UK to Laos power adapters - do I need to bring an adapter for Laos?

Lao power outlet

What adapter do I need for Laos?

You need to use a Type F plug adapter for Laos if your plug won't fit into a Lao power outlet.

The type of plug adapter, power converter or charger that's needed when visiting Laos all depends on the voltage and type of device that you're trying to use with a Lao power outlet. If you don't know which voltage your device can use then please read the section about how to find out the voltage of your device first.

  • Certain parts of Laos do not have access to power and suffer from power cuts therefore you should bring a power bank if you wish to keep your cellphone battery charged whilst staying in an area without access to power or during a blackout.
  • If you are planning on travelling to Laos from America you will need to use a suitable power adapter for Laos to fit a US plug into a Lao power outlet. As the voltage is different in Laos pack a power converter for Laos if your appliance or charger isn't dual voltage and check that it will work with a 50hz power outlet.
  • If your device can run on 230 volts or is dual voltage and your plug will fit in a Lao power outlet then it will work in Laos.
  • If your device is 230 volts or is dual voltage but your plug doesn't fit in a Lao power outlet then you'll need to bring a suitable plug adapter for Laos such a Type F plug adapter. A plug adapter for Laos (or power adapter) only changes the shape of the plug on your device to fit into a plug outlet found in Laos, but doesn't change the voltage from 230 volts to a different voltage.
  • If your device can't use 230 volts and isn't dual voltage you'll also need a power converter for Laos to convert the voltage from 230 volts to the correct voltage for your device. You will still need to use a suitable plug adapter for Laos if your power converter doesn't include the correct Type F plug adapter.
  • If you want to charge one or more USB devices such as a tablet or a cellphone then a USB travel power adapter will be more suited and it will work with any voltage, but make sure that you bring one which includes a Type F plug adapter otherwise you'll also need to pack a suitable plug adapter for Laos[3] [AD]

Warning: If your device won't handle 230 volts used in Laos you run the risk of a blown fuse, damage to your device or even an electrical fire hazard. Prior to using your device in Laos please read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Laos power adapters

Power adapters for Laos

Different standards and voltages can all be daunting when planning on staying in another country especially if you've never been there before. This isn't as complicated as it appears, with only a handful of different types of standards used throughout the world this guide tells you exactly what you'll need in advance to charge your electronics in Laos. This page has links to useful instructions telling you how to charge your devices when you're visiting Laos by using their types F, C or E 230 volt 50Hz wall outlets. You'll discover power sockets will vary depending on which country you are travelling to so we suggest reading the World power adapters page for a complete list of regions and countries.

What is the best power adapter for Laos?

The best power adapter for Laos is a Type F plug adapter which will allow you to use any 230 volt appliance or device. [3] [AD]

What is the best power adapter for Laos?

What is a power adapter?

Power adapters are compact and lightweight plastic adapters which allow a power socket in Laos to accept a different type of power plug from another country. [5]

What does a power adapter do?

A power adapter allows a visitor from another location to use electronic appliances in Laos by changing the shape of the plug from one shape to another.

Can a power adapter convert the voltage from a Lao power outlet?

Power adapters can only adapt the shape of a plug to fit into a 230 volt Lao power outlet and can't convert the power to a different voltage. Should you wish to safely use any 100-120 volt appliance then you also need to bring a more expensive step down power converter for Laos along with the correct type of adapter.

Do I need a power adapter for Laos?

This will depend on the type of plug you want to use and the country you are travelling from.

Where to buy a power adapter for Laos in the UK

Power adapters for sale in an airport

Where to buy a power adapter for Laos in the UK

Laos to UK power adapters will most likely be available to buy in the UK from airports such as Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Stansted, Luton, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Birmingham prior to departure, however the range of adapters might be limited to popular destinations. It is recommended to research the exact type of adapter required prior to shopping at the airport. Look in the travel accessories section of airport newsagents, electronic stores and pharmacists such as WH Smith, Dixons or Boots but expect to pay 50% more than regular prices.

