United States of America to Netherlands
The United States of America to Netherlands route is electrically incompatible. Different plug types and 110V voltage difference.
Need an Adapter?
Yes! Yes, you need a Type A/B to Type C/F adapter
Need a Voltage Converter?
Yes β 230V can damage single-voltage United States of America devices
π Why This Route Matters
Flying from United States of America to Netherlands? The electrical infrastructure you're used to won't follow you there. Your United States of America devices with Type A/B plugs won't fit Netherlands's Type C/F outlets without an adapter. Where things get tricky: United States of America supplies 120V of power, but Netherlands delivers 230V. That's enough difference to damage devices without proper conversion. National animal is the Achterhooks. Plan ahead, and you'll avoid the airport electronics store markups.
Side-by-Side Comparison β‘
π― What Locals Know (That Tourists Don't)
- β¦Uses 24H time format (e.g., 23:00)
- β¦Temperature measured in Celsius (Β°C)
- β¦Electrical system uses 230V at 50Hz with Type C/F plugs
- β¦Tap water safety: drinkable
- β¦Convenience stores and pharmacies often stock basic adapters for a fraction of airport prices
- β¦When in doubt, look for "INPUT: 100-240V" on your device. That means it's safe without a converter.
What You Need for This Trip π§³
Plug Adapter
RequiredUnited States of America's Type A/B plugs won't fit Netherlands's Type C/F outlets.
Voltage Converter
May Be RequiredNetherlands uses 230V vs United States of America's 120V. Most modern electronics handle this automatically.
Airport & Arrival Tip
AMS handles millions of travelers annually, and power access has improved significantly. Look for dedicated device charging kiosks in the arrivals hall (some require payment, others are free). Some airports have vending machines with travel essentials including adapters. Worth checking before heading to stores. Airport express trains and shuttle buses usually don't have outlets. Charge before you board. Check into your hotel/Airbnb first before exploring. Test your adapters and charge devices fully.
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. Look for adapters with surge protection. Cheap ones can fail and damage devices. Power banks must go in carry-on luggage (not checked bags). TSA and international rules are strict about this. 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 Netherlands. Here's what changes throughout the year. **Summer travel:** Summer heat means aggressive air conditioning. Battery life suffers in cold indoor environments. **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. Seasonal extremes (hot summers, cold winters) impact battery performance more than most travelers expect.