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.