What Plug Does Somalia Use?
View CountrySomalia uses the BS 1363 (Type G) plug and supplies electricity at 230V, 50 Hz. The single most useful takeaway is to bring a Type G travel adapter unless you already use UK-style plugs.
Plug Types
Do I Need a Travel Adapter for Somalia?
Most travellers will need a travel adapter in Somalia unless they already use British Type G plugs. Visitors from the UK and Ireland do not need an adapter. Visitors from the US and Canada, Europe (C/E/F), Australia and New Zealand, India, and Japan will need a Type G adapter to fit Somali sockets. Buy a Type G plug adapter or a compact universal adapter that includes Type G pins, and check it is rated for 230V and has a good safety rating.
| Travelling from | Your plugs | Plug adapter | Voltage converter |
|---|---|---|---|
| US & Canada | Type A/B | Needed | Check your devices |
| UK & Ireland | Type G | Not needed | Not needed |
| Europe | Type C/F/E | Needed | Not needed |
| Australia & NZ | Type I | Needed | Not needed |
| India | Type D/C | Needed | Not needed |
| Japan | Type A/B | Needed | Check your devices |
Do I Need a Voltage Converter in Somalia?
Somalia supplies 230V at 50 Hz. If your charger or device is marked 100-240V, 50/60Hz (common on phone and laptop chargers), you will not need a voltage converter. Single-voltage appliances from 100-120V countries, such as some hair dryers and straighteners from the US or Japan, will need a converter or a dual-voltage replacement. According to the table, travellers from the US, Canada and Japan should check their device voltage, while visitors from the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and India generally do not need a converter.
Somalia Plugs and Sockets Explained
Type G, BS 1363, is the standard plug in Somalia. It has three rectangular pins arranged in a triangle and includes an earth pin, so it is earthed. BS 1363 plugs often contain a built-in fuse that protects the cord and device. This Type G is the primary and most common plug used alongside the national supply of 230V, 50 Hz. If you only have two-pin plugs from your home country you will need an adapter to fit Type G sockets.
Tips for Charging Your Devices in Somalia
- Bring a Type G travel adapter or a universal adapter that includes Type G pins.
- Check device labels for 100-240V, if so no converter is required.
- For hair dryers and straighteners buy dual-voltage models or use a suitable heavy-duty converter.
- Carry a multi-port USB charger to reduce the number of plug adapters needed.
- Keep spare fuses for UK-style plugs and use only well-rated adapters and converters.