Travel tips for power plugs in Taiwan

Here are some tips to make your next trip to Taiwan much easier!

🔌 Plugs

Most of the electrical outlets in Taiwan are designed to accept both Type A and Type B plugs, so you should be able to use devices with either plug type.

• Type A: This plug has two flat parallel pins. It's similar to the plugs used in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. If your device's plug has these two flat pins, it should work in Taiwan.
• Type B: Type B plugs have two flat parallel pins like Type A, but they also have a grounding pin in the shape of a round or U-shaped prong. Type B sockets are less common in Taiwan but can still be found, especially in newer buildings and hotels.

However, it's a good idea to carry a universal adapter or a plug converter if your devices have different plug types. These adapters are readily available at airports, electronic stores, and even in some hotels.

⚡️ Voltage and Frequency

Voltage in Taiwan is 110V, and the standard frequency is 60Hz. You can use all your equipment in Taiwan if the outlet voltage in your own country is between 100V-127V. This is mostly the case in the US, Canada, and countries in South America.

✈️ If you're traveling from North and Central America or Japan to Taiwan

You likely won't need a voltage converter or transformer because the voltage is the same. However, you may need a plug adapter to fit your devices into Taiwanese outlets if your plugs are different. Most modern electronic devices, such as laptops and smartphone chargers, can handle a range of voltages and frequencies, so you may only need a plug adapter for these devices to work in Taiwan. Always check the voltage and frequency compatibility of your devices to be sure.

✈️ If you're traveling to Taiwan from most other parts of the world (except some areas in the Philippines, Peru, South Korea, and Brazil)

You may need to pay attention to the voltage difference. You may need a voltage converter or transformer for certain devices, and a plug adapter to fit your plugs into Taiwanese outlets. Always check your device's voltage and frequency compatibility and be prepared with the necessary adapters or converters if needed.

If your electronic devices are not compatible with this voltage and frequency, you may need a voltage converter or transformer. Most modern electronic devices, such as laptops and smartphone chargers, have built-in voltage converters and can handle a range of voltages, so you may only need a plug adapter.

In short, always check the voltage requirements on your devices' power adapters and labels to ensure they can handle Taiwan's voltage before plugging them in.

💁🏻‍♂️ What if you don't have the right plug?

It's a good idea to plan and carry a universal plug adapter or the appropriate plug converter when traveling internationally to avoid any inconvenience.

• Adapter or Converter: Check if your hotel offers plug adapters or converters for guests. Many hotels in tourist areas provide these items to accommodate their international guests. You can inquire at the front desk.
• Airport and Electronics Stores: Most major airports in Taiwan, especially in Taipei, have stores that sell travel essentials, including plug adapters and converters. You can buy one upon arrival if needed.
• Ask Locals or Fellow Travelers: If you're in a bind, ask locals or fellow travelers if they have a spare adapter you can borrow or if they know where to find one nearby.
• USB Charging: Many modern hotels and public spaces in Taiwan have USB charging ports available. You can charge your devices using a USB cable without the need for a plug adapter.
• Charge at Hotels: If you're staying at a hotel, they may have multi-standard outlets in the rooms, or they can provide you with a plug adapter or converter.
• Internet Cafes and Coffee Shops: Some internet cafes and coffee shops in Taiwan may have charging stations with various adapters available for customers to use.

FAQs

Can I connect my laptop charger to an electrical outlet in Taiwan?

Most laptop chargers are designed to be compatible with a range of voltages (dual voltage), so they should work with outlets in Taiwan without any issues. But you should always double-check the voltage requirements of your laptop charger before using it in another country.

Can I charge my iPhone, Android phone or other smartphone in Taiwan?

Chargers for iPhones, Android phones and other smartphones or cell phones are usually dual voltage, so you can use them all over the world. However, it is possible you'll need an adapter to plug the charger into a Taiwan outlet.

Can I use my hair dryer, hair straightener or curling iron in Taiwan?

Travel adapters and voltage converters do not always work well with devices that need a lot of power such as a hair dryer, hair straightener, or curling iron, which can be dangerous to use with these devices. So a safer option would be to purchase a travel-specific dual voltage hair dryer, hair straightener, or curling iron that will work all over the world. Small and compact travel devices are easy to carry and you'll avoid the need for a voltage converter.

Last but not least, consider purchasing a portable charger or power bank for your devices in case you encounter situations where you can't charge them immediately.