It will be more convenient and cheaper to buy the correct power adapter in advance of your trip. UK high street electrical shops, newsagents and chemists such as Currys PC World, WH Smith or Boots normally typically only sell popular types of travel adapters covering a limited number of countries however for widest choice it is recommended to buy a power adapter online. In January 2019 we checked 2 high street branches of WH Smiths without seeing any power adapters available to purchase and 1 branch of Boots only had a pack of European adapters available.

Electrical adapters for Laos

Universal Travel Power Adapters

A universal travel adapter

Universal Travel Power Adapters

Benefits of a universal travel power adapter

  • Typical universal travel adapters work in around 150 countries.
  • An all-in-one design. Both small and lightweight.
  • Some universal travel adapters include charging ports for USB electronics built in.
  • Relatively easy to use.
  • Some universal travel adapters include a built in surge protector, this will protect any electronics from being overpowered by an unstable power grid in some countries.
  • The pins retract so don't get caught against other items when packed in baggage.
  • It can still be of use domestically as a USB charger.
  • Changes shape to Types A/B, E/F, G and I plugs so should fit in a Lao power outlet.

Disadvantages of a universal travel power adapter

  • Cannot be used with a high powered appliance; for example hair straighteners, vacuum cleaners, kettles or hair dryers.
  • The moving parts might be fragile on some models making them prone to breaking.
  • Universal travel power adapters only charge a single appliance.
  • Not totally universal; adapters might not cover some countries with less popular outlets.
  • Missing a voltage converter means it won't be suitable for electrical devices which don't support 230 volts in Laos. [6] [AD]
Travel USB Wall Chargers

A USB charger with changable heads

Travel USB Wall Chargers

Benefits of a travel USB wall charger

  • Perfect when you only want to power USB devices.
  • Instead of bringing lots of domestic USB power chargers you only have to pack a single charger.
  • Supplied with swappable adapter heads which means they can be used in a large number of different locations. The interchangeable adapter heads which are supplied with USB wall chargers are typically small and lightweight which makes them easy to pack.
  • Most models have a surge protector built in to prevent your device from being overloaded by unstable power grids.
  • It could still be useful domestically.
  • The interchangeable plugs will fit in Types A/B, E/F, G and I outlets so will work in Laos.

Disadvantages of a travel USB wall charger

  • Because they only have USB outputs you will be unable to charge any appliances, only USB powered ones. [7] [AD]
Power Plug Adapters

A small and lightweight type F plug adapter

Power Plug Adapters

Benefits of a power plug adapter

  • Affordable.
  • Easy to operate.
  • Bringing a Type F plug adapter will be ideal for Laos.
  • Small and light.

Disadvantages of a power plug adapter

  • Only one plug adapter for each appliance - for every individual appliance you want to use you'll also need to use a separate power plug adapter.
  • Only changes the shape of the plug to fit in a Type F Lao power outlet but not the actual voltage - if your appliance doesn't support a 230 volt power outlet and isn't dual voltage you will still need to pack a separate voltage converter.
  • If you intend on visiting more than one country you might need to bring along more than one type of power adapter for other countries.
  • If you need to power a USB device then you also need to pack your domestic USB charger as well.
  • Accomodation in Laos may only have one power outlet, so you will only be capable of powering one appliance at a time. [3] [AD]
Travel Power Strips

Travel power strip including plug adapters

Travel Power Strips

Benefits of a travel power strip

  • Able to power several electronic devices at the same time from only a single Lao power outlet.
  • Some models of travel power strips are able to convert voltage for low wattage devices (for example laptops). So even if your electronic device isn't dual voltage it can still function in Laos by using just a travel power strip. This can make them a lightweight cheap substitute for a power converter.
  • Some models should include a number of USB ports.
  • Offers surge protection. Voltage from power grids in certain countries could be unstable, a power surge will damage delicate devices. Some travel power strips include a built in surge protector, this will protect your electronics from being overpowered.
  • When you return home it could still be functional.

