Plugs, sockets and voltage in Montenegro

It’s a small question, but one worth sorting before you pack. Coming from the UK you will need an adapter, because Montenegro uses the round-pin plugs of continental Europe. Here’s which types, what voltage, and what I’d take, based on what the National Tourism Organisation publishes.

Which plug types

In its guide to packing for the trip, the National Tourism Organisation says Montenegro’s sockets and plugs are types C, E and F, and recommends bringing a suitable adapter. All three use round pins. Type C is the slim two-pin plug found on many phone chargers; E and F are earthed, one with an earth pin in the wall socket and the other with side clips. A British three-pin plug won’t go into any of them, so pack an adapter for continental Europe.

Which voltage

The same organisation gives 220V and 50Hz in its country facts. That’s close to the UK supply, so phone and laptop chargers generally work without a converter. Do check the label on hairdryers, straighteners and shavers, because older or cheaper models may not accept the range, and the same goes for an electric toothbrush charger.

Once your dates are set, check which hotels are still free in Kotor before prices climb.

What I’d pack

Two European adapters rather than one, in case one goes missing, and a small extension lead with UK sockets, so a single adapter can charge everything at once. Rooms often have fewer sockets than you have gadgets. If you’re driving, bring a car charger, because on a Montenegro road trip you’ll spend hours in the mountains between overnight stops, and your phone is your map. Data and coverage are in mobile and roaming in Montenegro.

Buy it before you go

I’d buy adapters at home rather than hunting for one on arrival with a flat phone. The official sources don’t say where to buy them in Montenegro, so don’t count on finding one at the airport. If you’ve already got an adapter from a trip to Spain, France or Italy, the round-pin European type should do the job here too.

If you would rather have a local show you round, book a guided tour in Kotor and choose by the reviews.

The rest of the official packing list

The same National Tourism Organisation page that mentions the plugs has a sensible packing list around it. It suggests comfortable trainers for long walks round the old towns, waterproof boots in winter, protective shoes as well as sandals for rocky beaches, a beach towel and high-factor sun cream, which you may need in the mountains too. It also reminds you to check the weather forecast before you pack.

What I couldn’t confirm

The official sources I read say nothing about power cuts or the electricity supply in rural guesthouses and mountain huts. If you’re sleeping in a katun or a mountain refuge, ask beforehand whether there’s power and how, because no official source guarantees it. For the rest of your preparation, see Montenegro entry requirements.

Once your dates are set, check which hotels are still free in Kotor before prices climb.