European adapters - What power adapter do I need for Portugal?

Power adapters for Portugal

If organizing to travel to Portugal it's helpful to know if you'll be able to use your indispensable electrical devices like mobiles or laptop computers at your destination. By not knowing which power supply is being used you may bring the wrong adaptor, therefore leaving you having to buy or borrow a suitable charger when you're there which could be incompatible. Various voltages and sockets can all cause confusion when planning on staying in another country especially if you've never visited before. With only a handful of different types of common standards used in the world this article tells you exactly what you'll need in advance to charge your device in Portugal. This page contains links to step by step instructions telling you exactly how to charge your devices when you are travelling to Portugal using their F or C type 230 volt 50Hz power outlets, Type F plug outlets are used by most Portuguese. You'll discover power changes depending on which area you are travelling to therefore we suggest reading the power adapters for a complete list of countries.

What is the best power adapter for Portugal?

The best power adapter for Portugal is a Type F power adapter which is suitable for powering any 230 volt appliance or device. [2] [AD]

What is the best power adapter for Portugal?

What is a power adapter for a Portuguese power outlet?

A power adapter is a compact, cheap and lightweight plastic adapter which permits a Portuguese power outlet to accept a different shaped power plug from an appliance from another region.

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 Portugal do?

A power adapter allows visitors from a different country to use electrical appliances in Portugal simply by adapting the shape of the power plug from one shape to another.

Do I need a plug adapter for Portugal?

If the type of Portuguese power outlet isn't the same as the type of Portuguese power outlet then you will need a power adapter.

Do I need a power adapter if I'm visiting Portugal from Canada?

If you are visiting from Canada then you will need to use a power adapter for Portugal as Canadian plugs won't fit into a Portuguese power outlet, and as the voltage is different you will also need to use a power converter for Portugal if your appliance or charger isn't dual voltage to prevent overheating or damage.

Does a power adapter for Europe work in Portugal?

As there are 8 different types of power outlets in Europe there is a chance that a plug adapter that works in another territory in Europe won't fit in a Portuguese power outlet.

Will a power adapter convert the voltage in Portugal?

A power adapter only adapts the shape of a plug to fit into a 230 volt Portuguese power outlet and can't convert the power to a higher voltage. Should you need to safely use any 100-120 volt device you also need to bring a step down power converter along with the right type of power adapter.

Where to buy a power adapter in Portugal

Arriving at an airport

Where to buy a power adapter in Portugal

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 Portugal in Canada

Power adapters for sale in an airport

Where to buy a power adapter for Portugal in Canada

Portugal to Canadian power adapters will most likely be available in most major Canadian International airports 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 Relay, The Source or 6&Sundry, but expect to pay more than regular prices. Airports will be your last chance to buy a power adapter before departure, always check the returns policy to ensure you can easily exchange or refund a faulty or unsuitable product in an airside shop.

It will be more convenient and cheaper to buy the correct power adapter in advance of your trip. Best Buy, Costco, Home Depot and other high street electrical stores normally sell a limited range of travel adapters to popular locations however for widest choice it is recommended to buy a power adapter online.

  1. Wikipedia - Portugal country page on wikipedia.org.
  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