Plugs & Sockets in Vietnam: Which Travel Adapter Do You Need?

What type of plug is used in Vietnam?

Plug Type A:

• Two flat, vertical pins.
• Also common in: the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Japan.
• Use in Vietnam: Quite common, especially in older hotels and residential buildings.

Plug Type B:

• Two flat, vertical pins with a third round pin for grounding.
• Also common in: the United States and Canada.

Plug Type C:

• Two round pins.
• Also common in: Continental Europe, South America, and many parts of Asia.
• Use in Vietnam: Widely used, especially in newer constructions and tourist establishments.

Plug Type D:

• Three round pins in a triangular shape.
• Also common in: India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and some African countries.
• Use in Vietnam: Less common but can be found in certain areas, especially in older buildings.

Plug Type F:

• Two round pins with two grounding clips on the sides, commonly used in high-power devices.
• Also common in: Germany, Netherlands.

Plug Type G:

• Three rectangular pins, one of which is the grounding pin.
• Also common in: the United Kingdom, Ireland.

It is important to note that while Vietnam primarily uses these three types of plugs, it’s not uncommon to find outlets that accept multiple plug types in the same socket. This is especially common in hotels and tourist accommodations, where flexibility to accommodate different plug types is an advantage.

For travelers, this means you might find situations where your devices work without issue in one place but require an adapter in another. Therefore, it's advisable to be prepared with a universal adapter that can handle the three mentioned plug types.

How do the plugs in your country differ from those in Vietnam?

• In the United States and Canada, the most common plugs are Type A and Type B. While Type A (two flat pins) fits perfectly in Vietnam, Type B (three pins with grounding) often requires a simple adapter to convert it to 2 pins.

➜ Same shape, but watch out for voltage! (Vietnam is 220V vs US 110V).

• In the United Kingdom, the Type G plug (three rectangular pins) is standard. While some luxury hotels in Vietnam have universal sockets that accept Type G, most standard wall outlets do not.

➜ Totally different shape. Bring an adapter.

• In Australia, the standard plug is Type I (slanted pins), which is structurally different from the ones used in Vietnam. You will not be able to force these plugs into Vietnamese sockets. 

➜ Different shape. An adapter is mandatory.

What Voltage and Frequency Do They Use in Vietnam?

The standard voltage in Vietnam is 220V, and the frequency is 50Hz.

If you come from Europe or Australia (where 220 to 240V is standard), you can relax. Your devices will work perfectly. However, if you come from the US, Canada, or Japan (where 110 to 120V is standard), you must be careful. Plugging a 110V device directly into a 220V socket will likely destroy it instantly.

• 📋 Device Checklist: Will it blow up? Check the fine print (label) on your device or power brick to see which category it falls into:

• In addition, please leave your US hair dryer at home. Voltage converters for heating appliances (like dryers or curling irons) are heavy, expensive, and often unreliable. Most hotels in Vietnam provide hair dryers in the room. It is simply not worth the risk of burning out your device or blowing the hotel's fuse.
• A note on Frequency (50Hz vs 60Hz): Most modern digital electronics (chargers, laptops) handle both 50Hz and 60Hz automatically. The only devices that might be affected are clocks (which may run slow) or very old motorized appliances, but this is rarely an issue for the average traveler.

What Type of Adapter Do I Need for Vietnam?

Is it necessary to buy an adapter?

Don't overcomplicate it. Instead of carrying a bag full of different loose plugs, just buy one decent universal travel adapter.

Because Vietnam is a mix of old and new. A rustic homestay in a rural area might have older Type A sockets, while a modern hotel in a major city uses Type C or hybrid ones. A universal adapter covers all bases, so you never have to worry about finding the right hole.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Here is how to solve power problems on the ground like a local:

What to do if you forget an adapter?

• Check with hotel reception first: Before running out to buy one, ask the front desk. Many hotels keep a box of spare adapters left behind by previous guests and are happy to lend them to you for free.
• Use USB ports: Don't unpack everything yet! Many modern hotels, cafes, and even sleeper buses in Vietnam provide direct USB charging ports. You might just need your cable.
• Borrow from a fellow traveler: If you are staying in a hostel or joining a group tour, chances are someone else brought a multi-port charger and can share a slot.

>>> Read more to explore: Vietnamese Pho: Iconic Dish, Recipe, and Where to Taste It!

Common points of sale for adapters in Vietnam:

If you need to buy one, you don't need to hunt for a specialized shop. Here is where to go and what to pay:

Convenience Stores (Circle K, WinMart+, 7-Eleven):

• Best for: Quick fixes late at night. Open 24/7.
• Price: ~40,000 - 80,000 VND ($1.5 - $3).
• Quality: Basic white plastic adapters. Good enough for charging phones.

Electronics Chains (Dien May Xanh / MediaMart):

• Best for: High quality and safety. Look for the "Blue and Yellow" sign – they are everywhere in cities.
• Price: ~100,000 - 200,000 VND ($4 - $8).

Traditional Markets (Ben Thanh, Dong Xuan):

• Best for: Cheap options, but you must bargain and check quality carefully.
• Price: Start bargaining at 50,000 VND ($2).

Airports:

• Price: ~250,000 - 500,000 VND ($10 - $20).
• Advice: Only buy here if absolutely necessary.

>>>> What Not To Do In Vietnam: 12 Things To Avoid

FAQs: Common Questions About Electricity in Vietnam

Do I need a power plug adapter in Vietnam if I am from the USA?

Usually, no. The standard Vietnamese wall socket (Type A/C hybrid) accepts the US flat 2-pin plug perfectly. However, if your plug has a 3rd grounding pin (Type B), you will need a simple adapter to convert it to 2 pins. Also, be very careful with the voltage (220V vs 110V).

Will my iPhone or MacBook charge safely in Vietnam?

Yes, absolutely. Apple products (iPhones, iPads, Macbooks) and most modern camera chargers are Dual Voltage (100-240V). You can plug them directly into Vietnamese sockets without a voltage converter.

Do hotels in Vietnam provide hair dryers?

Yes, almost all hotels (from 3-star to 5-star) provide hair dryers in the bathroom. We strongly advise against bringing your own hair dryer from the US or Canada, as the voltage difference (220V vs 110V) will likely cause it to burn out or overheat.

Is the electricity in Vietnam stable? Do power outages occur?

In major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Danang, the power supply is very stable. However, in rural or mountainous areas (like Sapa, Ha Giang, or remote islands), occasional power cuts can happen. If you are a digital nomad working on important projects, carrying a fully charged power bank is a smart move.

Can I use my UK (Type G) plug in Vietnam?

No. While some luxury international hotels install Type G sockets, the standard Vietnamese outlet only fits Type A (Flat) and Type C (Round). Travelers from the UK, Singapore, and Hong Kong should definitely pack a universal adapter.

Do sleeper buses and trains in Vietnam have power outlets?

Yes, most modern sleeper buses (limousines) and overnight trains (Reunification Express) have USB ports or power outlets at each seat/bed. However, the voltage can be unstable, so we recommend using a power bank to protect your device instead of plugging directly into the train's socket.

Conclusion

Now, you surely understand everything about plugs in Vietnam, as well as related useful information. It’s always recommended to prepare properly before embarking on a trip to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to leave your comments below this article. We wish you an unforgettable trip to Vietnam!

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