Caribbean power adapters - What adapter do I need for Puerto Rico?

Power adapters for Puerto Rico

If planning a vacation it's useful to know if you can use any common electronics when you arrive. By not knowing which power socket to expect you could pack the wrong power charger, leaving you having to purchase a potentially expensive adaptor when you're there. Complicated combinations of standards and voltages can all lead to confusion when planning to travel to a new country, especially if you've never been there before. With only a handful of different types of sockets used throughout the world this guide shows exactly what you'll need in advance to charge your electronics in Puerto Rico. This page has links to step-by-step instructions which shows exactly which power adapters you'll need to power your devices when you're visiting Puerto Rico by using their standard B or A type Puerto Rican 120 volt 60Hz power outlets, a majority of Puerto Ricans will use the Type B plug outlets. When travelling you'll discover that power adapters will vary regionally therefore please read the Wiki Connections global power adapters list where you'll find a full list of charging devices in different regions and countries.

What is the best power adapter for Puerto Rico?

The best power adapter for Puerto Rico is a Type B plug adapter which is suitable for powering any 120 volt device or appliance. [2] [AD]

What is the best power adapter for Puerto Rico?

What is a power adapter?

Power adapters are small and cheap plastic adapters that allow a Puerto Rican power outlet to accept a power plug from an appliance from a foreign country. [3]

Do I need a power adapter for Puerto Rico?

This will depend on the shape of plug you are using in Puerto Rico and the location you are travelling from.

What does a power adapter for a Puerto Rican power outlet do?

A power adapter for a Puerto Rican power outlet allows a visitor from another country to use their own electrical appliances in Puerto Rico by adapting the shape of the power plug from one type to another.

Will a power adapter change the voltage in Puerto Rico?

No, a power adapter only adapts the shape of a plug to fit into a 120 volt Puerto Rican power outlet and is unable to convert the power to a different voltage. Should you wish to safely use any 220, 230 or 240 volt device you will also need a more expensive step up power converter for Puerto Rico.

Where to buy a power adapter for Puerto Rico

Power adapters for sale in an airport

Where to buy a power adapter for Puerto Rico

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 Puerto Rico

Arriving at an airport

Where to buy a power adapter in Puerto Rico

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 entry about Puerto Rico.
  2. Type B plug adapter - A Type B adapter, rated at 15 A and 125 V, featuring two parallel flat blades and a longer grounding pin, in compliance with NEMA 5-15 specifications. Suitable for travel to the US plug types and Canadian plugs..
  3. Wikipedia - power adaptor