Disadvantages of a travel power strip

  • The power converter on a travel power strip doesn't work with higher wattage appliances such as curling irons and hair straighteners.
  • Because of the size of a travel power strip it might be unsuitable for packing in hand luggage.
  • Travel power strips could be excessive for some travellers only bringing a small number of devices to charge. [8] [AD]
  • Power strip models for sale in the UK only include type B, F, G and I plug adapters so you may need to use it along with an additional plug adapter to work in some countries.
Plug Adapter Sets

Plug adapter sets

Plug Adapter Sets

Benefits of a plug adapter set

  • An adapter set will typically work out more economical than purchasing multiple power plug adapters.
  • Covers all possibilities and not just a Lao power outlet.
  • If you are travelling to multiple countries a power adapter set is the most flexible option.
  • Includes Type A, B, C, D, E/F, G, H, I, J, L, M and N adapters so should work in Laos.

Disadvantages of a plug adapter set

  • Involves planning; prior to any trip you will need to choose which plug adapters to pack in advance, if you don't know every country you'll be visiting you'll need to pack each adapter in the set with you.
  • Means lots of individual items to bring along.
  • All remaining power adapters will be redundant.
  • Not every plug adapter types are typically included (and especially the less common ones), so ensure that your set has an adapter that is compatible in Laos.
  • Each plug adapter only modifies the shape of the plug but won't convert the actual voltage. [9] [AD]
Voltage Converters

A voltage converter with surge protection

Voltage Converters

Those originating from the UK shouldn't need to bring a converter as the voltage in Laos is 230 volts.

Benefits of a voltage converter

Disadvantages of a voltage converter

  • A power converter only changes the 230 volts from a Lao power outlet and not the actual shape of the plug to fit in a Lao power outlet, therefore you'll still be required to bring the right type of power adapter.
  • The typical weight of most models makes them impractical for carry-on baggage.
  • Useless after your visit to Laos.
  • Often cheaper to purchase a dual voltage travel appliance than to buy an expensive voltage converter just in order to bring your existing single voltage domestic appliance in Laos.

Comparison of electrical adapters for Laos

Type F Power Plug Adapter
Power Plug Adapter
Universal Travel Power Adapter
Universal Travel Power Adapter
Travel USB Wall Charger
Travel USB Wall Charger
Travel Power Strip
Travel Power Strip
Plug Adapter Set
Plug Adapter Set
Voltage Converter
Voltage Converter
Can be used in Laos Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Types of plug included F A/B, E/F, G and I A/B, E/F, G and I A, B, D, E/F, G, H, I, L and N A, B, C, D, E/F, G, H, I, J, L, M and N B
Compatible number of countries (A) 70+ 150+ 150+ 200+ 230+ 230+
Fits in a Type F Lao power outlet Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Additional Type F plug adapter required to fit in a Lao power outlet Yes
Useful when you return to the UK Yes Yes Yes
Typical combined number of USB ports and AC outlets 1 3 4 7 1 2
Powers USB devices Yes Yes Yes
Typical number of USB ports 0 2 4 4 0 0
Powers a 230 volt AC appliance in Laos Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Typical number of AC outlets 1 1 0 3 (B) 2
Converts voltage (?) Yes (C) Yes
Surge protection Yes Yes Yes Yes
Typical dimensions 2.6 x 1.9 x 1.4 inches 3 x 2.1 x 2.1 inches 4.3 x 3.4 x 1.3 inches 6.6 x 3.6 x 1.5 inches 7.1 x 3.9 x 2.8 inches 11.7 x 8.1 x 6.7 inches
Typical weight 4.5 ounces 4 ounces 4.5 ounces 1.6 pounds 13 ounces 20 pounds
Typical number of items to carry (D) 1 1 5 8 12 2
Suitable for hand luggage Yes Yes Yes • (E) • (F)
Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy

Laos power outlets and plug sockets

What plug sockets are used in Laos?

Type C, E and F power outlets

What plug sockets are used in Laos?

There are three different types of power supply used in Laos, types F, C and E with the primary power supply being type F:

  • Plug Type C - You can identify the plug outlet by the 2 circular holes next to each other.
  • Plug Type E - You can recognise the wall socket by two large adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral along with one long metal earth pin protruding in the top forming a triangle pattern.
  • Plug Type F - You can recognise the wall socket by two large adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral along with a pair of thin grounding clips above and below. [3] [AD]

How do I use a 110 volt appliance in Laos?

To use either a 110V or 120V appliance in a Lao power outlet you need to use a step down power converter.

What is the electrical frequency used in a Lao power outlet?

