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US to Argentina Power Adapter: What Plug Do I Need? (2024)

US to Argentina Power Adapter: What Plug Do I Need? (2024)
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From the windswept mountains of Patagonia to the cactus-clad valleys of the north, Argentina is awash with jaw-dropping natural wonders to explore. Then there’s the captivating culture, of which the staunch cowboy-esque gauchos contrast with the theatre-loving urbanites of its cities. Pepper in a sprinkling of European influence and some of South America’s best colonial architecture, and you’ve got a bewitching vacation destination that’s second to none.

Just don’t forget your power adapter because you’re going to need a constant full charge to capture all this unbridled beauty. You don’t want to risk damaging your beloved electronics by arriving ill-prepared, so use this quick guide to pack with intention!

See our product selection criteria and guidelines here.

Which power outlets do they use in Argentina?

power outlets
Here is an actual photo of an Argentina power outlet

Argentina runs on two different power outlet types: I and C. Type I is commonly found throughout places like Australia, New Zealand, and China, and features three prongs in a triangle shape. Sometimes, cables only have the upper two prongs, although they still function the same.

Type C, on the other hand, is the European-style plug that has two round horizontal poles (see the one pictured).
Two different power outlet types would be pretty inconvenient, right? It sure is. In fact, Argentines grew so tired of the common conundrum, that they sought to find a solution by making Type I the official standard. Therefore, expect new and more modern buildings to use Type I, while older constructions could still use Type C. Some hotels might even have one type in the bathroom and another in the bedroom.

What kind of power adapter do I need for Argentina?

power outlets
Recommended Argentina power adapter available on Amazon.com ➜

When preparing for your trip you’re probably asking yourself, “What plug do I need for Argentina?” Given the unpredictable nature of the Argentine power outlet, it’s essential to carry adapters that are compatible with both types: Seek out a Type A/B to Type I (United States to Australia/NZ), and a Type A/B to Type C (United States to Europe).

Our top choice for your trip to Argentina is this Universal Adapter that will have you covered for both types of outlets you will encounter during your travels.

It’s also compatible with outlets in over 100 other countries and comes with two USB ports, allowing you to charge up to 3 devices at once. We also feel major comfort in the lifetime replacement guarantee that reflects its craftsmanship and quality.

View on Amazon.com ➜

Other Argentina Packing List Items

In addition to your US-to-Argentina power adapter, these items will help you on your travels. Also, check out our Argentina packing list for more inspiration and ideas.

  • 1. Neck Wallet / Passport Pouch

    Pickpockets ply crowded tourist streets such as La Florida in Buenos Aires, while muggers have been known to target tourists in cities around the country. Therefore, to keep your essentials, such as your credit card and passport safe, it’s wise to invest in a neck wallet for your upcoming trip to Argentina. These lightweight contraptions slide easily under your shirt, so the bad guys won’t even know you’re stashing your valuables there. And the RFID-blocking material is solid assurance.

    neck wallet

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. Lipstick-Sized Charger

    Whether you’re snapping a selfie at Mount Fitzroy or searching for the best barbeque beef in Bariloche, your cell phone is a crucial travel accessory. And with such frequent and heavy use, it’s bound to go dead eventually. Eliminate the risk of running out of juice on the road by carrying a lipstick-sized portable charger on you at all times. These lightweight devices can easily slip into a purse or pocket and provide a security blanket if you need a charge on the go.

    Lipstick-Sized Charger

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    Cybercrime is on the rise around the world, and Argentina is no exception. Unbeknownst to many, the mere act of using a public Wi-Fi network could allow hackers to monitor your traffic and obtain your sensitive personal information. Worst of all, that could even include your internet banking details, which I learned after having my credit card number stolen at my Airbnb, which I thought was safe.

    Graciously, you can eliminate the risk by investing in a Virtual Private Network (VPN). These useful and user-friendly apps encrypt your web traffic, which shields it from prying eyes. This means you won’t be watched by your ISP, government entities, nosy neighbors, or HACKERS! A VPN will block annoying ads and also give you access to the internet on 6,000 servers in 60 countries – which means there is basically no corner of the internet that is off-limits to you. Securing your private data for a few dollars a month is worth it alone.

    how a vpn works

    View options at NordVPN.com ➜

  • 4. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    Argentina is a vast and diverse landscape with tons of activities at your fingertips. Whether you’re hiking or venturing for a beach day with water activities – this quick-dry towel will serve you well. You never know if your accommodation will provide one (or if it will be up to your cleanliness standards) and this microfiber option is way more practical than carrying around a big, fluffy hotel towel. It’s light as a feather and dries 10x faster than cotton!

    travel towel

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 5. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

    The journey to Argentina is deceivingly long! While you may not realize it, it’s almost near Antarctica which means the flight from NYC is 10+ hours, and from LA, nearly 15 hours! With layovers, that’s potentially 30+ hours that your bag may be checked, out-of-sight, and in transit. Since you can’t keep an eye on everything, secure your belongings with TSA-approved luggage locks. They’ll keep sticky fingers out of your bags and offer real peace of mind. We use them on backpacks and lockers too.

    luggage locks

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 6. Travel Insurance for Argentina

    Traveling without insurance in Argentina is a risky proposition as any number of things could see you run into strife. A traffic accident, a violent crime, or a stolen passport would all force a traveler to face a considerable expense. Don’t put yourself at unnecessary risk. Invest in a suitable travel insurance policy instead, keeping in mind that your domestic provider does not generally cover you overseas.

