforeseen circumstances.

However, if you forget to bring rechargeable fans, you can always buy beautiful hand-crafted fans in The Gambia and support vendors of the Kraftmarket or communities in Ninki Nanka. In the village of Tabanani, you can be a part of the workshop to make fans from palm leaves. This is a win-win situation as you can get a memorable souvenir to take home, which you made yourself!

Safe travels!

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