The frequency in a Lao power outlet is 50 Hz. [11]

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mains_electricity_by_country

What percentage of Laos has access to electrical power?

Almost a quarter of the population has access to electricity in Laos.

Does Laos have many power outages?

Every month in Laos power cuts are reported.

Should I use a portable charger in Laos?

A power bank

Should I use a portable charger in Laos?

As electric isn't available to 100% of the population of Laos combined with the lack of a reliable power grid, travellers are advised to use alternate charging solutions if they wish to continue using devices such as phones or tablets dependably.

  • Whilst travelling to Laos increased use of smart phones for storing calendars, taking photographs, social networks, sat nav and staying entertained could syphon off power more excessively than normal. A flat cell phone battery can possibly leave you without sufficient power to make emergency calls or being able to use satellite navigation to find your way back to accommodation.
  • Using a 10,000mAh power bank lowers that risk as it means you can keep your cell phone powered without needing a wall charger, especially when travelling to a country with limited access to power and power cuts in some areas.
  • Bring at least a 10,000mAh power bank which will store enough power to cover around three full days of mobile phone use while a 20,000mAh power bank should keep an average mobile phone powered for roughly 7 days.
  • If your laptop has a USB-C charging port then a portable charger for a laptop marked with PD (power delivery) which supplies 20Wh or more can be used to extend the battery life of your laptop when travelling to Laos.
  • However be aware that some airlines don't let you bring portable chargers on an aircraft with more than 100 Wh of power and must not be left in checked-in luggage so we recommended checking ahead with the carrier.
  • Average consumer power banks aren't strong enough for use with high wattage items that generate heat, although a rechargeable hair dryer or rechargeable cordless flat iron can be used for travelling to locations with power cuts and a lack of access to electricity such as Laos.    [4] [4] [12] [13] [14] [15] [AD]
Does a solar powered charger work in Laos?

Solar backpacks are ideal for hot climates

Does a solar powered charger work in Laos?

The weather in Laos should be adequate enough to recharge solar power bank reliability, however it needs to be left in strong sunlight to provide adequate power for a single charge cycle. This could prove inconvenient to constantly unpack a solar power bank and wait whilst it recharges in a sunny area.

  • The bigger solar cells found on a solar backpack will give the bag the ability to generate more electricity within a faster period of time and should also generate power when cloudy, meaning they should perform well in Laos.
  • Phones that are directly plugged into the USB port of a solar backpack will gradually charge the battery during sunny spells in Laos, but this might be inconvenient to have it constantly connected to the bag during the day if it is to be needed constantly. Unlike a small solar power bank which needs unpacking and facing sunlight, a backback with solar panels is usually exposed to sunlight therefore will be powering up a power bank throughout the day.
  • Even though the sunlight in Laos is strong, a bag should have a solar cell efficiency of 22% or greater, can generate at least 6 watts of power and includes a 10,000mAH power bank or stronger.
  • The flexible and durable solar panels used in solar powered bags have been built to survive scratching and bending, unlike normal rigid solar panels. They are available in messenger, backpack and rucksack styles which makes them ideal for domestic, work and travel use.  [4] [16] [17] [AD]

Sources

  • International Electrotechnical Commission - World plugs by location (cited August 2014)
  • Wikipedia - Mains electricity by country (cited July 2014)
  • Index Mundi - Power outages in a typical month (cited May 2018, data collected between 2006 to 2017)
  • Index Mundi - Access to electricity (cited May 2018, latest data collected 2010)
  • WikiPedia - List of countries by average yearly temperature (cited May 2018, data averaged between 1961 to 1990)

Laos chargers

What is a USB travel power charger?

A USB travel charger is a dual voltage charger with interchangeable plugs and multiple USB ports, suitable for charging multiple USB powered devices when travelling abroad.

What USB charger do I need for Laos?

