Mexico uses type A and B plugs, with flat pins (with or without a ground pin), and a voltage of 127 V at 60 Hz, just like the United States and Canada. If you travel from there, you do not need an adapter. If you come from Europe or the United Kingdom, you do: bring a plug adapter. Phone and laptop chargers usually accept 100 to 240 V, so the adapter is enough; hair dryers and flat irons are the only things worth checking before you pack.
What plug type does Mexico use?
Mexico uses type A and type B plugs. Type A has two flat, parallel pins; type B adds a third round pin for grounding. They are the same plugs used in the United States and Canada, so devices from those countries fit without trouble. The voltage is 127 V and the frequency is 60 Hz, quite different from Europe, which runs on 220 to 240 V and 50 Hz.
In some accommodations you may come across older outlets with two slots and no ground, even if your device has three pins. In that case a universal adapter solves it in a moment, which is why it is worth packing one even if your plugs are North American. Keep in mind that plug shape and voltage are separate matters: an adapter changes the shape of the pins, but it does not convert the voltage.
Do you need an adapter for Mexico?
It depends on where you are coming from. If you are traveling from the United States or Canada, you do not need an adapter, because your plugs are compatible. If you come from Europe or the United Kingdom, you do: the plugs from your country will not fit Mexican outlets, so bring a plug adapter for your chargers. If you travel with several devices, pack two adapters or one with multiple sockets so you do not have to take turns charging.
If you forget one, it is no disaster. Adapters are sold at supermarkets, electronics stores and the airport, although the most convenient thing is to bring them from home and keep them in your carry-on from day one. If you buy one in Mexico, check that it fits your chargers and is of reasonable quality, since you will use it daily for the whole trip.
Will your chargers and devices work at 127 V?
Almost everything you charge daily, such as your phone, tablet, laptop, camera or smartwatch, works without trouble. These chargers are usually dual voltage, meaning they accept 100 to 240 V. To check, look at the label on the charger for the input range. If it covers 100 to 240 V, you only need a plug adapter, not a voltage converter.
Appliances that produce heat are the ones to check: hair dryers, flat irons, curling irons and travel kettles. Models made only for 220 to 240 V may not work well on Mexico's 127 V, since they heat less or perform worse, and it is best not to force them. Read the label before packing them or choose a dual-voltage travel model. If you are not sure, leave it at home.
- Phone, tablet, laptop and camera: almost always 100 to 240 V, so you only need the adapter.
- Hair dryer and flat iron: check the label; 220 to 240 V models may not work well.
- Older outlets without ground: a universal adapter lets you use three-pin plugs.
What should you pack to keep everything charged?
A small charging pouch avoids most trouble: a plug adapter (or a universal one), the chargers for your devices and a spare cable. An adapter with several sockets or USB ports charges more than one device at a time, which is handy when only one outlet near the bed is free. A power bank helps on excursions and long days out. The rest of the checklist is in what to pack for Cancun.
If you work remotely or rely on your phone for maps and messages, connectivity matters as much as charging. We cover how to sort it out in internet in Cancun: SIM, eSIM or roaming. And if this is your first trip to the destination, our guide to a first time in Cancun gathers the tips travelers ask about most before they go.
A calm place to recharge in downtown Cancun
After a day of excursions, the ideal is to return somewhere you can charge your devices and rest. Downtown Cancun has supermarkets and electronics stores a few minutes away if you need to buy an adapter. The rooms at Mezcal Boutique Hotel have air conditioning, and the hotel offers free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour front desk, where you can sort out any practical question at any hour.
There are also a coworking space and a library for anyone who needs to work in peace, along with other hotel services designed with travelers in mind. Downtown is about 20 minutes by car from the airport and about 15 minutes from the Hotel Zone and its beaches. When you have your dates, book direct on the hotel website for the best available rate; the rate is lodging only, and breakfast is served at MERO 18.
Frequently asked questions
What plug type does Mexico use?
Mexico uses type A and B plugs, with two flat pins and, on type B, a round ground pin. The voltage is 127 V and the frequency is 60 Hz. These are the same plugs as in the United States and Canada, so your devices fit without trouble.
Do I need an adapter for Mexico?
Not if you travel from the United States or Canada. If you come from Europe or the United Kingdom, yes: you need a plug adapter. They are sold at supermarkets, electronics stores and the airport, though it is easiest to bring one from home.
Can I use my European hair dryer in Mexico?
Check the label. If it says only 220 to 240 V, it may not work well on Mexico's 127 V, because it will heat less or perform worse. A dual-voltage travel model is the simplest solution; otherwise, it is best to leave it at home.
Will my phone and laptop chargers work in Mexico?
Almost certainly. Most phone and laptop chargers are dual voltage and accept 100 to 240 V, so you only need a plug adapter if you come from Europe. Confirm it on the label of your charger.
