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

Power adapters for France

If you are packing for a trip it's useful to know if you can power your vital devices when you arrive at your destination. However, without knowing which wall socket is being used in France you are more likely to bring the wrong adaptor, therefore needing to borrow a potentially expensive charger when you're there. Differing voltages and standards 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 article shows exactly what you'll need in advance to charge your electronics in France. This page has links to useful instructions telling you how to supply power to your devices when you are in France by using their standard E or C type French 230 volt 50Hz plug outlets, Type E wall outlets are typically used by most French. Power sockets will vary depending on which area you are travelling to so we recommend reading the power adapters list for a complete list of regions and countries.

What is the best power adapter for France?

The best power adapter for France will be a Type E power adapter which allows you to use any 230 volt appliance or device. [2] [AD]

What is the best power adapter for France?

What is a power adapter?

Power adapters are compact and lightweight plastic adapters which allow a French power outlet to accept a power plug from an appliance from a foreign country.

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 French power outlet do?

A power adapter enables visitors from another country to use their electronic and electrical appliances in France simply by altering the shape of the power plug to fit the power socket.

Do I need a power adapter for France?

It will depend on where you are travelling from and the shape of plug you are using.

Do I need a plug adapter for France if I'm from Canada?

Canadian plugs won't physically fit into a French power outlet therefore you will need to use a plug adapter for France, and as the voltage is different you will also need to bring a power converter for France to prevent overheating or damage to your device or appliance if it isn't dual voltage.

Can a European plug work in France?

There is a possibility that a plug adapter that works in another country in Europe won't work in France because there are 8 different power outlet types used throughout Europe.

Does a power adapter change the voltage in France?

Power adapters can only adapt the shape of a plug to fit into a 230 volt French power outlet and can't convert to a different voltage. Should you wish to safely use any 100, 110 or 120 volt device then you also need to bring a more expensive step down power converter for France.

Where to buy a power adapter in France

Arriving at an airport

Where to buy a power adapter in France

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 France in Canada

Power adapters for sale in an airport

Where to buy a power adapter for France in Canada

France 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 - France Wikipedia page.
  2. Type E plug adapter - A CEE 7/5 socket and CEE 7/6 plug compliant Type E adapter designed with a focus on safety, featuring two round pins and an earthing hole. Ideal for use in the France, Belgium, Poland and several African nations..
  3. Wikipedia - power adaptor