The supply voltage in Canada is 120V. If the appliance or its power source is not dual voltage qualified, a voltage transformer or converter must be utilized in conjunction with the single voltage appliance in order for it to function safely and properly (unless the appliance operates at 120V).
Although converters and transformers have similar functions, their applications are different. Most transformers can be used with appliances that run continuously, whereas converters are often used with appliances that run for a short period of time (1-2 hours).
It’s crucial to keep in mind that some travel adaptors aren’t compatible with appliances that need an earth connection. Only use these types of travel adaptors with double-insulated equipment that is clearly identified with the symbol shown below.
We recommend that you examine your appliances before leaving on your trip to ensure that you are familiar with the rules in Canada.
Follow one of the links below for information on travel adaptors necessary for other North American countries:
Is the voltage in Canada 110 volts or 220 volts?
In the United States, 120V and 60Hz AC electricity is the norm. In Australia, the standard is 220V and 50Hz AC electricity. In Canada, 120V and 60Hz AC electricity is the norm.
Do I need a converter from you for Canada?
The standard voltage and frequency in Canada are 120 V and 60 Hz, respectively.
Because the standard voltage (120 V) in Canada is the same as in the United States, you can use your electric equipment there. As a result, if you live in the United States of America, you won’t need a voltage converter in Canada.
Check the appliance’s label for confirmation. Some appliances don’t require a converter at all. If the label states ‘INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz’ the appliance can be used in all countries in the world. Chargers for tablets/laptops, cameras, cell phones, toothbrushes, and other electronic devices are all susceptible to this.
In Canada, can I use a 220 volt appliance?
The voltage in Canada is not compatible with electronic devices from 220/240 volt countries because it’s much lower and can’t sufficiently power 220 volt devices. Attempting to utilize 220 or 240 volt electronics with 120 volt energy can result in gadget damage, electrical shock, or even a fire.
Are Canadian outlets the same as those in the United States?
Are you looking for even more useful information to help you plan your trip? Below you’ll discover everything you need to know about vacationing in Vancouver, including additional facts and suggestions.
Baggage Handling
Porter service is available through PorterGenie and at Vancouver International Airport. On arrival and departure, the majority of tour operators offer luggage handling services. Rates and policies differ by supplier and should be confirmed with them.
Banking
Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with some branches opening as early as 8:00 a.m. and closing as late as 7:00 p.m. Most banks are now open on Saturdays for a limited time. Visitors who want to cash checks or use other banking services should check the institutions’ hours of operation. Canadian chartered banks’ main branches, particularly in major cities, are equipped to convert foreign money. Several large European and international banks have operations in Vancouver, and some foreign currencies will be handled directly by them.
Most banks feature automated teller machines that can be used 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with bank or credit cards on major international banking networks including Cirrus, Plus, and Interac.
Credit Cards
Most major credit cards are accepted, however it is always a good idea to double-check with the vendor before making a purchase. Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are the most widely accepted credit cards. Many convenient places throughout Greater Vancouver have cash ATMs with 24-hour access.
Climate
Vancouver has pleasant year-round temperatures, thanks to Pacific Ocean currents and the protection of a range of mountains. The climate is always hospitable, with summer high temperatures around 23Celsius (74Fahrenheit), and mild winter days reaching around 6Celsius (41Fahrenheit). Winters in Vancouver are damp, but only on the local ski hills do they snow.
Electricity
The outlets and voltage (110 volts) are identical to what you’d find in the United States. Hair dryers, irons, razors, and other small equipment can be used in Canada. Adapters are necessary for electrical equipment for visitors from foreign countries. In Canada, the frequency of electrical current is 60 Hz.
Food & Beverages
A wide range of cuisines are available, reflecting Vancouver’s multicultural flavor. You’ll find it whether you want a flavor of home or a taste of the exotic, fancy dining or a simple family-friendly spot.
If they are “licensed premises,” restaurants, hotel lounges, taverns, and nightclubs can serve alcoholic beverages. In most circumstances, you won’t be able to bring your own alcohol into a licensed establishment; you’ll have to buy your drinks there. For those who want to enjoy a rare or unusual bottle of wine with their dinner, certain restaurants may provide a “Bring Your Own (BYO) option, but most will charge a “corkage fee to do so, so it’s wise to check with the restaurant ahead of time.
Government-run liquor stores and licensed private outlets such as specialty wine shops sell packaged alcoholic beverages (such as a bottle of wine or cans of beer).
In British Columbia, the legal drinking age is 19 years old. Minors are permitted to enter licensed restaurants without an adult, but they are not permitted to be served alcohol. Minors are not permitted to enter bars or pubs at any time. You may be requested to provide two pieces of identification to confirm your age while purchasing alcohol in a restaurant or bar, as well as at a store. One must be a government-issued document (such as a passport or driver’s license), and the other must bear your name and signature (e.g. a credit card).
To find restaurants and learn more about the range of meals and establishments available in Vancouver, go to our Dining section.
Holidays
corner grocery stores are all open as usual. In some shopping malls, the majority of stores remain open. Easter Monday and Boxing Day, in addition to the statutory holidays, are frequently observed as holidays by companies, banks, and schools.
