In the wired world we live in, you're bound to have electronics on your travels, whether it be an iPad, e-reader or camera. Whatever it is you carry, keeping it charged can be a challenge, especially in South America. Before you head out to buy the adapters you'll need, you'll have to figure out the voltage and plug types of the places you'll be visiting.Type C Plug — Photo courtesy of David Torras

Voltage

American power outlets are all 120 volts, and luckily, most electronics are capable of handling a range of voltage. Check the power adapter or packaging of your device and look for "120-240v~50-60Hz." If you see this, you shouldn't need a voltage converter. If not, you'll need to figure out what the voltage is in the country you're traveling to and get an appropriate converter. Here are some voltage levels for popular South American destinations:

Argentina - 220v

Bolivia - 230v

Brazil - 110v

Chile - 220v

Colombia - 110v

Ecuador - 208v

Paraguay - 380v

Peru - 220v

Uruguay - 220v

Venezuela - 120v

Plug Type

If you're carrying devices you purchased in the United States, you're in luck. Most South American countries, including Boiivia, Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela use American plugs, so you won't need an adapter to power your devices. In Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay, you'll need either a type C adapter with two round prongs or – less frequently – a type I adapter that has three flat prongs all at an angle. Chile only has type C outlets.

If you're traveling to more than one country or to a country not mentioned above, you should consider investing in a power adapter kit specifically for South America. These kits should contain everything you need no matter which countries you visit.