Travel Tips

Mexico plug type: Complete adapter guide for travellers

Mexico uses type A and B plugs. Find out if you need a travel adapter and a voltage converter, and explore eSIM plans to use during your trip.

Mexico uses plug types A and B with a standard voltage of 127V, the same as in the United States and Canada.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Mexico plug types, voltage compatibility, and which adapter to pack before you go.

Plus, we tell you how an eSIM for Mexico is a great option to stay connected during your trip.

In this article

What plug type does Mexico use?

Mexico uses two plug types: type A has two flat, parallel pins, while type B has two flat, parallel pins with a round grounding pin.

This is identical to the plug types used in the United States and Canada, which is due to Mexico following American electrical standards.

These are found in hotels, resorts, restaurants, tourist sites, and other places, so a travel adapter is needed if you’re not a US or Canadian traveller.

Voltage and frequency in Mexico

Standard voltage in Mexico is 127V at 60Hz, which is pretty close to the US and Canadian standards of 110-120V, and works the same even though there’s a small difference.

However, travellers from the UK and Europe will need to pay a little more attention, as the standard voltage in those regions is 220-240V, which means a voltage converter may be needed.

That said, you have to double-check your electronic devices, especially modern ones like tablets, phones, and laptops, as these usually work with dual voltage and only require a travel adapter instead.

Do you need a travel adapter for Mexico?

If you’re travelling from the US or Canada, you won’t need a travel adapter. But what about travelling from other regions? Let’s see.

From Europe: Yes, as Europe mostly uses type C plugs, which don’t fit in Mexico plug sockets.
From the UK or Ireland: Yes, as the UK and Ireland use type G plugs, which don’t fit Mexico plug sockets.
From Australia or New Zealand: Yes, as Australia and New Zealand use type I plugs, which don’t fit Mexico plug socket.

Long story short, chances are you need a travel adapter. Also, note that certain countries use different plugs, like the Switzerland plug type, which is type J, and also need a travel adapter when visiting Mexico.

Do you need a voltage converter for Mexico?

Mexico’s 127V is virtually identical to Canadian and US standards of 110-120V, so travellers from these countries won’t need a voltage converter.

On the other hand, travellers from the UK, Europe, and countries with a higher standard voltage, 220-240V, will need a voltage converter.

However, most modern electronic devices like Kindles, smartphones, camera chargers, laptops, and so on, work with dual voltage, meaning you only need a travel adapter and not a voltage converter.

But, before purchasing a converter or adapter, check the power supply label to ensure that devices work with 110 to 240V, especially if you’re travelling with old electronics.

Where to buy Mexico travel adapters

If you definitely need a travel adapter, there are three easy ways for you to get one:

Before you travel: Online stores like Argos, Currys, and Amazon are your best bet to get a Mexico travel adapter. These are among the most common, and prices range from £5 to £30.
At the airport: Upon arrival at Mexico City, Cancun, or Guadalajara airports, you’ll find electronic stores where you can buy a travel adapter. However, the price is usually two or three times higher than usual.
In Mexico: Easily found at stores like OXXO, Walmart, Soriana, or stores in major tourist areas like Playa del Carmen and Cancun. These cost around MXN $50 to $300 (~£2.50 to £12.50).

Stay connected in Mexico with an eSIM

Once you’re done adding a travel adapter to your Mexico packing list, you need to think about how to stay connected.

You’ll need mobile internet in Mexico for translating and communicating, booking tours, and using Google Maps without breaking the piggy bank with international roaming.

Roaming in Mexico is usually free for Canadian and US travellers, but people coming from other regions can pay over £7 for a one-day roaming pass. Using a Mexico SIM card is also an alternative, but you can only buy it after finding a local store.

An eSIM is the simplest way to arrive connected. With Holafly’s eSIM for Mexico, you can buy your plan online, install it before you travel, and have unlimited data ready the moment you land.

With pricing starting at £6 and rates lowering the longer you stay, you can buy the eSIM online, activate it before travelling, and enjoy unlimited data from the moment you land with customizable length plans.

Plus, the eSIM for Mexico includes up to 1 GB of hotspot data, 24/7 customer support, 5G coverage when available, and you choose from 1-day to 90-day plans that will allow you to:

Navigate, explore, and enjoy touristy sites such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Mexico City
Translate and communicate with locals who only speak Spanish
Share your favourite photos and videos from places like the Mayan Ruins, golden sand beaches, and hidden cenotes
Book tours and other activities during your trip

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Julio Osuna

English Content Writer

I first started my content creation journey as a freelancer in 2019, before connecting with Holafly in 2021. At Holafly, my travel and tech interests come together in one place as I craft high-quality articles about the eSIM and related markets. My content aims to help travelers stay connected, wherever they are.

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