Power adapters for Europe - What plug adapter do I need for Russia?

Power adapters for Russia

If packing for a trip to Russia it can be helpful to know if you can use any common electrical devices such as mobile phones or tablets when you're there. Without knowing which power socket to expect you are likely to bring the wrong charger, leaving you having to purchase a potentially expensive adaptor on arrival that could be incompatible. Varying different standards and voltages can all lead to confusion when planning to travel to another country for the first time traveller. With only a handful of different types of plug sockets used throughout the world this guide tells you exactly what you'll need in advance to charge your electronics in Russia. This page has links to step by step instructions which shows exactly how to supply power to your devices when staying in Russia using the Type F or C Russian 220 volt 50Hz power outlets, please be aware Type F power outlets will be used by a majority of Russians. You'll discover power sockets vary depending on which area you are travelling to so please read the power adapters page for a full list of regions and countries.

What is the best power adapter for Russia?

The best power adapter for Russia will be a Type F power adapter which will allow you to use any 220 volt device or appliance. [2] [AD]

What is the best power adapter for Russia?
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What is a power adapter?

A power adapter is a small, cheap and lightweight plastic adapter that permits a different type of power plug from a different region to easily slot into an electrical outlet in Russia.

Also known as: an electrical adapter, plug adapter, travel adapter, electrical adaptor, mains travel adapter or power adaptor. [3]

What does a power adapter for a Russian power outlet do?

A power adapter enables visitors travelling from a different country to use their electronic and electrical appliances and devices in Russia by adapting the shape of the power plug from one type to another.

Do I need a power adapter for Russia?

If the shape of the Russian power outlet isn't the same as the power outlet in your home country then you will need a power adapter.

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

No, a power adapter only adapts the shape of a plug to fit into a 220 volt Russian power outlet and is unable to convert the power to a higher voltage. If you need to safely use a 100-120 volt appliance then you will also need to bring a step down power converter for Russia.

Can I use a European plug in Russia?

As there are 8 different power outlet types used throughout Europe there is a chance that a power adapter that works in another territory in Europe doesn't fit in a Russian power outlet.

Where to buy a power adapter in Russia

Arriving at an airport

Where to buy a power adapter in Russia

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.

Where to buy a power adapter for Russia in the UK

Power adapters for sale in an airport

Where to buy a power adapter for Russia in the UK

Russia 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.

  1. Wikipedia - Russia Wikipedia page.
  2. 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..
  3. Wikipedia - power adaptor