Preparing a trip requires patience and attention to detail to avoid surprises upon arrival. If you are taking your electronic devices with you (phone, laptop, camera), you must make sure they work properly. In that sense, find out about the plugs in Lanzarote and other electricity-related details.
Which Plug Types Are Used in Lanzarote?
In Lanzarote, as in the rest of Spain, there are used two plug types: Type C and Type F. Both have two round pins and are common throughout Europe.
- Type C: This plug has two round pins and is the older of the two. It is often referred to as the “Europlug”.
- Type F: Also known as “Schuko”, this plug has two round pins and two grounding clips on the sides. It is compatible with Type C plugs.
The main difference between the two is the grounding connection. Type F provides grounding, whereas Type C does not. Due to this, new Type C sockets can no longer be installed on the island; old ones can only be replaced with the same type.
Both types are compatible, so it is likely you will find both in Lanzarote.
Voltage & Frequency: European Standards
Likewise, the island follows the European standard for voltage and frequency. This means the voltage is 230 volts and the frequency is 50 Hz.
If you are travelling from the United Kingdom, you won’t have issues with the voltage, as it is similar. However, the plugs are different.
Visitors from countries such as the United States and Canada must pay attention since they generally use voltages of 110-120V.
Do You Need a Travel Adapter in Lanzarote?
Depending on where you are travelling from and the type of plug your devices use, you may need an adapter.
From the UK
Travellers arriving from the United Kingdom enjoy several advantages on the island: the UK and Lanzarote share the same time zone; they will find plenty of information in their language, and the voltage is similar. However, they must pay attention to the plugs, as they are different.
In the United Kingdom use Type G plugs, which have three rectangular pins, so they are incompatible with Type C or Type F plugs used in Lanzarote. Consequently, you will need a Type G to Type C/F adapter.
From the US / Canada / Australia
If you are travelling from the United States or Canada, you will need an adapter, since these countries use Type A and Type B plugs. Additionally, most devices from the US are designed to operate with a voltage of 110-120V. For this reason, you will need a voltage converter.
Some modern devices, such as laptops, mobile phones and tablets, are dual voltage and operate with 100-240V. In these cases, you will not need a converter, but you must check the label to confirm it.
Australia uses Type I plugs, which have three flat pins arranged in a ‘V’ shape. Therefore, an adapter will be needed, as they are incompatible with sockets in Lanzarote. However, the mains voltage in Australia is 230V, so no converter is needed.
From EU Countries
If you are travelling from another European Union country, it is likely your plugs (Type C or Type F) will be compatible with those in Lanzarote. In this case, you won’t need an adapter.
How to Choose the Right Travel Adapter
If your devices use a plug different to Types C or F you will need a travel adapter. Although it may seem confusing, choosing the correct one is simple.
Types of Travel Adapters
If you are only travelling to Europe, a specific adapter for Type C/F sockets may be more compact and economical. However, if you are a frequent traveller, it might be more convenient to purchase a universal adapter, which is compatible with a wide variety of plugs from different countries.
It is advisable to buy an adapter before your trip. But here is an airport travel tip: adapter plugs can be purchased in airport shops.
Adapter Safety Tips
Here are some safety tips if you need to use an adapter:
- Safety certification: Make sure the adapter has safety certification (CE, RoHS, etc.) to avoid electrical risks.
- Load capacity: Check the adapter can handle the power of your devices, especially if you plan to use it with high-consumption appliances such as hairdryers.
- Do not overload: Avoid connecting too many devices to the same adapter, as this can overload it and cause a short circuit.
Voltage Converters vs Plug Adapters (Difference Explained)
A voltage converter is not the same as a plug adapter. It is important to know the difference between the two to understand their function.
When You Only Need a Plug Adapter
A plug adapter simply changes the shape of the plug so it fits into the socket. It does not change the voltage.
You only need it if your devices are compatible with the 230V voltage used in Lanzarote. You can verify this on the device label, where it says, “Input: 100-240V”.
When You Also Need a Voltage Converter
If your devices are incompatible with the 230V voltage, you will need a voltage converter and the Type F plug. Using a device that is not compatible with the voltage can damage it or even cause a fire.
Practical Tips for Powering Your Devices in Lanzarote
Before packing, check the voltage of your devices. Most modern appliances are dual voltage (110-240V), which means you will not need a converter. However, if you have devices that only work with 110V, you will need one.
Common Traveller Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting the adapter: this is the most common mistake. Make sure to check the plug types of your devices and bring a suitable adapter if necessary. You may find one when shopping in Lanzarote, but it is much more convenient to buy it before travelling.
- Mixing up voltage limits: connecting a 110V device to a 230V socket without a converter can damage the appliance. Always check voltage specifications.
- Overloading sockets: connecting too many devices into a single socket can cause a short circuit or fire. Use power strips with overload protection if you need to connect several devices.
Essentials Checklist Before Your Trip
To make sure you don’t forget anything, here is a list of essential items you should include in your luggage:
- Plug adapter: essential if your plugs are not Type C or Type F.
- Voltage converter: only if you have devices that are incompatible with 230V.
- Multi-USB charger: ideal for charging multiple devices from a single socket.
- Spare fuses/plugs: it never hurts to carry a few spares in case a fuse blows or a plug fails.
This guide to plugs in Lanzarote will allow you to take the necessary precautions to avoid inconveniences during your trip. Remember that at Lanzarote Transfer, we help you have a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Sources:
- https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/canary-islands
- https://www.worldstandards.eu/electricity/plug-voltage-by-country/canary-islands
- https://wise.com/es/plug-types/lanzarote
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