When travelling with more than just one device or visiting more than one country the best international travel adapter for Laos to buy is a multiple USB adapter which includes swappable plugs like a 4 port USB travel charger. There are three different types of wall outlets that Laotians use (F, C and E) and using a power charger like this will ensure that you are covered for type C. As these types of chargers are supplied with interchangeable plugs and handle 100 volts - 240 volts will mean that you can travel to multiple countries around the world simply by changing the heads. If your type of device is compatible with Fast Charge then you will benefit from faster charging times by using one of these types of travel chargers, along with compatibility with certain power demanding devices like tablets. Unlike other travel adapters having a four port adapter means you can recharge multiple devices simultaneously without needing to bring seperate travel chargers for your Lao trip. Only needing a single lightweight travel charger will also keep the weight and size down, making it ideal to fold up and store in hand baggage while travelling as well as being suitable for recharging your devices at an airport or on the plane. Due to their space saving flexibility these types of travel chargers can be used when back at home as well as abroad so when you’re not on holiday they can be used overnight charging multiple tablets, phones and e-readers with just a single wall outlet.

If you travel on a regular basis we suggest searching for this type of flexible power adapter online. The multipurpose power charger illustrated below is the 4 Port USB Wall Charger which has been successfully tested with multiple USB devices in numerous foreign countries on a daily basis. [7] [AD]

What USB charger do I need for Laos?

Why use a travel USB charger for Laos?

  • Typically travel USB chargers include 4 or more USB charger ports, meaning you should only need to bring one charger to charge multiple devices. Instead of bringing 4 individual power chargers it becomes only necessary to pack a single 4 port USB wall charger to power up to 4 devices which cuts down on the size and weight of your luggage.
  • Most travel USB power chargers include swappable plug heads for various regions making them ideal when travelling across other countries across Asia which will probably use a different standard to Laos.
  • A good USB charger is compact, rugged and lightweight; ideal for rigors of travel instead of than risking packing a domestic charger which could be hard to repair or replace in Laos.
  • USB chargers will accept both the 230 volt power outlets in Laos along with different voltage standards across the world.
  • It is possible that some hotel rooms in Laos might only have one wall outlet, by using a travel charger with multiple USB ports allows you to share out the single wall outlet with family or other traveler rather than waiting to charge each device one by one.
  • Due to their versatile nature they take the uncertainty out of travelling to an unknown country as they are guaranteed to work practically anywhere on the planet.
  • Power outlets found in airports can be in short supply and the demand for charging multiple devices from other passengers during departure can be high, so a USB travel charger with multiple ports and the ability to charge quickly is perfect.
  • Some countries power grids are unstable, a good quality travel charger allows for unexpected surges to prevent damage to any devices attached to it. Trying to repair an overloaded cell phone in Laos might prove to be problematic and costly.
  • Larger USB chargers will also incorporate power outlet strips to allow you to power multiple low wattage devices such as laptops, but please these will be unsuitable for high wattage domestic such as hair dryers or clothes irons. Please read the guide on using travel appliances in Laos for helpful guidelines on the best power adapter for a Lao power outlet for high wattage devices.
  • Some mobile phones and tablets might require more than the standard 500 milliamps produced from a normal 5 volt USB power adapter to charge or provide fast charge. Ensure that the USB power adapter can support fast charging should some of your devices need additional power.
  • Travel USB chargers can still be useful when returning home by charging multiple mobile phones every day using only a single power outlet. [7] [AD]

What is the best USB charger for Laos?

A 4 port USB travel charger is the most compact option for travellers from any country wanting to charge devices using USB, but for those also wanting to use their domestic plugs the following power converters provide larger but more versatile solutions. All three power adapters offer surge protection which is useful when visiting regions with unreliable or unstable power grids. These power adapters are supplied with interchangeable type C, I and G plugs covering both Laos and over 150 destinations:

  • BESTEK Portable International Travel Voltage Converter - The BESTEK international travel adaptor has 4 USB charging ports with 3 AC power outlets and is the most popular portable option for travellers originating from America going to Laos.
  • ORICO Traveling Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip - Likewise having 4 USB ports but only 2 AC power outlets the travel adapter from Orico is also aimed at travellers originating from the US using type B plugs. This is a cheaper alternative to the BESTEK with only 1 less AC outlet for almost half the price.
  • BESTEK International USB Travel Power Strip - This power strip has just 2 AC outlets but offers 5 USB charging ports. This versatile power strip is compatible with both American plugs and popular plug types A, D,E/F, G, H, I, L and N making it ideal for most travellers from around the world visiting Laos. [7] [AD]

Power converters for Laos

What is a power converter?

