Travel essentials for France
Adapters, plugs, tap water, tipping and health basics.
Power & adapters
Type C, F adapter required
You need a Type C or F adapter - the round two-pin European plug. The voltage is 230V, the same as Australia, so your chargers, hair dryer and shaver all work normally once the plug fits. France uses Type E, which takes a Type C plug but has an earth pin protruding from the socket.
230V, 50Hz
Tap water
Safe to drink
Tap water is safe everywhere in France. Ask for "une carafe d'eau" in a restaurant and it is free by law.
Staying connected
Excellent nationwide, including on the TGV and the Paris Metro.
Buy a Europe-wide eSIM rather than a French one if you are crossing borders - the regional plans cover the whole EU at the same price and roam without a new purchase.
Compare France eSIMsHealth risks
- Summer heatwaves, which regularly close attractions without notice
- Tick-borne encephalitis in forested regions if you are hiking
Emergency numbers in France
| All emergencies | 112 for everything |
|---|---|
| Police | 17 |
| Ambulance | 15 (SAMU) |
| Fire | 18 |
| Australian consulate | Australian Embassy Paris - +33 1 40 59 33 00 |
Tipping and everyday costs
Service is included by law and shown as "service compris". Rounding up or leaving a couple of euros for good service is normal; 10% or more is not expected.
What screening will actually let you pack
Half of what goes in the bag is decided by someone else. What you can take on a plane sets out the Australian rules item by item - power banks, liquids, scissors, aerosols - and what has to be declared at the border on the way home.
More France essentials
Further reading: Power adapters by country: what Australians actually need to pack
How these comparisons are made
Plug types, voltages and frequencies come from the international electrotechnical standards data for each country, stated per destination with what that means for Australian appliances specifically - what needs an adapter, what needs a converter, and what should stay home. Read the full editorial policy.
France travel essentials FAQs
What power adapter do I need for France?
A Type C or E adapter - the round two-pin European plug. France runs on 230V, the same as Australia, so hair dryers, chargers and shavers all work normally once the plug fits.
Planning France?
We will send you the France guide as it grows - what to book before you go, which eSIM and travel card are worth it there, and what things actually cost in Australian dollars.