    We use Faye to cover common issues like baggage loss, flight delays, theft, evacuations, and international medical expenses (which can really add up if paying out-of-pocket). Faye is the first all-digital provider and they’ve wired us the funds quickly without any fuss. They’re modernizing the industry and really pushing the envelope while still offering that human support. We can’t recommend them enough and protecting your travel investment is probably one of the cheapest parts of your trip.

    Travel Insurance for Argentina

    Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

  • 7. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    Much of Argentina experiences relatively steady rainfall throughout the year – so you will want to arrive prepared, especially if you plan on visiting Iguazu Falls and the surrounding area. We recommend a well-constructed, compact travel umbrella with some slick features, including an auto open/close function. This one only weighs one-pound so it’s perfect for travel and fully covers two people.

    Windproof Travel Umbrella

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 8. Jet Lag Relief

    Between international travel days, long layovers, and time-zone changes – you will definitely need these jet lag relief supplements to stay on your feet. They’re super gentle (made with chamomile flower and other botanicals), and have zero side effects. But you’ll really feel the difference traveling without them!

    jet lag relief

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 9. Hanging Toiletry Bag

    This hanging toiletry bag is a game-changer and I never travel without it. Not only does it help with packing and unpacking, but it frees up your hotel countertop space since your toiletries are neatly hung out of the way on a door or wall. It can hold all of your skincare, haircare, dental hygiene, makeup, face towels, medicine, etc., and elegantly organizes everything so nothing gets lost.

    You can use the 4 giant pockets for larger bottles and the 3 external compartments for bandaids, Q-tips, jewelry, and smaller items. My personal hack is to leave it packed with all travel-sized toiletries so that part of your checklist is already done before the next trip!

    hanging toiletry bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 10. Packing Cubes

    Organizing your clothes on the road is a daunting task, especially if you’re continuously keeping yourself busy with an action-packed itinerary. One way to relieve the burden is by using a set of packing cubes. Essentially, they’re a selection of pliable nylon or cloth boxes; a useful invention that allows the traveler to stash each type of clothing in an organized manner. The result? It’s much easier to pack, unpack, and find what you need. We’re obsessed with the included laundry bags, and you can go for the 3-pack if you want to start small.

    packing cubes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 11. Waterproof Phone Case

    Did you know there are over 13K lakes in Argentina? Whether you’re swimming at the beach, indulging in a pool day, or boating across Lake O’Higgins, this waterproof phone case will be a smart packing list addition. It will allow you to film amazing underwater videos and stop the elements from tarnishing your expensive device. Of course, moisture and rain will be stopped, but so will sand granules or debris that you wouldn’t expect to cause damage, but can ruin your camera.

    Waterproof Phone Case

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 12. Activated Charcoal

    It can take a few days for our bodies to adjust to a new cuisine and tap water composition. To avoid the dreaded “traveler’s diarrhea” – bring these activated charcoal tablets that stop the absorption of harmful bacteria. It is a proven remedy for stomach bugs and we simply don’t travel without it.

    Activated Charcoal

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 13. Hiking Poles

    Argentina has a whopping 7K+ mountain ranges! So, if you plan to hike into the great unknown, bring these hiking poles. They’re retractable and lightweight, but they will definitely help stabilize you and simplify the journey for areas like Ojos del Salado, Mount Pissis, or the epic giant of Cerro Aconcagua.

    Hiking Poles

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 14. Water-Resistant Shoe Bags

    Another awesome discovery we made in recent years that have come in SUPER handy – these moisture-repelling shoe bags! Never again will you have to deal with muddy, wet, or dirty shoes with nowhere to store them. After your Argentinian vineyard trips, Buenos Aires street explorations, or snowy mountain treks – put your grimy shoes in these waterproof bags until you can rinse them off or dry them properly.

    shoe bags

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 15. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

    Don’t even get me started on Argentinian wine, handmade jewelry and clothes, spices, teas, and other local goods! You will absolutely want to do some shopping while here, and this packable “just in case” bag is the perfect solution to overpacking. In case you need an extra bag for things you picked up along the way, it will ensure you can avoid carry-on fees while still bringing home a souvenir for each loved one.

    Packable “Just in Case” Bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

What’s the electricity and power supply like in Argentina?