A power converter for Laos enables travellers to use their 100, 110 or 120 volt electric appliance with a 230 volt Lao power outlet.

Also known as: electrical converter, electrical transformer, voltage converter, power transformer or voltage transformer.

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a power converter for Laos?

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your appliance to fit into a power outlet in Laos, but a heavy and bulkier power converter converts the voltage of 230 volts from a Lao power outlet to work with a non-230 volt appliance. [10] [AD]

Do I need a power converter for Laos?

If you are visiting Laos from another country check that the device can be used with a 230 volt power supply.

  • A step down power converter is needed if you are visiting Laos from a country that uses 100-120 volts and your device or appliance won't support 230 volts. See our world power outlets page to discover the voltage is used in your country.
  • You won't need a power converter if you are already using either a single voltage appliance that works with 230 volts or one that supports dual voltage.
  • Normally electrical devices designed for a lower voltage (such as 110 volts) and then used in a 230 volt outlet run the potential risk of damage to your device, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse.
  • You don't need a power converter if you need to recharge a smaller electrical device such as a laptop as these are typically designed for international use and support dual voltage, but you should always always check the device for dual voltage support prior to your journey.
  • When powering appliances which draw more power or generate heat (such as curling irons and hair straighteners) then you will need to use a much larger higher wattage heavy duty power converter which allows the appliance to be used with a 230 volt Lao power outlet.
  • It will be more cost effective to purchase a robust lightweight dual voltage travel appliance than trying to bring a much heavier power converter to Laos just to use your existing domestic appliance.
  • Read these comprehensive guides on how to use clothes irons, curling wands, hair straighteners and hairdryers with a Lao power outlet which includes guides on some affordable dual voltage alternatives.  [10] [18] [AD]

What converter do I need for Laos?

You will need to buy a step down power converter which will allow you to use any 100-120 volt appliance in Laos. [10] [AD]

What voltage does Laos use?

Laos uses 230 volts in their power outlets. [2]

https://www.iec.ch/worldplugs/

How to convert 230 volts to 110 volts

  1. Use a step down power converter to allow you to use a 110 or 120 volt appliance with a 230 volt Lao power outlet.
  2. If the power converter doesn't include the correct shaped plug then it will also be necessary to plug in the power cord from the power converter into a power adapter for Laos before plugging that into a Lao power outlet.
  3. Some power converters include the ability to perform both step up and step down voltage conversions, therefore it may be necessary to manually switch the converter to output the voltage to the 110-120 volt range.
  4. Plug your appliance into the converter and turn the power on, your 110-120 volt appliance can now be used with a 230 volt Lao power outlet. [10] [AD]
What is the difference between a transformer and a power converter?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a transformer and a power converter?

Converters and transformers are both used to change one voltage to another, but this ambiguity can cause confusion as their purposes are different:

  • Power converters are designed for simple electrical appliances which typically generate heat or use motors such as clothes irons, shavers or hair dryers. Transformers are designed for more complex electronic items such as televisions or games consoles.
  • Buying a power converter is cheaper than buying a power transformer.
  • Power transformers are larger and heavier making them more suited for permanent residential use; for example an expat wishing to use an imported television would need to use a transformer for this purpose.
  • Power converters are more suitable for travellers wishing to bring domestic appliances abroad such as hair dryers or flat irons. However, it is more practical and cost effective to purchase a dual voltage appliance designed for travel rather than a heavier power converter.
  • Power converters are suitable for 2 pin ungrounded appliances, it could be harder to find a converter if you want to use a grounded 3 pin appliance.
  • Transformers can be used constantly however it is recommended that converters are used for no longer than a couple of hours at a time.
  • Shops may sell transformers under the name of converters, for the purposes this guide we will be referring to both converters and transformers as converters.
How can I tell if I have a dual voltage device?

Dual voltage hair dryer

How can I tell if I have a dual voltage device?

One way to see if your appliance is single voltage or dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the charger or on the appliance itself, typically near to where the power cord goes. This location will depend on the make or model of your appliance, it could also be written on the box.

  • Single voltage devices could say a specific number - such as 120V.
  • Single voltage devices could also say a small voltage range (20 volts difference) with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 220-240V.
  • Dual voltage devices will say a larger voltage range separated with a slash - such as 110/240V.

Substantiations

See the power adapter substantions section for more information on how we compared travel adapters.

What type of adapter do you need for Laos?

Which type of adapter will I need for Laos?

The type of power converter which is best to use in Laos will depend on various requirements, prior to choosing which adapter to pack we recommend reading through the following checklist:

What different types of devices do you need to charge in Laos?

Will you need to power appliances

What different types of devices do you need to charge in Laos?

  • There are three types of electrical devices:
    • Low wattage electrical items which plug into an electrical outlet - for example a laptop.
    • High wattage appliances that can be plugged into an electrical outlet - for example hair straighteners or clothes irons.
    • USB electrical devices which charge with a USB port - for example mobile phones and tablet computers.
  • When you only want to take just USB powered devices then a simple travel USB wall charger is ideal because you'll only need to pack that single lightweight charger and appropriate USB charging cables whilst leaving your domestic chargers at home.
  • Travel power strips are ideal for powering and converting voltage for many low wattage devices (such as cameras), but unsuitable for high wattage appliances (such as hair irons) that need voltage conversion, potentially overloading it.
How many electrical devices are you bringing to Laos?

Family may need to recharge devices too

How many electrical devices are you bringing to Laos?

  • Try adding up how many electrical items you intend to bring to Laos (for example laptops, cell phones, tablets, eReaders, hair dryers or clothes irons).
    • Remember to take into account that you might own more devices at a later date. Are you thinking about buying a new tablet computer next year?
    • There are a growing amount of rechargeable electronics such as electric shavers that utilise a USB port as their power charging source. Therefore if you have to replace a device it could use a USB adapter so please check that your travel adapter has enough spare ports to power these also.
  • Will you also be travelling with family who will need to charge their devices as well?

Do your devices only work with a 230 volt power outlet?

How many Lao power outlets are available?

How many power outlets will be available

How many Lao power outlets are available?

  • Your hotel in Laos may offer only a single power outlet on the wall, this could be a problem if charging the batteries of more than one device overnight because you'll only be able to recharge one device at a time then have to keep swapping every few hours.
  • To charge more than one device at the same time we recommend bringing a travel USB wall charger or a travel power strip which can power multiple USB ports and power outlets. [8] [AD]
Are you only planning on charging USB devices?

A USB cable

Are you only planning on charging USB devices?

How much can you afford to pay?

  • A cheap power adapter can charge one device in Laos (provided that it is dual voltage or works with 230 volts) however investing in a little more will allow you to power multiple devices at once and be able to use them in multiple different countries.

Are you planning on visiting anywhere abroad in the future?

Is Laos the only location you'll be visiting?

Are you flying long haul to travel to Laos?

How long does it take to fly

Are you flying long haul to travel to Laos?

  • If you are taking a long trip to get to Laos consider bringing an appropriate charger which is ideal for airports that can be used with multiple outlet types, one which can be carried in hand luggage and can quickly top up phones and tablets.
  • Not all airlines actually have power outlets for the public so think about using a travel portable charger for recharging on the go. After arriving you may have to use a phone to make a telephone call, receiving messages, using sat nav or viewing an itinerary; ensure that your phone has enough battery power stored. [4] [AD]
Do you bringing just hand luggage to Laos?

Are you only using hand luggage

Do you bringing just hand luggage to Laos?

Will you always have good access to electrical power?

  • Electricty in Laos will often fluctuate and this can cause damage to your devices, so it is advisable to use a power adapter which offers built in surge protection such as a travel power strip.
  • Due to Laos having power cuts or having partial coverage of power in certain areas you might discover that whichever power charger you use won't function anyway. Packing a portable charger or a solar backpack will prepare you for a power cut and areas of limited electricity.  [4] [4] [16] [AD]

Would you like to use your charger when returning to the UK?

