Should I Buy New Chargers In Germany?
When considering what to pack prior to moving to Germany, one of the more practical considerations is how many adapters to bring with you. Germany, and the rest of Europe, runs 220 volts through their power outlets, as well as has a different outlet prong shape (and yet another for the U.K.), meaning that as a rule, you can't use your original power adapters from the U.S.. But does that mean you should pack half a dozen bulky adapters in your already stuffed to the brim suitcase? Should you buy a bunch of European power adapters when you arrive?
In short, it depends. For USB devices, like cell phones, tablets, or cameras, it's worthwhile to go ahead and buy a USB adapter here in Germany, and plug directly into the wall or wherever the power outlet is. If you are traveling around, or if you are the type to carry your phone charger when you are out and about, you will quickly appreciate not needing multiple adapters just to charge your phone. For tablets however, if you would typically use a higher voltage charger, you will have to double check what the adapter you buy over here is rated for, unlike most American chargers, there is often no visual difference between the chargers intended for smaller devices like cell phones, and larger capacity devices, like tablets.
For your laptop if you've brought one with you, generally speaking, bring an adapter, like the one in the cover image. It's worthwhile investing in a quality adapter that contains a fuse within it to safeguard your device. For those with a MacBook, there is the additional option to replace the prongs directly on the brick part of your charger with a European one, and continue use the same charger.
I wouldn't recommend buying an adapter that has fixed prongs for the outlet and requires you to replace part of the adapter depending on what type of outlet you need. The additional parts are easy to lose, and add another point of possible failure on the adapter in the event that you drop it or the adapter is jostled around in a bag. Instead, look for a universal adapter, which allows you to extend out whichever type of prongs you need for where you are traveling.
It's worth noting that for devices which require substantially more power, like small appliances, a simple adapter won't be sufficient. Though for most people studying or working for a short time in Germany this won't apply, if for some reason you've brought or sent something like a keyboard over here, you will need a power transformer instead. They're easy enough to find online, but it's usually easier to just avoid needing one, or to buy a version of the device after you arrive.