Vanuatu Electrical Outlets & Power Plugs

In Vanuatu, the power plugs and sockets are Type I, which have three flat pins in a triangular pattern. This is the standard used across the country for most electrical outlets.

Other Countries That Use Type I Plugs

If you have visited any of the following countries, chances are you already have a travel adapter that will work in Vanuatu: Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Fiji and China.

Be sure to check the voltage and frequency of your devices, as Vanuatu uses 230 V at 50 Hz.

Note that the photo here is from the Harry Bauer Lounge at Port Vila International Airport. USB mains' outlets are not common in Vanuatu.

The electric current is 230 V at 50 Hz in Vanuatu, which means the electrical system delivers 230 volts with 50 cycles per second.

If your country of origin uses a voltage that ranges between 100 V and 120 V, you will need a power converter or transformer, especially for older devices. Many travel adapters include this function, so there's no need to get two separate items – check out the Amazon selection.

This includes countries like the United States, Canada, Japan, and most of Central and South America.

If you are coming from countries that already use 220-240 V, such as Australia, New Zealand, Europe, the UK, and much of Asia and Africa, your appliances and gadgets should work in Vanuatu without any issues, though you may still need a Type I travel adapter to fit the outlets.

If you’re coming from a country that uses 110/120 V, you’ll find that most modern appliances, like phones, laptops and cameras, are designed to handle 110-240 V. Regardless, you should always check the labels of any appliances you plan to use in Vanuatu.

Appliances that don’t clearly state they can handle 230 V should not be plugged into Vanuatu’s electrical outlets, as they may fail or get damaged. This most commonly applies to devices like hairdryers, electric razors, and irons.

Do You Need a Converter / Transformer for Vanuatu?

If your appliance label states a single voltage, such as 230 V, you will not need a converter if coming from a compatible 220-240 V country.

If the label shows a range, such as 110-240 V or 100-240 V, you don’t need a converter. You may, however, need a Type I travel adapter to fit Vanuatu’s outlets.

Can You Use a 50 Hz Appliance in Vanuatu?

Vanuatu uses 50 Hz electricity. Most devices designed for both 50/60 Hz will operate correctly. Electronic devices with internal oscillators or resistance heaters generally work fine.

In our experience, charging modern phones, laptops, cameras, and other electronics in Vanuatu has been problem-free, as long as you use the correct adapter for the Type I outlets.

Yes, regardless of the voltage, if your appliances are from a country that doesn't use Type I power plugs, then you will need a Vanuatu travel adapter.

Recommended Vanuatu Travel Adapters

• EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter (use it all over the world)
• BESTEK Travel Adapter (universal and converts voltage for US appliances)
• OREI USB-to-Vanuatu Travel Adapter
• Ceptics Tiny Travel Adapter (3-Pack)
• Kikkerland UL03-A Universal Travel Adapter

Now that you know about power plugs and adapters in Vanuatu, here are the answers to the internet's frequently asked questions about electrical requirements and power adapters in Vanuatu!

What type of power plug does Vanuatu use?

Vanuatu uses Type I power plugs, which feature three flat pins in a triangular configuration. This is the same plug type used in Australia and New Zealand.

Do I need a power adapter for Vanuatu?

If you're travelling from countries outside Australia, New Zealand or Argentina, you'll need a Type I power adapter to use your devices in Vanuatu. Travellers from the UK, US, Europe and most other countries will definitely need an adapter.

What is the voltage in Vanuatu?

Vanuatu operates on 220-240 volts AC at 50 Hz frequency. Most modern electronic devices are dual voltage and will work fine, but it's always worth checking your device specifications before plugging in.

Can I buy a power adapter in Vanuatu?

Honestly, we're not sure. We think you may be able to purchase power adapters in Port Vila and Luganville at one of the very limited electronics stores, some hotels and airport shops. However, we personally have not seen them for sale. Therefore, we recommend bringing your own adapter to help you save what could potentially be hours trying to find the right power adapter for sale.

Do hotels in Vanuatu provide power adapters?

Some upmarket resorts and hotels in Vanuatu may provide power adapters upon request, but this isn't guaranteed across all accommodation types. We've found it's always best to bring your own adapter rather than rely on hotel services.

Will my phone charger work in Vanuatu?

Your phone charger will work in Vanuatu if you have the correct Type I adapter and your charger supports 220-240V (which most modern chargers do). Check the voltage rating printed on your charger to be certain.