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

US to Taiwan Power Adapter: What Plug Do I Need? (2024)
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It’s easy to see why early Portuguese explorers dubbed Taiwan “Ilha Formosa” (the Beautiful Isle), for this lush island nation is precisely that. Teeming tropical rainforests and deep limestone ravines cut through its volcanic core, best explored on its centuries-old hiking trails that frequently afford sweeping ocean views.

Natural splendor aside, Taiwan is a cultural juxtaposition where the latest western trends thrive alongside ancient Chinese traditions. Keen to see it all for yourself? Then you’d better make sure you’ve got the correct power adapters because you’ll need a full battery to photograph all the magic.

See our product selection criteria and guidelines here.

Which power outlets do they use in Taiwan?

Taiwan power outlet
Here is an actual photo of a
Taiwan power outlet

Taiwan uses the same Type A/B outlet as the United States, which are the twin vertical prongs (Type B has an additional grounding pin underneath).

Outlets in Taiwan are generally quite safe and well-constructed.

The standard voltage used in Taiwan is 110 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz.

What kind of power adapter do I need for Taiwan?

universal adapter
Recommended universal adapter available on Amazon.com ➜

You’ll probably be asking yourself “What plug do I need for Taiwan?” The good news for American travelers is that they won’t have to purchase a power adapter for their trip (as long as you aren’t going to other Asian countries). Other nationals probably will need an adapter, however. If you’re from outside the US, grab an adapter with a Type A/B output and an input that corresponds to your home country.

If you’re traveling to other Asian countries like China or Hong Kong etc, we recommend buying a Universal Adapter for your trip to Taiwan and beyond. That way you will have an all-in-one power adapter that you will be able to use when you visit 100+ other countries. This is a better option than buying several country-specific adapters and this one has two USB ports as well.

View on Amazon.com ➜

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

Power plant taiwan
Power plant in Taiwan

Taiwan also runs on the same voltage (110V) and frequency (60Hz) as the United States, so American travelers can use any of their electronics from home without a worry in the world.

Like any nation, Taiwan is susceptible to an occasional blackout, such as that experienced in August 2017 that affected 6.7 million people. However, Taiwan is a highly developed nation, with an exceptionally reliable electrical grid.

Do I Need A Voltage Converter In Taiwan?

If your home country runs on 220V and/or 50Hz, then you may need a voltage converter to power some appliances in Taiwan. However, almost all personal electronics a traveler would commonly carry are dual voltage, which means you can charge them safely on either system. The one common exception is the portable hairdryer, which tends to run on a fixed voltage. If in doubt, always check the instructions.

Other Taiwan Packing List Items

In addition to your US to Taiwan power adapter, these items will help you pack with intention and expand the possibilities of your getaway. Also, check out our Taiwan packing list for more inspiration and ideas.

  • 1. Packing Cubes

    There’s nothing worse than rummaging through your entire luggage to find that one article of clothing you need. We’ve all been there. With packing cubes, however, you’ll know exactly where everything is and be able to find whatever you need in a flash. These nifty cubes are designed to store specific types of clothing together, which makes sorting through your stuff a breeze.

    aqua packing cubes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    Taiwan is showered with a lot of rain, especially during the rainy season from June to October. Having an umbrella is essential if you don’t want to get soaked or have your excursions cut short. This is a well-constructed umbrella has a convenient auto open/close function and a zippered case that allows you to store your wet umbrella without getting your other belongings wet.

    travel umbrella

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    Cybercrime is a serious business these days, so it’s crucial for the traveler to understand the risks. Hackers have begun hanging around public Wi-Fi to steal sensitive information from other users. And if they manage to snatch your bank details (which is alarmingly easy), then you’d lose your life savings in a flash. Thankfully, a cost-effective and user-friendly VPN will encrypt your web traffic to keep your personal information safe.

    how a vpn works

    View options at NordVPN.com ➜

  • 4. Extra phone charging cables

    Another nifty way to keep your battery health in check is to carry a spare USB cable on your person. Taiwan is a technologically advanced country, so you can expect to find USB outlets seemingly everywhere you look.

    Charger cables anker

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 5. Jet lag Relief Pills

    The flight from New York to Taipei takes a whopping 16 hours and involves a time difference of 12 hours. Consequently, you can bet your bottom dollar you’re going to be jet-lagged upon arrival. Mitigate the effects by taking the prescribed dose of jet lag relief pills on arrival.

    Jet Lag Relief

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 6. Neck Wallet

    Although Taiwan is relatively safe, petty crime can occur, and western tourists are considered a lucrative target. The best way to keep your valuables safe on the road is to stash them under your shirt using a neck wallet.
    With a lightweight and breathable design, they’re comfortable to wear and super discreet.

    hero neck wallet

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 7. Travel Insurance for Taiwan

    If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. A holiday to Taiwan is certainly no exception. Should you wind up in a hospital, for example, you could end up mortgaging your home to pay off the astronomical medical bill. Don’t risk it. Take out a comprehensive travel insurance policy to ensure you’re covered in the event of an emergency. We use TravelInsurance.com to compare policies from top companies in order to find the best option for our family and travel plans.

