Power Outlets on European Trains: Do I Need an Adapter?

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Nothing causes panic quite like seeing a “10% Battery” warning on your phone when your digital train ticket is stored in your wallet app.

You are about to board a 4-hour train. Can you charge your phone? Do you need a special adapter (on Amazon)? Can you plug in your laptop to get some work done?

Here is the guide to staying powered up on European rails.

Do European Trains Have Outlets?

Mostly, yes.

High-Speed Trains (TGV, ICE, Eurostar, Railjet): almost always have power outlets at every seat (in both 1st and 2nd class).
Regional Trains: Newer ones usually do. Older, communist-era trains in Eastern Europe or vintage local trains in Italy might not.

Rule: Never assume there will be power. Always charge your devices to 100% before leaving your hotel or bring a portable power (on Amazon) bank.

What Type of Plug Do I Need?

This is crucial for travelers from the US, UK, or Australia.
European trains use the Standard European Plug (Type C or F).

It has two round pins.
It looks like a little pig snout.

If you are from the USA/Canada: Your flat-pronged plugs will not fit. You absolutely need a travel adapter.
If you are from the UK: Your three-pronged chunky plugs will not fit. You need an adapter.

Where Are the Outlets Hidden?

Finding the outlet is often a game of hide-and-seek. If you don’t see it immediately, look in these spots:

Between the seats: Look down between your seat and your neighbor’s.
Under the seat: Sometimes you have to physically bend down and look under the cushion frame.
On the wall: If you have a window seat / table seat.
In the ceiling: On some older trains (very rare), the outlets are near the reading lights above your head.

USB vs. Standard Outlets

Many newer trains (like the Austrian Railjet or British LNER) now have USB ports built directly into the seats.

Pros: You don’t need a bulky adapter, just your cable.
Cons: They usually charge very slowly (trickle charge). If you are using your phone while charging, the battery might barely go up.
Verdict: Use the main power outlet with your own fast charger if you need juice quickly.

A Warning About Voltage (220V)

Europe runs on 220-240 Volts. The US runs on 110 Volts.

Smartphones / Laptops / iPads: These are almost always “Dual Voltage” (read the fine print on your charger: Input 100-240V). You are safe. You just need a plastic plug adapter.
Hair Straighteners / Blow Dryers: Be careful! If your device is only 110V, plugging it into a European train outlet will cause it to fry (and possibly trip the circuit breaker for the whole train car).