From Barbados to Costa Rica
When travelling from Barbados to Costa Rica: Good news: all your Barbados plug types fit in Costa Rica. Voltage is different (115V → 120V). Check your charger label; if it doesn’t list 120V you’ll also need a voltage converter. Frequency differs (50Hz → 60Hz). Modern phone and laptop chargers are usually fine, but some clocks, motors, and appliances may behave incorrectly.
Barbados
Costa RicaYour plugs
Type A
Fits
Type B
Fits
Accepted in Costa Rica
Type A
Type B
2 of 2 plug type(s) match
You: A, B • Costa Rica: A, B
Voltage: 115V → 120V
Different voltage
You may need a voltage converter.
Frequency: 50Hz → 60Hz
Different frequency
Check device supports both 50/60 Hz.
Plugs fit, but voltage differsAdapters you may need
Voltage differs; check for 100–240V support.
About electricity in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is 120V/60Hz with Type A and B sockets, the same standard travellers from the US and Canada are used to.
Grid & history
Costa Rica has one of the cleanest grids in the world, over 95% renewable in most years, dominated by hydropower with growing geothermal and wind. The country has run on 100% renewables for months at a time.
Availability
Reliable nationwide.
Sockets & hotels
Standard North American sockets.
Energy mix
Hydropower-dominated; near-100% renewable.
Practical tips
- US plugs fit local sockets directly, so US travellers do not need an adapter.
- The supply matches the US 120V, so US chargers work directly.
- Costa Rica is a leader in renewable energy, interesting for energy-curious travellers.
Frequently asked questions
- Will my Barbados plug work in Costa Rica?
- Yes. Every Barbados plug type (Type A, Type B) fits in Costa Rica sockets without an adapter.
- What plug type does Costa Rica use?
- Costa Rica uses Type A, Type B. The supply is 120V at 60Hz.
- Do I need a voltage converter for Costa Rica when travelling from Barbados?
- Costa Rica runs on 120V, while Barbados uses 115V. Check your charger label for a 100 to 240V rating; if it does not list 120V you will also need a voltage converter.
- Is the electrical frequency in Costa Rica the same as Barbados?
- Frequency in Costa Rica is 60Hz, while Barbados uses 50Hz. Modern phone and laptop chargers handle either, but clocks, motors, and some heating appliances may behave incorrectly.