The information here is based on guidance from local electricity authorities, international standards such as the IEC, and insights from fellow travellers worldwide.
Recommended Travel Adaptor for South Africa
We’ve tried and tested many adaptors ourselves, checking safety, durability and charging speed. In this country you’ll need more than one, as no adaptor works everywhere. These are the best to pack.
No adaptor with you and already abroad? You’re not out of options — many airports and local shops sell them. Still, bringing your own is the simplest way to avoid paying over the odds or ending up with something that barely works.
South Africa is usually combined with travel to Namibia and Botswana. Plug types and voltage may differ, so it’s a good idea to double-check.
Sockets in South Africa
South Africa uses 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.
Do You Need a Voltage Converter?
Converters are only useful where voltages vary. In South Africa, the mains is practically the same as back in Britain, so you won’t need one.
Before using your gadget overseas, glance at the voltage mark. Anything showing ‘100–240 V, 50/60 Hz’ will be fine without a voltage converter.
Top Travel Essentials to Take With You
Sometimes the simplest bits of kit are the most useful. A luggage scale saves your wallet, a power bank saves your battery, and packing cubes save your sanity when you’re digging through your bag. We’ve tested them, and they’ve quickly become our travel staples.
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