Power Outlets in Cuba: Do I Need an Adapter?
Did you just book a trip to Cuba? Then you need to ensure you have all of the Cuba travel essentials.
Phones, cameras, hair dryers; for most of us, this is essential. All of these appliances require electricity to work.
Let’s look into the power outlets in Cuba to see if they’re the same as yours. Do you need to bring a Cuba travel adapter or can you get away without one?
Being from Canada, when I visit Cuba, I usually do not need an adapter, as we use the same plugs. However, there are a few important exceptions.
This post will help you decipher the type of electric plug Cuba has.
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Quick Facts: Power Outlets in Cuba
Cuba Plug Type: Plug A, B, C & L
Cuba Voltage: 110/220V, 60Hz
Types of Electrical Plugs in Cuba
Cuba plugs are types A, B, C & L.
The most common types of Cuba plugs I have seen, having travelled to Cuba 10 times, has been Plug Type A and Type C.
Below are very important pieces of information regarding plugs in Cuba. Read the points and then look at the photo below for a visual!
- Devices with Plug A can fit in both electric outlets Plug A and Plug B.
- Devices with Plug B can ONLY fit into Plug B electrical outlets.
- Devices with Plug C can fit into both electric outlets Plug C and Plug L.
- Devices with Plug L can ONLY fit into Plug L electrical outlets.
Plug A
- Two Pronged: Two flat prongs
- Not grounded
- Found in: North America (Canada, USA, Mexico), Central America, parts of The Caribbean, parts of South America, Taiwan and Japan
- Examples of Type A Plugs: phone chargers, small appliances, hair styling tools
Plug B
- Three Pronged: Two flat prongs, one pin for grounding
- Grounded
- Found in: North America (Canada, USA, Mexico), Central America, parts of The Caribbean, parts of South America, Taiwan and Japan
- Examples of Type B Plugs: laptop chargers, larger appliances
Plug C
- Two Pronged: Two round pins
- Not grounded
- Found in: Most countries in Europe, parts of South America and parts of Asia
Plug L
- Three Pronged: Three round pins
- Grounded
- Found in: Italy, Cuba, Maldives, Parts of Africa, Parts of South America
Do you need a power adapter for Cuba?
Power adapters are one of the most essential packing items (almost as important as our Cuba clothes & bathing suits).
If you are travelling to Cuba from any of the above countries or any country that uses Plugs A, B, C or L, you MAY not need an adapter.
There is a caveat however, if you are bringing a lot of 3-pronged, grounded devices they will only fit into Plug B or Plug L (depending on origin country).
Your grounded appliances will not fit into a A or C electrical socket.
In that case, a power adapter is necessary.
Many all-inclusive resorts that I have been to in Cuba do not have the grounding electrical outlets.
Therefore, for any devices you are bringing with Plug B and Plug L, you should bring an adapter to fit the two-pronged models, (Plug A & C).
Check out this super popular and highly rated travel adapter.
I this one and have used it in Slovenia & Portugal. Works well!
What is voltage?
Voltage is the strength of the electricity that flows through the outlet.
You will need a voltage converter if your device does not match the voltage of Cuba, 110/220V.
What voltage does Cuba operate on?
Cuba uses 110/220V and 60 Hertz.
110V is also used in North America and South America.
220V is also used in Europe and Africa.
Where to find voltage on your devices?
The voltage is labeled on your electronic devices. For example, I have attached this photo of my MacBook charger.
MacBook chargers are dual voltage. Labeled with 100-240V and between 50-60 Hertz.
Dual voltage means that this charger is safe to plug into any outlet that ranges from 100V – 240V.
One of the best ways to avoid any issue with voltage, is to ensure that the devices you are bringing are dual voltage or the same voltage as your home country.
I recently just broke my steamer in Portugal due to this issue while steaming my wedding dress, LOL.
Do you need a voltage converter for Cuba?
First & foremost, you will need to check with the hotel or resort you will be staying at to find our what voltage they use.
If you use and have the same, you are clear to go without.
If your voltage is different, don’t fry your steamer like me and bring a voltage converter!
Don’t forget that Cuba’s voltage is 110/220V and 60 Hertz.
It may be difficult to get in contact with your accommodation ahead of time, if that is the case just be prepared with a voltage converter just in case.
Check out this travel voltage converter, adapter combo device.
Pin the Electric Plug Cuba Post for later!
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Summary of Electrical Plugs in Cuba
If you can remember that power outlets in Cuba are Plug A, B, C and L and if you come from a country that uses these plugs you are most likely in the clear.
Just in case your Cuba resort or hotel uses different plugs, it may be safe to pack the travel adapter anyway!
If you are visiting Cuba, make sure to bring gifts and resources for the Cuban resort workers.
Most importantly, enjoy your amazing trip to Cuba. One of my favourite countries with the most amazing people.
