Things worth knowing before you go.
Quick facts to keep in your back pocket — currency, language, the time difference, which side of the road they drive on.
Are your devices safe? Run the check.
South Africa runs at 230V / 50Hz. Find out which of your devices plug in safely and which need a converter — before you pack.
Every plug type, in one place. All 15.
Type A through Type O — what they look like, where they're used, which countries share them. The full reference our visitors come back to most.
What every traveler should pack — and why.
Four picks for any international trip — what they actually do, and the moments where they pay for themselves.
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Everything we'd actually pack.
Curated Amazon lists, organized by what you actually need at each phase of the trip — from packing the suitcase to landing in a new country.
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The plug used in South Africa.
Cape Town and Johannesburg hotels typically feature newer Type N outlets, while older establishments and residential areas still rely heavily on Type M sockets. Many universal adapters cannot accommodate the large Type M plugs, making them problematic for travelers. Rural lodges, B&Bs, and township accommodations often have only Type M outlets. Tourist-focused areas increasingly install Type N, but older buildings throughout the country maintain their original Type M infrastructure.
Full Type D guide →Other places that use Type D.
Power adapter guides for routes to and from South Africa.
Country-to-country guides with the exact adapter, voltage, and packing tips for each route.
What type of power plug is used in South Africa?+
South Africa uses Type D and Type M and Type N power plugs and electrical outlets. The standard voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz.
Do I need a travel adapter for South Africa?+
Yes, travelers from the United States, Canada, Mexico, and other countries using Type A/B plugs will need a travel adapter for South Africa. The Type D/M/N outlets are not compatible with American flat-blade plugs.
Do I need a voltage converter for South Africa?+
South Africa uses 230V. Dual-voltage electronics (smartphones, laptops, cameras) labeled "100-240V" work fine with just a plug adapter. Single-voltage appliances from a different voltage zone (hair dryers, curling irons, kettles) must NOT be plugged in directly — they can be damaged or dangerous. Check every device label before plugging in.
Can I charge my iPhone or Android phone in South Africa?+
Yes. All modern smartphone chargers (including iPhone and Android USB chargers) are dual-voltage (100-240V) and work in South Africa. You only need a plug adapter to fit the Type D/M/N outlets.
Can I use my laptop charger in South Africa?+
Yes. Laptop chargers from Apple, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and other major brands are universal (100-240V). You only need a Type D/M/N plug adapter for South Africa.
What is the emergency phone number in South Africa?+
The emergency phone number in South Africa is 10111. Save this number in your phone before your trip.