South Africa power adapters - What adapter do I need for South Africa?
Power adapters for South Africa
When packing for a trip to South Africa it can be helpful to know in advance if you can power your important electronics when you get there. Without knowing which power socket is used you could pack the wrong power charger, thereby leaving you needing to buy a suitable power adaptor on arrival. Various combinations of frequencies and standards can often be confusing when planning on staying in another country for the first time traveller. This isn't as complicated as it appears, with only a handful of different types of standards being used throughout the world this guide tells you exactly what you'll need in advance to power your device in South Africa. This page contains links to instructions telling you how to supply power to your devices when travelling to South Africa using the Type M, C, F or N 230 volt 50Hz plug outlets, a majority of South Africans will use the Type M power outlets. You will discover that power adapters will change from country to country therefore we recommend reading the power adapters page for a complete list of regions and countries.
What is the best power adapter for South Africa?
The best power adapter for South Africa is a Type M plug adapter which will allow you to use any 230 volt appliance or device. [2] [AD]
What is a power adapter?
A power adapter for South Africa is a compact and lightweight plastic adapter which allows a South African power outlet to accept a power plug from an appliance from a foreign country. [3]
Do I need a power adapter for South Africa?
If the shape of the wall outlet in South Africa is different to the power outlet in your home country then you will need a power adapter.
Can a power adapter convert the voltage from a South African power outlet?
Power adapters can only adapt the shape of a plug to fit into a 230 volt South African power outlet and can't convert to a higher voltage. If you wish to safely use any 100, 110 or 120 volt device you will also need to bring a step down power converter along with the correct type of adapter.
What does a power adapter for a South African power outlet do?
A power adapter for a South African power outlet allows a visitor travelling from a different location to use electronic devices in South Africa simply by altering the shape of the power plug from one type to another.
Power adapters for sale in an airport
Where to buy a power adapter for South Africa in the UK
South Africa 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.
Arriving at an airport
Where to buy a power adapter in South Africa
On arrival power adapters could be found in local electrical high street shops and drug stores, but always check the build quality first as safety standards might be different in a foreign country as this is important when dealing with electrical goods. Keep in mind that a shopping trip searching for power adapters in an unknown location might be impractical, especially as this needs to happen quickly before batteries run out.
Hotel receptions could have a power adapter for sale, hire or as a complimentary extra for guests; however, availability is normally limited and a hotel might not have the exact type required for your country. If in doubt, call ahead to the hotel first and request a reservation as it is unlikely that an adapter will be found in your room on arrival.
External links
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- Wikipedia - South Africa Wikipedia page.
- Type M plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type M travel adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in African countries like South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Swaziland, as well as in parts of India..
- Wikipedia - power adaptor