It’s worth noting that Canada Day is traditionally celebrated on July 1st. If July 1 falls on a Sunday, the statutory holiday is moved to Monday, July 2.
Vancouver residents are kept informed by a number of daily and weekly newspapers that cover a wide range of cultural topics. The Vancouver Sun and The Province are the two major daily newspapers in the city. Sing Tao and Ming Pao are two important daily Chinese newspapers that cover local and regional news. Every day, the Globe and Mail and the National Post publish national and international news.
The Georgia Straight is an independent news-and-entertainment weekly that also has an excellent city calendar of events. Business in Vancouver provides weekly local business information, while The Georgia Straight is an independent news-and-entertainment weekly that also has an excellent city calendar of events. Vancouver Magazine is a monthly lifestyle publication known for, among other things, its restaurant coverage.
There are a number of excellent websites to visit for people who prefer to stay up to date via the internet. Vancouver is Awesome and Scout Magazine, for example, give coverage of local events, particularly for individuals interested in arts and culture, cuisine, and entertainment. Check out the Inside Vancouver blog for more suggestions on what to do in Vancouver.
Smoking Laws
Smoking is prohibited in all interior public venues in Vancouver, including public transportation, shopping malls, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and casinos, according to city legislation. Smoking is prohibited within 6 meters (19.6 feet) of a building’s entryway, openable window, or air intake. Smoking is also prohibited in all Metro Vancouver parks, including the seawall, Stanley Park, and beaches. The applicable smoking limits will be displayed on signs. Please only smoke in approved smoking areas.
Smoking in public areas such as public buildings, restaurants, and pubs is regulated differently by each municipality in Metro Vancouver, so please follow the guidelines stated.
Tipping
To make bookkeeping easier, certain businesses and resort hotels incorporate tips or gratuities with tour groups. Gratuities for housekeeping, bell service, and meal service are frequently included. If meals are included in the price, a 15% gratuity will be added to the total.
Visitors should be aware that the customary tip for good service is between 15 and 20% when dining out at restaurants. If you’re dining with a party of eight or more people, a restaurant is required by law to automatically add an 18% gratuity to your bill. Tipping is not anticipated for counter service. Spa treatments, hair and nail services, and cabs are among the other services that frequently receive recommendations. In every scenario, 15% is the benchmark.
What type of adaptor do I require for Canada?
When visiting Canada, the sort of power adapter, converter, or charger you’ll require depends on the voltage and type of item you’re trying to power with a Canadian power outlet. If you’re not sure what voltage your device can use, start by reading the section below on how to tell if your gadget is dual voltage.
- If you’re traveling to Canada from the United States, you should be able to charge all of your US electronics and appliances without the use of a power converter or adapter. One suggestion is to include a USB travel power adapter, which will allow you to charge numerous gadgets with just one charger.
- If your device can run on 120 volts or is dual voltage, and your plug fits in a Canadian power outlet, it should work without any modifications in Canada.
- If your equipment can run on 120 volts or is dual voltage but your plug won’t fit in a Canadian power outlet, you’ll need to bring a Type A plug converter. A plug adapter for Canada (or power adapter) changes the shape of your device’s plug to fit into a plug outlet in Canada, but it isn’t designed to change the voltage from 120 volts to another voltage.
- If your gadget isn’t dual voltage and doesn’t function on 120 volts, you’ll also need a power converter for Canada to convert the voltage from 120 volts to the proper voltage for your equipment. If the power converter does not use the correct Type A plug adapter, you will still need to have a suitable plug adapter for Canada.
- A USB travel power adapter is excellent for powering one or more USB devices such as mobile phones or tablets, and it should be dual voltage; however, be sure you carry a USB travel adapter with a Type A plug adaptor; otherwise, you’ll need to pack a compatible plug adapter for Canada.
- Because increased phone usage during a vacation to Canada can quickly deplete a phone’s battery, we recommend packing a power bank if you want to keep your phone or other USB-powered devices charged throughout the day while traveling to an unfamiliar nation.
Is it possible to utilize 115v in Canada?
That is debatable. Your hair dryer, travel iron, and mobile phone charger will function whether you are going from the United States, the Caribbean, or Mexico to Canada. Electricity in Canada is 110 volts and 60 Hertz, much like it is in the United States. Unless you have dual voltage travel appliances, you will most likely need to purchase voltage converters and plug adapters while visiting Canada from another continent.
Is it possible to utilize 120V in a 220V outlet?
Even if the plug form and size are comparable, do not connect a 120V item directly into a 220V power socket. Although some things sold in the United States but available worldwide, such as iPods, can withstand 220V voltages, other electronics can be ruined by such high voltages. Use a converter if you’re unsure.
Is it 220v or 240v in Canada?
Instead of the 220 volts used in Europe, the standard voltage in Canada and Quebec, and indeed throughout North America, is 120 V (with a standard frequency of 60 Hz). If you hear or read 110 V, don’t be surprised. It’s an old moniker that’s still in use among the general people.
Electrical sockets in Canada are not compatible with European plugs. You’ll need a plug adaptor or a converter to plug in your electric appliances. Otherwise, you won’t be able to use any of your electric appliances while on vacation in Canada (phone charger, camera charger, laptop, etc.)
Type B electrical sockets are used in Canada, as indicated below: