What Plug Does Spain Use? (Travel Adapter for Spain)

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Do you need a plug adapter for Spain? Yes! Scroll down to find out which one.

If you’re traveling to Spain, you’re probably wondering what type of electrical plugs they use.

That’s a good thing—the last thing you want to do is waste precious vacation time looking for a proper adaptor plug for Spain when your phone is dead!

As someone who lived in the country where I used both American and European appliances, I’m well versed in which plug Spain uses.

In this guide to electrical plugs in Spain, I’ll show you the power plugs and sockets to expect, plug types, and voltage, as well as share where to buy a travel adapter for Spain if you need one!

Which Power Plugs Does Spain Use?

When it comes to plugs in Spain, which ones do Spaniards use?

Spain uses Type C and Type F plugs.

Both Type C and F plugs consist of two round prongs (aka pins). However, there are a few small differences—although both will work in outlets in Spain.

The Type C plug, or “Europlug,”  is the most commonly used plug internationally. You actually will find the unearthed Type C plugs in almost every European country! There are two Type C plugs with differently shaped heads, the normal one that is used for low energy-consuming appliances and a higher amp, round version for things like hair dryers, heaters, etc.

Type F plugs (also called “Schuko plugs”) are similar to Type C, except that they are round and have top and bottom indentations with conductive clips in them to earth the appliance.

Now, that you know which plugs to look for you may still be wondering, “What outlets does Spain use?”

As far as which outlets Type C and F pins fit into, you’ll find Type F sockets to plug your electronics into throughout Spain. These round sockets in Spain are recessed into the wall, so you’ll need a round adaptor head to fit inside.

It’s important to note that you may find ungrounded, un-recessed Type C sockets in Spain from time to time (although they are now illegal in most countries). Your appliances that require more “juice” may not charge as quickly or work in these sockets. I’ve only found them in bathrooms in very old buildings where they are intended to be used for low-energy-consuming appliances like electric shavers.

Do I Need a Travel Adaptor for Spain?

Yes, you’ll need to bring a travel adapter if you’re traveling to Spain from a country that uses a different type of plug. These will allow you to plug in devices that have a differently shaped plug.

For example, travelers from America, Canada, and the UK all need a Spain adaptor plug!

See this (non-exhaustive) electrical adapter for Spain chart for quick reference:

Country	Plug Type	Voltage	Frequency	Spain Power Adaptor Needed?
United States	A/B	120 V	60 Hz	✅ Yes
United Kingdom	G	230 V	50 Hz	✅ Yes
Canada	A/B	120 V	60 Hz	✅ Yes
Australia	I	230 V	50 Hz	✅ Yes
Ireland	G	230 V	50 Hz	✅ Yes
France	C/E	230 V	50 Hz	⛔ No
Netherlands	C/F	230 V	50 Hz	⛔ No
Germany	C/F	230 V	50 Hz	⛔ No

What Plug Adapter Do I Need for Spain?

You have a few options when it comes to the best plug adaptor for Spain.

A Universal Travel Adapter is an excellent choice for charging your personal electronics abroad. These adaptors are compact and compatible with the plugs and outlets of multiple countries around the world (US, EU, UK, and Australia)!

This one takes input from multiple countries and charges up to 6 devices at a time. Universal adaptors are good for backpackers who want to travel light while traveling to multiple countries.

My personal favorite travel adaptor plug for Spain is a simple Type C adaptor like this one ⬇. It’s compact and lightweight, and I can plug in multiple devices with the USB or USB C inputs.

I don’t need a universal adapter when I’m only going to Spain (or other European countries like Portgual). On longer trips, I prefer to bring two—one for my bedside and one for elsewhere.

I also like to bring separate power adapters for Spain like these that I can leave on my laptop or other items with prongs that need to stay plugged in.

I’ve met many travelers over the years who use a power strip to charge multiple devices like laptops. Not only are plugs sometimes hidden away behind furniture, but it’s convenient when you’re traveling long term and have many devices to charge.

Besides, it’s always nice to offer an open socket to other travelers or digital nomads, too!

Please note that plug adaptors do not convert voltage or frequency (more on that, below).

Where to Buy an Adaptor Plug for Spain

The easiest and quickest way to get an adaptor plug for Spain is on Amazon. On Amazon, you can get a good deal on a Spain adaptor, which is often sold in multiples.

The ability to check the reviews to see if people have used the plug in Spain successfully offers additional peace of mind, too!

If you forget to order a plug adaptor before your trip, you can purchase travel adapters at airports, travel or tourist stores, or electronics stores. (If you’re already in Spain, check your nearest Ale-Hop for all sorts of phone and electronics accessories).

Do I need a Voltage Converter for Spain?

Let’s dive into the details of voltage for Spain to determine whether you need a voltage converter in addition to an adapter.

