These details combine official input from electricity authorities, IEC standards, and practical experience from people who’ve travelled internationally.
Sockets in Cape Town
The plug types you’ll find in Cape Town are Type C, D, M, and N plugs and sockets.
Type C
Type C sockets have two round pins and no grounding. Unlike Type G, they take a slimmer plug without an earth pin or fuse.
Type D
Type D sockets have three large round pins in a triangular shape. Unlike Type G, they lack a fuse and the pins are round rather than rectangular.
Type M
Type M sockets have three large round pins in a triangular layout, similar to Type D but with much thicker pins. UK Type G plugs do not fit into Type M sockets.
Type N
Type N sockets have two round pins and a slightly offset earth pin. UK Type G plugs do not fit into Type N sockets.
Recommended Travel Adaptor for Cape Town
From first-hand travel experience to thorough testing, we’ve looked at adaptors in detail. Here, no single adaptor will cover every socket type, so you’ll need to bring more than one. These are the safest options.
No adaptor once you’ve landed? Airports and local shops are an option. But nothing beats the peace of mind of having your own ready to use.
Cape Town is often part of a broader trip that also includes Namibia and Botswana. It’s smart to confirm plug info before you go — neighbouring countries may use different types.
Do You Need a Voltage Converter?
Voltage converters are only necessary if there’s a mismatch. In Cape Town the mains supply is more or less the same as in the UK, so you’re fine.
Before you power up your device abroad, glance at the voltage label. ‘100–240 V, 50/60 Hz’ means you’re good to go without a converter, which is common for modern kit.
Top Travel Essentials to Take With You
Travelling can be stressful enough without the little annoyances. A luggage scale saves you from those eye-watering charges at the airport, a power bank means your phone won’t die mid-journey, and packing cubes keep everything in order. We’ve taken them on trips ourselves, and they really do make a difference.
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