United States of America to Germany
United States of America uses Type A/B at 120V, while Germany runs Type C/F at 230V. You need both adapters and converters.
Need an Adapter?
Yes! Yes, you need a Type A/B to Type C/F adapter
Need a Voltage Converter?
Yes — 230V can damage single-voltage United States of America devices
🔍 Why This Route Matters
United States of America and Germany represent two distinct electrical worlds. Here's what you need to know before you go. United States of America uses Type A/B plugs, while Germany runs on Type C/F. They're completely incompatible. The bigger issue is voltage: United States of America runs 120V while Germany operates at 230V. That's a 110V difference that can fry sensitive electronics. National animal is the East Frisian Low Saxon. Getting it right means one less thing to worry about when you land.
Side-by-Side Comparison ⚡
🎯 What Locals Know (That Tourists Don't)
- ✦Uses 24H time format (e.g., 23:00)
- ✦Temperature measured in Celsius (°C)
- ✦Electrical system uses 230V at 50Hz with Type C/F plugs
- ✦Tap water safety: drinkable
- ✦Most Germany hotels have a limited number of adapters at the front desk. Ask early.
- ✦German hotels are generally well-equipped, but check for Type C vs Type F compatibility
- ✦Hair dryers and curling irons are the most common casualties of voltage mismatches. Check device labels.
What You Need for This Trip 🧳
Plug Adapter
RequiredUnited States of America's Type A/B plugs won't fit Germany's Type C/F outlets.
Voltage Converter
May Be RequiredGermany uses 230V vs United States of America's 120V. Most modern electronics handle this automatically.
Airport & Arrival Tip
Landing at Germany's FRA? Here's what to expect for power and connectivity. Most airport lounges have ample outlets and USB ports. Worth the day pass if you have a long layover. If you forgot an adapter, check duty-free shops before overpriced gate kiosks. Prices vary wildly. Many ride-share drivers have USB chargers available. Don't hesitate to ask. If your adapter isn't working, hotel front desks can usually lend you one (or direct you to the nearest store).
Packing Advice
Pack both a plug adapter (Type A/B to Type C/F) AND a voltage converter (120V to 230V). You'll need both. Consider a universal travel adapter with USB ports. It'll work for Germany and future trips. A 10,000-20,000 mAh power bank is essential. It's enough to fully charge a phone 2-3 times during long days out. Label your cables with colored tape or tags. Hotels have lost luggage full of identical black cables. Laptops and phone chargers are almost always dual-voltage (100-240V). Converters are usually for other items. Pack adapters in your carry-on. You might need to charge during layovers or if checked luggage is delayed.
Seasonal Considerations
Power needs vary by season when traveling to Germany. Here's what changes throughout the year. **Summer travel:** Longer daylight hours mean more time exploring and less time in your hotel. Power banks essential. **Winter travel:** Shorter days mean more screen-on time for navigation and entertainment. Plan accordingly. **Holiday season:** Festive season shopping requires full phone battery for photos, maps, and payment apps. Whatever the season, arrive with everything fully charged. You can't predict your first day's access to power.