The voltage in Spain is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.

This is the same in most European countries. So, if your appliances are rated the same, you won’t need to worry about getting a voltage converter for Spain. A travel plug adaptor for Spain is all you need! 

If you’re coming from the US or Canada (which uses a different voltage and frequency from Spain) you’ll need to look at your devices to verify they are dual-voltage.

Fortunately, most electronic devices like laptops, phone and tablet chargers, and camera chargers are dual voltage. Even better, many hair styling tools like hair dryers and flat irons (known to be problematic for some travelers) are dual voltage these days. Do note that while some devices convert voltage automatically, some require you to flip a switch between voltages.

That means you can use them in both your home country (the US or Canada, in this example) and in Spain—without a voltage converter! A travel adapter plug for Spain would be all you need.

Editor’s Note: If you plan to travel a lot (or are spending extended time in Spain), you may want to consider getting European hair tools upon arrival. They are a little more expensive than in the United States, but worth it for frequent travelers.

To check if your device is dual voltage, look for “100-240V 50/60Hz” printed on the device. If you see that, the device will work with all voltages and frequencies used worldwide.

(Sometimes, the numbers vary a little, but that’s okay as manufacturers account for small variations. Technically, appliances rated between 220V and 240V are safe to plug into Spain outlets using an adaptor only. 60 Hz electronics will also operate on 50 Hz.)

On the unlikely chance your appliances don’t have two numbers side by side, that means they are single voltage and won’t work in Spain without a voltage converter. Get a voltage converter for Europe. ⤵

Plug Type in Spain FAQ’s

Do I need an adaptor or converter for Spain?

You most likely only need an adapter (also spelled adaptor) to use the power outlet in Spain since most smartphones, laptops, and other devices are dual-voltage, meaning they can withstand both 110V and 220V electricity without damage. On the odd chance you’re using a device that cannot convert 110V to 220V (a single-voltage device), you would need a voltage converter for Spain. 

Do I need a Type C or F adapter for Spain?

The electrical outlets used in Spain are type F. You will therefore need a US to Spain adapter which will convert A/B plugs to C/F plugs if you are American. If you’re coming from another country, you’ll also need an adapter that changes the shape of your plugs to C/F. Please note that power adapters for Spain don’t convert voltage or frequency.

Can I use my Apple charger in Spain?

Yes, Apple chargers are all universal in voltage 100-240 volts so you can charge your iPhone, iPad, etc. abroad. Just pick up a power adapter, and you’ll be able to charge your devices in electrical outlets in Spain.

Do I need a converter to charge my phone in Spain?

Converters convert voltage which is done in computers, tablets, and other common electronics by an internal transformer. You can double-check your devices, but they should say that they are dual-voltage. Look for something with two numbers like “100/240 V.” To power up your phone on one of the plug sockets in Spain, you’ll verly likely only need a travel adapter. 

Do American cell phones work in Europe?

Yes, most of the newer American cell phones with GSM capabilities will work in Europe. To use your phone, you can either purchase international data through our carrier or get a SIM card (physical or eSIM). We recommend trying Airalo, the world’s first eSIM store that allows you to set up everything on your phone before you land! Don’t forget to unlock your phone with your carrier, and get a power adaptor plug before traveling.

Can I use my hair dryer in Spain?

If your hair dryer is dual voltage, you should be able to insert it into Type F plug outlets in Spain with just a travel plug adaptor. Please be aware that an adapter only changes the shape of the plug. Since it doesn’t convert the voltage or frequency of the supply, you’ll need to check that your hair dryer is rated dual voltage. Fortunately, many companies now make travel hair styling tools that are dual-voltage. I particularly like the Babyliss travel hair dryer, which is powerful and compact!

Can I use my curling iron or straightener in Spain?

If your curling iron or flat iron is dual voltage, you should be able to insert it into Type F plug outlets in Spain with just a travel plug adaptor. Please be aware that an adapter only changes the shape of the plug. Since it doesn’t convert the voltage or frequency of the supply, you’ll need to check that your hot tools are rated dual voltage. Fortunately, many companies now make travel hot tools that are dual-voltage. For example, I’ve used this Conair Travel Curling Iron without issue for years.

Are Spain electrical outlets the same as the US?

No, the electrical outlets in Spain are not the same as in the United States. The plug sockets in Spain are Types C & F, whereas the United States uses electrical outlets Types A & B. To use your electronics and other dual-voltage appliances in Spain, you’ll need to pick up a travel adapter plug.

Conclusion: What Plug is Used in Spain?

Now that you know what type of plug is used in Spain, you can enjoy a stress-free trip without any fretting over whether or not your electronics will work in Spanish power outlets.

Your next step is simply to order a travel adaptor for Spain, and you’ll be on your way!

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• What is the Legal Drinking Age in Spain?