What can I connect to a Lao power outlet

Travel appliances that can plug into a Lao power outlet

Beats Pill speakers which can connect to a Lao power outlet

Jabra Bluetooth speakers which are compatible with a Lao power outlet

Mobile phones which can be connected to the Lao power outlet

Apple iPhones that can connect to the Lao power outlet

Samsung Galaxy phones that can connect to a Lao power outlet

Amazon Kindle tablets which work with a Lao power outlet

A list of Apple iPads which are compatible with a Lao power outlet

Corrections

We endeavor to ensure all details on this page are correct and relevant to travellers visiting Laos, if you wish to contribute any useful information or feedback please email travel@wikiconnections.org. For more comprehensive technical details visit the Wikipedia page on AC power plugs and sockets[19]

Disclaimer

WikiConnections is not responsible for any injury or damage caused due to using any type of suggested product with any other electrical device or appliance in any location, full details are available on the disclaimer page. While WikiConnections strives to make the information on this website as timely and accurate as possible, we make no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the contents of this site, and expressly disclaim liability for errors and omissions in the contents of this site. All functions and capabilities should be checked prior to purchasing or using any power adapter. Assumptions on if any power adapter, charger, converter or power strip works in any location is based on data from publicly available sources and if it fits the primary power outlet used in that country. WikiConnections has not taken into consideration other less common power outlets which might be found as these might only be used in certain areas or in the process of being phased out.

Where possible, WikiConnections only recommends the type of product as being suitable along with alternatives and does not make any endorsement for any specific brand or product. Always check with the manufacturer to ensure full compatibility prior to attempting to use any device. Always check the reputation of the manufacturer and product to ensure the quality and safety of any electrical device being used.

  1. Wikipedia - Lao Wikipedia web page.
  2. iec.ch - International Electrotechnical Commission World Plugs
  3. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  4. Portable charger - Portable chargers are invaluable batteries for travel, especially in unfamiliar locations. Advanced charging technologies offer fast and efficient power delivery to mobile phones, tablets and headphones via USB ports..
  5. Wikipedia - power adaptor
  6. Universal travel power adapter - The universal travel power adapter is a versatile single solution for power on the go, compatible in over 150+ countries worldwide. A single unit compact design makes it a travel essential which easily fits into any travel bag..
  7. 4 Port USB Wall Charger - A 4-port USB wall charger is an electrical device that provides simultaneous charging for up to four USB-compatible devices. It often includes interchangeable international plug adapters for global use..
  8. Travel power strip - Combining surge protection, AC outlets, USB ports and swappable plug adapters, the travel power strip is a comprehensive power solution for global travellers..
  9. Plug adapter set - A plug adapter set is a future-proof travel essential, containing various adapters to fit diverse power outlets around the world to ensure compatibility in a wide range of countries..
  10. Step down power converter - Step-down power converters are engineered to safely convert higher voltages of 220V / 240V to 110V / 120V, allowing the use of appliances designed for lower voltage systems to be used in countries with higher voltage power outlets..
  11. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  12. Rechargeable hair dryer - Rechargeable hair dryers ideal for travel are lightweight and cordless for mobility, have low-heat settings for hair health, and a fast-charging battery for time efficiency. Additional LED indicators can help monitor battery life..
  13. Rechargeable cordless flat iron - Modern rechargeable cordless flat irons use advanced battery technology for consistent temperature control. Suitable for airline safe travel with universal voltage and USB charging capabilities..
  14. 20,000mAh portable charger - A high-capacity charging device featuring 20,000mAh energy storage, capable of multiple charge cycles for mobile phones and some tablets. Suitable for extended periods away from power sources..
  15. USB-C PD power bank - A USB-C PD power bank utilises Power Delivery technology to facilitate high-speed charging, particularly for laptops requiring substantial power. A high wattage power bank ensures fast and efficient energy transfer, supporting USB-C enabled devices..
  16. Solar backpack - Incorporating large solar panel with USB outputs, solar backpacks are ideal as a reliable secondary source of energy for device charging in remote travel locations where electrical outlets are unavailable or unreliable..
  17. Solar power bank - Solar power banks integrate photovoltaic cells to offer a self-sustaining charging option, ideal when a backup power source is required for locations where electrical outlets are unreliable, scarce or unknown..
  18. Heavy duty power converter - Heavy-duty power converters robust voltage transformation capabilities for designed for high-wattage devices, making them best suited for appliances like kettles and hair dryers that consume a significant amounts of power..
  19. Wikipedia - AC power plugs and sockets -