    Travel Insurance for Taiwan

    Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com ➜

Other FAQs about traveling in Taiwan

  • 1. When to Travel to Taiwan

    TaiwanTaiwan experiences four distinct seasons, each of which offers a unique travel experience. Many say spring (March to May) is the best time to visit, as the sun is shining and the weather is a balmy 68F to 77F (20-25C). Better yet, Taiwan’s cherry blossoms come into bloom and put on a dazzling display of color.

    Summer (June to August) sees the mercury top out at around 86F (30C) and the humidity skyrocket.

    Most locals prefer to stay inside to escape the muggy weather, although travel is not entirely out of the question. Taiwan averages four typhoons a year which tend to hit between July and September and last several days.

    Autumn (September to November) is another excellent time to visit as the temperature and humidity drop while the sun continues to shine. Although some sections of Taiwan get a little chilly in the winter (December to February), the temperature rarely drops below 50F (10C). Chinese New Year takes place at the end of the season when transport becomes hopelessly overbooked. Be sure to check current Taiwan travel advisories before you go.

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

    Taiwan is blessed with blue skies, balmy temperatures, and a calm climate. The average annual temperature of its mostly sub-tropical climate is 71F (22C). Temperatures tend to hover between 54F (12C) and 62F (17C) in its more frigid alpine areas. The average annual rainfall is around 2,500mm, the lion’s share of which falls during the seasonal typhoons.

  • 3. What to do in Taipei

    TaiwanAs a bustling modern metropolis where ancient temples and traditions take center stage, Taipei is finally starting to garner the attention it deserves on the Asian travel circuit. Start your sightseeing off by zipping up Taipei 101, the city’s most beloved tower that was once the tallest in the world. After soaking up the cityscape, take a gander at the gigantic 700-ton stabilizing ball that stops 101 from toppling over during an earthquake.

    Another exceptional viewpoint is the peak of the nearby Elephant Mountain, which requires a brisk 30-minute climb to reach the top. For more secluded vistas, extend your hike to include the remote Lion Mountain, Tiger Mountain, and Leopard Mountain. On the outskirts of the city, the quaint Japanese style spa town of Beitou is the perfect place to indulge in a leisurely soak. Steamy outdoor baths are a great way to mingle with the locals, and there are plenty of traditional temples and museums to explore.

    For a real sense of Japanese influence in Taiwan (the country was once under Japanese rule), spend an hour admiring the beautiful old colonial-era buildings at Da An Park. Some are meticulously preserved while others have been left to decay. The grandiose Liberty Square is perhaps the city’s most famous landmark, which is surrounded by a series imposing edifices that speak of the people’s fierce desire for democracy and independence. Duck into the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall to appreciate its exhibits and gardens.

    Once you’ve worked up an appetite, check out the bustling Pier 5 on the Danshui River at sundown for delicious local street food washed down with frothy artisanal beers. Another cool spot to hangout is the buzzing Ximen district, which hosts an eclectic array of chic cafes, hip restaurants, and happening watering holes. LGBT friendly bars abound in this trendy neighborhood where hipsters will feel right at home.

  • 4. Where to go in Taiwan

    Taiwan whereAmple adventure opportunity awaits outside the capital, particularly for those seeking a nature escape. A couple of hours away by train lies the Instagram-worthy Taroko Gorge. The country’s premier natural attraction is famous for a road that cuts precariously through a vertical limestone precipice. Grand volcanic vistas and luscious forest scenery define the Yushan National Park, while the Yangmingshan National Park is packed full of bubbling hot springs and scalding geysers to explore.

    If tropical beaches appeal more, than the pristine white sands of the Kenting National Park mark the perfect place to pull up a towel. The offshore tropical isle of Penghu comes in a close second. Sun Moon Lake is a popular spot for its spectacular aquatic scenery and fun-filled sailing trips. Ample upscale hotels line the shorefront to tempt tourists into extending their stay. Other natural wonders include the technicolored Euploeini butterflies of the Maolin National Scenic Area and the lush hiking trails of the Alishan Scenic Mountain Area.

    Urbanites shouldn’t miss Kaohsiung, a skyscraper-strewn port city that’s famed for its twin Tiger and Dragon Pagodas. On the west end of the country, Taichung City showcases Taiwan’s colorful colonial past through its Japanese architecture, sizzling street food, and traditional tea houses.

  • 5. How to Get Around in Taiwan

    Train taiwanTaiwan’s extensive railway network is a joy to ride, even though it can be challenging at times to overcome the language barrier. Regular trains cover most major destinations around the country, while ultra-modern high-speed services zip passengers between big cities at breakneck speed.

    Taiwanese coaches are often cheaper, quicker, and more convenient than the trains, yet aren’t as interesting nor as fun.

    Flying domestically won’t save much time, expect for those heading to the smaller islands.