Adapters for India - What power adapter do I need for India?

Power adapters for India

If planning a trip to India it can be useful to know if you'll be able to charge any common devices like mobile phones and cameras when you arrive. By not knowing which power socket is being used you are more likely to bring the wrong charger, therefore needing to purchase a suitable power adaptor when you need to recharge. Various standards and plugs can all be daunting when planning on staying in a foreign country especially if you've never been there before. With only a handful of different types of standards being used throughout the world this guide tells you exactly what you'll need in advance to charge your electronics in India. This page contains links to step by step instructions showing you how to power your devices when you are travelling to India using the standard Type D, C or M 230 volt 50Hz wall outlets, please be aware that Type D power outlets are typically used by a majority of Indians. Power sockets are different from region to region therefore we recommend reading the power adapters page for a full list of regions and countries.

What is the best power adapter for India?

The best power adapter for India will be a Type D power adapter which is suitable for powering any 230 volt device or appliance. [2] [AD]

What is the best power adapter for India?

What is a power adapter for an Indian power outlet?

Power adapters are small and lightweight plastic adapters which permit an Indian power outlet to accept a power plug from a different country. [3]

What does a power adapter do?

A power adapter enables a visitor from a different location to use their electrical devices in India simply by changing the shape of the plug.

Do I need a plug adapter in India?

If the shape of the Indian power outlet isn't the same as the type of plug outlet in India then you will need a power adapter.

Will a power adapter change the voltage from an Indian power outlet?

A power adapter only adapts the shape of a plug to fit into a 230 volt Indian power outlet and can't convert to a different voltage. Should you need to safely use a 100, 110 or 120 volt device then you also need a step down power converter for India.

Where to buy a power adapter for India

Power adapters for sale in an airport

Where to buy a power adapter for India

Power adapters are most likely be available in major airports prior to departure, however the range of adapters might be limited to popular destinations. It is recommended to research the exact type of adapter required prior to shopping at the airport. Look in the travel accessories section of airport newsagents, electronic stores and pharmacists but expect to pay 50% more than regular prices. Airports will be your last chance to buy a power adapter before departure, always check the returns policy to ensure you can easily exchange or refund a faulty or unsuitable product in an airside shop.

It will be more convenient and cheaper to buy the correct power adapter in advance of your trip. High street stores normally sell popular types of travel adapters to popular locations but for widest choice it is recommended to buy a power adapter online.

Where to buy a power adapter in India

Arriving at an airport

Where to buy a power adapter in India

On arrival power adapters could be found in local electrical high street shops and drug stores, but always check the build quality first as safety standards might be different in a foreign country as this is important when dealing with electrical goods. Keep in mind that a shopping trip searching for power adapters in an unknown location might be impractical, especially as this needs to happen quickly before batteries run out.

Hotel receptions could have a power adapter for sale, hire or as a complimentary extra for guests; however, availability is normally limited and a hotel might not have the exact type required for your country. If in doubt, call ahead to the hotel first and request a reservation as it is unlikely that an adapter will be found in your room on arrival.

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia.org entry about India.
  2. Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
  3. Wikipedia - power adaptor