What is the Electrical Outlet in American Samoa?
How are you going to charge your phone or your GoPro after getting some sweet turtle shots in American Samoa?!
Well, American Samoa has Type A and Type B power plugs with 120 V AC 60 Hz, so if your appliances don't fit the electrical outlets and/or require a different voltage or frequency, then you're going to need a travel adapter and maybe even a converter.
Makes sense? If not, this in-depth guide on the electrical outlet in American Samoa will make it so.
For more essential travel tips for American Samoa, be sure to head over to our 30 Tips for Travelling in American Samoa LINK#TT042.
Table of Contents
5 Things to Need to Know About Electricity in Samoa
- American Samoa has Type A and B power plugs with 120 V and 60 Hz.
- If you're coming from the US, you will not need a travel adapter.
- If you're coming from New Zealand, Australia or Samoa, you will need a travel adapter.
- If your appliances and devices only work on 220-240 V, you'll also need a converter.
- Don't rely on USB outlets to charge your devices; they rarely exist in American Samoa.
What is the Plug Type in American Samoa?

In American Samoa, the power plugs and sockets are Type A & B. Type A has two flat parallel pins, while Type B has two flat parallel pins with a grounding pin.
Other Countries That Use Type A Plugs
If you have visited any of the following countries, chances are that you already have a travel adapter that will work in American Samoa.
Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guam, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Japan, Liberia, Mexico, Micronesia, Nicaragua, Palau, Panama, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, Taiwan, Trinidad and Tobago, the United States, the US Virgin Islands and Venezuela.
American Samoa's Voltage and Frequency

In American Samoa, the electric current is 110 V 60 Hz. This means that the electrical current is 110 volts with 60 cycles per second.
If your country of origin uses a voltage that ranges between 220 and 240 V, then you will need to have a power converter or transformer. Many travel adapters include this function, so there's no need to get two separate items – check out the Amazon selection.
This includes countries like New Zealand, Australia, Europe, the UK and the majority of Asia and Africa.
If you are from North or South America or any country that uses a voltage between 100 V and 127 V, then you will be able to use your appliances and gadgets in American Samoa with no problem at all.
Will My Appliances Work in American Samoa?

If coming from a country that uses 110/120 V, for example, then you should find that modern appliances, such as phones and laptops, are designed to use from 110 V to 240 V. Regardless, you should check the labels of all of the appliances that you intend to use in American Samoa.
Appliances that don't clearly state that they can be used for up to 120 V should not be used in American Samoa's electrical outlets. Otherwise, a lower voltage than required could cause your appliance to malfunction or not work at all. The most common types of appliances this applies to include hairdryers, electric razors and irons.
Do You Need a Converter / Transformer for American Samoa?
If the label on your appliance states a single voltage number, such as 220 V or 240 V, you will need a travel adapter which is also a voltage converter.
If the label has a combined low/high number, such as 120/240 V or 100/240 V, or a voltage of 110-120 V, you don't need a converter.
Can You Use a 50 Hz Appliance in American Samoa?
American Samoa uses a 60 Hz outlet. Therefore, it is not recommended to use a 50 Hz appliance, even if the voltage of your appliance is compatible with American Samoa. Using the wrong frequency (which is what Hz is) can cause appliances to stop functioning properly.
Again, check your appliance label. Some appliances work on both 50 and 60 Hz.
American Samoa Travel Adapters

Yes, regardless of the voltage, if your appliances are from a country that doesn't use Type A or B power plugs, then you will need an American Samoa travel adapter. In other words, it's best to go for a Type A travel adapter.
Recommended American Samoa Travel Adapters
- EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter (use it all over the world)
- Voltage Converter 110 V to 220 V (universal and converts voltage for 240 V appliances)
- OREI USB-to-American Samoa Travel Adapter
- UMI 110V to 220V Step Up Voltage Converter
- Kikkerland UL03-A Universal Travel Adapter
Frequently Asked Questions About Power Plugs and Adapters in American Samoa

Now that you know about the electrical outlets and power requirements in American Samoa, here are the answers to the internet's frequently asked questions about power plugs and adapters in American Samoa!
What type of power plugs does American Samoa use?
American Samoa uses Type A and Type B power plugs, which are the same as those used in the United States. Type A plugs have two flat parallel pins, while Type B plugs have two flat parallel pins plus a grounding pin.
Do I need a power adapter for American Samoa?
If you're travelling from the United States, you won't need a power adapter since American Samoa uses the same plug types. However, if you're coming from countries that use different plug types (such as the UK, Australia, or most European countries), you'll need a Type A or Type B adapter.
What is the voltage in American Samoa?
American Samoa operates on 120 volts at 60 Hz, which is identical to the United States electrical system. Most modern electronics are dual voltage and will work fine, but always check your device specifications before plugging in.
What type of power plugs does Western Samoa use?
Western Samoa (now simply called Samoa) uses Type I power plugs, which have two flat pins in a V-shape plus a grounding pin. This is different from American Samoa's Type A and Type B plugs, so you'll need different adapters depending on which Samoa you're visiting. For more information, check out Samoa Electrical Outlets and Power Plugs.
Can I use my US electronics in American Samoa?
Yes, you can use your US electronics directly in American Samoa without any adapters or converters since both territories use the same electrical system (120V, 60Hz, Type A/B plugs). Your devices will plug in and work exactly as they do at home.
Where can I buy power adapters in American Samoa?
Power adapters can be purchased at electronics stores, some hotels, and general merchandise shops in Pago Pago. However, we recommend bringing your own adapter from home to ensure you have the right type and to avoid higher prices. For more information, check out Information, Shops & Services in Pago Pago & Tutuila LINK#D007.
More About Samoa's Electrical Outlets, Power Plugs and Other Essentials
That's it for our complete guide to American Samoa's electrical outlets and power plugs. Plan more essentials for your trip using the following guides:
- What to Pack for American Samoa: A Full Samoa Packing List LINK#TT021
- What You Need to Know About Flying a Drone in American Samoa LINK#TT017
- The Best SIM Card in American Samoa for Travellers LINK#TT015
Finally, if there's anything we've missed, you're likely to find it in The Complete Travel Guide to American Samoa LINK#TT038.