What Travel Adapters You Need in France (And Why a Power Strip Might Save Your Trip)
Published May 17, 2025
If you’re heading to France from the U.S., one of the first things you’ll want to pack (after your passport and your favorite walking shoes, of course!) is the right power adapter. Otherwise, your phone, laptop, or camera charger will soon be useless.
This guide covers exactly what kind of plug France uses, which adapters you need to bring, and one small thing you can pack that makes a huge difference when charging multiple devices at once.
French Outlets: What to Expect
In France, electrical outlets use Type C and Type E plugs. These have two round pins and run on 230V voltage at 50 Hz.
If you’re coming from the United States, where plugs are flat and voltage is 120V, you’ll need an adapter to physically plug in your device and, depending on your device, maybe a voltage converter too (but read below to find out why we don’t recommend that option).
The good news: Most modern devices like phones, tablets, and laptops have dual voltage (100–240V), so you won’t need a converter. Just check the label on your charger to confirm.
Jessica: After completely frying my hair straightener during my first trip, I now only purchase dual-voltage products (like my curling iron) or I’ve actually purchased a hairdryer there that I just bring with me on every trip. It adds a little bulk to my packing, but now I never have to worry!
The Best Type of Adapter for France
You’ll want an adapter that accepts U.S. plugs and fits into France’s Type C or E sockets. Look for a compact design that works with both grounded and ungrounded outlets.
European Travel Adapters
Jessica: This is the one that I use, it’s great because it has options for both regular plugs and multiple USB/USB-C ports.
Pro Tip: Bring a Travel Power Strip
Hotel rooms in France often have only one or two outlets — and when you’re charging phones, watches, headphones, and cameras, that can get old fast. A small travel-size power strip solves this instantly.
Look for one that’s lightweight, has at least two USB ports, and ideally USB-C for faster charging.
Power Strip
Jessica: I use this mini power strip with multipe outlets and four USB/USB-C ports. It charges everything overnight and fits in my purse.”
What Not to Bring
Avoid packing high-powered devices that aren’t dual-voltage (like many American hairdryers or electric kettles). Even with a converter, they can damage your device or the socket — and many Airbnb hosts specifically prohibit their use.
Jean-Paul: “As tempting as it can be, just leave those products at home. It’s not worth ruining them or worse yet, starting a fire!
Final Thoughts
A little adapter planning makes your whole trip smoother. Check your device’s voltage before you pack, bring an adapter that fits French sockets, and throw in a travel-size power strip so you’re not fighting over outlets.
When everything charges easily and reliably, you spend less time fussing and more time out exploring. That’s the whole point, right?
Bon voyage! And don’t forget your charger.
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