For anyone planning a holiday to Taiwan, understanding the types of power plugs used in Taiwan and the local electrical system is the first thing you must sort out before you set off.

Knowing these details from the outset is crucial for tourists to avoid the frustration of running out of battery on their gadgets. Travellers can also ensure that all their electronic devices can be charged safely without damaging their internal components by using the wrong physical adapter.

So, let’s take a closer look at this comprehensive guide to power plugs in Taiwan before you start packing!

When travelling to Taiwan, you will find that the place uses an electrical system very similar to that of the United States, Canada and Japan.

Type A is a non-earthed plug with two flat, parallel pins. It is widely used in Taiwan, the United States, Canada and Japan.

Type B has a similar configuration to Type A with two flat pins, but with an additional round pin at the bottom that serves as a grounding pin.

What about the electrical power? Taiwan operates on a voltage of 110 volts at a frequency of 60 Hz. If your device supports dual-voltage, you’ll simply need a physical adaptor to ensure your plug fits. However, if you’re bringing high-power single-voltage devices such as hairdryers or straighteners designed for 220–230V, they may not function properly or may not switch on at all.

Read more: Your Perfect Taiwan Itinerary for 7 Days

If you’ve forgotten to bring a travel adapter, you can easily buy one at the following locations.

International airports such as Taipei Taoyuan International Airport and Kaohsiung International Airport have plenty of shops selling travel essentials, including electronics shops. 

Shopping at the airport is very convenient after landing and ideal if your device’s battery is running low. Of course, prices are usually higher.

Stores such as Carrefour, homeware shops, hardware shops, and even large stationery shops usually offer more affordable prices than the airport.

This is the best option if you’re looking for a high-quality adapter at a competitive price. Some shops worth visiting include Tsann Kuen (TK3C) and Guanghua Digital Plaza. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of everything from universal adaptors to converters.

To ensure that charging your gadgets whilst on holiday in Taiwan goes smoothly and safely, here are some handy tips you can follow:

Rather than buying a cheap, flimsy adapter, opt for a high-quality universal adapter equipped with several USB-A and USB-C ports. That way, you’ll only need one hotel socket to charge your iPhone, power bank and camera all at once without cluttering up your room.

When buying a travel adapter, it is important to prioritise safety features and standard certifications. 

A good travel adapter is usually equipped with internal safeguards such as surge protection, short-circuit protection and overheating prevention. All of these can help prevent damage to your gadgets caused by power surges or unstable voltage.

Before plugging in any device, make sure you check the small print on your charger. Ensure it states 100–240V, which matches Taiwan’s mains voltage. If, for example, it only says 220V, refrain from plugging it in directly to avoid damaging components due to under-voltage.

A day out in Taiwan usually involves spending the whole day outdoors. Given that intensive use of GPS when searching for destinations can drain the battery more quickly, bringing a reliable power bank is a must. 

Remember to always pack your power bank in your hand luggage when flying, not in your checked-in luggage.

Now that you’ve sorted out the electricity and power plugs, it’s time to plan your adventure! Here are the destinations that are a must for your holiday itinerary:

Taipei, the capital, is a dynamic, cosmopolitan metropolis. Another favourite among travellers is the excellent public transport system. The MRT is spotlessly clean and efficient, making it very easy to explore the city, even for independent travellers.

A must-do in this city is a visit to Taipei 101, the iconic building that once held the record as the world’s tallest structure. Afterwards, immerse yourself in Taiwan’s spiritual culture by visiting the historic Longshan Temple. When night falls, be sure to treat your taste buds at Shilin Night Market to sample legendary delicacies such as authentic bubble tea!

Situated in the western part of the island, Taichung is known as a cultural hub. Furthermore, the climate tends to be cooler and more relaxed than in Taipei. 

During your stay in Taichung, one place you simply mustn’t miss is Rainbow Village, an old military village complex transformed into a vibrant mural art installation by a local veteran. 

For nature lovers, take a stroll along the wooden walkway at Gaomei Wetlands as dusk falls. In the city centre, you can also explore the National Taichung Theatre, a masterpiece of global modern architecture.

Moving south, Kaohsiung welcomes you with the vibrant atmosphere of a port city. As Taiwan’s second-largest city, Kaohsiung has successfully transformed its old maritime industrial area into a tourist-friendly arts district.

One of the best things to do in Kaohsiung is to explore the Pier-2 Art District, a former port warehouse area that has now been transformed into an arts gallery.

Don’t forget to stop by Formosa Boulevard MRT Station to admire the Dome of Light, the world’s largest stained-glass art installation located inside an underground station. To round off the day, visit Lotus Pond.

Knowing the type of power plug at your destination may seem like a small detail, but it plays a big role. It’s not just about whether you can charge your devices or not, but about keeping them safe whilst travelling.

Rather than panicking at a hotel or airport because your mobile has completely run out of battery, it’s better to be prepared now. Choose an adapter that’s suitable, safe and meets your travel needs.

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