A power plant in Argentina
A power plant in Argentina

Despite its checkered past and recent economic woes, Argentina is a developed country with a robust electrical infrastructure. Blackouts and surges are relatively uncommon in all but the most isolated rural areas.

Note that the country runs on 220 V and 50 Hz, which is different from America’s 110 V and 60 Hz systems.

Do I Need A Voltage Converter In Argentina?

Almost all electronic devices a traveler would bring abroad are dual voltage these days. The one common exception is the portable hairdryer, which tends to run on a fixed 110V.

If in doubt, always check the manufacturer’s instructions on the charging cable. ‘INPUT: 100-240V / 50-60 Hz’ means dual voltage.

Other FAQs about traveling in Argentina

  • 1. When to Travel to Argentina

    Argentina visitStretching some 2,200 miles from north to south, the climate in Argentina is as varied as its wine. Therefore, the best time to visit depends on what you want to do. The world-renowned hiking trails of Patagonia close during the winter, so plan any southern adventures between mid-November and late-March.

    The summertime is peak trekking season in the south as the days are warm and long.

    In Buenos Aires and the northern tropics, however, it’s almost unbearably hot. A worthwhile alternative is to consider traveling in the spring and autumn shoulder seasons. At this time, the climate tends to be mild throughout most of the country, while prices are lower and fewer tourists crowd the sites. Be sure to check current Argentina travel advisories before you go.

  • 2. What’s the weather like in Argentina?

    The weather in Argentina depends on the latitude and altitude in question. Southern Patagonia is famous for its icy winds, which are bone-tingling cold even in the summer months. The Lake District has equally idyllic hiking trails and a more temperate climate, which becomes a popular ski destination as the colder months start to set in. In the high altitude deserts of the north, warm days and chilly nights are the norms. Head down towards the pampas and the Iguazu Falls, and you’ll encounter a hot and humid environment year-round.

  • 3. What to do in Buenos Aires?

    Argentiana buenos airesBuilt on the back of a wave of European migration, Buenos Aires is commonly referred to as the “Paris of the South” for its grand architecture and romantic city parks.

    Start your tour of the city with a visit to the Micro Centro, the historical heart that houses the most important government buildings.

    Once you’ve checked out the classics such as the Casa Rosada and the Plaza de Mayo, stop by the 200-foot Obelisco that towers above the frantic 14-lane avenue below.

    Bookworms would be mad to miss El Ateneo Grand Splendid, which may well be the world’s most beautiful bookshop. Likewise, the Teatro Colon is a bucket list site for theatre aficionados due to its grandiose architectural design. For an Instagram worthy photoshoot, the pastel-colored streets of La Boca are hard to beat. Follow your nose to a nearby Parrillada (barbeque meat restaurant) for lunch or swing by La Boca Stadium if you’re a fan of the world game.

    Drop by the haphazard gravestone labyrinth of Recoleta to see the final resting place of the Argentine bourgeoisie. Follow the crowds to find Eva Peron’s elaborate tomb. Buenos Aires comes alive at night, with a vibrant nightspot to suit every taste. The most glamorous digs are scattered around Palermo and Puerto Madero, although you’ll find plenty of low-key bars and milgonas (tango clubs) elsewhere.

    See all Buenos Aires attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

  • 4. Where to go in Argentina?

    Puerto place to visitArgentina is a paradise for the outdoor adventurer, with ample natural wonders to explore. Perhaps the most famed are the monumental Iguazu Falls, which spout unfathomable amounts of water out in a dazzling display. To the west are the northern deserts, whose highlight has to be the Seven Colored Hills. Other remarkable rock formations and picturesque desert landscapes define the surrounding towns.

    Then there’s the quaint city of Bariloche and its surrounding countryside, which feels more like Switzerland than South America for its picturesque pine tree-covered hills and glimmering mirror lakes. But it’s Argentina’s southern tip that’s home to its greatest natural display. From the turquoise tinged Perito Moreno Glacier to the postcard-perfect peak of Mount Fitz Roy, Patagonia is perhaps the most enchanting wilderness region on Earth. For a truly epic adventure, travelers can embark on a cruise to Antarctica from the southern city of Ushuaia.

    See all Argentina attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

  • 5. How to Get Around in Argentina?

    get around argentinaAside from a few inconvenient intercity connections, train travel is relatively rare in Argentina. Instead, most travelers jump on the country’s extensive bus network, which covers every conceivable corner of the land. If your budget permits, opt for a lie-flat bed known as a cama, where they might even serve you steak with red wine. You can reserve in advance through Plataforma 10.

    As good as the buses are, Argentina is simply too large for most travelers to traverse overland (Buenos Aires to Ushuaia is a 40-hour trip). Rather than spending half your holiday staring out the window, it’s prudent to invest in the occasional domestic flight. Aerolineas Argentinas and LATAM are the major players.